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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Air Travel

Gateway Airports

Airports serve as the main entry points to the Dead Sea region, offering access to both the Israeli and Jordanian sides.

Airports

  • Israel: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) near Tel Aviv.
  • Israel: Ramon Airport (ETM) near Eilat (domestic/some international).
  • Jordan: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman.

Airlines and Routes

Both TLV and AMM serve major airlines and low-cost carriers, connecting to global hubs across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Airline Options

  • TLV: El Al, Delta, United, Lufthansa, British Airways, Ryanair, Wizz Air.
  • AMM: Royal Jordanian, Lufthansa, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ryanair, Wizz Air.
  • Direct flights from New York, London, Paris, Bangkok.

Seasonal Price Patterns

Flight prices peak during high seasons and major holidays, dropping in summer and mid-winter. Booking in advance is recommended.

Airport Comforts

Both TLV and AMM offer duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi access for traveler convenience.

Direct Flight Insights

Numerous direct flights connect global hubs to TLV and AMM, offering various options for different regions.

Airport Transfers to Dead Sea

From TLV Israel

  • Public Bus: Egged bus to Jerusalem Central Bus Station, then transfer to Ein Bokek (Route 421 or 444).
  • Sherut (Shared Taxi): From TLV to Jerusalem/Tel Aviv, then another sherut or bus.
  • Private Taxi/Transfer: Most convenient, pre-booking recommended.
  • Rental Car: Available at TLV airport, 1.5-2 hours drive.

From AMM Jordan

  • JETT Bus: To Amman North Bus Station, then JETT service to Dead Sea resorts.
  • Airport Taxi: Fixed-rate taxis available, 45-60 minutes to Dead Sea.
  • Ride-sharing: Careem or Uber available from AMM.
  • Rental Car: Available at AMM airport, 45-60 minutes drive.

Pre-Travel Checks

Visa Clarification

Always confirm visa rules for your nationality and specific border crossings before travel.

Season Bookings

Booking flights and accommodation in advance, especially during high season, supports availability and better rates.

Facility Information

Familiarize yourself with airport and local transportation facility details for a smoother journey.

Land Transportation

Israel Bus Network

Egged operates regular bus services from major cities (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Beer Sheva) to Ein Bokek and other Dead Sea resort areas. These buses offer a comfortable and affordable way to travel.

Routes

  • Route 444 (Beer Sheva to Eilat via Ein Bokek).
  • Route 421 (Jerusalem to Ein Gedi/Ein Bokek).
  • Jerusalem Central Bus Station is a major hub.

Jordan Bus Network

JETT operates comfortable intercity bus services from Amman to the Dead Sea tourist area, stopping at major resorts. Local minibuses are also an option from Amman.

Services

  • JETT bus services from Amman to Dead Sea resorts.
  • Amman's Abdali (North) Bus Station is the main hub.
  • Local minibuses connect villages, less direct for resorts.

Driving Your Journey

A rental car offers flexibility for exploring the Dead Sea region and beyond. Be aware of specific requirements and local driving practices.

Rental Prerequisites

  • Valid national driver's license.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Major credit card for security deposit.

Cross-Border Driving

Renting a car in one country and crossing the border into the other is generally not permitted or is very complex and expensive. Plan new rentals for each country.

Border Crossing Points

  • Sheikh Hussein Bridge / Jordan River Crossing (North).
  • King Hussein Bridge / Allenby Bridge (Central) - closest to Dead Sea.
  • Yitzhak Rabin Terminal / Wadi Araba Crossing (South).

Road Safety Pointers

  • Both Israel and Jordan drive on the right side.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Using a cell phone without hands-free is prohibited.
  • Roads to the Dead Sea are generally well-maintained.
  • Speed limits are enforced; watch for cameras.
  • Night driving can be challenging due to limited lighting.

Departure Information

Exit Fees Overview

Departure taxes may apply depending on your mode of transport and departure point. Confirm these fees closer to your travel date as they can change.

Fee Specifics

  • Israel (TLV): No specific airport departure tax (usually in ticket).
  • Israel (Land Borders): Departure tax may apply (e.g., King Hussein Bridge approx. ILS 109).
  • Jordan (AMM): Departure tax typically included in airline tickets.

Departure Logistics

Allow ample time for departure procedures at airports and land borders. Security checks, especially in Israel, can be thorough.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airports: Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights.
  • Land Borders: Allow 1-3 hours for formalities, especially at busy crossings.
  • Confirm: Reconfirm flight/bus departure times for delays.

Airport Facilities

Both TLV and AMM offer duty-free shops, a variety of restaurants, lounges, and VAT refund services for departing travelers.

Border Crossing Tips

Check specific border crossing hours, as they vary and can be limited on weekends and local holidays. Basic facilities are typically available.

Travel Confirmation

Always reconfirm all flight or bus departure times and check for potential delays before heading to the airport or station.

Smooth Departure Advice

Planning for your departure with ample time and confirmed details creates a stress-free conclusion to your Dead Sea journey.