Jordan, a land of ancient wonders and stunning landscapes, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. But Can Americans Travel To Jordan without facing undue obstacles? The answer is generally yes, but it’s crucial to be well-informed about local laws, customs, and potential challenges to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This guide provides essential information for US citizens planning a visit to Jordan.
Understanding Jordanian Laws and Customs
While Jordan is generally a safe and welcoming country, it’s important to be aware of and respect local laws and customs. Violating these, even unknowingly, can lead to expulsion, arrest, or imprisonment.
The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and the press, but with restrictions. Insulting the King or the Royal Family is a serious offense and can result in detainment or imprisonment.
Alt text: The Jordanian flag waving gently in the wind.
Religious Considerations
Islam is the state religion of Jordan, and the government considers proselytizing to Muslims illegal. This includes distributing religious material. Anyone undertaking these activities is subject to prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation.
Criminal Penalties and Legal Matters
Jordanian courts may impose criminal penalties, including imprisonment, for alleged infractions that, in the United States, might be resolved in civil courts. The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases involving business or financial disputes that have led to lengthy pre-trial detention and imprisonment under local financial crimes laws.
Drug Laws
It is illegal to use, possess, or distribute drugs, including marijuana and its derivatives, in Jordan. Jordan has strict drug laws and enforces them readily. Drug possession/use falls under the jurisdiction of the state security court and is subject to a different set of criminal procedures. Accused offenders can be detained for extended periods, sometimes without immediate notification to the U.S. Embassy.
Arrest Notification
If you are a U.S. citizen and are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
Family Circumstances and Travel Holds
The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases where U.S. citizens have been subject to domestic violence and abandonment by their spouses, including restrictions of movement through travel holds, loss of custody of children, or forced marriage. Women and children should pay particular attention to any warning signs.
Under Jordanian law, any adult male can prevent his minor children from leaving Jordan by registering a hold on their travel. Adults may place travel holds on their spouses pursuant to a court order. Adult male relatives may also petition Jordanian courts for a travel hold on their unmarried adult female relatives. Jordanian authorities consider disputes surrounding travel holds as private family matters, and the Embassy’s ability to intervene is extremely limited.
Alt text: The iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) at Petra, Jordan, a major tourist attraction.
Dual Citizenship
The Government of Jordan considers U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals to be Jordanian citizens. Local authorities typically do not notify the U.S. Embassy of arrests, detentions, or accidents involving dual nationals. Dual nationals should carry copies of their U.S. passports at all times.
Customs Regulations
Jordanian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning the temporary importation into or export from Jordan of items such as drugs, firearms, poisons, chemicals, explosives, pornographic materials, communications equipment, drones, and antiquities. Contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Washington, D.C., for specific information regarding customs requirements.
Drones
Drones are illegal for personal use in Jordan. Persons seeking to bring any drone into Jordan must first obtain pre-authorization and approval from authorities before entry and use.
Faith-Based Travelers
The Jordanian government generally does not interfere in religious practices. However, activities such as proselytizing or encouraging conversion to any faith other than Islam are prohibited. U.S. citizens have been detained, arrested, denied re-entry, and/or deported for discussing or trying to engage Jordanians in discussions about religion.
LGB Travelers
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGB events in Jordan. However, laws against adultery or breaches of modesty may be used against LGB travelers. Public displays of affection, especially between individuals of the same sex, are not considered culturally acceptable.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance
Outside of a few upscale hotels in the capital, individuals with disabilities will find almost no accessible accommodations. Transportation is not accessible, and sidewalks and crosswalks, even in the main cities, are not accessible. Handicap-accessible toilets and bathrooms are generally not available.
Women Travelers
Women visiting and residing in Jordan have reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, and assault. Women should take precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night, traveling alone, and riding in the front seat of a taxi. Additionally, dress modestly when in public.
Key Takeaways for American Travelers to Jordan
- Respect Local Laws and Customs: Be aware of Jordanian laws and customs, particularly those related to religion, speech, and public behavior.
- Drug Laws are Strict: Avoid any involvement with illegal drugs.
- Family Law Considerations: Be aware of potential family law issues, especially regarding travel holds and custody disputes.
- Dual Nationals: Dual U.S.-Jordanian nationals should carry copies of their U.S. passports.
- Accessibility Limitations: Travelers with disabilities should research accessibility options in advance.
- Women’s Safety: Women should take precautions to avoid harassment and assault.
By being informed and prepared, Americans can travel to Jordan and experience the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty safely and respectfully.
