Do I need to cover my head as a woman?

In general public areas, no. However, you must cover your head with a scarf when entering a mosque. It is a sign of respect.

Is it okay to drink alcohol in public?

Public intoxication is offensive. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants, and some liquor stores in Amman, but avoid drinking in the street or in rural areas.

What if I get invited to a Bedouin home?

Accepting is a high honor. Remove your shoes at the door, dress modestly, and don't be surprised if they offer you a massive meal—it is a traditional show of extreme hospitality.

How to Respect Local Customs and Etiquette in Jordan

To respect Jordanian culture, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, avoid public displays of affection, and always accept coffee or tea when offered by locals. These small gestures show humility and respect for the deeply hospitable Bedouin and Islamic traditions that define the country.

Master the art of the dress code. Wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders, chest, and knees. For men, this means trousers and shirts; for women, a loose shirt or blouse and long trousers or a long skirt. Avoid tight-fitting clothes or anything transparent.
Navigate the 'right hand' rule. Always use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and handing over money or documents. The left hand is traditionally considered unclean. If you are left-handed, make a conscious effort to lead with your right.
Handle hospitality properly. When offered tea or coffee, accept at least one cup. It is a gesture of welcome. If you want to stop after one cup, gently shake your cup from side to side before handing it back to the host; otherwise, they will keep refilling it.
Understand public conduct. Keep physical contact to a minimum in public. Holding hands between married couples is generally accepted in cities like Amman, but kissing or intense PDA is considered offensive and should be avoided entirely.
Request permission before photographing. Never take photos of locals, especially women, without asking first. When photographing military sites or police, ask for permission or avoid it entirely to prevent questioning by security.

Do I need to cover my head as a woman?: In general public areas, no. However, you must cover your head with a scarf when entering a mosque. It is a sign of respect.
Is it okay to drink alcohol in public?: Public intoxication is offensive. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants, and some liquor stores in Amman, but avoid drinking in the street or in rural areas.
What if I get invited to a Bedouin home?: Accepting is a high honor. Remove your shoes at the door, dress modestly, and don't be surprised if they offer you a massive meal—it is a traditional show of extreme hospitality.