Renting a car in Jordan: Your guide to driving Petra, Wadi Rum & beyond

One of the most common questions visitors ask is if it is safe to drive in Jordan.
 

The short answer is yes.
 

Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourism. The road network connecting major destinations is generally well maintained, road signs are easy to follow and driving between cities is straightforward.
 

Keep in mind that the biggest challenge is not safety. It is traffic in Amman.
 

Like many large cities, Amman can feel hectic, especially during rush hours. Traffic congestion, roundabouts and local driving habits can be intimidating for first-time visitors. Fortunately, most travelers spend only a limited amount of time driving in the city.
 

Once you leave Amman, the experience changes completely. Roads become quieter, landscapes become more impressive and driving becomes more relaxing.
 

Even the route to Wadi Rum is fully paved all the way to the visitor center. Unlike to what many travelers think, you do not need to drive through desert tracks just to reach the site.
 

Police checkpoints are common throughout Jordan, but they are routine and generally straightforward. Simply present your passport and rental documents if requested, and continue your journey.

Many travelers debate whether they should join organized tours or rent a car.
 

The answer depends on your travel style, but for most couples, families and small groups, self-driving offers considerably better value.

Tours can certainly be convenient. Everything is organized in advance, transportation is included and there is no need to plan routes.
 

However, Jordan's major attractions are perfectly suited for independent travel. A rental car allows you to spend an extra hour at Petra, stop for photos along the Kings Highway or enjoy a spontaneous lunch overlooking the Dead Sea.
 

For travelers who value flexibility, a Jordan self-drive adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

One of the biggest advantages of renting a car in Jordan is how easily the country's highlights connect to each other.
 

The classic route looks like this:

The most important decision is choosing between Jordan's two main routes.

Kings Highway (Route 35)
 

The Kings Highway is one of the most scenic roads in the Middle East.
 

Instead of taking the direct motorway, the route passes through:
 

• Madaba 
   
• Karak Castle 
   
• Dana Biosphere Reserve 
   
• Traditional villages 
   
• Mountain landscapes and dramatic valleys 
   

The scenery is spectacular, but the road is slower. Expect to add approximately two extra hours compared with the faster motorway route.
 

If this is your first trip to Jordan and you are not in a hurry, the Kings Highway is highly recommended.
 

Desert Highway (Route 15)
 

The Desert Highway is the fastest route between Amman and Petra.
 

The road is modern, efficient and ideal for travelers who prefer reaching their destination quickly. The scenery is less dramatic than the Kings Highway, but travel times are significantly shorter.
 

We recommend you choosing a simple strategy: travel south via the Kings Highway and return north via the Desert Highway. Thus, you will be able to see both routes and save time.
 

Suggested 7-day Jordan self-drive itinerary
 

If you have one week available, this itinerary covers Jordan's most famous destinations comfortably.
 

• Day 1:Arrival in Amman
   
• Day 2: Amman to Dead Sea
   
• Day 3: Dead Sea to Petra via Kings Highway
   
• Day 4: Full day exploring Petra
   
• Day 5: Petra to Wadi Rum
   
• Day 6: Wadi Rum and Aqaba
   
• Day 7: Return to Amman via Desert Highway
   

This itinerary balances sightseeing with manageable driving distances and allows enough time to enjoy Jordan's unique landscapes without feeling rushed.

Compared to many neighboring destinations, Jordan offers excellent value for independent travelers that want to hire a car.
 

Typical rental prices are:
 

• Economy car: €25-40 per day 
   
• Compact SUV: €40-60 per day 
   
• Larger vehicles: higher depending on season.
   

Fuel prices are also relatively affordable by regional standards, averaging around €0.80 per liter.
 

Another major advantage is the absence of motorway tolls on Jordan's main tourist routes.
 

For most travelers, a complete 7-day Jordan road trip usually costs approximately:
 

• Car rental: €175-280 
   
• Fuel: €25-70 
   
• Total transportation cost: €200-350.
   

When compared to organized tours covering the same destinations, self-driving is often significantly cheaper, especially for couples and families.
 

Abbycar's transparent pricing policy helps travelers to build their budget accurately before arriving, avoiding unexpected surprises during collection.

Many travelers assume Jordan requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
 

In reality, most visitors do not need one.
 

For the standard tourist route Amman → Dead Sea → Petra → Wadi Rum → Aqaba all roads are fully paved.
 

Thus, a standard economy or compact vehicle is perfectly suitable.
 

A 4WD becomes necessary only if you intend to:
 

• Explore remote desert areas independently. 
   
• Join specialized off-road expeditions. 
   
• Drive beyond the normal visitor areas.
   

Even inside Wadi Rum, most desert excursions are conducted with local guides using their own vehicles.
 

By choosing a standard 2WD car, travelers can typically save between €15 and €25 per day.

Driving in Jordan is relatively straightforward, but there are several important rules visitors should know:
 

• Driving side: Jordan drives on the right-hand side of the road.
   
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, 110 km/h on motorways.
   
• International Driving Permit: Most non-Arab license holders should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Although some foreign licenses may be accepted, obtaining an IDP before travel is strongly recommended and avoids unnecessary complications when collecting your rental vehicle.
   
• Alcohol: Jordan has strict rules regarding alcohol and driving. Never carry open alcoholic beverages inside the vehicle.
   
• Petrol stations: Fuel stations are widely available throughout Jordan, including along the routes to Petra and Wadi Rum.
   
• Navigation: Google Maps works reliably across Jordan and is generally sufficient for most visitors.
   
• Checkpoints: Police checkpoints are routine and should not cause concern. Keep your passport, driving license and rental agreement accessible.

Most international visitors arrive through Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), which is located approximately 35 kilometers south of central Amman.
 

For travelers planning a road trip immediately after arrival, airport collection is usually the most convenient option.
 

Rather than navigating city traffic, many visitors simply collect their vehicle and drive directly toward the Dead Sea or Petra.
 

Abbycar operates both at Amman Airport and in downtown Amman, providing flexibility for travelers who prefer spending a few days in the city before starting their road trip. Abbycar's international network, transparent pricing philosophy and customer-focused service make it a practical choice for those looking for a straightforward rental experience.

Absolutely.
 

Jordan combines everything that makes a great self-drive destination, such as short distances, imposing scenery, significant historical sites and well-maintained roads.
 

While Amman can be challenging for first-time visitors, the routes connecting the country's major attractions are easy to navigate. A rental car gives you the freedom to experience Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and countless hidden spots at your own pace rather than following a strict tour schedule.
 

If you seek flexibility, comfort and better value, car rental in Jordan is one of the smartest travel decisions you can make.