Jordan, located in the heart of the Middle East, offers digital nomads a unique blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and modern amenities. From the historic city of Petra to the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan is a country rich in culture, natural beauty, and adventure. With a growing expat community, affordable living costs, and a good infrastructure, Jordan is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads looking for a unique remote work experience.
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Why Jordan is a Great Destination for Digital Nomads
- Rich History and Culture: Jordan is home to some of the world’s most famous historical sites, including Petra, the Dead Sea, and the ancient Roman ruins of Jerash. As a digital nomad, you’ll have the opportunity to work remotely while immersing yourself in a country with thousands of years of history.
- Affordable Living Costs: Compared to many Western countries, Jordan offers a relatively affordable cost of living, particularly outside of Amman. Digital nomads can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
- Stable Internet and Infrastructure: Jordan has good internet connectivity, especially in larger cities like Amman and Aqaba. Reliable coworking spaces, modern cafes, and accessible public transport make it a practical destination for digital nomads.
- Safe and Welcoming: Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East. Its people are known for their hospitality, and expats often find it easy to integrate into the local culture.
- Gateway to the Middle East: Jordan is an excellent base for exploring the rest of the Middle East. With its central location, it is easy to travel to neighboring countries such as Israel, Lebanon, and Egypt.
Top Cities for Digital Nomads in Jordan
- Amman: The capital city of Jordan, Amman, is a bustling urban center with a growing tech scene, modern amenities, and an international vibe. It’s home to many coworking spaces and offers a lively expat community.
- Aqaba: If you’re looking for a coastal city with a relaxed atmosphere, Aqaba is the place to be. Located on the Red Sea, Aqaba offers beautiful beaches, diving opportunities, and a slower pace of life while still having reliable infrastructure for remote work.
- Petra: For history lovers, Petra is a unique destination. Although it’s smaller than Amman, the presence of incredible ancient sites like Petra makes it a must-visit, and many digital nomads choose to stay in nearby Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra.
- Irbid: Located in the northern part of Jordan, Irbid is a university city with a relaxed vibe. While it may not have the same number of coworking spaces as Amman, it’s a quieter and more affordable alternative for digital nomads.
Cost of Living in Jordan
Jordan is relatively affordable compared to Western countries, though cities like Amman can be more expensive. Overall, you can live comfortably on a moderate budget if you choose your accommodation and lifestyle wisely.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (JOD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (1-bedroom apartment) | 250–600 JOD |
| Food and Dining | 150–250 JOD |
| Transportation | 50–100 JOD |
| Co-working Space | 100–200 JOD |
| Entertainment and Leisure | 50–150 JOD |
Coworking Spaces in Jordan
Jordan’s coworking spaces are concentrated in Amman and Aqaba, with a few options in smaller cities. These spaces offer high-speed internet, modern office facilities, and a professional environment for digital nomads.
| Co-working Space | Location | Monthly Cost (JOD) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Park (Amman) | Amman | 150–250 JOD | A modern coworking space with a range of facilities and flexible membership options. |
| Coworking Space Aqaba | Aqaba | 100–180 JOD | A relaxed, beachside coworking space ideal for those looking to combine work with leisure. |
| Codi | Amman | 120–200 JOD | A creative and dynamic coworking space with excellent networking events and community vibe. |
| The Workery | Amman | 130–220 JOD | A flexible coworking space offering a variety of services, from private offices to hot desks. |
Internet and Connectivity
- Urban Areas: Amman and Aqaba have reliable internet speeds, with average download speeds of 30-50 Mbps. Public Wi-Fi is commonly available in cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces.
- Mobile Data: Jordan has good mobile data coverage, with major telecom providers like Zain, Orange, and Umniah offering 4G data plans. A typical mobile data plan with 10GB of data costs around 10–15 JOD per month.
- Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces, though it’s often recommended to use a mobile hotspot or coworking space for a more stable connection.
Getting Around in Jordan
- Public Transport: Amman has a good public bus system, with affordable fares. Taxis are also widely available, and Uber operates in some areas. In Aqaba, taxis and ride-sharing apps are the primary mode of transport.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car in Jordan is fairly easy, and it’s often the best option for exploring more remote areas of the country. Car rental prices start at around 25–35 JOD per day.
- Cycling: While cycling is becoming more popular in cities like Amman, it’s not as common as in other countries. However, some areas, like the Al-Abdali district, are becoming more bike-friendly.
Visa Options for Digital Nomads in Jordan
While Jordan does not have a specific digital nomad visa, several visa options are available for short- and long-term stays:
- Tourist Visa: Most visitors can stay in Jordan for up to 30 days on a tourist visa, which can be extended once for an additional 30 days. This visa is the most common for digital nomads working remotely for clients outside of Jordan.
- Temporary Work Visa (B1): If you plan to work for a local employer or start a business in Jordan, you can apply for a temporary work visa. This visa typically requires a local job offer or business registration.
- Jordan Pass: If you’re planning to stay longer and explore the country, the Jordan Pass is a good option. It allows entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra, and includes a visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Pro Tip: Always check with the Jordanian embassy or consulate for the latest visa regulations, as they can change frequently.
Things to Do in Jordan
- Explore Petra: The ancient rock-carved city of Petra is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see for visitors to Jordan. Spend a day or two exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Float in the Dead Sea: The Dead Sea is famous for its high salt content, allowing visitors to float effortlessly on the water’s surface. It’s a unique experience and a great place to relax.
- Visit Wadi Rum: Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape with towering red sandstone mountains, perfect for hiking, rock climbing, or even camel riding.
- Explore Amman: Amman is a modern city with ancient roots. Visit the Citadel, Roman Theatre, and explore the vibrant local markets and cafes.
- Relax in Aqaba: Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the Red Sea beaches.
Tips for Digital Nomads in Jordan
- Be Prepared for the Heat: Jordan’s summers can be extremely hot, especially in desert regions like Wadi Rum. Be sure to stay hydrated and wear light clothing to stay cool.
- Health Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive health insurance coverage for your time in Jordan, as medical care can be expensive for non-residents.
- Language: Arabic is the official language of Jordan, though English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases will help you communicate more effectively with locals.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Jordan is a conservative country, so it’s important to respect local customs, particularly when it comes to dress codes and behavior in public spaces.
- Explore Beyond the Cities: While Amman and Aqaba offer great infrastructure for digital nomads, don’t miss out on exploring Jordan’s stunning landscapes, historical sites, and quieter towns.
Conclusion
Jordan offers a perfect blend of modern comforts and ancient wonders for digital nomads looking to experience the Middle East. With its rich cultural heritage, affordable cost of living, and growing expat community, it’s a unique destination for those seeking adventure while maintaining a productive remote work lifestyle. Whether you choose to stay in Amman, Aqaba, or explore smaller cities like Petra or Irbid, Jordan will offer you an unforgettable experience.
Ready to explore Jordan as a digital nomad? Start planning your adventure today!