Can you drink alcohol in Jordan? Yes—alcohol is available in licensed venues and shops, although it is not served everywhere. Understanding where drinking is permitted and respecting local customs will help you plan your evenings comfortably.
From restaurants in Amman to resort bars in Aqaba, visitors can find settings serving local and imported drinks. Jordan also has wine producers and a craft-brewing scene for those interested in discovering locally made beverages.
This guide explains the practical considerations, alongside ideas for exploring the country with Excursions Jordan.
Is Drinking Alcohol Legal in Jordan?
Alcohol is not universally prohibited in Jordan. However, drinking alcohol on the street is illegal. Choose licensed venues or permitted private settings, and follow the rules of your accommodation.
Do not assume that public beaches, parks, archaeological sites or hotel common areas allow alcohol simply because it is available nearby. Ask staff which areas permit consumption.
Keep your behaviour considerate and arrange your return transport before drinking. If you plan to drive, do not drink.
Where Can You Find Alcohol?
Alcohol is available at selected licensed:
Hotel and resort bars.
Restaurants and lounges.
Bars and clubs.
Specialist alcohol retailers.
You can find options in cities such as Amman, Aqaba and Madaba, as well as at some tourist hotels elsewhere.
However, many restaurants, cafés and shops do not sell alcohol. Do not assume ordinary supermarkets stock it, or that a larger restaurant necessarily has a licence.
If enjoying wine with dinner matters to your plans, check the menu or contact the venue before booking.
Respecting Local Customs
Many Jordanians do not drink for religious or personal reasons. Others do, and preferences vary between individuals and settings.
A considerate approach is straightforward:
Ask whether alcohol is served rather than expecting it.
Avoid bringing outside drinks without the venue’s permission.
Do not pressure anyone to drink.
Respect alcohol-free homes, camps and businesses.
Keep drinking within permitted areas.
If invited to someone’s home, do not bring alcohol as a gift unless you know it would be welcome.
Alcohol During Ramadan and Religious Holidays
Service arrangements and retail availability may change during Ramadan or religious holidays.
Check directly with your hotel, restaurant or retailer for the dates of your visit. Do not rely on arrangements from a previous year or assume that all venues follow the same schedule.
Ramadan moves through the Gregorian calendar, so confirm its dates separately when planning your trip.
Discovering Jordanian Wine
Jordan produces its own wines, offering visitors another perspective on the country’s food and agricultural traditions.
Jordan River Wines, for example, advertises tasting experiences alongside vineyard and winery visits. These are different formats: a tasting room experience does not necessarily involve travelling to a vineyard.
Before arranging a visit, confirm:
The location and type of experience.
Current availability and booking requirements.
What the tasting includes.
Whether food and transport are provided.
The cancellation conditions.
Arrange a driver or suitable transfer if your visit involves drinking.
Beer in Jordan
Visitors may encounter both imported brands and beers produced in Jordan.
Carakale is a Jordanian craft brewery that offers locally brewed beers and advertises brewery visits. Check directly for current tour arrangements and availability.
Amstel is an international brand, so describing it simply as a Jordanian beer is misleading. If you are interested in where a particular beer was produced, check its label or ask the venue.
Prices vary by establishment, serving size and brand. Review the menu and check whether taxes and service charges are included rather than relying on a single nationwide price.
Planning a Night Out
Choose an established venue and make your transport arrangements in advance.
Keep your drink in sight, avoid accepting open drinks from unfamiliar people and stay with companions you trust. Purchase alcohol through reputable licensed businesses.
Before ordering, check menu prices and any minimum-spend or reservation conditions. If staying at a resort, ask whether drinks are included in your accommodation package or charged separately.
Alcohol-Free Options
You do not need to drink alcohol to enjoy Jordan’s cafés, restaurants and evening atmosphere.
Arabic coffee, mint tea, fresh juices and other alcohol-free drinks offer plenty of choices. Some venues also serve mocktails and alcohol-free beer.
If you avoid alcohol completely, check the label or ask staff about the ingredients and alcohol content rather than relying only on a drink’s name.
Quick Answers About Alcohol in Jordan
| Question | Practical answer |
|---|---|
| Can visitors drink alcohol? | Yes, in permitted settings and licensed venues. |
| Can you drink on the street? | No. |
| Does every hotel or restaurant serve alcohol? | No—check before booking. |
| Can you buy it in every supermarket? | No—look for licensed retailers. |
| Does Jordan produce wine and beer? | Yes, including local wine producers and craft breweries. |
| Should you drive after drinking? | No—arrange alternative transport. |
Explore Jordan Beyond the Evening
An evening meal is only one part of a journey through Jordan. Spend your days exploring Petra, discovering Amman’s neighbourhoods, experiencing Wadi Rum or enjoying the Red Sea in Aqaba.
Excursions Jordan brings together activities from local providers across the country. Compare experiences, check their inclusions and choose options that suit your interests.
Do not assume that tastings, drinks or evening transfers are included unless the listing specifically confirms them.
Discover tours, activities and local experiences with Excursions Jordan