Verified Facts
In Jordan, you can expect a relatively well-developed internet infrastructure with good mobile network coverage and widespread WiFi availability, making it easy to stay connected during your visit.
Quick Facts
Internet Overview
The internet in Jordan is generally of good quality, with an average speed of 10 Mbps download, allowing for smooth browsing, streaming, and communication. However, there is a notable urban vs rural divide, with faster and more reliable internet connections available in cities like Amman, Irbid, and Aqaba, while rural areas may experience slower speeds and more frequent outages. Despite this, the overall reliability of the internet in Jordan is relatively good, with most providers offering stable connections and minimal downtime.
In terms of infrastructure, Jordan has made significant investments in recent years to improve its internet infrastructure, including the rollout of 4G networks and the introduction of limited 5G services in major cities. This has helped to increase internet penetration and improve overall connectivity, making it easier for visitors to stay online during their stay. Additionally, many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free WiFi, making it easy to find a connection when you need it.
Getting a SIM Card
To get a SIM card in Jordan, you can visit one of the main carriers' stores, such as Zain, Orange, or Umniah, which can be found in major cities and towns. You will typically need to provide your passport and a copy of your visa (if required) to purchase a SIM card. The cost of a tourist SIM card is approximately 10 USD, and data plans are widely available, with prices starting from around 5 USD per week for 1GB of data. It's recommended to purchase a SIM card from one of the main carriers, as they offer the best coverage and most competitive prices.
| Carrier | Tourist Plan | Data | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zain | Tourist Pack | 1GB | 5 | Valid for 7 days |
| Orange | Visitor Plan | 2GB | 10 | Valid for 14 days |
| Umniah | Data SIM | 5GB | 20 | Valid for 30 days |
| Jordan Telecom | Tourist SIM | 1GB | 5 | Valid for 7 days |
WiFi Availability
- Hotel WiFi quality is generally good, with most mid-range and luxury hotels offering free and fast connections
- Cafe WiFi culture is widespread, with many cafes and coffee shops offering free WiFi to customers
- Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular in major cities, offering fast and reliable WiFi connections
- Public WiFi is available in many public areas, such as malls and airports, but can be slower and less secure than other options
- Many restaurants and bars also offer free WiFi, making it easy to stay connected while dining out
For Remote Workers
- Coworking spaces like Regus and WeWork offer fast and reliable WiFi connections, as well as a range of amenities and services
- Reliable cafe chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee offer good WiFi and a comfortable working environment
- Backup internet options like portable WiFi hotspots and mobile networks can be useful in case of an outage or slow connection
- VPNs can be useful for secure and private browsing, especially when using public WiFi networks
- Many hotels and resorts also offer coworking spaces and meeting rooms, making them a good option for remote workers
Tips & Warnings
- Internet censorship is present in Jordan, with some websites and services blocked or restricted
- Blocked sites include some social media and news websites, as well as VPN services
- Using a VPN can help to bypass censorship and ensure secure and private browsing
- Roaming alternatives like eSIM and portable WiFi hotspots can be a cost-effective and convenient option for staying connected
- It's recommended to purchase a local SIM card or portable WiFi hotspot to avoid high roaming charges
- Be aware of public WiFi security risks, and take steps to protect your devices and data when using public networks.