Wearing shorts can also be seen as disrespectful, so opt for long pants instead. Dress codes are generally stricter for women than men, and many female travellers choose to wear a headscarf like the local women.

Yes, females can wear shorts in Jordan, but whether they should depends heavily on the specific location and the cultural context. Jordan is a conservative but relatively open-minded country. In highly tourist-centric areas like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea resorts, shorts are very common and generally accepted, though most travelers still opt for mid-thigh or knee-length versions to be respectful. However, in the capital city of Amman, particularly in the more traditional downtown (Balad) area or when visiting religious sites, wearing shorts can attract unwanted attention or be seen as disrespectful. In mosques, shorts are strictly prohibited, and women are required to cover their legs to the ankle and their arms. To strike the right balance in 2026, many female travelers choose "adventure" style trousers or long skirts, which provide sun protection and respect local norms while staying cool. If you do choose to wear shorts in urban areas, pairing them with a conservative top that covers the shoulders is a good way to mitigate the cultural "clash" and feel more comfortable among the local population.