Jordan Shopping and nightlife

Shopping in Jordan

Shopping in Jordan blends everyday life with tradition, offering everything from modern malls to lively street markets. In cities such as Amman, shopping centres and boutiques sell international brands alongside local designers, while smaller towns focus more on markets and independent shops. Prices are generally fixed in malls and supermarkets, but are more flexible in traditional markets.

Traditional souks and markets are an important part of the shopping experience. In Amman, areas such as downtown around Al-Balad are known for gold shops, spice stalls, textiles, and everyday goods, while city markets sell fresh produce, olives, herbs, and nuts. Souks tend to be practical rather than ornamental, offering an authentic glimpse into daily Jordanian life rather than purely tourist-oriented shopping.

Popular souvenirs include Dead Sea products such as mineral salts and mud, handmade ceramics, traditional Bedouin jewellery, scarves and keffiyehs, spices, olive oil, and locally made soaps. Sand bottles from Petra are widely sold but vary greatly in quality, so it is worth choosing carefully if buying one. Jordanian coffee and sweets such as dates or packaged baklava also make easy gifts to take home.

Bargaining is customary in markets and small independent shops, particularly for souvenirs and handicrafts, but it is not expected in malls, supermarkets, or larger retail outlets. Cash is widely accepted, though cards are commonly used in urban areas and larger stores. Visitors should keep receipts for higher-value items, especially when travelling through internal customs checkpoints near Aqaba.

Shopping hours

Shopping hours vary, but most shops open from around 09:00 to 20:00, often closing briefly in the afternoon, while markets are usually busiest in the morning and early evening; many shops close on Fridays or operate shorter hours, especially outside major cities.

Nightlife in Jordan

Nightlife in Jordan is relatively low-key and centres mainly on the larger cities, particularly Amman and Aqaba. Rather than all-night clubbing, evenings tend to focus on socialising over food, drinks, and conversation, reflecting the country's generally conservative culture. That said, visitors will still find a varied and enjoyable after-dark scene if they know where to look.

Amman has the most developed nightlife, with rooftop bars, lounges, and live music venues concentrated in neighbourhoods such as Jabal Amman, Weibdeh, and Abdoun. Many venues serve alcohol and attract a mixed crowd of locals, expatriates, and visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed rather than rowdy, with DJs, jazz nights, and occasional live performances rather than large-scale clubs.

Aqaba offers a more laid-back evening scene, especially around the waterfront and resort areas. Bars and hotel lounges provide sunset views, cocktails, and casual entertainment, making evenings feel social and unhurried. Elsewhere in the country, nightlife is minimal, and evenings are more likely to revolve around cafés, shisha lounges, and late dinners.

Visitors should dress smartly but modestly, and be mindful that alcohol is only served in licensed venues. During Ramadan and religious holidays, nightlife may be quieter or more restricted. Overall, Jordan's nightlife is about atmosphere and company rather than excess, offering a pleasant way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.