Jordan – Retail and Consumer Issues

What are the typical opening hours for shops in Jordan?

Unlike countries such as Germany or Switzerland, where Sunday trading is subject to strict legal regulation, Jordan places no statutory restrictions on shops opening on Sundays. The great majority of retail outlets — from small independents to large malls and supermarkets — trade throughout the entire week, giving the retail calendar a continuity that many newcomers will find refreshing.

In Amman, trading hours for smaller shops tend to follow a split-day format, running from approximately 09:30 to 13:30, then again from around 15:30 to 18:00. This midday break is a well-established pattern across much of the Middle East and the Mediterranean world. Those accustomed to the uninterrupted trading hours of large Western European cities may be surprised by this rhythm, particularly when they arrive expecting to shop at midday and find shuttered doors.

Larger supermarkets and hypermarkets observe considerably longer hours. Several chains open Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to midnight, and on Sundays from 08:00 to 22:30. Others extend their hours even further — some branches open as early as 07:00 and remain open until 03:00. This makes major chains far more convenient than smaller neighbourhood shops for those with full working-day schedules.

Jordan’s main concentration of modern shopping centres is in Amman, though further retail developments exist in other governorates. Prominent malls such as City Mall, Mecca Mall, and Abdali Mall typically open around 10:00 and close between 22:00 and midnight daily. Outside the capital — in cities such as Aqaba, Zarqa, or Irbid — the retail landscape is less developed and hours, while broadly similar, can be more variable.

Shoppers should be aware that trading patterns shift substantially during Ramadan. Many smaller outlets close during daylight hours, reopen following Iftar at sunset, and then trade well into the night. Public holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha can bring widespread closures, so it pays to plan essential shopping in advance during these periods.

What forms of payment are typically accepted in Jordan?

The official currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Cash continues to play a central role in everyday commerce, yet the payments landscape in urban areas — Amman in particular — has changed markedly in recent years, with card and contactless options now standard across most formal retail environments.

Among residents and regular visitors, contactless payment has become a familiar feature of daily transactions in shops and restaurants. That said, cash remains deeply embedded in everyday life, with many Jordanians still preferring it for most purchases. For expats arriving from markets where cards dominate, Jordan occupies a middle ground: card infrastructure in the cities is solid, yet in markets, smaller independent shops, and rural areas, cash continues to reign.

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, and the majority of larger retailers. American Express tends to be restricted to bigger international names — five-star hotels, large supermarkets such as Carrefour, Miles, and Cozmo, and international chain stores including Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Nike. Some owner-operated shops that do take Visa and Mastercard may apply a surcharge for credit card transactions; it is wise to ask before paying if this matters to you.

Apple Pay is operational in Jordan, enabling secure contactless payments via Apple devices in participating shops, within apps, and online wherever the Apple Pay symbol appears. A number of major Jordanian banks — including Arab Bank, Bank of Jordan, Jordan Ahli Bank, and Arab Jordan Investment Bank — now support the service. However, acceptance is not universal across all merchants, which can limit its day-to-day practicality. Google Pay has more limited support.

Jordan also operates a domestic instant payment system called CliQ, run through the Central Bank of Jordan. CliQ facilitates fast, straightforward digital money transfers and merchant payments through the mobile banking apps of participating banks, making it a useful tool for residents who hold a local bank account.

Conventional taxis do not accept credit cards as a rule, whether standard cabs or private hire drivers. App-based services such as Uber and Careem, however, process payment automatically through the card registered to your account. Carrying a supply of cash remains advisable, especially when venturing outside Amman or browsing souks and open-air markets.

What are the major supermarkets in Jordan, and how do they differ?

The supermarket sector in Jordan spans a wide spectrum, from small neighbourhood convenience stores to substantial hypermarkets stocking extensive ranges of imported goods. Knowing the key chains and what distinguishes them can help expats match the right shop to their requirements and budget.

Carrefour is among the most internationally recognisable names operating in Jordan, with hypermarket-format stores anchoring several of the capital’s major malls. It carries a broad mix of local and imported products, including a well-stocked international foods aisle. Pricing sits broadly in the mid-range, and the overall scale and format are comparable to a large Carrefour or Tesco Extra. It accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.

Cozmo is widely considered the most upmarket of Jordan’s supermarket chains and is a firm favourite among expats and wealthier local shoppers. Its shelves carry an impressive selection of imported Western, Asian, and organic products, and prices reflect this premium positioning — think Waitrose in the UK or a high-end deli concept. Cozmo’s main Amman branches are open every day from 08:00 to midnight.

Miles is another premium-leaning chain found in Amman’s more affluent neighbourhoods, well regarded for its imported goods selection and popular with the international community. Blue Fig Markets occupies the mid-range, appreciated by a loyal local customer base for its cleanliness, approachable prices, and helpful staff.

Safeway — the Jordanian franchise, bearing no connection to the American chain of the same name — is a well-established mid-market supermarket with broad coverage across Amman and beyond. Having operated for more than 70 years, it reliably stocks the full range of household essentials. Its pricing is more accessible than Cozmo or Miles, placing it roughly in the same tier as Sainsbury’s or Spar in the European context.

For the most budget-conscious shopping, local minimarkets, co-operatives, and small independent grocery stores — known locally as baqqala — typically offer the keenest prices, especially for fresh produce, bread, and staple items. Neighbourhood produce markets (souks) are another excellent source of value. Jordan does not currently have widespread loyalty card or points-based schemes of the type common in European supermarket chains, though individual retailers occasionally run promotional offers — check directly with each chain for current deals.

How popular is online shopping in Jordan, and what are the main platforms?

E-commerce in Jordan has grown rapidly, driven by high internet penetration among younger urban populations and further accelerated by the shift in consumer habits triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Online grocery and retail delivery services have become increasingly mainstream. That said, the market is still developing compared to the more mature e-commerce ecosystems of Europe or East Asia.

Opensooq (opensooq.com) is one of the most widely used classified and marketplace platforms across Jordan and the broader Arab world, well suited for buying and selling second-hand items. Noon (noon.com) and Amazon — accessible via amazon.ae, the UAE portal that ships to Jordan — are popular choices for electronics, clothing, and household goods. Matjarii (matjarii.com) positions itself as Jordan’s largest e-commerce destination, offering thousands of products through a locally integrated platform with domestic payment options and delivery services.

Most major supermarket chains now provide home delivery, either through their own websites and apps or via third-party platforms such as Talabat and Carriage, which operate along similar lines to Deliveroo or Just Eat and cover both grocery and restaurant orders. Delivery within Amman tends to be quick — same-day or within a few hours for grocery orders is common — but service to smaller cities and rural areas can be slower or more limited.

Expats ordering from international platforms should be aware that Jordan levies customs duties on imported goods exceeding certain value thresholds. Parcels ordered through international Amazon sites (US, UK, or otherwise) may attract import duties and can be held up at customs. The relevant thresholds change over time and should be verified directly with the Jordan Customs Department before placing an order. Delivery reliability outside Amman and major urban centres can also be inconsistent, with some couriers requiring recipients to collect packages from a central depot rather than delivering to the door.

Online commerce in Jordan is regulated primarily under three pieces of legislation: the Jordan Civil Law 1976, the Consumer Protection Law 2017, and the Electronic Transactions Law 2015. Consumer advocates have noted that these laws leave gaps in protecting shoppers’ rights to refunds or product replacements in online transactions, and calls persist for a dedicated e-commerce law. Expats shopping online are strongly advised to retain records of all transactions, save screenshots of product listings, and keep delivery confirmations in the event of any dispute.

Are there shops or products in Jordan catering specifically to expats or international tastes?

Amman — and its western districts in particular, including Abdoun, Sweifieh, Deir Ghbar, and Um Uthaina — is well equipped to meet the needs of international residents. The Cozmo and Miles supermarket chains carry a substantial range of Western, Asian, and specialist imported goods, making it relatively easy to track down specific cheeses, artisan breads, international condiments, breakfast cereals, and non-alcoholic wines and beverages.

The Sweifieh district is Amman’s most densely packed retail area, bringing together international fast-food outlets, the main Sweifieh shopping strip, and the well-known Gold Souk of Um Utheina within easy reach of one another. The neighbourhood is dotted with specialty food shops, delicatessens, and import stores catering to varied international tastes. Rainbow Street, close to First Circle, is another focal point for the international community, lined with cafés, artisan outlets, and specialist retailers.

For South and East Asian groceries — including Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and Southeast Asian ingredients — the number of specialty stores in Amman has grown noticeably, particularly around the Shmeisani and Mecca Street areas. These shops serve the sizeable Filipino, South Asian, and East Asian expat communities present in Jordan, with Korean cuisine having gained especially strong representation in the city’s food scene.

Jordan’s own rich Middle Eastern food culture means that ingredients for Arabic, Levantine, Turkish, and Persian cooking are abundantly available across the entire country at every price point. Fresh herbs, spices, pulses, dairy products — particularly labneh and jameed — and seasonal produce are plentiful and inexpensive in local markets.

International retail has established a clear foothold in Amman, with designer boutiques and polished shopping centres accessible throughout the capital. Brands such as Zara, H&M, Massimo Dutti, and various international sportswear labels operate from major malls, IKEA has a presence in the city, and several international electronics retailers are represented. Alcohol is available from licensed supermarkets such as Cozmo and from specialist off-licences — commonly referred to as “wine shops” — in central Amman, though supply thins considerably outside the capital.

What are your rights as a consumer in Jordan?

The primary legislation governing consumer rights in Jordan is Consumer Protection Law No. 7 of 2017, administered by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply. This law represented a significant step forward from the previously narrow framework, under which consumer protection amounted to little more than the doctrine of hidden defects — holding sellers liable when goods were sold with concealed faults.

The law explicitly prohibits misleading advertising, which comes under regulatory scrutiny when it contains inaccurate or incomplete details regarding product specifications, quality standards, expiry dates, contractual terms, payment structures, or the credentials of service providers. This is broadly analogous to advertising standards regulation found in many other jurisdictions, though enforcement in Jordan can be inconsistent — particularly in smaller markets and informal retail environments.

Core consumer protections enshrined in the law include the right to access safe products that meet health standards, the right to clear and transparent product information, protection from coercive sales techniques, and proper documentation of commercial transactions. In practical terms, this means sellers are obliged to issue receipts, display prices clearly, and refrain from pressuring customers into purchases.

On the matter of returns and refunds, Jordan’s framework differs considerably from, say, EU consumer law, which grants shoppers a statutory 14-day right to return online purchases and a two-year warranty on physical goods. In Jordan, there is no blanket statutory entitlement to return an item simply because you have had a change of heart. Return and exchange policies are largely at individual retailers’ discretion, so checking a store’s policy before buying — especially for high-value items — is always worthwhile. Where goods turn out to be genuinely defective, sellers can be held liable under Civil Law provisions relating to hidden defects, but asserting this right in practice may require determination and, in more serious cases, a formal complaint to the Ministry.

For online transactions, Jordan’s current legal framework has been identified as falling short in guaranteeing consumers’ rights to refunds or replacements, making caution particularly important in this space. Use reputable, established platforms, pay by card where possible (which opens the option of a chargeback through your bank), and preserve all documentation related to your purchase.

Always verify the current legal position with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply or a qualified legal professional, as consumer protection regulations are subject to change. The Ministry’s official website is mit.gov.jo.

Which organisations protect consumers in Jordan, and how can you contact them?

Several bodies in Jordan share responsibility for consumer protection and market oversight. Expats who run into difficulties with purchases, misleading advertising, or defective products have a number of avenues available to seek redress.

Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply (MITS)

The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply is the principal government authority for consumer protection. It monitors market compliance, investigates consumer complaints, and enforces the Consumer Protection Law. The Ministry provides multiple channels for reporting market violations, including a dedicated complaints hotline (065661176), its official website, and social media platforms through which consumers can document and submit evidence of suspected infractions. The Ministry’s website can be found at mit.gov.jo.

Consumer Protection Directorate

The Consumer Protection Directorate, which sits within the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, handles individual consumer complaints relating to defective goods, pricing fraud, misleading labelling, and other marketplace abuses. Complaints can be submitted in person at Ministry offices, by telephone through the hotline, or electronically via the Ministry’s online portal. All consumers, regardless of nationality, are entitled to use this service.

Jordan Consumer Protection Society (JCPS)

The Jordan Consumer Protection Society is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to raising consumer awareness, supporting individuals with complaints, and lobbying for stronger consumer rights legislation. While it lacks the enforcement authority of a statutory body, it can offer practical guidance and help consumers understand how to pursue a complaint effectively. It is a useful first point of contact if you are uncertain how to proceed.

Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ)

Complaints involving financial services, payment transactions, or banking matters — including disputes arising from card payments — fall under the jurisdiction of the Central Bank of Jordan. Details of its complaints procedures are set out on its official website at cbj.gov.jo.

Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC)

Consumer issues relating to telecommunications providers — such as mobile data, internet service contracts, or billing disputes — are handled by the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission. Its website is trc.gov.jo, which is the relevant port of call for expats experiencing problems with phone or internet contracts.

As a general approach, begin by raising any complaint directly with the retailer or service provider, keeping written records of every communication. If this fails to produce a satisfactory outcome, escalate the matter to the Ministry’s consumer protection hotline or the appropriate specialist regulator. For serious legal disputes involving significant amounts of money, seeking advice from a Jordanian lawyer with experience in commercial or consumer law is strongly recommended.

Frequently asked questions

Is bargaining expected in Jordan’s shops?

Haggling is a well-established and accepted practice in traditional souks, open-air markets, and smaller independent shops — especially when buying clothing, handicrafts, or gold jewellery. In supermarkets, shopping malls, and branded chain stores, prices are fixed and negotiating is not expected. If you are unsure of the norms in a particular setting, watch how other shoppers interact with the vendor before making any attempt to negotiate.

Can I get a VAT refund on shopping as a visitor or expat in Jordan?

Most shops in tourist areas and established shopping malls offer a 16% sales tax refund for non-Jordanian shoppers. To reclaim the tax, you will need to obtain a Premier Tax Free slip at the point of purchase and present it at the airport when departing. This scheme primarily targets tourists and non-resident visitors; resident expats should confirm their individual eligibility directly with the retailer or the relevant tax authority.

Are there any products that are restricted or unavailable in Jordan?

Pork products and alcohol are subject to restricted availability in Jordan as a reflection of Islamic dietary principles, though neither is entirely absent. Alcohol can be purchased from licensed supermarkets such as Cozmo, specialist off-licences in Amman, and licensed restaurants and hotels. Pork products can be found in a small number of specialist shops serving non-Muslim communities. Outside Amman, availability of both products drops off considerably.

What should I do if a shop refuses to give me a refund?

Start by calmly requesting to speak with a manager and ensure you have your receipt to hand. If the item is genuinely defective, Consumer Protection Law No. 7 of 2017 gives you grounds to seek redress. Should the retailer still decline to assist, you can lodge a formal complaint with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply via their hotline (065661176) or through their website at mit.gov.jo.

Is online shopping in Jordan safe for expats?

Purchasing through well-established platforms such as Carrefour’s website, Noon, or reputable local apps is generally dependable. However, risks do exist: consumers can be exploited, misled by inaccurate advertising, or denied refunds and replacements. Using a credit card wherever possible, maintaining thorough records of every transaction, and steering clear of unknown or unverified sellers will all help to reduce your exposure to problems.

Do large supermarkets in Jordan stock halal meat exclusively?

In the overwhelming majority of cases, yes — virtually all meat sold in mainstream supermarkets across Jordan is halal-certified, as this is a requirement of Islamic law, which sets the country’s food standards. Expats seeking non-halal meat may occasionally find it in specialist international food shops in Amman, though options are limited. In standard supermarket settings, all fresh and packaged meat will be halal.

How do Ramadan trading hours affect everyday shopping?

Throughout the holy month of Ramadan, a great many smaller shops close during daylight hours and reopen after Iftar at sunset, frequently remaining open until well into the night. Shops often open later in the morning and extend their evening trading significantly during this period. Large supermarkets generally maintain more predictable hours across Ramadan, making them the more reliable choice for anyone needing to shop during the day.

Are international retail brands widely available in Jordan?

Amman is home to several major shopping centres — including Mecca Mall, the Airport Mall, and Zara Shopping Centre — that host a wide range of international retail brands. Labels such as Zara, H&M, Adidas, Nike, and numerous international food and beverage chains all have outlets in the capital’s larger malls. Beyond Amman, the presence of international retail brands diminishes substantially.