Is Traveling In Jordan Safe For Jews?

Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with a diverse population, including Christians, Jews, and people of various beliefs. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully, avoiding low-cut and shoulder-baring tops, short skirts, and shorts. Israeli security chiefs advise against certain countries for Jews and Israelis, including Turkey, Morocco, Egypt (including Sinai), and Jordan. Many Jews come to Jordan by car to visit Wadi Rum and Petra, and this is not a problem.

The Foreign Office (FCDO) considers most of Jordan generally safe to travel to, bar the area up to 3km from its northern border with Syria. However, travel guidance has been issued to avoid traveling within 3.5 km of the Jordanian border with Syria and east of the town of Ruwayshid in the direction of the border with Iraq due to terrorism and armed conflict.

To stay safe in Jordan, travelers should be aware of the country’s safety measures, such as theft and crime, safety for LGBTQ+ travelers, travel scams, safe transport, and the availability of tap water. The State Department advises U.S. citizens not to travel within 3.5 km of the Jordanian border with Syria and east of the town.

The Australian Government also advises travelers to exercise a high degree of caution, understanding risks, safety, laws, and contacts. The Foreign Office (FCDO) has strengthened its stance on travel to Jordan, updating its guidance to read: “The FCDO advises against”. The National Security Council listed countries to be avoided, including Turkey, Morocco, Egypt (including Sinai), and Jordan.

Violent crime is extremely rare when traveling around Jordan, but occasional incidents may occur. The FCDO has also warned that crossings from Jordan to Israel may be closed at short notice due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest, and demonstrations. The UK Foreign Office considers Jordan a safe destination, with no warnings regarding the border with Syria.

Can Jews visit Petra?

It is relatively straightforward to plan a kosher trip to Petra, provided one is flexible and willing to adapt to the various offerings available in Jordan. We are pleased to provide assistance with any inquiries pertaining to kosher travel to Petra. For further details on the available options, please refer to our tours to Petra.

Is it safe to travel to Jordan due to the Israel War?

The political situation in Jordan is stable, but there are occasional protests in cities like Amman, particularly around the Gaza conflict. Travelers should be cautious near these areas, especially at night, and be aware of the possibility of large, spontaneous demonstrations. Security presence and roadblocks can cause confrontations, and anti-western sentiment may increase. To avoid these situations, individuals should take precautions, follow news reports, avoid political gatherings, and follow local authorities’ advice.

Is it safe to visit the Dead Sea in Jordan?

Despite its high salt content, swimming in the Dead Sea is safe. While swimming in the Dead Sea is permitted for visitors to Jordan, it is of the utmost importance to understand the optimal methodology for engaging with the salty water. A guide will provide comprehensive information regarding the preparation for a visit to the Dead Sea, including the optimal techniques for swimming and the most suitable approach to the water.

Can Jews visit Mecca?

Prior to March 1, 2004, the Saudi government stated that Jews were forbidden from entering the country, but this practice was not enforced. In Mecca, only Muslims are allowed, and non-Muslims may face penalties such as fines or deportation. In Medina, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Nabawi Square, where Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi is located. Other historical practices include apartheid, the badge of shame, caste, devshirme, Dhimmi laws, ghetto, Jim Crow laws, Jewish hat, Mellah, Millet, minority religion, Nuremberg laws, Pillarization, racial segregation, religious stratification, second-class citizen, and the yellow badge.

Why is Jordan friendly with Israel?

In 1994, Jordan and Israel signed a peace treaty, normalizing relations and resolving territorial disputes. The treaty aimed to promote cooperation in tourism and trade, and aimed to prevent Jordan and Israel from allowing their territories to be used for military strikes. The treaty was closely linked to achieving peace between Israel and the Palestinians. Following the agreements, Israel and Jordan opened their borders, allowing tourists, businessmen, and workers to travel between the two countries. In 1996, a trade treaty was signed, and Israel assisted in establishing a modern medical center in Amman.

Are Jews allowed to enter Jordan?

Jordan lost control of the West Bank during the 1967 Six-Day War but did not relinquish its claim until 1988, and signed the Israel-Jordan Treaty of Peace in 1994. The treaty did not change the status of Jews in Jordan, and in 2006, it was reported that there were no Jewish citizens or synagogues in the country. However, the government recognizes Judaism as a religion and does not impose restrictions on Jews. Jews are permitted to own property and conduct business in the country, though these may be subject to Jordanian nationality requirements.

Jordan has welcomed Israeli companies to open plants in Jordan, and Israeli tourists and Jewish citizens of other countries visit the country. In the year following the 1994 treaty, 60, 000 to 80, 000 Israeli tourists visited Jordan. A proposal to open a kosher restaurant in Amman failed due to a loss of Arab clientele, failure to secure kosher certification, and lack of interest among tourists.

Post-2000-2005, Israeli tourism to Jordan declined due to anti-Israeli agitation among a wide segment of the population. In August 2008, Jordanian border officials turned back a group of Israeli tourists carrying Jewish religious items, posing a security risk. In August 2019, the apparent ban on Jewish worship in Jordan was again enforced after a group of Israeli tourists shared a video of themselves dancing with a Torah scroll at the Tomb of Aaron on Mount Hor near Petra.

Is it better to visit the Dead Sea in Israel or Jordan?

The Dead Sea, whether in Jordan or Israel, offers a unique and unforgettable experience with its rich history, geography, geology, and luxurious resorts. Both countries offer spectacular views of the Dead Sea, making them a must-visit destination. If you’re unsure which country to choose, consider joining a Jordan and Israel Package Tour to experience both sides of the iconic sea. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Is Petra safe right now?

Petra, Jordan’s famous archaeological site, is generally safe for tourists to visit due to its well-preserved nature and strict local authorities. To ensure safety, visitors should follow safety guidelines such as staying on designated paths, traveling in groups, staying hydrated, respecting local customs, and being cautious of vendors and scams.

Staying on marked paths and traveling in groups can help avoid getting lost or stumbling into unsafe areas. Drinking plenty of water, wearing sunscreen, and taking breaks in shaded areas can help prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Respecting local customs and cultural norms is crucial, especially when visiting religious sites within Petra.

The best time to visit Petra is during the spring or autumn months, specifically April, May, September, and October, when temperatures are typically moderate, ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit (around 20-30°C), making it a pleasant place to hike and explore the ancient city.

Is Jordan safe to travel for Indians?

The UK Foreign Office has advised against travel to any area within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria, which was in place before the war between Israel and Hamas. The advice was in place before the outbreak of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The rest of the country is generally safe for travel. The UK and US have been conducting strikes against Houthi bases in Yemen since January 11, and the Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for all neighboring countries, including Jordan, following the strikes. The country’s tourism board emphasizes the safety and wellbeing of all visitors, including those interested in exploring the Nabataean tombs at Petra and the Dead Sea coastline.

Do tourists have to wear hijab in Jordan?

Jordan has no laws requiring the wearing of headscarves or banning them from public institutions. However, in the 1950s, the Queen of Jordan appeared unveiled in public, making it acceptable for educated urban women to appear unveiled. Various styles of head coverings, such as khimar, hijab, chador, niqab, paranja, yashmak, tudong, shayla, safseri, carşaf, haik, dupatta, boshiya, and burqa, are worn by Muslim women worldwide.

Wearing the hijab is mandatory in conservative countries like Iran and Afghanistan, and in Gaza, school officials have voted to require young girls to wear hijab. However, the Palestinian Authority considered the hijab optional in 1990.

In Muslim majority countries like Morocco and Tunisia, there have been complaints of restriction or discrimination against women who wear the hijab, which can be seen as a sign of Islamism. Several Muslim-majority countries have banned the burqa and hijab in public schools, universities, or government buildings, including Tunisia, Turkey, Kosovo, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

Are Israelis allowed to visit Jordan?

Israeli visitors frequently inquire about visas for entering neighboring Jordan, as it is a popular destination for them. Regardless of the border crossing, entry visas are relatively easily obtained.