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How to Get to Zarqa

How to Get to Zarqa

Zarqa Jordan Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is the only major international airport in Jordan. It sits approximately 50-60 kilometers (31-37 miles) south of Amman, which is about a 45-60 minute drive to Zarqa.

Flight Information

  • AMM hosts major international carriers (Royal Jordanian, Emirates, Qatar Airways).
  • Connections to global hubs all Over europe, North America, Gulf, and North Africa.
  • Flight prices higher during peak seasons (spring, autumn, holidays). For deals, check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner.

Airport Transfers to Zarqa

AMM is a contemporary airport with duty-free shops, restaurants, car hire companies, currency exchange, and local SIM card providers.

Transfer Options

  • Taxi: Authorized airport cabs (25-35 JOD to Zarqa). Negotiate fare beforehand.
  • Ride-Sharing: Careem and Uber may serve Zarqa. Confirm availability/pricing via app.
  • Bus + Taxi: Airport Express Bus to Amman's North Terminal, then local bus/servees to Zarqa (budget-friendly, more transfers).

Stay Connected

Purchase get a LOCAL sim card when you arrive at AMM to arrange transport and navigate.

Arrival Time

Set ASIDE 2-3 hours for check-in, security, and immigration upon AMM.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange counters are available at Queen Alia Airport.

Flight Tips

Booking Strategies

  • Book in advance for better rates, especially during high season.
  • Consider shoulder seasons for a balance of weather and price.
  • Flexibility with dates yields more affordable tickets.
  • Set up price warnings for desired routes.

Airport Efficiency

  • Have all travel documents readily accessible.
  • Pack efficientlyly to minimize check-in time.
  • Familiarize yourself with airport design and gate locations.
  • Utilize airport services like lounges if available and desired.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

Most exit fees from AMM are included in airfare. No separate payment is typically needed.

Departure Timing

Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights for check-in, security, and immigration.

Airport Facilities

AMM has various facilities for departing travelers, including dining, shopping, and lounges.

Land Transportation

Bus Travel

While Zarqa is not a border crossing point, understanding land transport connects you to Amman and other Jordanian cities.

Bus Options

  • Local public transit and shared taxis ("servees") are main options between Amman and Zarqa.
  • Buses depart regularly from Amman's Tabarbour (North) bus station to Zarqa.
  • Local buses and servees connect Zarqa to other cities within the boundaries of governorate and elsewhere.

Self-Driving

The historic Hejaz Railway passes through Zarqa, though it isn't currently used for passenger transport. Passenger train services are not a travel option here.

Car Rental Requirements

  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driving license are needed for car rental.
  • Rental cars are available at AMM and in Amman via companies like DiscoverCars.com.
  • Main roads are generally good. Within Zarqa, congestion occurs, and roads are less maintained in some locations.

Driving Safety

Practice defensive driving. Traffic can be chaotic, especially during rush hours. Be aware of local driving habits.

Road Rules

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits are enforced.

Parking in Zarqa

Renting a car directly in Zarqa is less common. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are also less common and not recommended due to the state of the traffic.

Parking Information

  • Street parking is common but challenging in busy retail areas.
  • Be aware of local parking regulations.
  • Bicycle sharing or rental is not available for tourists.

Border & Sea/River Travel

  • Zarqa is a landlocked city; sea/river arrivals are not applicable.
  • Ferry services and cruise ports exist in Aqaba, not Zarqa.
  • This section does not apply to Zarqa directly for border crossings.
  • Jordan shares land borders with Ksa, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and Palestine.
  • Research specific border crossing requirements if traveling to/from these countries.
  • The historic Hejaz Railway in Zarqa has no current passenger service.

Departure Information Summary

Airport Departure

Most visitors departing Jordan by air from Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) generally possess exit fees included in their airfare. No separate exit fee payment is usually needed.

Checklist

  • Reconfirm flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Check for schedule changes or delays.
  • Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.

Bus Station Departure

If leaving from Zarqa by bus, local bus stations offer basic amenities. Departure procedures are basicr compared to airport travel.

Process

  • Inquire at local bus stations for paths and timetables.
  • Prepare cash for bus fares.
  • Arrive at the station 30-60 minutes before departure.

Air Travel Efficiency

Check flight status for any changes before heading to the airport.

Navigation Apps

Use apps like Google Maps or Careem/Uber for precise drop-off at departure points.

Document Readiness

Keep passport, boarding pass, and any necessary travel documents readily accessible.

Sea/River Travel Not Applicable

Inland City Status

Zarqa is a city not on the coast, far from any major navigable waterways or coastlines. This signifies sea or river travel for passenger arrivals or departures is not a relevant mode of transport for the city on its own.

No Water Transport

  • No ferry services connect to Zarqa.
  • Cruise ship ports are missing near Zarqa.
  • River transportation on the Zarqa River is not for public use.

Alternative Water Destinations

If seeking sea or travel by river experiences within Jordan, you would likely likely typically look to other regions like the Sea Of reeds coast.

Coastal Options

  • Aqaba, on the Red Sea, offers ferry services and cruise ports.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports mirror those at airports.
  • These means of transportation are not relevant for Zarqa travel.

Travel Logistics

Border Crossings

Research specific land border crossing requirements for neighboring countries.

Hejaz Railway

Not for passenger travel in Zarqa; historic only.

Road Network

Well-maintained main roads connect Zarqa to other Jordanian cities.

Travel Planning Reminder

Reconfirm your flight details 24-48 hours before departure. Check for any schedule changes or delays.

How to Get to Zarqa. Flights, Transportation, Airlines