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TRAVEL ADVICE

TRAVEL ADVICE

There are three border crossings between Jordan and Israel / Palestinian Territories.  The Sheikh Hussein Bridge, Also Known as the Jordan River Crossing, is the northernmost point of entry in the country. The King Hussein Bridge, also known as the Allenby Bridge, popular for its central position between Amman and Jerusalem. Wadi Araba, also known as the Yitzhak Rabin is the third crossing and furthest south, essentially connecting the Red Sea resort towns of Eilat on the Israeli side with Aqaba in Jordan.

SHEIKH HUSSEIN/ JORDAN RIVER CROSSING:

The Sheikh Hussein Bridge/ Jordan River crossing border located in the northernmost point between Irbid in Jordan and Beith She’an in Israel.

KING HUSSEIN/ ALLENBY BRIDGE

The Allenby/ King Hussein Bridge is the closest border crossing to both Jerusalem and Amman,  located approximately between the capital Amman and Jerusalem. It crosses the Jordan River and connects Israel/ Palestinian Territories with Jordan. Since it crosses into the occupied Palestine Territories, and Palestine is not an independent state, it is an unofficial border. The Jordanian authorities do not grant entry visas to foreign passport holders at this crossing, in contrast to border crossings with Israel. Tourists who wish to travel to Jordan must be in possession of a visa from Jordan in advance. Those who leave Jordan via the Allenby Bridge may return by showing the exit visa. Israeli citizens are not permitted to use the terminal, except pilgrims to Mecca, the Hajj and Umra.

WADI ARABA / YITZHAK RABIN CROSSING:
Wadi Araba is the third crossing and the furthest south, essentially connecting the Red Sea resort towns of Eilat on the Israel side with Aqaba in Jordan. For travellers interested in beelining to Petra or Wadi Rum, both are less than a two-hour drive away.

THE NORTHEN CROSSING: SHEIKH HUSSEIN/ JORDAN RIVER BORDER CROSSING

Sunday- Thursday: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm (Please be aware that the Israeli and Jordanian terminals will allow passengers to cross the border until 3:00 pm at the latest.)

Friday: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm (Please be aware that the Israeli and Jordanian terminals will allow passengers to cross the border until 2:00 pm at the latest.)

Saturday – Closed

The border crossing will not be open on Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and the Muslim New Year (Ra’s al-Sana al-Hijriyah).

Please note that opening hours may vary on other Jewish, Muslim, and national holidays, which are typically announced at the start of the year.

Public Transport

Transport options to and from the Sheikh Hussein / Jordan River Border Crossing are quite limited. The most convenient (and still fairly affordable) choice is to take a bus to Irbid or Beit She’an, followed by a taxi to the border. After you cross the border, you can take a taxi from there to Beit She’an or Irbid, and then continue your journey by bus.

Rental Car

Traveling in a rental car from Jordan to Palestine/Israel and back is not permitted. However, you can leave your rental car in the paid parking areas located on either side of the border. Bus between Amman & Nazareth A bus service runs several times a week between Amman and Nazareth, passing through the Sheikh Hussein/ Jordan River Crossing.

Private Transfer

Eliminate the hassle by choosing a private transfer with us! When you book a private transfer, just select the northern border crossing supplement if that is your preferred choice.

There is a gap between the border terminals controlled by Jordan and Israel that pedestrians cannot traverse on foot.

An air-conditioned bus transports passengers from the Jordanian terminal to the Israeli terminal (and the other way around). This bus runs every 25 minutes and charges 25 NIS (around 4 JD or $6).

Exit Taxes

When departing from either side of the border, an exit tax is required to be paid upon leaving the country.

The exit tax for departing from Jordan is 10 JOD (approx. 14 USD).

The exit Israel for departing from Israel is 120 ILS (approx. 39USD)


Standard Shuttle:

 At the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge and the Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Crossing, you need to board a shuttle bus to travel between the two border terminals.

Bordr CrossingShuttle Bus
(per person)
Luggage
(per piece)
Northern Crossing: Jordan River Crossing / Sheikh Hussein25 ILS (approx. 7.5 USD) 4 JOD (approx. 5.72 USDfree

VIP Service


Jordan River (Israel) / Sheikh Hussein Crossing:

Number of PeoplePrice (per person)
1$71 USD
2$54 USD
3$48 USD
4$45 USD
5$43 USD
6$42 USD


The VIP Service is an offering managed by border staff to facilitate quicker crossings. This service features exclusive "VIP" waiting areas, help with immigration, security checks, and luggage handling; in addition to a private shuttle van connecting the terminals. Typically, clients are allowed to bypass most queues. Utilizing the VIP service can significantly reduce stress, expedite the crossing process (particularly during busy times), and enhance overall comfort.


Is the VIP Service worth the money? 

As with many things, the answer is "it depends." It varies based on your budget, travel schedule, personal preferences, and more.

The current policy of the Israeli Authorities is to refrain from stamping passports for tourist visas. Instead, travelers receive a personalized printed card (refer to the picture). It is important to keep this card with you for the entire duration of your stay in Israel. Make sure not to lose it.

The entry and exit rules for Israel/Palestine are set by Israeli authorities. Here’s what you should know: Most citizens from Western countries can get a visa on arrival at various entry points, such as Ben Gurion Airport, Eilat Airport, King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River Crossing, or Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin Crossing. If you need a visa beforehand, you should start the application at an Israeli Embassy, usually the one in your home country. Starting on January 1, 2025: Tourists arriving in Israel/Palestine with passports from visa-exempt countries will need to get an ETA-IL form approval. The service will cost around NIS 25 (about 7 USD). You can check your eligibility and apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization by clicking here. Visas obtained upon arrival are generally valid for three months. Important Note: Sometimes, Israel has refused entry to travelers of Arab descent or Muslim faith, as well as those seen as activists for Palestinian causes. If you belong to these groups, expect possible delays at the border and be ready for thorough questioning.

We suggest getting the Jordan Pass, which is a combined ticket that covers your tourist visa and entry fees to most attractions. It’s the most affordable and convenient way to explore Jordan. Note:

To use this option, you need to stay in Jordan for at least 2 nights. If you choose this option, make sure to purchase the Jordan Pass online before you arrive in the country. Basic Tourist Visa (without Jordan Pass) Fees: Single Entry Visa (valid for 1 month): 40 JOD (~$56 USD). Entry Requirements:

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you arrive in Jordan.

Traveling in a rental car from Jordan to Palestine/Israel and returning is not permitted. Nevertheless, you can leave a rental car in the paid parking areas located on both sides of the border.

THE CENTRAL CROSSING: KING HUSSEIN/ ALLENBY BRIDGE

Operating Hours:

Sunday – Thursday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (final entry at 1:30 pm)

Friday: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm (final entry at 11:30 am)

Saturday – Closed

The border crossing will not be operational on Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and the Muslim New Year (Ra’s al-Sana al-Hijriyah).

Additionally, opening hours may vary on other Jewish, Muslim, and national holidays. These holidays are typically announced at the start of the year.

Private Transfer Eliminate the hassle by opting for a private transfer with us! We provide services for: – Amman to Jerusalem (and vice versa), – Amman to Tel Aviv-Jaffa (and the reverse), and – Customized Transfers

Traveling to & from Amman: Bus:

The Jett company runs a daily bus service from Amman to King Hussein Bridge. The bus leaves Abdali at 07:15 am. (Please be aware that their online booking system may not be very dependable.)

Traveling to & from Jericho / the West Bank:

Buses are available to take you between the border crossing and Jericho. Alternatively, you can choose to take a taxi, which remains cost-effective due to the relatively short distance (approximately 10km). From Jericho, shared taxis (service) offer further connections to most other cities in the West Bank.

Traveling to & from Jerusalem:

Al-Najmah Taxis provides a shuttle service linking Jerusalem and King Hussein Bridge. The fare for a single passenger (excluding luggage) is 45 NIS. In Jerusalem, you can find this shuttle service at the company’s office and starting point located on Sultan Suleiman Street, situated between Damascus and Herod’s Gate.

Crossing from Jerusalem to Jordan

1. At the Israeli-Controlled Terminal:
Upon your arrival, your vehicle will drop you off at the entrance of the Israeli terminal. Here is what you can expect next:

Enter the terminal and find the exit tax kiosk to pay the exit tax, which is generally payable in the local currency. US dollars and Euros are often accepted, and payment can also be made via credit card.

Take your exit tax invoice along with your passport to the immigration counter. Your passport will be processed, after which you will proceed to a waiting area that has seating available. There are three distinct shuttle buses: one designated for tourists, another for Jerusalem residents, and a third for West Bank Palestinians. Ensure you board the correct bus by confirming with the driver.

2. Between the Border Terminals: The journey from the Israeli terminal to the Jordanian terminal includes the following steps: You will wait in the specified area until you receive instructions to board the shuttle bus. If you desire a faster and more efficient process, you may opt for the VIP service (details provided below). Please be aware that three different shuttle buses cater to tourists, Jerusalem residents, and West Bank Palestinians. Confirm your selection with the driver to ensure you are on the appropriate bus. During the transit between the Israeli and Jordanian terminals, the Jordanian police will collect your passports. These passports will be securely held by the driver and subsequently handed over to Jordanian immigration upon arrival at the Jordanian Terminal. Upon reaching the Jordanian terminal, a ticket collector will board the bus to collect fares from the passengers. Finally, you will disembark from the bus at the Jordanian Border Terminal.

3. Jordanian Border Terminal: The concluding segment of your journey involves several key steps: At the Jordanian Border Terminal, you will be summoned by name to collect your passport. Next, visit a counter where your visa will be verified and validated. It is essential to understand that acquiring a visa for Jordan upon arrival at this border crossing is not an option.

Crossing from Jordan to Jerusalem 1. At the Jordanian Terminal: Upon your arrival at the King Hussein Bridge, proceed directly to the Tourist Terminal. Typically, a bus will transport you there, and most taxi drivers are well-acquainted with the route. If you find yourself at the terminal designated for Jordanians/Palestinians, there is no need for concern; the border personnel will assist you in reaching the Tourist Terminal. Inside the terminal, you will be required to pay the exit tax (only cash in JOD currency is accepted) and present your passport for inspection. Generally, you will receive your exit stamp on a separate piece of paper. The staff will hold onto your passport and return it to you once you board the shuttle bus. 2. Between the Border Terminals: There may be a short wait until there are enough passengers to fill the shuttle bus heading to the Israeli Terminal, which is located approximately 5 kilometers away. Eventually, you will be directed to board the shuttle bus. To avoid the wait and expedite your border crossing, you may choose to utilize the VIP service. A ticket for the bus transfer will need to be purchased, and your passport will be returned to you. 3. At the Israeli Terminal: Upon disembarking from the shuttle bus in front of the Israeli terminal, you will need to check in larger pieces of luggage at one of the counters outside the terminal for a security inspection. You will receive a sticker on your passport indicating the number of items you have checked in. If you are traveling with only hand luggage, ensure that you keep it with you. Before entering the terminal, stop at a second counter where your passport will undergo an initial evaluation and receive another sticker. The color and code on this sticker are said to reflect the outcome of the evaluation (i.e., your assessed level of risk to the Israeli state), although the precise meaning remains unclear. You may then proceed inside the terminal, where immigration officers will issue you a visa, potentially after some questioning.

After the immigration kiosks, you will encounter another passport verification. Subsequently, you will move to the area where your checked luggage will be available for collection. Retrieve your items and proceed past the customs counters to exit the terminal. Please note that, despite our sincere efforts, we cannot influence the border procedures, systems, crowds, and queues. These factors may be an unavoidable aspect of your journey to the splendid city of Jerusalem. If you prefer to circumvent such challenges, you might consider using the VIP Border Crossing service (refer to the details below) or choose to travel via the Jordan River Border (also referred to as Sheikh Hussein), although this alternative entails an additional three hours of travel time.


Exit Taxes

When departing from either side of the border, an exit tax is required to be paid upon leaving the country.

The exit tax for departing from Jordan is 10 JOD (approx. 14 USD).

The exit Israel for departing from Israel is 208 ILS (approx. 67 USD)

Standard Shuttle:

 At the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge and the Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Crossing, you need to board a shuttle bus to travel between the two border terminals.

Bordr CrossingShuttle Bus
(per person)
Luggage
(per piece)
Central Crossing: Allenby Bridge (Israel) / King Hussein7 JOD (approximately $10 USD)1.5 JOD (approximately 2 USD)

VIP Service


Jordan River (Israel) / Sheikh Hussein Crossing:


Central Crossing: Allenby Bridge (IL) / King Hussein: $150 USD per person.


The VIP Service is an offering managed by border staff to facilitate quicker crossings. This service features exclusive "VIP" waiting areas, help with immigration, security checks, and luggage handling; in addition to a private shuttle van connecting the terminals. Typically, clients are allowed to bypass most queues. Utilizing the VIP service can significantly reduce stress, expedite the crossing process (particularly during busy times), and enhance overall comfort.


Is the VIP Service worth the money? 

As with many things, the answer is "it depends." It varies based on your budget, travel schedule, personal preferences, and more.

The current policy of the Israeli Authorities is to refrain from stamping passports for tourist visas. Instead, travelers receive a personalized printed card (refer to the picture). It is important to keep this card with you for the entire duration of your stay in Israel. Make sure not to lose it.

The entry and exit rules for Israel/Palestine are set by Israeli authorities. Here’s what you should know: Most citizens from Western countries can get a visa on arrival at various entry points, such as Ben Gurion Airport, Eilat Airport, King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River Crossing, or Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin Crossing. If you need a visa beforehand, you should start the application at an Israeli Embassy, usually the one in your home country. Starting on January 1, 2025: Tourists arriving in Israel/Palestine with passports from visa-exempt countries will need to get an ETA-IL form approval. The service will cost around NIS 25 (about 7 USD). You can check your eligibility and apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization by clicking here. Visas obtained upon arrival are generally valid for three months. Important Note: Sometimes, Israel has refused entry to travelers of Arab descent or Muslim faith, as well as those seen as activists for Palestinian causes. If you belong to these groups, expect possible delays at the border and be ready for thorough questioning.

We suggest getting the Jordan Pass, which is a combined ticket that covers your tourist visa and entry fees to most attractions. It’s the most affordable and convenient way to explore Jordan. Note:

To use this option, you need to stay in Jordan for at least 2 nights. If you choose this option, make sure to purchase the Jordan Pass online before you arrive in the country. Basic Tourist Visa (without Jordan Pass) Fees: Single Entry Visa (valid for 1 month): 40 JOD (~$56 USD). Entry Requirements:

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you arrive in Jordan.

Traveling in a rental car from Jordan to Palestine/Israel and returning is not permitted. Nevertheless, you can leave a rental car in the paid parking areas located on both sides of the border.

THE SOUTHERN CROSSING: WADI ARABA/ YITZHAK RABIN CROSSING

Hours of Operation: Sunday – Thursday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm (last entry at 5:00 pm)

Friday – Saturday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (last entry at 5:00 pm) The border crossing will not be operational on Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and the Muslim New Year (Ra’s al-Sana al-Hijriyah).

Opening hours may also vary on other Jewish, Muslim, and national holidays, which are typically announced at the start of the year.

Taxi: The border crossing is conveniently located near the city centers of Aqaba and Eilat. As a result, you can easily and affordably take a taxi to the border. Please note that Uber and other rideshare applications are not available in Aqaba.

Exit Taxes

When departing from either side of the border, an exit tax is required to be paid upon leaving the country.

The exit tax for departing from Jordan is 10 JOD (approx. 14 USD).

The exit Israel for departing from Israel is 120 ILS (approx. 39USD)

Between the Border Terminals:
The area between the two border terminals can be traversed on foot, as there is no shuttle bus service available.

The current policy of the Israeli Authorities is to refrain from stamping passports for tourist visas. Instead, travelers receive a personalized printed card (refer to the picture). It is important to keep this card with you for the entire duration of your stay in Israel. Make sure not to lose it.

Traveling in a rental car from Jordan to Palestine/Israel and returning is not permitted. Nevertheless, you can leave a rental car in the paid parking areas located on both sides of the border.