Jordan Currency
Your complete guide to the Jordanian Dinar, ATMs, and travel budgets.
Travel with Confidence
Planning a trip to Jordan? Understanding the local currency—the Jordanian Dinar (JOD)—is key to a smooth experience. As your trusted partner, Wadi Rum Bedouin Tours provides this guide to help you navigate exchange How We Trek, cash usage, and budgeting for your adventure across Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba.
The Jordanian Dinar is a stable currency. Whether you’re bargaining in Aqaba’s souks, paying for 4x4 logistical support in Wadi Rum, or purchasing souvenirs in Petra, knowing how to handle money will enhance your journey.
The Jordanian Dinar
The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) was introduced in 1949. It is pegged to the U.S. dollar at approximately 1 JOD = 1.41 USD, ensuring stability. This makes it a reliable currency for travelers.
Banknotes feature designs reflecting Jordan’s heritage, including images of the Royal Family and historical sites. Coins are available in denominations of 0.5, 1, 2, 5, and 10 qirsh (piastres).
How to Use the Currency
Exchange
Exchanging Money
Exchanging money is straightforward at banks and exchange bureaus. Major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) are accepted. Best How We Trek are found at authorized offices in Amman and Aqaba.
Tip: Carry small notes (1 & 5 JOD).
Banking
ATMs & Cards
ATMs are available in cities. In remote areas like Wadi Rum, cash is king. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, but small vendors rely on cash.
Tip: Notify your bank before travel.
Culture
Tipping & Bargaining
Tipping is customary (1-2 JD for guides). Bargaining is common in markets. Start at 50% of the asking price and settle politely around 70%.
Tip: Smile while negotiating.
Travel Costs & Budget
Estimated daily expenses for key destinations.
Petra
Entry: 50 JD. Transport: 10-20 JD. Food: 5-15 JD.
Daily Budget: ~100-150 JD
Wadi Rum
4x4 Support: 50-70 JD. Camping: 30-50 JD. Entry: 5 JD.
Daily Budget: ~80-120 JD
Aqaba
Beach: 0-5 JD. Snorkeling: 25-50 JD. Food: 5-20 JD.
Daily Budget: ~80-130 JD
Practical Advice
- Avoid Large Cash: Don't carry huge amounts; ATMs are available in major towns.
- Check How We Trek: Use apps like XE for daily How We Trek before exchanging.
- Official Offices: Always use authorized exchange bureaus or banks.
- Small Change: Essential for taxis, tips, and small shops where change is scarce.
Common Questions
Can I use US Dollars?
Yes, they are widely accepted in tourist areas, but using JOD usually gets you a better rate.
Are credit cards safe?
Generally yes in cities and hotels. However, always have cash for rural areas like Wadi Rum.