Jordan

Climate: The climate in Jordan can vary dramatically. In summer the Jordan valley can get extremely but the winter, particularly in Amman and Petra can get cold (with occasional snow). Rain falls between November and March, while colder weather conditions occur in December/January

Geography
Jordan is bounded to the north by Syria, to the north-east by Iraq, to the east and south by Saudi Arabia and to the west by Israel. Jordan has three distinct geographic zones: the fertile Jordan Valley which runs down the western side of the country; the East Bank plateau, where most of the main towns are; and the East Bank, a desert which stretches east into Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Language
The official language of Jordan is Arabic.  English is widely understood and and is commonly used in business communities.

Visa Requirements
Visas to enter Jordan are required by all except nationals of Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, UAE and Yemen. Nationals from these countries can enter without a visa and stay for one month (although this can be extended at a police station). 

Nationals from any western European country, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan can obtain a visa at the airport upon arrival. Otherwise you should get a visa from the Jordanian consulate in your country prior to travel. The validity of visas is dependant on nationality. For UK, US, Australian and New Zealand nationals a tourist visa is valid for three months (single entry) from entry, a multiple entry visa for 6 months and a business visa for 3 months (single entry). 

Nationals of Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belize, India, Liberia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Trinidad & Tobago are required to seek prior approval from the Ministry of the Interior, as well as holding a visa. This may also apply to other nationalities. We strongly recommend you check all visa requirements with the Jordanian Embassy prior to travel.

Work Visas - According to the Jordanian Labor Law, all foreign workers require a labor permit. This is must be applied for in advance and is issued by the Ministry of Labor usually for a period of one year. Preference is given to Jordanian, and then to Arab workers. Foreign work permits are issued for jobs that require experience and capabilities which are not available among Jordanian workers, or not available in sufficient quantity. Expatriate personnel also require a residence permit issued by the Ministry of Interior.

Local Laws & Customs
Jordanians are warm and hospitable people and enjoy telling you about their country. Handshaking is the normal form of greeting.

Arabic coffee is served at most social occasions and tends to be strong, black and served in small cups. Local beer, wine and other types of alcohol are served in most bars and restaurants except during the Holy month of Ramadan. The soles of the feet should never be exposed to sight when seated, and food and drink should be taken only with the right hand.

Although Jordan is a relatively modern society, conservative dress is advised particularly when traveling outside of Amman. It is essential that Muslim beliefs are respected and beachwear should only be worn at the beach or poolside.  For business meetings, dress should be formal with men wearing a suit and tie. It is also polite to ask permission to take photographs of people and in some places photography is forbidden

Driving Licenses
For short stays, an International Driver's Permit (IDP), carried in conjunction with your national driving license, is recommended. Certain foreign licenses are acceptable when driving foreign-registered vehicles in Jordan. For long-term residency, a Jordanian license is necessary and can be obtained by presenting a valid foreign license.

Always make sure documentation is carried with you at all times when driving. Police officers will expect to see documentation if they stop you for any reason.