Overview
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea is the most exclusive resort property on Jordan’s Dead Sea shore. Set among palm trees and olive groves in the Sweimeh resort corridor, the Kempinski features 9 outdoor freshwater pools, an indoor heated pool, a children’s pool, 4 restaurants, and the Ishtar Spa by Resense, one of the largest spa facilities in the Dead Sea region.
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, a five-star property in Jordan's Sweimeh resort corridor, operates 9 outdoor freshwater pools and the Ishtar Spa by Resense but does not sell standard beach day passes, making it the only major Dead Sea resort in Jordan where non-guests must book a spa treatment to access the property.
The property sits at the northern end of the Sweimeh strip, approximately 60 kilometers from Amman. All rooms and suites include balconies with Dead Sea views. The grounds are finished in carved stone with landscaping that reflects Babylonian-inspired design.
Day Access: The Spa Program (Not a Standard Day Pass)
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar has confirmed that it does not offer standard “day use” rooms, “beach access vouchers,” or day passes of the type sold at other Sweimeh resorts. To access the property’s facilities without an overnight booking, visitors must book through the Ishtar Spa by Resense day spa program.
The day spa program provides access to the spa’s hydro-facilities: an outdoor swimming pool, a heated indoor swimming pool, a whirlpool, sauna, steam room, Dead Sea salt pools, tepidariums (warm rooms), experience showers, and relaxation areas. A separate ladies-only area is available.
Critically, direct access to the Dead Sea beach through the day spa program is not automatically included. The Kempinski’s own website states that beach access “depends on hotel occupancy and availability.” Visitors specifically seeking guaranteed Dead Sea floating should be aware of this limitation.
Spa treatments at the Ishtar Spa include traditional Thai massage, hammam sessions, and treatments using Dead Sea mud and salt. Treatment booking is required for day spa access. Contact the spa directly for current treatment menus and pricing.
Facilities for Overnight Guests
Overnight guests at the Kempinski receive full access to the resort’s 9 outdoor freshwater pools, indoor heated pool, children’s pool, private Dead Sea beach, fitness center with personal trainers, and all restaurants and bars.
The 4 on-site dining options include a restaurant serving homemade pasta and international cuisine, a Lebanese restaurant, a poolside bar, and a Babylonian-inspired cocktail lounge.
Room rates vary significantly by season, room type, and booking platform. Approximate starting rates range from 150 to 200 USD per night in low season to 300+ USD per night in peak periods (spring, autumn, and Jordanian holidays). Premium suites can exceed 500 USD per night.
For visitors who want the Kempinski experience without the highest room rates, booking a single overnight stay provides the most reliable access to all facilities including the beach.
How to Get to Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
The Kempinski sits at the northern end of the Sweimeh resort corridor, approximately 60 kilometers from central Amman (about one hour by car). The hotel can be reached by rental car, taxi (approximately 20 to 35 JOD from Amman), or rideshare (Careem, approximately 15 to 25 JOD).
Reservation contact for the Kempinski: [email protected] or +962 6 500 3535.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Kempinski Dead Sea offer day passes?
No. The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea does not sell standard beach or pool day passes. Non-guests can access the property through the Ishtar Spa by Resense day spa program, which requires booking a spa treatment. Direct Dead Sea beach access through the day spa is not guaranteed and depends on hotel occupancy.
How much does the Kempinski Dead Sea day spa cost?
Day spa pricing at the Kempinski varies by treatment selected. A spa treatment booking is required for access to the day spa hydro-facilities. Contact the Ishtar Spa directly at [email protected] or +962 6 500 3535 for current treatment menus and pricing.
Is the Kempinski Dead Sea worth the price?
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar is the most exclusive property on Jordan’s Dead Sea shore, with 9 outdoor pools, expansive grounds, and high-end spa facilities. For overnight guests, it offers a premium experience. For day visitors seeking Dead Sea beach access, the lack of a standard day pass and uncertain beach access through the spa program make other Sweimeh resorts (Marriott, Movenpick, Hilton) more straightforward options.
How many pools does the Kempinski Dead Sea have?
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea has 9 outdoor freshwater pools, 1 indoor heated pool, and 1 children’s pool, for a total of 11 pools. The Ishtar Spa by Resense adds additional hydro-facilities including whirlpools and Dead Sea salt pools.
