Currency

The Jordanian Dinar is divided into 1,000 Fils. For the last 13 years, the value of the Dinar has been stable at a rate of exchange of 1 JOD = 1.42 US$. Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants and in many shops, Visa Card, Master Card, American Express, along with the traveler's checks.

Time

GMT +2 hours during winter time (1st OCT through 31st March) and GMT +3 hours during summer time (1st April through 30th September).

Climate

Jordan is blessed with a Mediterranean climate for comfortable year-round travel. Amman is usually sunny and cloudless from May to October with temperatures around 23° Celsius. During Spring season, the Kingdom is filled with greenery and Autumn is equally mild and pleasant. July and August are hot and dry due to the elevation of the capital city, but the evenings are usually cool. Aqaba and the Jordan Valley are ideal winter resorts with temperatures ranging from 16° - 22° Celsius.

Language

The official language in Jordan is Arabic, although English is widely spoken.

Electricity

The electrical system is based on 220 AC volts, 50 cycles and requires rounded two-prong wall plugs.

Business Hours & Working Week

Friday and Saturday is the Weekend in Jordan and banks, governmental departments and most businesses are closed. Banks and Government offices regularly open from 8:00 to 15:00. Shopping hours are flexible and stores are usually open from 9:30 - 13:30 and 15:30 - 18:00. Others may be open longer hours between 8:00 - 20:00. Earlier closings are in effect during the month of Ramadan.

Shopping

Throughout the past 8 years various shopping malls are spread throughout Amman where you can shop from 10:00 till 22:00 hours, nevertheless big Supermarkets are found in Amman and Aqaba such as Carrefour, Safeway, Miles, Cozmo and C-Town and they are open till midnight. On the other hand shopping in Aqaba is very convenient since it is a tax free zone

Cultural Considerations

Jordan is primarily an Islamic country. Moslem women often cover their arms, legs and hair. Western women, however, are not subject to these customs but very revealing clothing is not appropriate in public.

Immigration

Visitors with valid passports may obtain a visa at any Jordanian embassy, consulate or legation abroad. A visa is also available upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, however, payment must be in local currency. Exchange bureaus are available.