Guide to Prices, Money, and Currency in Jordan

Compared with neighboring countries, Jordan is among the most expensive in the region. This does not mean that visitors can’t get by on a low budget; it just means that you need to look out for more affordable places to eat and drink.

With so many historic attractions, ticket prices are fairly low, as is local public transport. Costs in Jordan can vary by destination, so it is best to break down each category and create a realistic budget.

Currency in Jordan

The currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), which is pegged to the US Dollar. 1 US Dollar is the equivalent of around 0.70 JOD. It is divided into 10 dirham, 100 qirsh, and 1000 fulus. The currency can be exchanged from home in your country of residence or at airports or banks in Jordan.

Costs for Accommodation

From guesthouses to high-end hotels, Jordan has accommodation options to suit all budgets. The average cost of a shared room in a guesthouse is around 25JOD (36 USD) per night. An average double room in a four to five-star hotel is about 65 JOD (92 USD) per night. Tourist Jordan offers a selection of hotels for each budget, with special discounts, so you can save more of your Dinar to spend on food and in local markets.

Costs for Transport in Jordan

Public transport in Jordan is very cost-effective and can help visitors keep their spending down. As the bus systems in Jordan are built for local people, expect affordable local prices. A half hour journey will only cost around 1 USD whilst a longer journey from Amman to the city of Jerash will cost around 1.25JOD (1.80 USD), however busses can be a little unreliable in Jordan, as well as crowded and hot. Fortunately, Private transportation is fairly affordable, and prices for transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle start from 35JOD (around 50 USD).

Costs for Sightseeing

When sightseeing in Jordan, budget for around 10JD for entrance into Jordan’s popular sites. The exception to this is Petra; as one of the wonders of the world, visitors should put money aside to visit this magnificent ancient site. A one-day ticket to Petra is 50JD (71USD) or 55JD (77USD) for a two-day pass.

Costs for Food and Drink

Just like its accommodation, Jordan has many places to dine and caters to all budgets. Meals purchased at street food stalls and markets will cost under 5JD (7USD), whereas restaurants can be more expensive. A local restaurant typically charges around 5-10JD (7-15USD) for a meal, with international hotel restaurants and haute cuisine costing considerably more.

Tipping

Many higher-end restaurants include a 10% service charge on their bill. Otherwise, it is customary in Jordan to give back the change, though it is not expected.

All in All

Money and costs in Jordan are easy to manage if you budget well. Travellers can experience Jordan with any budget, whether they are staying in a five-star hotel or a hostel dorm. Self-catering accommodation is a good option for those on a very tight budget or those with dietary requirements. Visitors can purchase produce at local markets, which will save even more money. It’s recommended to bring some Dinar with you to start off your journey; check out our full list of what to pack for Jordan.