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Is Amman Safe for Tourists? Travel Tips for 2025

March 18, 2025 • by Jordan Explorer Team
Amman Safety

Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital, is widely regarded as one of the safest major cities in the Middle East and among the most welcoming to international visitors. Despite regional misconceptions about the Middle East, Jordan has maintained remarkable stability and security, making it a reliable destination for travelers. This comprehensive guide addresses common safety concerns and provides practical advice to ensure your visit to Amman is both enjoyable and worry-free.

General Safety in Amman

Crime Rates and Personal Safety

Amman enjoys low crime rates compared to many major cities worldwide. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and most visitors experience no security issues during their stay. The most common concerns for tourists are:

  • Petty theft - Occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas like Downtown souks or busy bus stations
  • Taxi overcharging - Some drivers may attempt to charge inflated rates to tourists
  • Scams - Typically involving overpriced goods or services rather than personal safety threats

The Jordanian government places high priority on tourism safety, with tourist police present at major attractions and dedicated to assisting visitors.

Political Stability

Jordan has maintained remarkable political stability despite being located in a region that has experienced significant unrest. The country is governed as a constitutional monarchy under King Abdullah II, who has ruled since 1999. While occasional peaceful demonstrations may occur in downtown Amman, these are typically focused on economic or regional issues and rarely affect tourists.

It's always advisable to check your government's latest travel advisories before visiting, but most countries consider Jordan a safe destination with normal security precautions recommended.

Terrorism Risk

While no destination can claim zero risk, Jordan has been largely successful in preventing terrorist incidents. The country's security forces are highly effective and vigilant, particularly in tourist areas. Security checks at hotels, shopping malls, and major attractions are common and should be viewed as reassuring rather than concerning.

Safety for Different Traveler Types

Solo Female Travelers

Amman is generally considered safe for solo female travelers, though some cultural awareness is helpful:

  • Dress modestly - While Amman is relatively liberal by regional standards, conservative dress (covering shoulders and knees) is appreciated, particularly in more traditional areas like Downtown
  • Unwanted attention - Some women report occasional catcalling or staring, particularly in less touristy areas. This is typically harmless but can be uncomfortable
  • Transportation safety - Using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem is recommended for solo female travelers, especially at night, as they provide driver information and trip tracking
  • Accommodation - Many hotels in Amman are accustomed to solo female travelers and can provide appropriate assistance and advice

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Jordan is relatively tolerant compared to some neighboring countries, but remains conservative regarding LGBTQ+ issues:

  • Legal status - Same-sex relations were decriminalized in 1951, but there are no anti-discrimination protections
  • Public behavior - Discretion is advised regarding public displays of affection for all couples, regardless of orientation
  • Social attitudes - While Amman has some underground LGBTQ+ venues and communities, particularly in more cosmopolitan areas like Jabal Amman and Jabal Al-Weibdeh, public attitudes remain largely conservative
  • Accommodation - Major international hotels are accustomed to diverse travelers and typically provide professional service without discrimination

Families with Children

Amman is an excellent destination for family travel:

  • Child-friendly culture - Jordanian culture is very family-oriented, and children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere
  • Family activities - The Children's Museum, Al Hussein Parks, and various shopping malls offer kid-friendly activities
  • Medical facilities - Amman has excellent healthcare facilities with English-speaking staff should any medical needs arise
  • Food safety - While street food is generally safe, families with young children might prefer established restaurants with higher hygiene standards

Neighborhood Safety Guide

Safest Areas for Tourists

  • Abdoun - An upscale residential area with embassies, luxury hotels, and shopping centers
  • Jabal Amman (1st to 5th Circles) - Popular with expats and tourists, particularly around Rainbow Street, with many hotels, restaurants, and cafes
  • Sweifieh - A commercial district with shopping malls, restaurants, and good accommodation options
  • Jabal Al-Weibdeh - An artistic neighborhood with galleries, cafes, and a bohemian atmosphere

Areas Requiring More Caution

  • Downtown (Al-Balad) - Generally safe but more crowded and traditional, with occasional pickpocketing. Exercise normal urban precautions, especially at night
  • East Amman - More conservative and less affluent, with fewer tourist facilities. Not dangerous but may feel uncomfortable for some visitors
  • Bus stations - Areas around Abdali and South bus stations can be chaotic and are known for occasional petty theft

Practical Safety Tips

Transportation Safety

  • Taxis - Use metered yellow taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem. If taking a yellow taxi, ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand
  • Public buses - Generally safe but can be crowded and confusing for visitors. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
  • Rental cars - Driving in Amman can be challenging due to traffic and driving styles. Consider hiring a driver if you're uncomfortable navigating yourself
  • Walking - Most areas are safe for walking during daylight hours. At night, stick to well-lit, busy streets in tourist areas

Health and Medical Safety

  • Drinking water - Tap water in Amman is technically safe but has a high mineral content. Most visitors prefer bottled water, which is widely available
  • Food safety - Street food is generally safe, but use common sense: choose busy stalls with high turnover and avoid uncooked foods if you have a sensitive stomach
  • Sun protection - Amman's elevation (around 800m) and clear skies mean UV exposure can be intense, even when temperatures are moderate
  • Medical facilities - Amman has excellent private hospitals with international standards, including Jordan Hospital, Arab Medical Center, and Specialty Hospital. Many doctors are Western-trained and speak English
  • Pharmacies - Well-stocked and numerous throughout the city, with pharmacists often speaking English and able to provide basic medical advice

Money and Valuables

  • ATMs - Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping malls rather than street-facing machines
  • Cash vs. cards - While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, carry some cash for smaller establishments, taxis, and markets
  • Valuables - Use your hotel safe for passports and excess cash. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, particularly in crowded areas
  • Scams - Be wary of "too good to be true" deals, particularly for tours or souvenirs. Research typical prices beforehand

Cultural Awareness for Safety

  • Dress code - Modest dress is appreciated, particularly in more conservative areas like Downtown and when visiting religious sites
  • Photography - Ask permission before photographing people, particularly women. Avoid photographing military installations or checkpoints
  • Ramadan considerations - If visiting during Ramadan, be respectful by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
  • Political discussions - While Jordanians are generally open to discussing various topics, exercise caution when discussing sensitive regional political issues

Emergency Information

Important Phone Numbers

  • Police Emergency: 911
  • Tourist Police: +962-6-5678910
  • Ambulance: 911
  • Jordan Tourism Board Hotline: +962-6-5678444

Embassy Information

Before traveling, register with your country's embassy in Jordan and note their contact information and location. Major embassies in Amman include:

  • United States Embassy: Al-Umawyeen Street, Abdoun
  • British Embassy: Abdoun, Amman
  • Canadian Embassy: Commercial Alley, Jabal Amman
  • Australian Embassy: Abdoun, Amman

Common Misconceptions

Many potential visitors have misconceptions about safety in Jordan and Amman:

  • Regional conflicts - While Jordan borders countries experiencing conflict, the country itself has remained stable and peaceful. Border areas are heavily secured, and issues rarely affect Amman or tourist areas
  • Religious extremism - Jordan practices a moderate form of Islam and has a significant Christian minority. Religious tolerance is generally high, and extremist views are not mainstream
  • Women's treatment - While Jordan remains traditional in some aspects, women enjoy more rights and freedoms than in many neighboring countries. Female tourists are respected and can travel comfortably
  • Hostility to Westerners - Jordanians distinguish between foreign policies and individual visitors. Tourists from all countries typically receive warm hospitality regardless of international politics

Testimonials from Recent Visitors

To provide perspective, here are experiences from recent visitors to Amman:

"As a solo female traveler, I felt safer in Amman than in many European cities. People were incredibly helpful, and I never felt threatened, even when walking alone in the evening in Jabal Amman." - Sarah, 34, Canada
"We traveled with our two young children and found Amman to be extremely family-friendly. Jordanians adore children, and we were welcomed everywhere with genuine warmth." - The Johnson Family, UK
"I was concerned about visiting as an openly gay traveler, but while I maintained appropriate public behavior, I encountered no issues. The younger generation in Amman is increasingly open-minded." - Miguel, 28, Spain

Amman stands as one of the Middle East's safest and most welcoming capital cities. While normal travel precautions apply, as they would in any major urban center worldwide, the vast majority of visitors experience no safety issues. Instead, they discover a city rich in history, culture, and genuine hospitality. By staying informed, respecting local customs, and exercising common sense, your visit to Amman will likely be remembered not for any safety concerns, but for the warmth of its people and the richness of its experiences.