Shopping Map Overview
Jordan’s shopping experience blends traditional markets with modern malls, primarily concentrated in the capital Amman and the tourist hotspot Wadi Rum. As Jordan’s political and economic hub, Amman boasts large shopping centers alongside bustling bazaars, while Wadi Rum is renowned for its handicrafts and souvenirs, making it an ideal place to pick up local specialties.
In Amman, be sure to visit Souk al-Hamidieh in the Old City and the markets near Abu Nidal Square, where you’ll find an array of traditional crafts, spices, carpets, and more. Major malls such as Amman Mall and Talal Mall offer brand-name department stores and international chains, perfect for purchasing clothing, electronics, and other essentials.
In Wadi Rum, open-air markets are the highlight, allowing visitors to shop for camel-hair goods, silverware, pottery, and more. Additionally, some hotels and resorts feature small boutiques selling regional specialties and keepsakes.
Sales Seasons and Tax Refunds
Jordan’s major discount periods coincide with holidays and seasonal events, such as Ramadan, the Christmas season, and various festivals. Many malls run promotional campaigns during these times, though discounts typically range from 10% to 30%, which is less steep than in Europe or North America.
Jordan does not offer a tax-free policy, but certain malls and branded stores provide tax-refund services. To qualify, purchases usually must meet a minimum threshold (e.g., JOD 500 or more), and you’ll need a valid passport and receipts. The process involves requesting a tax-refund form at checkout and submitting it at the airport or border-crossing refund counter before departure; refunds generally take 2–4 weeks to process.
It’s worth noting that Jordan uses the Jordanian dinar (JOD), which has a relatively stable exchange rate, but foreign-exchange controls are strict—large amounts of cash entering the country may require declaration. Also, some merchants may not accept credit cards, so carrying sufficient cash is advisable.
Must-Visit Malls and Markets
Amman’s Core Shopping Districts
1. Souk al-Hamidieh in Old Amman
Located in the heart of the Old City, this traditional handicraft market is perfect for buying carpets, spices, copperware, and silver jewelry. Prices can vary widely, so be sure to compare.
2. Abu Nidal Square
Surrounded by smaller markets and shops, this area offers local specialties like handmade soap, leather goods, and Arabic coffee.
3. Amman Mall
One of Amman’s largest shopping centers, Amman Mall features fashion, electronics, home goods, and more—a one-stop destination for shoppers.
4. Talal Mall
Situated in the city center, this mall hosts numerous international brands and is a popular spot for both business travelers and tourists.
Wadi Rum’s Unique Markets
5. Wadi Rum Open-Air Market
Set in the desert town’s center, this market sells camel-hair products, silverware, pottery, handwoven rugs, and other souvenirs—ideal for picking up mementos.
6. Desert Camp Boutiques
Some luxury tented camps have small shops offering local specialties, handicrafts, and unique foods, great for quick purchases.
Outlets and Discount Areas
7. Amman Outlet
Found on the city’s outskirts, this outlet complex features discounted stores of well-known brands, making it a go-to for affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories.
8. Jordan Mall
Located in suburban Amman, this mall offers a variety of brand-name discounts, perfect for family shopping trips.
Quaint Streets and Independent Shops
9. Commercial Streets in New Amman
For example, Al-Mafrag Street, lined with independent designer boutiques and specialty restaurants, is ideal for leisurely browsing.
10. Shops Near the University of Jordan
The student neighborhood around the university is home to many budget-friendly stores selling everyday items and trinkets.
11. Wadi Rum Night Market
Open on select evenings, this lively market offers snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs in a uniquely atmospheric setting.
12. Markets Around Amman Central Station
Conveniently located near the main train station, these areas brim with street vendors and small shops, perfect for quick errands.
Must-Buy List
1. Arabic Spices (e.g., saffron, cinnamon)
Price range: JOD 10–50 per gram; best purchased at Souk al-Hamidieh or the Old City market.
2. Handwoven Carpets
Price range: JOD 100–1,000; inspect carefully to avoid counterfeit pieces.
3. Silverware and Copperware
Price range: JOD 50–300; choose reputable sellers.
4. Camel-Hair Products (e.g., scarves, blankets)
Price range: JOD 30–200; quality varies, so try items on-site first.
5. Arabic Coffee and Tea Sets
Price range: JOD 20–100; available at Old City markets or specialty shops.
6. Local Honey and Olive Oil
Price range: JOD 15–50; opt for organic varieties when possible.
7. Handmade Soaps and Natural Skincare
Price range: JOD 10–50; found at markets or small stalls.
8. Ceramics and Pottery
Price range: JOD 30–150; excellent as gifts.
9. Arabic-Style Decorative Items
Price range: JOD 20–100; available at malls or markets.
10. Arabic Headscarves and Shawls
Price range: JOD 20–100; stylish additions to your travel wardrobe.
11. Spiced Sachets (e.g., spice boxes)
Price range: JOD 10–50; perfect for collecting or gifting.
12. Local Chocolates and Sweets
Price range: JOD 10–30; available at markets or specialty shops.
Daily Shopping Itineraries
Day 1: Old Amman and Souk al-Hamidieh
Morning: Explore Old Amman and Souk al-Hamidieh, picking up spices, carpets, and silverware.
Noon: Enjoy a traditional Arab lunch nearby.
Afternoon: Head to Abu Nidal Square to continue shopping and select souvenirs.
Evening: Return to the city center for dinner.
Day 2: Amman Mall and Talal Mall
Morning: Visit Amman Mall to shop for fashion and electronics.
Noon: Dine in the mall.
Afternoon: Move to Talal Mall to browse branded goods.
Evening: Savor dinner at a downtown restaurant.
Day 3: Wadi Rum Market and Desert Camps
Morning: Travel to Wadi Rum, explore the open-air market, and purchase camel-hair items and pottery.
Noon: Lunch at a desert camp.
Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at the camp boutique.
Evening: Return to Amman.
Day 4: Amman Outlet and Free Time
Morning: Visit Amman Outlet for discounted shopping.
Noon: Eat at the outlet mall.
Afternoon: Enjoy free time—head to New Amman or explore shops near the university.
Evening: Dine at a city-center restaurant.
Day 5: Final Pre-Departure Shopping
Morning: Stop by the markets near Amman Central Station to buy last-minute souvenirs.
Noon: Have lunch at a nearby eatery.
Afternoon: Depart according to your flight schedule.
Customs and Baggage Tips + Budget Breakdown + Avoidance Checklist + FAQs
Customs and Baggage Reminders
- Jordan’s customs has no special restrictions on imported goods, but keep your receipts handy for declarations.
- Ship bulky items via checked baggage to avoid carrying too much cash.
- Be mindful of airline weight limits, especially on international flights.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Item | Price Range (JOD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 200–400/night |
| Meals | 50–100/day |
| Transportation | 50–100/day |
| Shopping | 300–800 (depending on needs) |
| Miscellaneous | 100–200 |
| Total | 700–1,600 |
Avoidance Checklist
- Be cautious with “bargain” items to avoid counterfeit goods.
- Don’t fall for “free trials” or “gift” promotions—they may be scams.
- Confirm prices before paying in markets to avoid being overcharged.
- Avoid buying medicines or health supplements from unofficial sources to ensure safety.
- When purchasing gold or valuables, choose trusted retailers.
- Familiarize yourself with baggage-screening rules to prevent carrying prohibited items.
FAQs
Q: Does Jordan accept credit-card payments?
A: Most malls and hotels do, but some markets may only take cash.
Q: What souvenirs are worth bringing home?
A: Arabic spices, handwoven carpets, silverware, and camel-hair products are all excellent choices.
Q: How do I claim a tax refund after shopping?
A: Some malls offer tax-refund services—request a form at checkout and process it before departure.
Information Verification Recommendations
- Official Tourism Authority: Jordan Tourism Board website (https://www.jo.gov.jo/)
- Attraction Websites: Official sites for Amman’s Old City and Wadi Rum Market
- Mapping Platforms: Search “Jordan shopping locations” on Google Maps or Baidu Maps
- Transportation Sites: Royal Jordanian Airlines and Amman Metro websites
- Currency Exchange: Check JOD rates on XE.com or Google Finance
- Shopping Venue Reviews: Consult user reviews on social media or travel forums