People and Society of Jordan

Nationality

Jordanian(s)

Ethnic Groups

Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%

Population

6,407,085

Population in Major Urban Areas

AMMAN (capital) 1.179 million

Modern medical care and medicines are generally available in the principal cities of Jordan, but not necessarily in outlying areas. Most acute and chronic medical conditions can be appropriately handled. When called, ambulance vehicles are often slow to arrive and personnel generally have only a basic level of training. Seasonal dust storms that envelop the country for days or weeks each spring may significantly aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma or sinus problems. Most hospitals in Jordan, especially in Amman, are privately owned. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services. Because serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States could cost over US $150,000, we strongly advise travelers to carry medical evacuation insurance. Travelers should take normal precautions against contracting the flu, including frequent handwashing and covering sneezes. It is a good idea to postpone traveling while ill.

Literacy Definition

age 15 and over can read and write

• Sunni Muslim92.0%
• Christian6.0%
• Other2.0%

Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes

• Arabic

Crime Information

Statistically, petty crime is the most common form that U.S. citizens and other Western nationals experience in Jordan, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Pickpockets, purse snatchers, and opportunistic thieves are known to target foreigners in the narrow and crowded streets of the older parts of Amman’s city center. Travelers should be more guarded in these areas and in all tourist locations in Jordan to lessen the likelihood of becoming a victim of petty thefts. Jordanian police have warned the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks or ATMs, as thieves have reportedly preyed upon persons soon after using these services. Women from Western countries visiting and residing in Jordan have periodically reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, and indecent exposure. The Embassy continues to receive a limited number of reports regarding incidents of sexual assaults involving taxis and taxi drivers. Many of the incidents have involved verbal sexual harassment, staring, or following the victim, but some have included physical assaults. To decrease the likelihood of being victimized while using a taxi, foreign women should take precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night, not traveling alone, not riding in the front seat of a taxi, and dressing modestly when in public. We also recommend carrying a cellular telephone at all times and immediately reporting incidents to the police. Violent crime is infrequent and rarely targets U.S. citizens or other Westerners. In the past, the Embassy has received reports of firearms being discharged at vehicles being driven by Westerners. A dispute between two rival protection rackets led to shots being fired at multiple nightclubs, bars, liquor stores, and similar establishments in March 2011. While not common, thefts of vehicles, assaults, robbery, and attempted residential break-ins have also been reported. Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootleg copies illegal in the United States, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

Criminal Penalties

While you are traveling in Jordan, you are subject to its laws even if you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. In some places driving under the influence can land you in jail. Criminal penalties will vary from country to country. There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States, and you can be prosecuted under U.S. law. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you break local laws in Jordan, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not wherever you go. The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press; however, in practice the government has imposed some restrictions on these rights. In particular, insulting the King or members of the Royal Family may lead to detainment or imprisonment. Additionally, activities that the Jordanian government considers proselytizing to Muslims are forbidden under the law and anyone undertaking these activities are subject to prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation. While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in a foreign country, that might not always be the case. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as you are arrested or detained overseas.