Getting around Jordan
Domestic air travel in Jordan is limited, largely due to the country's compact size. The main domestic air route links Amman with the Red Sea city of Aqaba. Flights operate between Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), offering a convenient option for travellers who wish to avoid the four- to five-hour drive between the two cities. Services are typically operated by Royal Jordanian and, at times, its subsidiary carriers, with flight times of around 45 minutes.
Travelling by road is the most common and practical way to explore Jordan. The country has a well-developed highway network connecting Amman with major destinations such as Petra, Aqaba, the Dead Sea, and Jerash. Distances are relatively short, making it easy to cover large parts of the country within a week. Road travel also allows access to desert areas and nature reserves that are not served by public transport.
Fuel stations are widely available along main routes and in towns, and fuel prices are generally lower than in many European countries. Road signage is clear on major highways, often in both Arabic and English, although English signage becomes less consistent on secondary roads.
The Aqaba area forms part of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, which has a separate customs and tax regime from the rest of Jordan. As a result, vehicles travelling between Aqaba and other parts of the country may pass through internal customs checkpoints on major routes such as the Desert Highway and roads heading north. These are not international border crossings, but travellers may be stopped and asked to declare alcohol, tobacco, or other high-value goods purchased in Aqaba. Checks are selective rather than routine, but visitors should ensure they remain within permitted allowance limits.
Road quality in Jordan is generally good, particularly on main highways and around major cities. Key routes such as the Desert Highway and the Dead Sea Highway are well-maintained and suitable for long-distance travel. Urban roads in Amman and other cities can be congested, and surfaces in older neighbourhoods may deteriorate.
In rural or desert areas, road conditions can vary. Minor roads may be narrow or affected by sand and debris. Drivers should take extra care at night, as livestock may appear outside cities.
Jordan's road network is broadly divided into main highways, secondary roads, and local roads. The principal highways include the Desert Highway, which runs north–south through the country, and the Dead Sea Highway, which follows the Jordan Valley. These routes carry most long-distance traffic and are the fastest ways to travel between regions.
Car hire is widely available in Jordan. International and local rental companies operate at Queen Alia International Airport and in major cities, particularly Amman and Aqaba.
Vehicles range from compact cars to 4WDs, which are useful for desert travel or visits to Wadi Rum. Prices are generally reasonable, though insurance options and fuel policies should be checked carefully before booking.
Taxis are widely available in cities and towns. Yellow street taxis operate with meters, although drivers may sometimes prefer to agree on a fare in advance. White taxis operate on shared routes and are mainly used by locals.
Ride-hailing apps such as Careem and Uber operate in Amman and some other cities, offering a convenient and transparent alternative to street taxis, with fares agreed through the app.
Cycling is generally limited to recreational use or specific touring routes. Traffic conditions, hilly terrain, and high temperatures can make cycling challenging, particularly in cities.
That said, experienced cyclists may enjoy touring routes in quieter areas, such as parts of the Jordan Valley or around Wadi Musa near Petra. Proper planning, plenty of water, and visibility gear are essential, and cycling in urban traffic is best avoided.
Intercity coaches and minibuses are a popular and affordable way to travel around Jordan. Long-distance buses operate between Amman and major cities such as Aqaba, Irbid, and Petra, with services run by companies including JETT, which is known for its relatively comfortable and reliable coaches.
Minibuses are more frequent and cheaper but usually depart only when full and may not follow fixed timetables. They are widely used by locals and are a viable option for travellers who are flexible with time and willing to navigate a more informal system.
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically around 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 80–90 km/h (50–56 mph) on rural roads, and up to 120 km/h (75 mph) on some highways, though enforcement can vary.
Seat belts are mandatory for front-seat occupants, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless hands-free. Jordan has a zero-tolerance approach to drink driving, and penalties for driving under the influence are severe.
There is no nationwide automobile association offering comprehensive roadside assistance similar to those in some European countries. Breakdown support is usually arranged through car hire companies, which often provide a basic assistance service.
In urban areas, help can usually be found relatively quickly, but in remote or desert regions delays are possible. Travellers driving long distances are advised to carry water, a charged mobile phone, and emergency contact numbers.
Foreign drivers must carry a valid driving licence from their home country. An International Driving Permit is recommended and may be required by some car hire companies or during police checks.
Drivers should also carry their passport, visa or entry stamp, and vehicle rental documents at all times. Insurance documents should be kept in the car, as police checkpoints are common on major roads.
Within cities, most travel is by taxi, minibus, or private car. In Amman, public buses operate on many routes, but schedules and route information can be difficult for visitors to navigate.
Walking is feasible in some neighbourhoods, though hilly terrain, traffic, and limited pavements can make longer walks challenging. Urban transport is functional rather than tourist-oriented, and taxis remain the easiest option for most visitors.
Do you have any Feedback about this page?
© 2026 Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission, click here for information on Columbus Content Solutions.
You know where