What language do people speak in Amman?

Arabic (اللغة العربية — the official language; the Jordanian Arabic dialect (اللهجة الأردنية — a Levantine Arabic dialect, closely related to Palestinian, Syrian and Lebanese Arabic) is the spoken form). English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas — Jordan has one of the highest English proficiency rates in the Arab world. French and German are spoken at some upscale hotels. Learning a few Arabic phrases (Marhaba/مرحبا — hello; Shukran/شكراً — thank you; La shukran/لا شكراً — no thank you (essential for declining persistent vendors)) is warmly received

What currency is used in Amman?

Jordanian Dinar (JD or JOD). 1 JD ≈ €1.25 / $1.40. The dinar is divided into 1,000 fils. Jordan is more expensive than Egypt or Morocco but cheaper than the Gulf states. A falafel meal at Hashem: JD 1.5–2. A mansaf at a mid-range restaurant: JD 8–15. A taxi across central Amman: JD 3–8 (negotiate or insist on meter). The Jordan Pass (JD 70–100 depending on Petra days included) covers the Petra entry fee (JD 50) and 40+ other sites — essential if visiting Petra. Cards accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants; cash required for markets, falafel shops and taxis

How do you get around Amman?

Taxi (yellow cabs): the standard mode of transport in Amman — insist on the meter (the meter must be used by law; many drivers will try to negotiate a fixed price, which is usually higher): a metered fare from the Citadel to Rainbow Street: JD 2–3. Ride apps: Uber and Careem (the Middle Eastern Uber equivalent) both operate in Amman and are the most transparent pricing option. Walking: the historic areas (Citadel, Amphitheater, Downtown, Rainbow Street) are within walking distance of each other though steep (Amman is built on hills). Day trips: JETT Bus or private tour (to Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum). Renting a car is practical for the Dead Sea and King's Highway

What is the best time to visit Amman?

March–May and September–November (the most pleasant temperatures: 18–28°C. Spring brings the wildflowers of the Jordanian hills (the black iris, the national flower of Jordan)). July–August: hot (32–40°C) but dry. Ramadan (the Islamic month of fasting): Amman during Ramadan is a unique cultural experience (the city is quieter during the day, spectacular at night after Iftar (the breaking of the fast at sunset)) but some restaurants are closed during daylight hours. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: national holidays when family gatherings dominate and some tourist sites close or reduce hours

How do you get to Amman?

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM, 32km south of the city center): the Queen Alia International Airport is the main entry point. Royal Jordanian (the national carrier) flies direct from London (5 hrs), Amsterdam (4.5 hrs), Paris (5 hrs), Frankfurt (4 hrs) and all major Arab cities. Budget airlines: Ryanair flies from some European cities. JETT Airport Bus to downtown: JD 3.3 (runs regularly). Taxi from airport to downtown: JD 20–30 (fixed rate — negotiate before getting in, or use Uber). Jordan Pass: buy online before arrival to waive the visa fee ($75 for most Western nationals is included in the Jordan Pass)

What is the tipping etiquette in Amman?

Tipping is appreciated but not as obligatory as in the US. At restaurants: 10% is generous. Taxi: round up to the nearest JD (rounding up is the standard). Hotel bellboy: JD 1–2 per bag. Tour guide: JD 5–10/day. Falafel and street food: no tip expected. Jordanian hospitality culture means that many interactions with local people do not involve monetary exchange — the spontaneous offer of tea or coffee is a cultural gesture, not a commercial transaction

Is Amman safe for tourists?

Amman is consistently ranked the safest capital city in the Arab world. The areas described are completely safe for solo travelers, including women. The standard Middle East travel considerations apply: dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees in the old city and at religious sites — the citadel and the Roman Amphitheater area are more relaxed). The main practical caution: taxi overcharging (insist on the meter or use Uber). The surrounding region: the Jordanian border areas (east near Iraq, south near Saudi Arabia) require specific permits but are not relevant to standard tourist itineraries. Amman itself is very safe

What are the best budget tips for Amman?

Falafel and hummus at Hashem: JD 1.5 (the most filling meal in Amman for the least money). Jordan Pass: covers the JD 50 Petra entry and the $75 visa fee — saves money for most visitors. Mansaf at local restaurants near the circles (not in tourist hotels): JD 6–9. The Roman Amphitheater and Citadel: included in Jordan Pass. Public transport within Amman (the white minibuses): JD 0.3/ride (complex routing, better for adventurous budget travelers). Knafeh at Habibah: JD 1.5 for a generous portion

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