Digital Nomad Life in Jordan
Summary: Jordan is a popular destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Jordan are Amman, Aqaba, and Petra. Digital nomads like living in Jordan because of its low cost of living, its vibrant culture, and its proximity to other Middle Eastern countries. A digital nomad can live on a monthly budget of around $1,000 in Jordan. This budget would cover basic living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation. The culture of Jordan is a mix of traditional Bedouin culture and modern influences. The country is known for its hospitality and its strong sense of community. Foods popular in Jordan include falafel, hummus, shawarma, and kofta. Traditional dishes such as mansaf, a lamb dish served with rice and yogurt, are also popular.
How do I meet people in Jordan?
When we asked people living in Jordan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Jordan often join clubs and activities such as hiking, running, and yoga. Expats can also join language exchange groups, book clubs, and other social activities. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local events such as concerts, art exhibitions, and festivals. Expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining local sports teams, or volunteering with a local charity," explained one person living in Jordan.
What is life like in Jordan?
When we asked people living in Jordan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Jordan is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its hospitality and welcoming attitude towards foreigners, and the cost of living is relatively low. Jordan is a safe and secure country, and the people are friendly and welcoming. The country is also home to some of the world's most stunning natural landscapes, making it a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, Jordan has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities to experience the country's rich history and culture. All in all, Jordan is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and rewarding experience," remarked one member in Jordan.
Where should I live in Jordan?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Jordan is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Expat.com, Jordan Real Estate, and Jordan Property Finder are great resources for finding rental properties in Jordan. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Jordan. They can provide you with more information about the rental market in Jordan and help you find a suitable place to live," remarked one member in Jordan.
What do I need to know before moving to Jordan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Jordan, they said:
"Before retiring in Jordan, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs. It is also important to research the cost of living in Jordan, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should ensure that they have the necessary visas and permits to live and work in Jordan. Finally, expats should consider the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Jordan," said one expat who made the move to Jordan.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Jordan?
"Expatriates in Jordan appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its traditional architecture, art, music, and cuisine. They also appreciate the hospitality of the Jordanian people, who are known for their warm and welcoming nature. Additionally, expats enjoy the country's diverse landscape, which includes deserts, mountains, and the Dead Sea. Finally, expats appreciate the fact that Jordan is a relatively safe and stable country, making it an ideal place to live and work," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Jordan.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Jordan?
"Expats in Jordan often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to, which can be challenging. For example, the traditional values and customs of the country can be difficult to adjust to, as can the language barrier. Additionally, the conservative dress code and social norms can be difficult to navigate for those who are not used to them. Furthermore, the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of certain goods and services can be a challenge for expats," explained one person living in Jordan.
"Learning to drive here and remembering and learning where places are. Meeting other Americans or other people for that matter," said one expat in Amman.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Jordan for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Jordan for an extended period of time, you will need to apply for a residency permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a visa prior to entering the country. You can apply for a residency permit at the nearest Jordanian embassy or consulate. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of employment, proof of financial means, and a valid passport," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Jordan.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Jordan?
We asked people in Jordan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Jordan. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, so it is best to avoid kissing or hugging in public. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful when taking photographs, as some people may not want their picture taken. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local customs and traditions, and to be respectful of them," said one expat who made the move to Jordan.
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What are healthcare services like in Jordan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Jordan, they replied:
"Jordan offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and hospital services. The public healthcare system in Jordan is generally of good quality and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. Expats in Jordan can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats can also access private healthcare services, which are generally of higher quality than the public system. Private healthcare services are usually more expensive than public services, but they offer more comprehensive care and shorter wait times. Expats can also purchase private health insurance to cover the cost of private healthcare services," said a member in Jordan.
"If you are 65 or over there is no insurance coverage available within the country since native Jordanians are covered after that age by social security. You do not want to have surgery in Aqaba. You need to go to Amman. And then ask around to find the best Doctor / hospital for your situation," explained one person living in Aqaba , Jordan.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Jordan?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Jordan appreciate the country's rich culture and history, as well as its friendly and welcoming people. They also enjoy the low cost of living, the delicious food, and the beautiful landscapes. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the bureaucracy and paperwork involved in living in Jordan to be a challenge. Additionally, the lack of reliable public transportation and the limited availability of certain goods and services can be a source of frustration," commented a person living in Jordan.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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