Headscarves are not required in Jordan. Most women will have no problem going uncovered. Women with long hair should tie it back or wear it up. When visiting mosques, headscarves are required, so it is best to carry a scarf while traveling. According to journeywoman.com, a website for female travelers, it is a bad idea for a woman to brush her hair in public.
Skirts are preferable to slacks. To avoid unwanted attention, skirts should fall below the knee, the longer the better. The shoulders and upper arms should be covered. Cleavage should never be visible. It is best to wear clothing that is loose.
Married women receive the least amount of harassment, even when traveling alone. According to Meryl Sargent, a photojournalist who has traveled in Jordan, wearing a wedding band is a good idea, even if you are not married, and mentioning your husband is a good way to ward of unwanted advances.
Alcohol is available in Jordan, but it is best for women to refrain from drinking. It is a bad idea to accept drinks from men.
According to the U.S. Department of State, women should avoid traveling alone in taxis. Women should not sit in the front seat of a taxi.
If a man touches a woman, even on the arm, she should make it clear that she does not want him to do that again. According to jordanjubilee.com, a website dedicated to Jordanian travel, women should clearly and calmly state that they wish to be left alone.
Women should avoid traveling at night without a male companion. Women should never travel alone at night. Avoid all dark and isolated streets and areas.
Jordan has a police force for tourist complaints. They have a good reputation for taking claims seriously. Most of the force speaks English well.
According to the U.S. Department of State, Jordanian law allows any man to prevent a female relative from leaving Jordan if they wish. This is true even if the man and woman are citizens of a country other than Jordan.
