How to Get to the Dead Sea in Jordan: Every Transport Option Explained
Jordan’s Dead Sea resort zone sits approximately 55 kilometers west of Amman, concentrated near the town of Sweimeh on the northeastern shore. The drive from Amman takes roughly one hour along a descending highway that drops more than 1,200 meters in elevation, from Amman at 777 meters above sea level to the Dead Sea at approximately 430 meters below. Every major transport option, from rental car to public bus, follows this same route.
Self Driving from Amman
Renting a car provides the greatest flexibility for reaching the Dead Sea and combining it with nearby attractions. Major rental agencies operate at Queen Alia Airport and in central Amman. The route from Amman to the Dead Sea follows well maintained, signposted roads. Drivers should be aware that the highway includes steep descents and occasional police checkpoints where a passport or identification may be requested.
Driving conditions are generally straightforward. The dual carriageway is paved throughout, and traffic is moderate outside of weekend and holiday periods. Parking is available at all major resorts free of charge. For travelers continuing south along the Dead Sea Highway toward Petra, the road narrows to a single lane in each direction, and the U.S. State Department notes that this stretch can be hazardous due to steep gradients and heavy truck traffic.
The drive from Amman to Jordan's Dead Sea resort zone covers 55 kilometers and descends more than 1,200 meters in elevation along a well maintained highway, dropping from 777 meters above sea level to 430 meters below in approximately one hour.
JETT Bus Service
JETT, Jordan’s primary intercity bus operator, runs a daily service from its 7th Circle station in Amman to the Dead Sea resort area. The return fare is approximately 10 to 15 JOD. Some JETT packages include a resort day pass and buffet lunch, making this the most economical option for solo travelers or couples. The bus departs in the morning (typically around 8:30 to 9:00 AM) and returns in the afternoon (approximately 4:00 to 4:30 PM), providing roughly 5 to 6 hours at the Dead Sea.
Travelers should book JETT tickets in advance during peak season (March to May and September to November), as the service can fill to capacity. Tickets can be purchased at the JETT office or through select hotels.
Private Taxis and Ride Hailing
Taxis from Amman to the Dead Sea typically cost 25 to 40 JOD one way, depending on negotiation and the specific destination within the resort zone. For a return trip, negotiate a round trip fare that includes waiting time at the Dead Sea. Uber and Careem operate in Amman and can be used for one way trips, though availability may be limited at the Dead Sea for the return.
Hotel concierges in Amman can arrange private drivers for the day, often at competitive rates of 50 to 70 JOD for a full day trip including waiting time. This option works well for groups of 3 to 4 travelers splitting the cost.
From Queen Alia International Airport
Queen Alia Airport sits approximately 80 kilometers from the Dead Sea resort zone, a drive of 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Airport taxis and pre arranged transfers are the most direct options. Pre booked transfers through hotels or tour operators typically cost 35 to 50 JOD. Airport taxi fares should be negotiated or agreed upon before departing the terminal.
From Petra and Southern Jordan
The drive from Petra (Wadi Musa) to the Dead Sea covers approximately 220 kilometers via the Dead Sea Highway and takes 3 to 3.5 hours. This route passes through dramatic canyon landscapes and descends into the Jordan Rift Valley. Many travelers position the Dead Sea as a rest stop between Petra and Amman on multi day Jordan itineraries.
Border Crossings from Israel
Three land crossings connect Israel and Jordan. The Sheikh Hussein (Jordan River) Crossing in the north is located near Beit She’an (Israel) and Irbid (Jordan), approximately 90 kilometers from Amman. The Wadi Araba (Yitzhak Rabin) Crossing in the south connects Eilat and Aqaba, approximately 324 kilometers from Amman. Both crossings issue Jordanian visas on arrival for most nationalities.
The King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge Crossing, located approximately 57 kilometers from Amman and the closest to Jerusalem, does not issue Jordanian visas on arrival. Travelers must arrange a visa in advance. This crossing is also subject to periodic closures due to security conditions. As of January 2025, Israel requires all visa exempt nationals to obtain an ETA-IL electronic travel authorization (25 NIS, approximately 7 USD, valid for two years) before entering or transiting Israel.
Three border crossings connect Israel and Jordan, but only the Sheikh Hussein Crossing in the north and Wadi Araba Crossing in the south issue Jordanian visas on arrival. The King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge, nearest to Jerusalem at 57 km from Amman, requires advance visa arrangements.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Amman to the Dead Sea?
The drive takes approximately one hour along a well maintained highway covering 55 kilometers. The route descends steadily from Amman’s elevation to the Dead Sea shoreline at 430 meters below sea level.
Is there public transportation to the Dead Sea from Amman?
Yes. JETT operates a daily bus from its 7th Circle station in Amman to the Dead Sea resort area. The return fare is approximately 10 to 15 JOD. Some packages include a resort day pass and lunch.
Can I take a taxi from Amman to the Dead Sea?
Yes. Taxis cost approximately 25 to 40 JOD one way. For a round trip with waiting time, negotiate a full day rate of 50 to 70 JOD. Uber and Careem operate for the outbound trip from Amman.
Which border crossing should I use from Israel to Jordan?
For visa on arrival, use the Sheikh Hussein (north) or Wadi Araba (south) crossings. The King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge, closest to Jerusalem, does not issue visas on arrival and is subject to periodic closures. All travelers from Israel must have an approved ETA-IL before departure.
