What to wear in Jordan?

When planning my trip to Jordan, one of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out what to wear in Jordan. As a first-time visitor to a Middle Eastern country, I wanted to be respectful of local customs while also feeling comfortable and confident. Like many travelers, I searched for advice online but found the information scattered and sometimes unclear—especially as a woman.

The good news? Jordan is one of the most welcoming and liberal countries in the Middle East, making it an excellent destination for your first visit to this fascinating region!

To help you prepare, it’s important to know that there’s no official dress code in Jordan. The country is home to a diverse population where various religions coexist peacefully. You’ll see everything from Western-style clothing to traditional attire like hijabs and burkas, and these choices are generally respected by the community. However, understanding a few cultural norms and adapting your wardrobe can enhance your experience and show respect for the locals.

Some general rules for what to wear in Jordan

When visiting a Middle Eastern country like Jordan, it’s essential to recognize that cultural norms around clothing are generally more conservative than what many of us are accustomed to in the West. While there’s no formal dress code, wearing crop tops, tight leggings, or baring your shoulders is often viewed as inappropriate—especially in predominantly Muslim communities. Even if these guidelines primarily apply to local women, dressing in a way that respects cultural expectations can help you avoid unwanted attention and show respect for Jordanian customs.

The Golden Rule: Modesty and Comfort

The general guideline for what to wear in Jordan is straightforward:

Opt for pants or skirts that are loose-fitting and cover your knees.
Ensure your tops cover your shoulders, especially in public places or religious sites.

That said, the hot climate can make these recommendations tricky, especially when hiking or exploring. This is where taking cues from the locals can be incredibly helpful. Jordanians often wear clothing that is both modest and practical for the heat. Here’s how to follow their lead:

Choose Breathable Fabrics
Lightweight materials like linen and cotton are your best friends in Jordan’s dry and often sweltering climate. Avoid synthetic fabrics, as they can trap heat and make you uncomfortable.
Stick to Light Colors
Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight, keeping you cooler under Jordan’s bright skies.
Go for Flowy Silhouettes
Loose-fitting garments, such as wide-leg pants and breezy tops, allow air to circulate between your skin and your clothing, helping you stay fresh and comfortable.

By following these simple rules, you’ll not only feel more comfortable in the heat but also show consideration for Jordan’s cultural values.

Touristic places have more leeway

It’s important to note that not all places in Jordan adhere to the same cultural expectations when it comes to clothing. In highly touristic areas like Petra and the Dead Sea, locals are more accustomed to seeing Western styles of dress. These regions thrive on tourism, and you’ll often encounter a mix of local workers and expats from countries like Egypt, making the atmosphere more relaxed and diverse.

Tight dresses with bare shoulders, for example, are not unheard of in these areas, but seeing such outfits made me feel uncomfortable on behalf of the locals. To me, they seemed out of place and disrespectful to Jordanian culture and traditions. While there is more leeway in touristic spots, it’s still a good idea to dress modestly—not only as a sign of cultural respect but also to avoid standing out in a way that might feel inappropriate.

Then what is appropriate in touristic areas?

Shorts: Linen or hiking shorts that cover part of your upper legs are generally acceptable, even in rural areas.
T-Shirts: Stick to tops that cover your shoulders rather than tank tops or spaghetti straps to avoid unwanted attention.

A small warning…

During my visit to Wadi Musa near Petra, I noticed that seeing a bare shoulder here and there didn’t raise any eyebrows. However, one evening in Aqaba, I wore a spaghetti-strap top without a shawl to cover up. While our waitress reassured me that my outfit wasn’t inappropriate, the lingering stares from men made me feel uncomfortable enough to avoid repeating it.

This experience taught me the importance of always carrying a lightweight shawl or scarf. It’s a versatile item that can be easily draped over your shoulders when walking on the streets or visiting more traditional areas. Once you’re in a modern or upscale restaurant, you can take it off without issue. A shawl not only helps you stay culturally respectful but also ensures you feel more at ease in various settings.

Practical things to pack for your trip to Jordan

Beyond clothing choices for cultural reasons, there are a few practical items you’ll definitely want to bring along to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable:

Good Hiking Shoes or Sturdy Sneakers
Jordan’s incredible sights—like Petra, Wadi Rum, and various hiking trails—call for footwear that can handle sandy and rocky terrains. Choose something with good grip and durability to keep you steady and comfortable.
Water Shoes
The Red Sea’s rocky shores and adventurous spots like Wadi Mujib and Wadi Gweir are much easier to navigate with proper water shoes. They’ll protect your feet and give you better traction during these activities.
Head Covering for Sun Protection
Keeping your head shielded from the strong Jordanian sun is a must. Rudy brought a hat, but I opted for the iconic Jordanian scarf (keffiyeh). It not only protected my head and ears from the sun but also became one of my favorite souvenirs from the trip—a perfect blend of function and memory.

Packing for Jordan doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing modest, breathable clothing and bringing along a few practical essentials, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality this beautiful country has to offer.

Wondering what to wear in Jordan? A traditional headscarf will protect you against the burning sun.