Middle EastAmmanJordan eSIM and Travel Guide: Stay Connected in Petra, Wadi Rum and Amman
Jordan has three operators with 4G and early 5G in its cities: Zain leads on national coverage, Orange Jordan offers competitive 5G in Amman and Irbid, and Umniah is best value in urban areas. A Roamix Jordan eSIM connects you to the strongest local network on landing at Queen Alia International, so you arrive already online without a queue at an airport SIM kiosk. Budget 4 to 6 GB for a typical week covering Amman, Petra and Aqaba, and always download offline maps before entering Wadi Rum, the remote Wadi Mujib canyon or the desert stretches of the King's Highway.
Key Takeaways
- Zain holds the largest market share at around 40 percent and the best national 4G coverage, with 5G live in major cities.
- A Roamix eSIM activates automatically at Queen Alia International Airport so you land already online for navigation and hotel check-in.
- Wadi Rum and the Jordanian desert have very limited signal; download offline maps in Wadi Musa (Petra) or Aqaba before heading into the desert.
- The Jordan Pass (visa plus park entry) is best purchased online before arrival; a Roamix eSIM lets you access it at the airport.
- Jordan is remarkably safe for tourists; it is consistently rated among the most welcoming destinations in the Middle East.
Quick Facts
Jordan Connectivity
Get a Roamix Jordan eSIM and land connected at AMM Queen Alia International.
How to Stay Connected in Jordan
Hotels in Amman and Aqaba generally have good wifi. Wadi Rum camps often have satellite or very slow wifi. Petra guesthouses in Wadi Musa have moderate wifi. Mobile 4G is faster and more reliable than camp wifi for most practical purposes in Amman.
Option
Best For
Notes
RecommendedRoamix eSIM
Most travellers
Connects to Zain or Orange Jordan local network on arrival at AMM, with no roaming charges and no visit to an operator store.
Local physical SIM
Long stays or those needing a local Jordanian number
Available from Zain, Orange Jordan and Umniah at AMM Airport arrivals and in Amman city centres. Requires ID.
Pocket wifi
Groups sharing a connection
Available in Amman. Adds a device to charge and requires return or disposal at trip end.
Carrier roaming
Very short stays with no setup time
Jordan is a moderately expensive roaming destination for most US and European carriers. A Roamix plan typically costs a fraction of roaming charges for a week-long visit.
For most visitors to Jordan, a Roamix eSIM is the most convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected, giving local network speeds from landing without airport queues or roaming bills.
Get connected the moment you land in Jordan.
Get your Jordan eSIMMobile Networks in Jordan
Jordan has three active mobile operators all offering 4G LTE with 5G launched in 2023. Zain has the largest market share and best national coverage including rural areas. Orange Jordan (formerly FastLink) operates strong 5G in Amman and Irbid and launched commercial 5G in July 2023. Umniah is the most affordable option with good urban coverage but weaker rural reach. A Roamix Jordan eSIM connects to the strongest available network on arrival without any local paperwork or store visit.
Largest operator with around 40 percent market share. Best national 4G coverage including in regional towns like Madaba, Karak and Wadi Musa. 5G live in major cities.
Launched commercial 5G in Amman and Irbid in July 2023. Strong urban coverage and competitive speeds in the capital. Good service in the northern governorates.
Best value pricing and solid 4G in Amman and urban areas. Coverage thins noticeably in rural and desert areas; best for budget-conscious city-focused visits.
Typical Speeds
4G delivers 20 to 60 Mbps in Amman, Aqaba and Irbid; 10 to 30 Mbps in towns like Wadi Musa and Madaba.
5G Status
5G is live on Zain and Orange Jordan in Amman, Zarqa and Irbid. The network targets 75 percent population coverage by 2026, but it is currently urban-focused.
Zain is the safest choice for country-wide coverage including the road between Amman and Aqaba and the approach to Petra. Either Zain or Orange Jordan are good for Amman-focused trips. A Roamix eSIM auto-selects the strongest available signal.
Coverage is strong in Amman, Aqaba, Irbid and main towns. Wadi Rum desert, the remote King's Highway sections, Wadi Mujib canyon interior and some Dead Sea resort stretches have patchy or no signal. Always download offline maps before entering desert or canyon areas.
Jordanian networks use standard LTE and 5G bands compatible with most unlocked international phones from iPhone XS onward and recent Android flagship devices.
Data Usage Guide
Data needs in Jordan are moderate. Urban touring in Amman is light on data, but the multi-site circuit covering Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea benefits from generous offline preparation, particularly for the desert and canyon areas where signal is absent.
Download offline Google Maps or Maps.me packages for Petra, Wadi Rum and the King's Highway before leaving Amman or Wadi Musa, as these areas have patchy to no signal.
Data by Activity
Light Use
2 to 3 GB
Four-day Amman and Jerash cultural trip
Navigation in Amman, museum bookings, WhatsApp with guides and social uploads on a well-covered urban network.
Standard
4 to 6 GB
One-week circuit: Amman, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba
Daily navigation between sites, guide communication, offline map downloads for desert areas and social sharing from Petra and Wadi Rum.
Heavy Use
15 GB or more
Remote work base in Amman
Video calls, laptop tethering and cloud uploads alongside exploring Amman's cafe culture and the Jordan Valley day trips.
Apps & Internet Freedom
Jordan has a fully open internet. All common messaging, navigation and social media apps work normally on a Roamix eSIM.
There are no nationwide blocks on mainstream apps or social media in Jordan. No VPN is required for any standard app or service.
The primary messaging app in Jordan; fully available for messaging and calls.
FaceTime
Works normally over 4G data and wifi.
Google Maps and Search
No restrictions; essential for navigation in Petra and around Amman.
Social media
Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok all work without restriction.
How to Set Up a Jordan eSIM
A Roamix Jordan eSIM is best installed over wifi before your flight. It activates automatically when your device connects to Zain or Orange Jordan on landing at Queen Alia International Airport, so you arrive already online.
Works on eSIM-capable phones including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The phone must be carrier unlocked.
- 1
Buy your Jordan plan on the Roamix Jordan eSIM page before departure.
- 2
Scan the QR code or tap to install the eSIM over wifi at home.
- 3
Label it Roamix and keep your home SIM as primary for calls and texts.
- 4
Enable data roaming for the Roamix line only.
- 5
Land at AMM and the eSIM connects automatically to Zain or Orange Jordan.
APN Note
Roamix sets the APN automatically on most devices. If data does not start after landing, apply the APN from your activation email and toggle airplane mode off and on.
Troubleshooting
No data on arrival means data roaming is likely off for the Roamix line. Check settings, enable data roaming for the Roamix SIM and restart the device.
Get connected the moment you land in Jordan.
Get your Jordan eSIMArrival Checklist
Confirm your Roamix eSIM has connected to Zain or Orange Jordan before leaving the arrivals hall at AMM.
If you purchased a Jordan Pass online, have the QR code accessible; it covers the visa fee and Petra entry for multiple days.
Save emergency numbers: general 911, police 192, ambulance 191, fire 193.
Download offline maps of Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea before leaving Amman if your trip includes those areas.
Exchange some JOD at the airport or bank; many smaller vendors, heritage entry kiosks and taxis prefer cash.
How locals communicate
WhatsApp is the dominant messaging and voice call app across Jordan for both personal and business use. Facebook Messenger is also used widely. Almost all Jordanian tour operators, guesthouses and transport providers communicate via WhatsApp.
Keep your home SIM active for SMS two-factor authentication while using the Roamix line for data and WhatsApp calls to guides and hotels.
Airports in Jordan
Queen Alia International Airport
Amman
Free wifi throughout the terminal with reasonable speeds for map downloads and messaging.
Activate your Roamix eSIM before landing so you can compare airport express bus options versus taxis to Downtown Amman and have navigation ready before leaving the arrivals hall at AMM.
Aqaba King Hussein International Airport
Aqaba
Free wifi in the compact terminal; adequate for messaging and confirming hotel transfers.
Aqaba Airport is just minutes from the Red Sea resort strip. Use Roamix data to confirm your dive boat schedule and download offline maps of the Wadi Rum drive before heading north into the desert.
Amman Civil Airport (Marka)
Amman (east)
Basic wifi in the small domestic terminal; limited speeds but adequate for messaging.
Marka Airport handles domestic and some regional charter flights. A Roamix-connected phone lets you arrange transport to the Citadel district and confirm any onward connections the moment you land.
Prince Hassan Airport
Mafraq (northern Jordan)
Very limited facilities at this small northern airport; rely on your Roamix eSIM for connectivity.
Prince Hassan Airport serves northern Jordan near the Syrian border area. Download offline maps of Jerash and Ajloun Forest Reserve over Roamix data before any flights to this remote gateway.
Visa & Entry for Jordan
Citizens of most Western nations including the US, EU, UK, Canada and Australia can obtain a single-entry visa on arrival at Jordan's international airports and land borders. The Jordan Pass (purchased online before arrival) waives the visa fee and includes multi-day entry to Petra and over 40 sites; it pays for itself if you plan to visit Petra for two or more days.
eVisa / ETA
Jordan offers an e-visa system for many nationalities at visitjordan.com and the Jordan e-visa portal. The Jordan Pass is available at jordanpass.jo and is strongly recommended for tourists planning to visit Petra.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Jordan.
Onward ticket
Proof of onward travel and accommodation details may be requested by immigration on arrival.
Have your Jordan Pass QR code, flight itinerary and hotel address accessible on your Roamix eSIM for immigration and to start navigation immediately on exit from AMM.
Entry requirements change. Verify current rules at the Jordan Tourism Board website and your government's travel advisory before booking.
Get connected the moment you land in Jordan.
Get your Jordan eSIMMoney & Payments in Jordan
The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is one of the highest-value currencies in the world. Keep smaller denominations (500 fils, 1 JOD coins and 5 JOD notes) for taxis, small vendors and tips, as very large notes are hard to break at markets.
Cash vs Card
Major hotels, upscale restaurants and tourist shops in Amman and Aqaba accept Visa and Mastercard. In Petra, Wadi Rum camps and smaller restaurants, cash is usually required. Withdraw JOD in Amman or Aqaba before heading into the south.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in Amman and Aqaba. Use Arab Bank or Cairo Amman Bank ATMs for the most reliable international card acceptance. There are limited ATMs in Wadi Musa; withdraw in Amman or Aqaba before heading to Petra.
Payment Apps
Apple Pay and Google Pay work at major hotels and chain establishments in Amman. Local Jordan payment apps require a Jordanian bank account and are not useful for tourists. Card and cash cover all tourist needs.
Daily Budget
Jordan is moderately priced. Budget travellers can manage on 30 to 50 USD per day; mid-range tourists with a hotel and restaurant meals spend 80 to 150 USD. The Jordan Pass is strong value and pays for itself with two days at Petra (normally 50 JOD per day entry).
Data cost: Carrier roaming for Jordan can be expensive; a Roamix eSIM at local network rates is a fraction of typical roaming charges for a week in Jordan.
Getting Around Jordan
Getting around Jordan typically involves a mix of private taxis, JETT tourist coaches, rented cars and day tours. The distances between Petra, Wadi Rum and Amman are considerable, so data is useful for booking transport and navigating the scenic Desert Highway and King's Highway.
Taxis and Uber
Yellow metered taxis operate in Amman; Uber and Careem both operate in Amman and Aqaba. Book via app over Roamix data or flag on the street and use the meter.
Rented car
Essential for the King's Highway between Amman and Petra, Madaba and the Desert Highway south to Aqaba. Use Roamix data for Google Maps navigation and download offline maps before the King's Highway or Wadi Rum turnoff.
JETT and tourist coaches
JETT operates express coach services between Amman and Aqaba, Petra and other cities. Book via WhatsApp or the JETT website over Roamix data.
Guided tours and day trips
Most Wadi Rum camps and Petra tour operators communicate entirely via WhatsApp. A Roamix eSIM is essential for confirming camp pick-ups, jeep tours and Petra guide start times.
Regions & Travel
Jordan is the Middle East's most compact and rewarding cultural destination. The rose-red city of Petra, the silence of Wadi Rum, the buoyancy of the Dead Sea, the Roman ruins of Jerash, the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba and the vibrant cafe culture of Amman are all within a few hours of each other. A Roamix eSIM keeps navigation, booking systems and communication live across the entire country.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November for ideal temperatures of 18 to 28C. June to August brings intense heat (38C plus in the south) but Petra and Wadi Rum are still feasible with early starts. December to February is cool and can bring rain; Petra in the rain has extraordinary atmosphere.
Amman and the Capital Region
Jordan's sprawling modern capital on seven hills (now many more), where the ancient Roman Citadel and Theatre sit alongside Downtown coffeehouses, the Rainbow Street arts district, Darat al Funun gallery and a world-class restaurant scene.
Signal: Excellent 4G and 5G coverage from Zain and Orange Jordan across greater Amman, including Rainbow Street, the Citadel, Abdali and the western suburbs.
Petra and the South
The Nabataean capital carved from rose-red sandstone, accessed through the narrow Siq gorge and sprawling across an enormous desert valley. Nearby Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) offers a quieter ancillary site, and Wadi Musa is the gateway town.
Signal: Reasonable Zain and Orange 4G in Wadi Musa town and at the Petra Visitor Centre. Signal drops to patchy inside the Petra Archaeological Park, especially beyond the Treasury toward the Monastery. Download offline maps and audio guides in Wadi Musa.
Wadi Rum
A vast desert landscape of red sand and towering sandstone mountains protecting the ancient Nabataean inscriptions and the camps used by Lawrence of Arabia, now Jordan's most otherworldly natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Signal: Very limited signal throughout most of Wadi Rum Protected Area. Reasonable coverage at Rum Village at the entrance, dropping to almost nothing deeper in the desert. Download all maps, guide contacts and tour information in Aqaba or Wadi Musa before entering.
The Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley
The lowest point on Earth at 430 m below sea level, where luxury resort spas, mineral mud beaches, the Moses Memorial on Mount Nebo and the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba are all within an hour of Amman.
Signal: Good coverage at the main Dead Sea resort hotels and the King Hussein Bridge crossing, but some stretches of the Dead Sea Highway drop out. Signal is reliable at Mount Nebo and Madaba.
Aqaba and the Red Sea
Jordan's only coastal city and Red Sea resort, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Israel and Egypt within a few kilometres. World-class coral reef diving, snorkelling directly off the beach, the Aqaba Fort and the ancient port of Aila make it a natural end to a Jordan circuit.
Signal: Good Zain and Umniah 4G throughout central Aqaba and the hotel strip. The reef areas offshore have good signal at the beach and on dive boats.
Hidden Gems
Petra Archaeological City
world heritage sitePetra and the South
The Nabataean rose-red city carved from sandstone cliffs is one of the seven wonders of the modern world, where the Siq gorge narrows to 2 metres before revealing the towering Treasury facade, and 800 monuments are spread across a vast valley.
Signal: Signal is present at the Petra Visitor Centre and the first section of the Siq, but drops to patchy beyond the Treasury and is effectively absent beyond the Royal Tombs and at the Monastery. Download the audio guide and offline Petra map in Wadi Musa before entering.
Petra requires multiple days; the Jordan Pass covering 1, 2 or 3 days is best purchased over Roamix data before arriving in Jordan. Download the official Petra map and audio guide app the evening before entry in Wadi Musa.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
desert wildernessWadi Rum
A UNESCO World Heritage moonscape of 1,700 square kilometres of red desert, soaring sandstone massifs and Nabataean inscriptions, famously associated with Lawrence of Arabia and more recently with Mars film sets, with overnight Bedouin camps under the stars.
Signal: Signal exists at Rum Village entrance only. The entire protected area interior is effectively off-grid. Download Maps.me Jordan offline, your camp's GPS coordinates and the jeep tour itinerary over Roamix data in Aqaba or Wadi Musa before entering.
Wadi Rum camp bookings and jeep tour arrangements are made entirely via WhatsApp. Confirm all arrangements over Roamix data the evening before from Aqaba or Wadi Musa, and download your camp's coordinates offline before losing signal at the entrance.
Jerash Roman City
archaeological siteAmman and the Capital Region
One of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world outside Italy, with a complete oval forum, colonnaded Cardo Maximus, two theatres, temples and aqueduct remains spread across a valley an hour north of Amman.
Signal: Good Zain 4G in Jerash town and at the archaeological site entrance. Signal is present throughout most of the site including the Oval Forum and colonnaded street.
The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts in summer books out quickly. Use Roamix data to buy your Jordan Pass (which includes Jerash entry) and download the site audio guide before the 50-minute drive north from Amman.
Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
nature reserveThe Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley
The Grand Canyon of Jordan, where the Wadi Mujib river canyon drops 1,300 metres from the plateau to the Dead Sea shore, with a famous 4-hour wade upstream through pools, waterfalls and narrows, described as the world's lowest nature reserve.
Signal: Signal drops to none inside the canyon. Download the RSCN hiking information and the reserve map over Roamix data in Madaba or at the Dead Sea resort the evening before the hike.
The Siq Trail wading hike at Wadi Mujib requires advance RSCN booking as capacity is strictly limited. Reserve your entry slot and download the reserve map over Roamix data before making the drive from the Dead Sea resort area.
Madaba and the Byzantine Mosaics
historic townThe Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley
A living town built on Byzantine ruins, where St George's Church contains the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land in sixth-century mosaic, and the Madaba Archaeological Park reveals more Byzantine mosaic floors under a modern shelter.
Signal: Good Zain 4G in central Madaba town and at the St George Church mosaic. Signal is reliable throughout the town for navigation and restaurant bookings.
Madaba is a 30-minute drive from Amman and easily combined with Mount Nebo. Use Roamix data to check St George Church opening times, book a Madaba mosaic school experience and navigate to the Madaba Archaeological Park a few streets away.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
nature reserveAmman and the Capital Region
A green oak and pine forest in the hills of northern Jordan, home to the 12th-century Ajloun Castle built by Saladin's nephew, marked hiking trails, endemic wildlife and a working RSCN eco-lodge deep in the forest.
Signal: Variable Orange Jordan signal at the Ajloun Castle and the forest reserve trails. Download the trail map in Ajloun town before hiking into the forest.
Ajloun Castle and the RSCN Forest Walks require advance booking, especially for the guided trail programmes. Reserve your eco-lodge or guided walk over Roamix data in Amman and download the forest trail map before the drive north.
Dead Sea Beach and Spa Resorts
natural spaThe Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley
The lowest point on Earth at 430 m below sea level, where the 34 percent salinity makes everyone float effortlessly, black mineral mud is plastered on skin from poolside tubs, and the surreal haze-shrouded vista of the West Bank across the water creates an otherworldly spa experience.
Signal: Good Zain and Orange 4G at the main Dead Sea resort complex. The public beach areas can have patchy coverage, but the resort hotels all have strong wifi as backup.
Dead Sea resort day passes sell out on weekends. Book your resort day pass and mud treatment over Roamix data before leaving Amman, and use maps to navigate the 45-minute descent from the plateau.
Mount Nebo
religious siteThe Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley
The hilltop where Moses is believed to have viewed the Promised Land before his death, marked by a memorial church with beautiful Byzantine mosaics and a 360-degree panorama of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and on clear days the Jerusalem skyline.
Signal: Good Zain 4G at the Mount Nebo memorial church and viewpoint. Signal is reliable for sharing the panoramic view across the Jordan Valley toward Jerusalem.
Mount Nebo is 30 minutes from Madaba and easily combined in a Dead Sea day. Use Roamix data to check current opening hours (the church has restoration periods) and book a lunch in Madaba before the drive back.
Aqaba Coral Reef Marine Park
marine parkAqaba and the Red Sea
Jordan's section of the Red Sea has some of the best accessible coral reef snorkelling and diving in the region, with a WWII shipwreck (Cedar Pride), pristine hard coral gardens directly accessible from the beach and no requirement to travel to a reef boat.
Signal: Good Zain 4G along the Aqaba beach hotel strip and the Royal Diving Club pier. Signal drops on dive boats once offshore but is reliable at the beach entry points.
Dive centre bookings in Aqaba require advance reservation, especially in high season. Use Roamix data to book your Red Sea dive package at the Royal Diving Club or Arab Divers and download an offline tide and wind condition check before the water session.
Karak Crusader Castle
historic castleThe Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley
One of the greatest Crusader castles in the Levant, built in 1140 on a promontory above the King's Highway in Karak, with massive walls, vaulted halls, an underground city and panoramic views across the Jordan Valley that made it crucial for controlling the caravan route.
Signal: Variable Zain signal at Karak town and the castle approach. The castle underground passages and lower levels can drop to no signal; download the castle map in Karak town.
Karak Castle is a natural midpoint stop on the King's Highway drive between Madaba and Petra. Use Roamix data to navigate the winding King's Highway from Madaba and book a Karak restaurant for the lunch stop before the castle visit.
Events & Best Seasons
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts
FestivalJerash Roman City · July to August
The Arab world's longest-running international arts festival, held since 1981 in the ancient Roman theatres and forums of Jerash, featuring music, theatre, folk performances and international artists against the backdrop of lit Roman columns.
Network note
Good 4G in Jerash for the festival. The South Theatre stage area has reliable signal for ticketing apps and navigation.
Roamix tip
Book tickets for the Jerash Festival headliner nights well in advance over Roamix data; the South Theatre events sell out and accommodation in Jerash fills up fast during the festival fortnight.
Jordan Rally
sportWadi Rum and desert areas near Aqaba · Varies (usually spring)
An FIA Middle East Rally Championship round held across Jordan's dramatic desert and wadi terrain near Wadi Rum and Aqaba, drawing international rally drivers to one of the most spectacular off-road stages in the region.
Network note
Very limited signal on the rally stage roads through Wadi Rum. Download stage maps and schedule over Roamix data in Aqaba before the event.
Roamix tip
Check the current year's event dates over Roamix data; the rally is a great spectator event from Aqaba with jeep access to some viewing points, but requires advance local knowledge to find the best stages.
Petra by Night
CulturalPetra (The Siq and Treasury) · Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings year-round
A spectacular evening ceremony where 1,500 candles illuminate the Siq gorge and the Treasury facade in warm light, with traditional Bedouin music performed in front of the illuminated monument under a sky full of desert stars.
Network note
Signal drops inside the Siq at night; download your ticket confirmation over Roamix data before entering and fully charge your phone for photography.
Roamix tip
Petra by Night tickets must be purchased separately from the day entry; book over Roamix data in advance as groups can sell out the experience on popular nights.
Dead Sea Ultra Marathon
sportDead Sea Highway · April
A unique marathon run at the lowest point on Earth along the Dead Sea Highway, with participants racing at 400 m below sea level through the extraordinary landscape of the Jordan Valley.
Network note
Good Zain coverage along the Dead Sea Highway route. The race registration and participant tracking app require a live connection on race day.
Roamix tip
Register for the Dead Sea Ultra Marathon well in advance over Roamix data; the race sells out and participant numbers are strictly capped for the low-altitude experience.
Jordan International Rally
sportAmman and northern Jordan · Spring
Part of the FIA World Rally Championship historical rotation, this rally event runs through northern Jordan's challenging terrain near Amman, drawing international competitors and car culture enthusiasts.
Network note
Good coverage near Amman for rally viewing. Use Roamix data to track the rally stages and find spectator access points.
Roamix tip
Check whether the Jordan Rally is on the current year's WRC calendar over Roamix data; the event rotates in and out of the championship schedule.
Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival
CulturalAqaba waterfront · December
A winter festival on the Aqaba waterfront celebrating Jordanian and Arab traditional arts, music and crafts, coinciding with the pleasant winter beach weather that makes Aqaba a popular year-round destination.
Network note
Strong 4G throughout the Aqaba waterfront. Use Roamix data to find the festival programme and navigate to the stages.
Roamix tip
Aqaba in December has excellent beach and diving weather alongside the festival. Book your Red Sea dive package over Roamix data and combine it with festival evening events.
Amman International Film Festival (Awal Film)
FestivalAmman · Spring
Jordan's premier international film festival, showcasing Arab cinema and international films at venues across Amman, promoting Arab filmmakers and bringing world cinema to the region.
Network note
Excellent 5G and 4G throughout central Amman. Buy tickets and browse the programme over Roamix data.
Roamix tip
Check the current year's programme over Roamix data; Arab cinema premieres and the opening night gala sell out fastest. Book Rainbow Street restaurants for the post-screening social scene.
Jordan Trail Hiking Season
outdoorJordan National Trail (Dana to Aqaba section most popular) · October to April
The Jordan Trail is a 650 km marked route from Um Qais in the north to Aqaba, traversing every major landscape in the country. The southern section through Dana, Petra and Wadi Rum is the most popular multi-day hiking itinerary in the Middle East.
Network note
Signal varies dramatically along the trail. Dana and Feynan areas have limited coverage; Petra park has some; Wadi Rum is off-grid. Download all trail sections over Roamix data in Amman before starting.
Roamix tip
Download the Jordan Trail Association map over Roamix data and contact the JTA for guide recommendations; the Dana to Aqaba section takes 7 to 10 days. A Roamix eSIM keeps communication with the trailhead open at signal points.
Madaba Mosaic Festival
CulturalMadaba · August
A festival celebrating Jordan's extraordinary Byzantine mosaic heritage, with live mosaic-making demonstrations at the Madaba Mosaic School, exhibitions at the Archaeological Park and cultural events in the streets of this historic Christian town.
Network note
Good Zain 4G throughout central Madaba. Use Roamix data to check the programme and book the mosaic workshop.
Roamix tip
Book the hands-on mosaic workshop at the Madaba Mosaic School over Roamix data before arriving; these sessions fill up during the festival and are a genuinely unique craft experience.
Jordan Desert Marathon
sportWadi Rum desert · September to October
A multi-stage ultra marathon run across the Wadi Rum desert landscape, attracting international adventure runners to one of the world's most extraordinary race environments, with overnight bivouac camps among the sandstone massifs.
Network note
Very limited signal throughout the Wadi Rum race course. Register, receive briefing documents and download offline maps over Roamix data in Aqaba before the race begins.
Roamix tip
The Jordan Desert Marathon requires advance registration and strict gear requirements. Book entry over Roamix data 3 to 6 months ahead and use Roamix data in Aqaba to download the stage maps and pre-race logistics.
Spring
March to May is arguably the best time to visit: wildflowers carpet the Jordanian highlands, temperatures are perfect at 18 to 28C and Petra is gorgeous in the spring light. Liberation Day and Jerash Festival begin to build in late spring. Book accommodation early for April and May.
Summer
June to August is intensely hot across Jordan, with Amman reaching 35C and Aqaba and Wadi Rum exceeding 40C. Petra is feasible with very early starts (open at 6 am), but the afternoon heat is brutal. Wadi Rum night camps are magical in the clear desert sky. Indoor culture and Dead Sea resorts are comfortable.
Fall
September to November is the finest season: temperatures drop to a comfortable 20 to 30C, light is golden across the sandstone cliffs and crowds at Petra are smaller. The Jordan Trail hiking season begins in October and Wadi Rum is at its most beautiful in the low autumn sun.
Winter
December to February brings cool to cold weather in Amman (5 to 15C) and pleasant mild conditions in Aqaba (18 to 22C). Jordan's winter rains make the landscape surprisingly green. Petra in the rain has exceptional atmosphere and almost no tourists. Snow occasionally falls on the plateau near Petra.
Remote Work from Jordan
Amman has a growing co-working and startup culture centred on the Abdali and Rainbow Street neighbourhoods, with a number of cafes and co-working spaces offering fast wifi. Jordan is an increasingly popular remote work base for Middle Eastern freelancers.
4G in Amman handles video calls and tethering reliably. A Roamix plan of 15 GB or more suits a full working week with calls and uploads alongside exploring the city and day trips to Madaba and the Dead Sea.
Use hotel or co-working wifi for large uploads; the Roamix eSIM provides a reliable mobile backup when moving between Amman neighbourhoods.
Get connected the moment you land in Jordan.
Get your Jordan eSIMLocal Tips for Jordan
Language
Arabic is the official and everyday language. English is widely spoken in Amman's tourist areas, hotels and Petra, but less so in rural areas and smaller towns. Learning a few Arabic greetings (marhaba for hello, shukran for thank you) is warmly appreciated.
Tipping
Tipping is expected and important in Jordan. 10 percent at restaurants (check if service is included), 1 to 2 JOD per day for guides, 1 JOD for taxi drivers. Tips to Petra guides and Wadi Rum jeep drivers are an important part of their income.
Food & Dining
Jordanian food is a highlight of any visit. Mansaf (slow-cooked lamb in fermented yoghurt over rice) is the national dish; maqluba (upside-down rice and meat) is a home staple; mezze spreads, hummus and falafel are everywhere; and the sweet shops of Amman's Rainbow Street rival any in the Arab world.
Transport
Use Careem or Uber in Amman for transparent pricing. Outside Amman, WhatsApp is the primary tool for arranging drivers, guides and camp bookings. Download Google Maps with Jordan offline before leaving Amman for the south.
Emergency Numbers
general
911
police
192
ambulance
191
fire
193
Essential Apps
Careem
The dominant ride-hailing app in Amman and Aqaba; requires a live data connection for booking, tracking and payment.
Maps.me
Offline maps that work in Wadi Rum and Petra dead zones; download the Jordan country map before leaving Amman.
Visit Jordan
Official Jordan Tourism Board app with site information, opening hours, the Jordan Trail map and UNESCO site details.
Safety & Health in Jordan
Jordan is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the Middle East and is welcoming to tourists of all backgrounds. The country has been a stable destination through regional turbulence. Petty crime is rare; the main risks are traffic accidents (drive cautiously) and heat exhaustion in summer.
Keep your Roamix eSIM active to call 911 in emergencies, receive any government alerts and stay in contact with your accommodation and guides. In Wadi Rum and Petra, share your itinerary with your camp before heading into remote areas.
Health Note
Medical facilities are good in Amman; more limited in rural areas. Travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Bring any prescription medications you require, as availability outside Amman is limited.
Water Safety
Tap water is technically treated in Amman and cities but is not generally recommended for drinking due to taste and mineral content. Drink bottled water throughout Jordan; it is inexpensive and widely available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jordan eSIM, connectivity, and travel
What is the best eSIM for Jordan?
Roamix is a top choice for Jordan because it connects to local operators like Zain, which has the widest 4G coverage across the country including Petra and the desert areas. You activate before you fly and land already online at Queen Alia International Airport.
Do I need a SIM card for Jordan?
You do not need a physical SIM. A Roamix Jordan eSIM gives you local 4G data on arrival at a fraction of most carrier roaming rates, and you never need to visit an operator store.
Which mobile operator is best in Jordan?
Zain has the largest market share at around 40 percent and the widest national 4G coverage including rural areas and the Petra region. Orange Jordan leads on 5G speeds in Amman and Irbid. Umniah is the most affordable for city-focused trips.
Does 5G work in Jordan?
Yes. Zain and Orange Jordan launched 5G in Amman and Irbid in 2023, targeting 75 percent population coverage by 2026. Most of the country outside urban centres is on 4G, which is reliable and fast enough for navigation, social media and WhatsApp calls.
How do I set up an eSIM for Jordan?
Buy a Roamix Jordan plan, install the eSIM over wifi before departure, enable data roaming on the Roamix line, and it connects automatically to Zain or Orange Jordan when you land at AMM.
Will my eSIM work at Petra and Wadi Rum?
Signal exists at the Petra Visitor Centre and in Wadi Musa town, but drops to patchy inside the Petra valley and is effectively absent in Wadi Rum. Download offline maps and the Petra audio guide over Roamix data in Wadi Musa the evening before visiting, and download Wadi Rum camp GPS coordinates in Aqaba.
Do I need a visa for Jordan?
Most Western nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Jordan's airports. The Jordan Pass, purchased online at jordanpass.jo before arrival, waives the visa fee and includes entry to Petra and 40 other sites, making it excellent value for most tourist itineraries.
Can I use WhatsApp and Google Maps in Jordan?
Yes. Jordan has a fully open internet. WhatsApp (essential for guide communication), Google Maps, FaceTime and social media all work normally on a Roamix eSIM without a VPN.
How much data do I need for a trip to Jordan?
For an Amman city break, 2 to 3 GB is sufficient. A full circuit of Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba needs 4 to 6 GB, with offline maps downloaded before desert and canyon areas that have no signal.
Is Jordan safe for tourists?
Jordan is consistently one of the safest countries in the Middle East and extremely welcoming to tourists. Petty crime is rare. The main practical safety concern is driving; road conditions vary and defensive driving is advised. Follow your government's travel advisory for any border area specifics.
What currency does Jordan use and should I carry cash?
Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Cards are accepted at Amman hotels and major tourist shops, but cash is required at Petra and Wadi Rum for most transactions, as well as for taxis and smaller restaurants. Withdraw JOD in Amman before travelling south.
Is airport wifi enough at Queen Alia, or do I need a Jordan eSIM?
AMM has free wifi in the terminal, but it stops at the arrivals exit. A Roamix Jordan eSIM keeps you connected through the taxi queue, on the drive into Amman and all the way to your hotel without interruption.
What is the Jordan Pass and how do I get it?
The Jordan Pass is an online prepurchase at jordanpass.jo that combines the Jordan visa fee (waived for most nationalities) with entry to 40 plus tourist sites including 1, 2 or 3 days at Petra. It is excellent value if you plan to spend at least 2 days in Petra. Purchase it over Roamix data before landing at AMM.
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Stay connected across Jordan with Roamix
Skip the roaming bills and airport SIM kiosks. Install a Roamix Jordan eSIM before you fly and land with local 4G ready at Queen Alia International for Amman, Petra or Wadi Rum.