Jordan in Ramadan: Are Tourist Sites Open? Dining, Working Hours & What to Expect

Tourists’ Guide to Visiting Jordan During Ramadan

Travelers planning a trip to Jordan often ask whether visiting during Ramadan will affect sightseeing, dining, or daily services. Questions such as “Will Petra be open?”, “Can we eat during the day?”, and “Do tours still operate?” are very common.

The good news is that Jordan remains fully open to tourists during Ramadan, and with a little understanding of local customs, it can be a very rewarding time to visit. This guide explains what Ramadan is, what it means for visitors, and what to expect when traveling in Jordan during this holy month.

What Is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. During this time, Muslims fast daily from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib).

Fasting includes abstaining from:

• Food and drink

• Smoking

• Other physical needs during daylight hours

The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, while a pre-dawn meal known as Suhoor is eaten before the fast begins again.

Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a period of:

• Spiritual reflection and prayer

• Charity and generosity

• Family gatherings and community life

Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan dates change every year.

What Does Ramadan Mean for Visitors to Jordan?

For non-Muslim travelers, Ramadan does not limit travel or tourism in Jordan. Hotels, tour companies, and major attractions continue to operate normally.

However, daily life follows a slightly different rhythm:

• Slower mornings and afternoons

• Shorter working hours for some offices

• Lively evenings after sunset

With proper planning, travelers can enjoy all major sites comfortably while experiencing a deeper cultural side of Jordan.

Are Tourist Sites Open During Ramadan in Jordan?

Yes. All major tourist attractions remain open during Ramadan, including:

• Petra

• Wadi Rum

• Jerash

• Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre

• Madaba and Mount Nebo

• Bethany Beyond the Jordan

• Dead Sea resorts

Some sites may close slightly earlier in the afternoon, but guided tours and sightseeing operate as usual.

At Jordan Horizons Tours, itineraries are carefully adjusted to ensure guests have ample time at each site while staying comfortable during the fasting hours.

Restaurants & Dining During Ramadan

Eating During the Day

• Many local restaurants close during daylight hours

• Hotels continue serving meals normally, including breakfast and lunch

• Tourist-oriented restaurants may remain open discreetly

After Sunset (Iftar Time)

After sunset, cities across Jordan become vibrant:

• Restaurants reopen

• Streets fill with families and visitors

• Special Ramadan dishes and sweets are served

• Cafés stay open late into the night

For many travelers, joining an Iftar meal is one of the highlights of visiting Jordan during Ramadan.

Working Hours, Shops & Services

During Ramadan:

• Government offices and banks close earlier

• Shops may open later in the evening

• Some businesses split hours between afternoon and night

Tourism services such as:

• Private transfers

• Guided tours

• Border assistance

• Hotel check-ins

continue to operate normally, with minor schedule adjustments.

Cultural Etiquette for Visitors During Ramadan

Visitors are not expected to fast, but respectful behavior is appreciated:

• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight

• Dress modestly, especially in cities and religious areas

• Be patient with a slower daytime pace

These gestures are welcomed and help travelers enjoy a smoother experience.

Why Visit Jordan During Ramadan?

Traveling during Ramadan offers many advantages:

• Fewer crowds at major attractions

• Peaceful sightseeing atmosphere

• Unique cultural and spiritual experiences

• Special evening ambiance and food traditions

• Warm hospitality and generosity

For travelers interested in culture and authenticity, Ramadan can be an excellent time to visit Jordan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Jordan open to tourists during Ramadan?

Yes. Jordan remains fully open, and tourism continues throughout Ramadan.

Can tourists eat during the day in Jordan during Ramadan?

Yes, especially in hotels. Eating in public during daylight is discouraged out of respect.

Are Petra and Wadi Rum open during Ramadan?

Yes. Both sites operate normally, sometimes with slightly adjusted hours.

Do tours operate during Ramadan?

Yes. All tours operate as usual, with schedules adapted for comfort.

Is Ramadan a good time to visit Jordan?

Absolutely. It offers a calm travel atmosphere and a unique cultural experience.

Will transportation be affected during Ramadan?

No. Private and tour transportation runs as normal.

What is Iftar?

Iftar is the evening meal at sunset that breaks the daily fast. Many hotels and restaurants offer special Iftar menus.

Travel Comfortably with Jordan Horizons Tours

At Jordan Horizons Tours, we design every itinerary during Ramadan with care, ensuring:

• Comfortable sightseeing schedules

• Guaranteed dining options

• Seamless transportation

• Cultural sensitivity and local insight

Contact us today to plan your Jordan journey during Ramadan with confidence and ease.