Currency & Payment

Jordan uses the Jordanian dinar (JOD, د.ا). The dinar is divided into 100 piastres (also called qirsh), and each piastre is 10 fils, so 1 dinar equals 1,000 fils. Prices are sometimes quoted in piastres, which can confuse visitors. Cash is still widely used, especially in markets, small shops and for shared taxis (service).

You can change money at banks and at the many licensed exchange offices around Amman and other cities, which often give competitive rates. US dollars and euros are the easiest currencies to exchange. Compare rates and count your money before leaving the counter. ATMs are widespread, so withdrawing dinars on arrival is also a convenient option.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, larger restaurants and shops, with Visa and Mastercard the most common. However, souks (markets), small local eateries, rural areas and shared taxis (service) are largely cash-only. Carry enough cash for day-to-day spending and keep a card for hotels and bigger purchases.

ATMs are common in Amman and other cities and at the airport, and most accept international Visa and Mastercard. Some machines charge a withdrawal fee, and your own bank may add its own charges, so check before you travel. Always decline home-currency conversion (DCC) to get a better rate, and use ATMs attached to banks where possible.

Mobile and digital payments are growing in Jordan, especially in cities. Locals use mobile wallets and the eFAWATEERcom system to pay bills, and contactless card payments are increasingly accepted at modern outlets. For most tourists, though, cash remains the mainstay for everyday spending, so do not rely on mobile payment alone.

Tipping is customary and appreciated in Jordan. In restaurants, around 10% is usual, and a little more if there is no service charge on the bill. Small tips for hotel staff, guides and drivers are common and well received. Tipping in cash, ideally in dinars, is best. Rounding up is fine for cafes and taxis.

Jordan is moderately priced, though major attractions like Petra can be expensive if you pay separately, which is why the Jordan Pass is such good value. Simple local meals such as falafel or shawarma are cheap, while sit-down restaurants and hotels in Amman cost more. Bargaining is normal in souks but not in fixed-price shops. Budget extra for guides and desert tours.

Jordan operates a sales-tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists on eligible purchases above a minimum amount from participating shops. Ask for a tax-refund form and keep your receipts, then claim your refund at the airport before departure, allowing extra time for the process. Rules and thresholds can change, so confirm the latest details with an official source before you shop.