People and Society of Jordan

Nationality

Jordanian(s)

Ethnic Groups

Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%

Population

10,820,644

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.

Life Expectancy at Birth

Life expectancy at birth in Jordan stands at approximately 74 to 75 years overall, with women living longer than men — around 76 to 77 years for females compared to roughly 73 to 74 years for males. These figures place Jordan among the better-performing countries in the Middle East and North Africa region when it comes to population health outcomes. Jordan's relatively strong life expectancy reflects decades of investment in healthcare infrastructure, expanded access to medical services, and improvements in maternal and child health. The country has developed a network of public hospitals, primary care centers, and specialized medical facilities, and it has long been recognized as a regional hub for medical tourism, attracting patients from neighboring countries seeking quality care. Key drivers of improved longevity include sustained reductions in infant and child mortality rates, better management of communicable diseases, and increased access to clean water and sanitation in both urban and rural areas. Jordan has also made meaningful progress in immunization coverage, which has helped control diseases that historically contributed to premature death. At the same time, Jordan faces growing pressure from non-communicable diseases, which are now the leading cause of death in the country. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer account for a significant share of mortality, driven in part by rising rates of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes associated with urbanization. These chronic conditions represent the primary challenge to further extending life expectancy in the coming decades. Jordan's healthcare system has also been tested by large waves of refugees, particularly from Syria and Iraq, placing additional strain on services and resources. Despite this pressure, the country has managed to maintain relatively stable health indicators for its broader population. Ongoing investment in preventive care, health education, and chronic disease management will be critical to sustaining and improving life expectancy trends in the years ahead.

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.