Aqaba Jordan Travel Guide
Jordan has three main mobile providers: Zain Jordan, Orange Jordan, and Umniah. SIM cards are easily found at airports or in major cities.
Many Bedouin camps have Wi-fi-Fi, often in a communal area. Quality and speed can be basic and intermittent, especially in more remote camps.
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken by Bedouin guides and camp staff involved in tourism. Most signs in tourist areas are bilingual.
The Google Translate application may be helpful for more complex interactions or communication outside the travel industry sector.
Expect patchy or non-existent phone reception within the protected area of Wadi Rum.
Understand the standard operating hours and things to consider by season for services around Wadi Rum.
The Wadi Rum Visitor Center is usually open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Bedouin camps operate 24/7 once checked in, with flexible check-in times. Jeep tours run from morning until sunset, and hot air balloon rides start at sunrise. Small shops in Wadi Rum Village have irregular hours, opening based on tourist traffic.
No Atms are in Wadi Rum Village or inside the protected area. The closest ATMs are in Aqaba. Banking hours in Aqaba are typically Sunday-Thursday, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Plan to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving in Wadi Rum.
Jordan observes Islamic holidays (e.g., Eid al-Fitr, Eid-Adha) and bank holidays. Dates for Islamic religious observances vary annually. Over the main holidays, some services may be scarce, and public transport might be less frequent. Tourist operations generally continue.
Wadi Rum camps generally operate year-round. Some smaller camps may close or reduce services in the slower season.
Prepare for your visit by managing your finances and staying informed about local observances.
Friday is the Muslim holy day; some businesses may have reduced hours or be closed. Check specific dates for the year of your travel.
Respectful interaction with locals enhances your Wadi Rum journey.
A simple "Marhaba" (hello) is appreciated. Men typically shake hands with other men. For female travelers travelers and men, follow their lead regarding handshakes; a nod or hand over the heart is also acceptable.
Dressing modestly is advisable throughout Jordan. For women, shoulders and knees should be covered, especially when engaging with local people or visiting Bedouin tents. For men, sleeveless shirts or very short shorts are best avoided.
Accept offers of food and tea graciously. When eating traditionally with your hands, use only your right hand. Avoid wasting food.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially Bedouin women and children. A simple gesture or "Mumkin soura?" (Can I take a picture?) often works. Respect a "no."
Adopting modest dress generally fosters positive interactions and a smoother experience.
Wadi Rum displays unique challenges for travelers with mobility needs as a result of its natural terrain.
Wadi Rum's natural desert environment, with beaches and uneven rocky terrain, has obstacles for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility impairments.
Most natural attractions involve walking or scrambling over uneven terrain, limiting direct access.
Travelers with visual impairments will require a sighted companion. Guides may offer detailed verbal descriptions of the landscape.
Contact the Jordan Tourism Board or specialized accessible travel agencies for information specific to Jordan.
Communicate specific needs to your chosen camp and tour operator well in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
