Keeping in Touch in Jordan

With the country’s rapidly expanding telecommunications industry, keeping in touch in Jordan is easier than ever. From typing out a quick text message and posting photos on social media to sending a handwritten letter or parcel by post, you’ll have a variety of convenient and affordable ways to contact your loved ones back home.

Internet in Jordan

Jordan has a high internet penetration rate compared to many other Middle Eastern countries. Although getting access to the internet is easy, expats from highly developed countries may find the speed a little slow, but this is improving. It is, at least, slightly above the average speed of other countries in the Middle East and Africa. WiFi hotspots are easy to find in big cities, as are internet cafés.

Internet censorship in Jordan

Jordan is considered partially free when it comes to internet censorship, and most websites can be visited easily. However, a law passed in 2012 made it a legal requirement for all news websites to apply for and obtain a government licence – without this licence, access to the website is blocked, and charges are pressed against the offending news outlet. This has been seen as a move towards covert censorship.

In 2023, the government enacted a cybercrime law that allows law enforcement officials to prosecute citizens for posting negative information about the country, online bullying, posting inappropriate content, etc. Expats are encouraged to ensure that the content they post cannot be used against them in a criminal case, which could lead to hefty fines or even jail time. 

Mobile phones in Jordan

As is the trend worldwide, mobile phone use has long overtaken landline phone use in Jordan. Expats can sign up for either a prepaid or postpaid plan. Some postpaid plans include a set number of free international minutes, which can be particularly useful for those wanting to keep in touch with friends and family back home.

If you are bringing a mobile phone that was purchased in another country, you should be aware that it may be locked to a particular network.

Postal services in Jordan

The Jordan Post is a state-owned countrywide postal service. They are generally considered reliable, but it is recommended that important documents or packages be sent through one of the international courier companies operating in Jordan.