Ramadan in Jordan
To feel, live and experience more of traditional life and culture of Jordan, you need to visit it during the holy month of Ramadan. It is a great chance for you to see what impact this month has on people and the atmosphere during this special month. No need to think too much about what to do in Jordan during Ramadan, it is almost the same as if you are travelling in ordinary time, but you will enjoy extra.
Ramadan is the holy month of fasting for Muslim and on-Muslim countries. The date for the beginning of the holy month each year varies according to the Islamic lunar calendar. During Ramadan, alcohol is not sold in most countries, except to non-Muslims in larger hotels. Smoking, eating and drinking in public is not preferred during the hours of daylight, but only for Muslims. As a sign of respect, visitors are kindly requested to refrain from these activities in public during fasting hours.
During Ramadan, many stores, banks, and offices open late at 09:00 and close early at 14:00. In some Arab countries like Jordan, Tunisia, Palestine/Israel and Egypt, no one will be expecting you to fast. All of the previously mentioned countries are used to foreigners and whether you are Muslim or not, as a tourist you will find people in these countries very understanding of the fact you might be not Muslim, thus not fasting. There is no expectation or legal requirements that ask tourists to fast. So you can always enjoy your time all year long even if it’s Ramadan in these countries as Arabs are very generous and understanding people.
Most restaurants and cafés in the countries mentioned before are closed during the day. If you are in Amman, Jordan and looking for a place to eat, you will always ask for the local people’s assistance to help you find the nearest open restaurant. Work schedules shift during Ramadan, so in order to avoid high traffic times, you should be aware of schedules during the holy month. Expect the highest traffic around 9:00 am, 3:00 pm, and right before Iftar (time for breaking the fast) between 7:00-7:30 pm.
Almost all Tour sites in Jordan are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm during Ramadan. Petra is open from 6:00am-6:00pm during Ramadan.
Traveling to Jordan during Ramadan will make you learn a lot about the country’s local culture, religion and people. This experience will allow you to actively gain greater insight and understanding and to have a closer look in the heart of Jordanian culture.
To have a more rich experience while in Jordan during Ramadan, you can always meet a local Jordanian and if you manage to make this happen, you can ask to participate in an “Iftar” dinner with them. You will enjoy the local Jordanian food along with people’s hospitality and generosity there. The keyword to any gathering during Ramadan is “Ramadan Kareem” which means (Have a Generous Ramadan) or (Have a blessed Ramadan). The smiles you will receive in return will only add to your Ramadan travel experience.
Choose on of our Jordan Trips and don't miss the chance to visit this marvelous destiation!