+2 hours / +1 hour during Swiss summer time

Amman

Official language

Arabic

Language capabilities

English

220 volt / adapter recommended

Banks

8.30 am–3 pm (Sunday–Thursday)

Shops

9.30 am–9 pm (Sunday–Thursday)
Opening hours may vary. Some shops, particularly in tourist areas, stay open late into the evening. Friday is the weekly day of rest in Jordan; many shops therefore do not open until late afternoon.

• 1 May: Labour Day
• 25 May: Independence Day
• 25 December: Christmas Day
• Eid al-Fitr: Festival marking the end of the fast, variable date
• Day of Arafah and Eid al-Adha: Festival of Sacrifice, variable dates; a holiday period lasting several days
• Islamic New Year: Variable date
• Mawlid an-Nabi: The Prophet’s Birthday, variable date

The dates of Islamic holidays shift each year in the Gregorian calendar. The exact length of the period off work is officially announced on each occasion.

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens living in Switzerland. The following documents are required to enter Jordan:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least another 6 months on entry.

• A visa. This can be issued on arrival or applied for before departure as an e-visa via eservices.moi.gov.jo.

• A return or onward travel ticket. Entry may be refused without this document.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

Northern highlands (e.g. Amman)

• Summer (June to September): Average temperatures range from 25 °C to 32 °C. The climate is warm, but often pleasant thanks to the higher elevation. Evenings can be cooler, particularly in Amman.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures fall to an average range of 4 °C to 13 °C. Snow is even possible, particularly in higher areas such as Amman and Ajloun. The winter months are cool and wetter than the rest of the year.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures range from 15 °C to 25 °C. These seasons are mild and ideal for travel. The landscape is often green and in bloom in spring, while autumn is dry and settled.

Region: Jordan Rift Valley (e.g. the Dead Sea, Jordan Valley)

• Summer (June to September): Average temperatures reach 35 °C to 45 °C. The climate is hot and dry, with extremely low humidity. The region is one of the warmest areas in the world.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 15 °C to 25 °C. The Dead Sea area is a popular retreat during the cooler months, as rainfall is scarce.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures range from 25 °C to 35 °C. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities such as bathing in the Dead Sea or exploring the archaeological sites in the Jordan Valley.

Desert (e.g. Wadi Rum, eastern desert)

• Summer (June to September): Temperatures rise to between 30 °C and 40 °C. The climate is dry and the daytime heat can be intense. Temperatures fall significantly at night, however, bringing cooler evenings.
• Winter (December to February): Daytime temperatures range from 10 °C to 20 °C, but can drop to 0 °C at night. Winter in the desert is dry, but surprisingly cold.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Average temperatures range from 20 °C to 30 °C. These mild conditions make spring and autumn the best seasons for desert hikes and camping in Wadi Rum.

Coastal region (e.g. Aqaba on the Red Sea)

• Summer (June to September): Temperatures range from 30 °C to 40 °C. The coastal region is hot, but the proximity to the sea brings a light breeze. The Red Sea’s pleasantly warm waters are inviting for swimming.
• Winter (December to February): The climate is mild, with temperatures ranging from 14 °C to 24 °C. Aqaba is a popular winter destination for sunseekers and divers, as the water remains warm.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Average temperatures range from 20 °C to 30 °C. These months are ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving and exploring the coast, as the heat is less intense.

The perfect time to visit Jordan:

• Beach holidays: April–June, September–November. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for beach holidays in Aqaba on the Red Sea and at the Dead Sea. Temperatures are pleasantly warm without the extreme summer heat, and the water remains ideal for swimming.
• City breaks: March–May, October–November. Spring and autumn are perfect for visiting Amman, Jerash and Petra. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 30 °C, making it pleasant to explore historic sites.

• Mobile phone use: Using your mobile phone in Jordan incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check roaming rates before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a dedicated roaming package to reduce costs.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is widespread and usually free in larger hotels, cafés, restaurants and shopping centres. In smaller accommodation or remote regions, however, connections may be slower or less reliable. Internet access is not guaranteed everywhere in the country at all times.
• Prepaid SIM cards: You can buy a local prepaid SIM card to make local calls and use mobile data. Jordan has several mobile network providers, including Zain, Orange and Umniah.

• Petra, Wadi Musa: The famous rock-cut city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, fascinates visitors with its impressive façades carved into red sandstone, such as the Treasury, “Al-Khazneh”.
• Dead Sea, Jordan Rift Valley: Located in the world’s lowest freely accessible land area, the Dead Sea offers a distinctive bathing experience. The salty water allows you to float effortlessly.
• Wadi Rum, southern desert: A breathtaking desert landscape with red sand dunes and spectacular rock formations. Ideal for jeep tours, camel rides and nights under the stars.
• Jerash, Jerash: One of the world’s best-preserved Roman cities. Ancient temples, theatres and colonnaded streets that have survived for millennia make a striking impression.
• Amman Citadel, Amman: Set on a hill, the citadel offers historic ruins such as the Temple of Hercules as well as panoramic views across the city.
• Roman Theatre, Amman: An impressive Roman-era theatre that is still used for events today.
• Dana Biosphere Reserve, Dana: Jordan’s largest nature reserve invites visitors to hike through varied landscapes of gorges, mountains and deserts.
• Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas): A holy place regarded as the site where Jesus Christ was baptised on the River Jordan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is of great religious and historical importance.
• Aqaba, Red Sea: Jordan’s only coastal city offers beautiful beaches and excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling among coral reefs.
• Umm ar-Rasas, near Madaba: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring impressive Byzantine mosaics and the ruins of ancient churches.
• Mount Nebo, near Madaba: Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land from this biblical mountain. The views extend as far as Israel and Palestine.
• Madaba, Madaba: Famous for the mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land displayed in St George’s Church.
• Ajloun Castle, Ajloun: Built in 1184 by one of Saladin’s generals, this Ayyubid fortress offers sweeping views over the hills of northern Jordan.
• Karak Castle, Karak: An imposing Crusader castle built in the 12th century. The fortress offers insights into the region’s turbulent history.
• Ma’in Hot Springs, near the Dead Sea: Natural hot springs and waterfalls invite visitors to bathe and relax amid spectacular rocky landscapes.

• Mezze: Jordanian meals often begin with a variety of small starters. Typical mezze dishes include hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves and falafel.
• Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish traditionally consists of lamb in a sauce made from jameed, a dried, fermented yoghurt. It is served over rice and thin flatbread and is often shared from a large platter.
• Zarb: A Bedouin barbecue in which meat and vegetables are cooked slowly in an underground sand oven. It is particularly popular in the Wadi Rum desert.
• Maqluba: A hearty rice dish with meat and vegetables, turned upside down after cooking. The name literally means “upside down”.
• Street food: In cities such as Amman, falafel sandwiches, shawarma and manakish, flatbreads topped with zaatar or cheese, are among the most popular snacks.
• Arabic coffee and tea: Coffee, often flavoured with cardamom, is served in small cups and symbolises hospitality. Black tea is frequently enjoyed with mint and sugar.
• Knafeh: A popular dessert made from fine pastry strands, cheese and sugar syrup, served warm. Particularly well known in Nablus, it is also widespread in Jordan.
• Olives and olive oil: Jordan is known for high-quality olives and olive oil, which play an important role in many dishes.
• Sweets: Alongside knafeh, baklava and halva are other sweet treats often served with tea or coffee.
• Bedouin hospitality: Bedouin culinary tradition emphasises sharing food. A warm welcome with bread, yoghurt and grilled meat is an integral part of Jordanian culture.

• Greetings: A friendly handshake is common in Jordan, especially between men. When greeting a woman, wait to see whether she offers her hand. “As-salamu alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and the reply “Wa alaikum as-salam” (And upon you be peace) are appropriate greetings. A friendly “Marhaba” (Hello) is also widely used.
• Saying please and thank you: Politeness is highly valued in Jordan. For “please”, say “Min fadlak” when addressing a man or “Min fadlik” when addressing a woman. “Thank you” is “Shukran”, to which the reply is “Afwan” (You’re welcome).
• Clothing: Dress conservatively in Jordan. Women should cover their shoulders, knees and cleavage, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Men are best advised to wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless tops. Swimwear is accepted at the beach, especially in Aqaba, but modesty is appropriate here too.
• Dining customs: In Jordanian culture, people often share food from large platters, usually eating with the right hand. The left hand is considered unclean and should not be used for eating. Invitations to meals are an expression of hospitality; avoid refusing too bluntly. Saying “Sahtein” (Enjoy your meal) is a thoughtful gesture.
• Smoking: Smoking is widespread in Jordan. Smoking bans apply in indoor public spaces; some venues have designated smoking areas. Follow the signs and the rules of the individual establishment.
• Tipping: Tips are appreciated in Jordan. In restaurants, 5–10% of the bill is customary. Small amounts are sufficient to show appreciation to hotel staff, taxi drivers or guides.
• Other advice: Avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics. Only photograph people with their permission. It is particularly polite to remove your shoes before entering a home. Hospitality is highly valued in Jordan, so approach invitations and traditions with openness and respect.

• Drinking water quality: Tap water in Jordan is often unsuitable for drinking directly. It is recommended that you drink only bottled or boiled water and also use it for brushing your teeth. Avoid ice cubes, as they may have been made from tap water.
• Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry into Jordan. However, travellers are advised to keep routine vaccinations up to date, particularly against diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis and measles. Vaccination against hepatitis A is also recommended.

• Medical care in Amman is generally very good. Outside Amman, services are limited in some places. Hospitals usually require an advance payment before treatment.
• If you depend on particular medication, take a sufficient supply in your travel medical kit. Bear in mind that many countries have special regulations on bringing in medicines containing controlled drugs, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, contact the relevant foreign representation (embassy or consulate) directly before departure.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

• Follow the situation in the media before and during your trip and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• The security situation throughout the region remains extremely tense. Events in neighbouring countries can have an immediate impact on Jordan. Travel restrictions cannot be ruled out.
• Domestic, socioeconomic and political problems may lead to demonstrations, protests and strikes, particularly in the capital Amman. These are usually peaceful. Traffic disruption and roadblocks should be expected.
• Despite heightened security measures, there is a risk of terrorist acts throughout the country.
• The “Terrorism and kidnapping” section draws attention to the risks of terrorism.
• Petty crime occurs, including pickpocketing, residential burglaries, vehicle theft and theft from parked cars. Violent crime is rare.
• Sexual harassment occurs. Women travelling alone are advised to exercise increased caution.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

• Driving licence: The Swiss driving licence is recognised. Authorisation from the Jordanian authorities to use your national licence for 90 days must also be requested on arrival. However, it is strongly recommended that you obtain an international driving permit before departure. This is valid locally only together with your national driving licence and is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: Minimum and maximum ages and the required driving experience vary by provider and vehicle category. Young-driver surcharges may apply. An international driving permit may be required in addition to your Swiss driving licence.
• Traffic rules: Drive on the right.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0‰.
• Other information: Road traffic claims many lives every year. Watch out for the unpredictable behaviour of many road users and for stray animals. At night, inadequately lit vehicles pose an additional risk. Desert journeys should only be undertaken in groups of several off-road vehicles. A navigation device and sufficient supplies of water, food, fuel and spare parts are essential for survival.

• Rail transport: There is no regular nationwide passenger rail network for everyday tourist travel. Parts of the historic Hejaz Railway are used for excursions.
• Regional trains: There are no regional trains in Jordan. Local and intercity public transport is mainly provided by buses and private shared taxis.
• Urban transport: Amman has city buses and express buses forming part of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. Taxis and shared taxis complement the services. There is no underground or tram system.
• Tickets: JETT bus tickets can be booked online or at sales outlets. Advance booking is recommended for popular routes. On local buses and shared taxis, fares are usually paid in cash when boarding. Fares are relatively inexpensive.
• Other information: Taxis are a very common form of transport in Jordan. Yellow taxis are conventional private taxis equipped with meters. White “service” taxis are shared taxis that generally operate on fixed routes. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem are also available in Amman and other large cities. Private transfers or organised tours are recommended for remote areas or tourist destinations such as Wadi Rum.

The main international airport is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman. Non-stop flights connect Zurich with Amman. King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) serves Aqaba on the Red Sea. Routes and schedules may vary seasonally.

The main airlines operating in Jordan include Royal Jordanian, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways and EgyptAir.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

General emergency number: 911

Embassy of Switzerland
Abdul Jabbar Al-Rawi street No. 4
South Abdoun
400 metres south of the Abdoun Mall Circle
Amman
Jordan

Tel.: +962 6 59 02 520 / Tel.: +962 6 593 14 16

Email: amman@eda.admin.ch

Specific regional risks

• Descriptions of danger zones are approximate; risks cannot be confined to precisely defined areas.

• Border areas with Iraq and Syria: The unstable situation in neighbouring countries creates tensions in the border areas. Parts of these areas are military exclusion zones. Armed confrontations between security forces and drug gangs or other criminal groups occur regularly.

• Travel to the border areas with Iraq and Syria is advised against.

• Jordan Valley: Isolated minefields remain in the Jordan Valley (Balqa and Irbid governorates) and in Mafraq governorate near the Syrian border. Always respect barriers and, if in doubt, seek information from the local authorities and/or local residents.

Special legal provisions

• Punishable acts include:

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol (zero tolerance).

  • Insulting the monarch, for example by damaging photographs of the King.

  • Photographing military installations and government buildings.

  • Eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan.

  • Same-sex sexual acts, extramarital relationships, and pregnancies and births outside marriage. In cases involving sexual offences, the victim may, depending on the circumstances, have to prove that they have not themselves broken the law.

• Drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury or death are generally detained provisionally until responsibility has been established.

• Foreign nationals involved in legal proceedings may, in cases of doubt, be prohibited from leaving Jordan during the investigation or trial. Proceedings can last several months.

• Violations of drug laws are punishable by lengthy prison sentences, including life imprisonment, even for the smallest quantities and for any type of drug, sometimes combined with forced labour.

• The death penalty may be imposed for serious crimes, such as murder or attacks.

• Prison conditions are harsher than in Switzerland.

Natural hazards

• Weather conditions can change rapidly. During heavy rainfall, dry riverbeds (wadis) can turn into raging torrents within a very short time. Heavy rain can cause flooding and landslides, potentially damaging infrastructure. Travel may also be temporarily disrupted.

• Follow weather forecasts and heed the warnings and instructions of the local authorities. Further information is available from the Jordan Meteorological Department.

• Jordan is in an earthquake zone.

• If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your relatives as soon as possible and follow the authorities’ instructions. If communications with other countries are interrupted, contact the Swiss embassy in Amman.