Jordan

Tipping

• Tipping is common and appreciated in Jordan
• Restaurants: 10% is customary if service charge is not included
• Taxis: Round up the fare or add a small amount
• Hotel staff: A small amount (e
• g
• , 1
• 2 JOD) for porters or housekeepers
• Tour guides and drivers: 5
• 10 JOD per person per day is a good guideline, depending on the length and quality of the service

Money & Payments

• ATMs are widely available, especially in cities and tourist areas
• Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and local markets
• It is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases and in rural areas
• There is no official black market for cash

Cultural Norms

• Dress modestly, especially for women, covering shoulders and knees in public places and religious sites
• When entering a mosque or a private home, remove your shoes
• Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and handling money, as the left hand is considered unclean
• Avoid public displays of affection
• During Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours
• Be aware that Fridays are holy days, and many businesses may have reduced hours or be closed

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is not explicitly illegal, but societal attitudes are largely conservative. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not tolerated, and there are no specific laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• The legal drinking age is 18
• Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars, but public consumption is generally frowned upon and can be restricted during religious holidays like Ramadan
• Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties including long prison sentences for possession, use, or trafficking of even small amounts of illegal drugs

Special Laws

• It is illegal to import or export certain items without a permit, including archaeological artifacts
• Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites
• Dress modestly, especially for women, covering shoulders and knees
• Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum