When planning what to wear in Jordan, the general rule is to keep shoulders, arms, and legs covered as much as possible. Men have slightly more flexibility when it comes to clothing, but women should be sure to refrain from revealing clothing and keep hair tied back.

In Jordan, the guiding principle for a woman's wardrobe is modesty and respect for local culture, though a full head covering (hijab) is not required for tourists. To navigate cities like Amman or rural villages comfortably, you should aim to cover your shoulders, chest, and knees. Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are ideal for the desert heat. A typical "tourist uniform" consists of flowy palazzo pants or midi/maxi skirts paired with a t-shirt (avoiding tank tops) and a lightweight scarf or pashmina, which is the most versatile item you can pack. You can use the scarf to cover your shoulders when visiting religious sites or to protect yourself from the sun in Petra. In more "westernized" areas like luxury resorts in the Dead Sea or Aqaba, standard swimwear and shorts are perfectly acceptable. However, when walking through public markets (souks), dressing more conservatively will significantly reduce unwanted attention and is seen as a gesture of appreciation for the local traditions of this predominantly Muslim nation.