Queen Alia Airport Guide: Arrivals, Services, and What to Know (2026)

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is Jordan's main international gateway. Located approximately 35 kilometers south of Amman, it serves millions of passengers each year and connects Jordan to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

Whether you are arriving for a vacation, a business trip, or a layover, knowing what to expect at Queen Alia Airport helps you start your journey smoothly. This guide covers everything from airport layout and services to transportation options and tips for a stress-free arrival.

Airport Overview

Official name: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)

Location: 35 km south of Amman city center

Terminals: One main passenger terminal

Annual passengers: Approximately 8–10 million (pre-2020 figures; growing steadily)

Airlines: Royal Jordanian (hub), plus over 40 international carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and British Airways

Opened: 1983 (new terminal opened in 2013)

Airport Layout

Queen Alia Airport has a single, modern passenger terminal divided into two main areas:

Arrivals Level (Ground Floor)

When you arrive at Queen Alia Airport, you will enter the arrivals hall after passport control and baggage claim. Here you will find:

• Passport control counters: Allow 15–45 minutes depending on queue length
• Visa on arrival: Most nationalities can obtain a visa here (JOD 40 for most countries)
• Baggage claim: Two carousels for international arrivals
• Customs: Green channel for nothing to declare, red channel for goods to declare
• Arrivals hall: Currency exchange, ATM, car rental desks, information desk, SIM card kiosks, taxi queue exit

Departures Level (First Floor)

The departures level houses check-in counters, security screening, and the airside departure lounge with duty-free shopping, restaurants, and prayer rooms.

Services at Queen Alia Airport

Currency Exchange and ATMs

Multiple currency exchange counters are available in both the arrivals and departures halls. ATMs accepting international cards (Visa, Mastercard) are located throughout the terminal. It is wise to exchange a small amount of Jordanian dinar at the airport for immediate expenses like taxis, then exchange larger amounts at better rates in Amman city.

SIM Cards and Mobile Connectivity

Three mobile providers have kiosks in the arrivals hall: Orange, Zain, and Umniah. Tourist SIM cards with data packages are available starting from JOD 10–15. These are excellent value and give you reliable 4G connectivity throughout Jordan.

Alternatively, you can activate an international eSIM from providers like Airalo or Holafly before your trip for instant connectivity upon landing.

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the "Queen Alia Airport Free WiFi" network. The connection is reliable for messaging and maps but may be slower during peak hours.

Lounges

Queen Alia Airport has several lounges available:

• Crown Lounge (Royal Jordanian): For business and first-class passengers, plus Priority Pass members
• Petra Lounge: Pay-per-use lounge open to all passengers (approximately JOD 30)
• Marhaba Lounge: Available for eligible passengers and pay-per-use

Food and Drink

The departures level offers a selection of cafes and restaurants including:

• Starbucks, Cinnabon, and local cafes in the departure lounge
• A food court with international options
• Several coffee shops in the arrivals hall

Duty-Free Shopping

The departure lounge features duty-free shops selling perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, local handicrafts, and Dead Sea products. Prices are competitive with international duty-free standards.

Prayer Rooms

Separate prayer rooms for men and women are available in both the arrivals and departures areas. Ablution facilities are provided.

Entry Requirements and Visas

Visa on Arrival

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia Airport. The process is straightforward:

1. Proceed to the visa counter before passport control
2. Pay the visa fee (JOD 40 for most countries; free for certain nationalities)
3. Receive your visa sticker
4. Proceed to passport control

Jordan Pass

The Jordan Pass is a government program that includes your visa fee and entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra, Jerash, and the Baptism Site.

Prices (2026):

• Jordan Wanderer (1 day in Petra): JOD 70
• Jordan Explorer (2 days in Petra): JOD 75
• Jordan Expert (3 days in Petra): JOD 80

If you stay at least 3 nights in Jordan, the Jordan Pass waives your visa fee entirely. It is excellent value if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Jordan.

Transportation from Queen Alia Airport

Airport Taxis

Official airport taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals exit. Fares are negotiated before departure. Expect to pay JOD 20–30 to central Amman.

Private Airport Transfer

Pre-booked private transfers offer the most convenient arrival experience. Your driver monitors your flight, meets you in the arrivals hall with a name sign, and escorts you to a comfortable vehicle. Fixed pricing includes all costs with no surprises.

Ride-Sharing (Uber and Careem)

Both Uber and Careem operate at the airport. Pickup is from the designated rideshare zone. Availability varies by time of day and demand.

Rental Cars

Major rental agencies have desks in the arrivals hall: Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar, and local providers. Booking in advance often yields better rates. You will need a valid international driving permit alongside your national license.

Hotel Shuttles

Many Amman hotels offer airport pickup services, sometimes complimentary. Check with your hotel when booking.

Currency and Tipping

Currency

The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the local currency. It is pegged to the US dollar at approximately JOD 1 = USD 1.41. ATMs dispense JOD, and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Amman.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Jordan:

• Restaurants: 10% service charge is often included; leave an extra JOD 1–3 for good service
• Taxi drivers: Round up the fare or add JOD 1–2
• Hotel staff: JOD 1–2 per bag for porters
• Tour guides: JOD 10–20 per day for excellent service

Language

Arabic is the official language of Jordan. English is widely spoken in the airport, hotels, tourist sites, and restaurants in Amman. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases is appreciated:

• "Marhaba" — Hello
• "Shukran" — Thank you
• "Min fadlak" — Please (to a man)
• "Min fadlik" — Please (to a woman)
• "Yalla" — Let's go
• "Maa salamah" — Goodbye

Weather and What to Wear

Jordan has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool winters.

• Summer (June–August): 30–38°C (86–100°F) — light, breathable clothing
• Winter (December–February): 5–15°C (41–59°F) — layers and a jacket
• Spring/Autumn: 18–28°C (64–82°F) — comfortable clothing

Jordan is a conservative country. While Amman is relatively liberal, dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful, especially when visiting religious sites.

Airport Security Tips

• Arrive 3 hours before international flights
• Have your passport and boarding pass ready at all checkpoints
• Liquids over 100 ml must be in checked luggage
• Jordanian security is thorough but professional
• Remove shoes, belts, and electronics at security screening

FAQ

What is the best way to get from Queen Alia Airport to Amman city center?

A private airport transfer offers the most convenient experience. Taxis are a good alternative if you prefer to arrange transport on the spot. The drive takes 30–45 minutes.

How early should I arrive at Queen Alia Airport for my flight?

Arrive 3 hours before your scheduled departure for international flights. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and passport control.

Is there luggage storage at Queen Alia Airport?

Queen Alia Airport does not have a dedicated luggage storage facility. If you need to store luggage, contact your hotel in Amman.

Can I sleep at Queen Alia Airport?

The airport is open 24 hours and has seating areas where you can rest. The departure lounge has comfortable seating but no dedicated sleeping facilities. Nearby hotels with shuttle service include the Airport Hotel.

What currency should I bring to Jordan?

The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the only accepted currency. Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs, then exchange larger amounts in Amman for better rates.

Is Jordan safe for tourists?

Yes. Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists. The government prioritizes tourist safety, and Queen Alia Airport has excellent security measures in place.

Conclusion

Queen Alia International Airport is a modern, well-organized gateway that makes arriving in Jordan straightforward. With efficient visa processing, clear signage, and a range of transportation options, most travelers transition from the arrival gate to their final destination within an hour.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of Jordan, a little advance knowledge of the airport's layout and services ensures your trip starts on the right foot.

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