Jordan – Disability

What are the general attitudes towards disability in Jordan?

Public attitudes towards disability in Jordan are shaped by an interplay of cultural norms, religious values, and community expectations. Research comparing attitudes across groups found that roughly 64% of participants held a broadly positive view of disability, with the most favourable responses directed at physical disabilities, followed by auditory, visual, and finally intellectual disabilities. These positive dispositions tend to be rooted in religious belief and local tradition, which vary across different parts of the country.

Positive survey results do not, however, automatically translate into meaningful social inclusion. The UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has emphasised that good legislation must be backed by sustained work to challenge stigma, pointing out that people with disabilities themselves described how prejudice and bias confine them to their homes, exclude them from schools and workplaces, and cut them off from community life.

Historically, Jordan’s approach to disability has leaned towards a medical model — defining disability primarily through physical or cognitive impairment — but the country has been shifting toward the rights-based social model championed by the CRPD. Jordan acknowledged that the definition of disability in earlier legislation was medically framed, and that the newer law was designed to adopt the social model approach inspired by the Convention. The 2017 legislation largely completed this transition. Within the region, Jordan is frequently held up as a trailblazer in disability policy, though social attitudes have been slower to evolve than the legal framework.

Resistance to inclusive education remains widespread, and sustained effort is required to challenge stereotypes, shift perceptions, and create genuine conditions for inclusion. Expats with disabilities will generally encounter greater familiarity with disability issues among urban residents in Amman, but should be prepared for considerably more variable attitudes in other communities and regions of the country.

What legal protections exist for disabled people in Jordan?

Jordan enacted the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2017, establishing wide-ranging protections for people with disabilities across all areas of public and private life. Formally designated Law No. 20 of 2017, it replaced an earlier 2007 framework and is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive pieces of disability legislation in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Among its most significant features, the 2017 law introduced, for the first time in Jordanian legislative history, an explicit prohibition of discrimination on the grounds of disability. This prohibition is intended to extend across all aspects of daily life, including activities relating to the banking sector.

At the constitutional level, Article 6 on equality and non-discrimination includes a specific clause setting out the State’s obligations towards persons with disabilities. This constitutional provision forms the foundation upon which disability legislation is constructed.

On employment, the law establishes mandatory quotas: any public or private enterprise employing between 25 and 50 workers is required to include at least one person with a disability; for employers with more than 50 staff, at least 4% of the workforce must be persons with disabilities. Employers are also obliged to provide reasonable accommodation — defined as adaptations to the working environment or to time arrangements enabling a person with a disability to exercise their rights or access services on an equal footing with others.

In October 2016, the Central Bank of Jordan issued requirements ensuring that all banks make their facilities accessible and their services available to persons with disabilities.

Despite the robustness of the legal text, implementation has consistently fallen short. The government has failed to allocate adequate funding across several ministries and programmes to bring the 2017 law into full effect, with critics pointing out that the legislation is meaningless if the political will and resources to enforce it are absent. Readers should verify current enforcement mechanisms and complaint procedures with the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Jordan’s National Centre for Human Rights.

Has Jordan ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)?

Jordan ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 31 March 2008, reflecting its commitment to both domestic and international disability standards. It was among the earliest countries in the world to do so, and the Convention has since been integrated into national law. This early ratification helped establish Jordan’s reputation as a regional frontrunner and created significant expectations for domestic implementation.

That commitment is evident in the comprehensive body of legislation protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, including the 2017 national disability law. UN experts have specifically commended Jordan’s explicit legislative ban on disability-based discrimination and its incorporation of the duty to provide reasonable accommodation.

As for the Optional Protocol to the CRPD — which grants individuals the right to submit complaints directly to the UN Committee — Jordan had not ratified it as of 2025. This means the individual communications mechanism under the Protocol is not available against Jordan. Readers should consult the OHCHR CRPD page for the most up-to-date information on Jordan’s treaty obligations.

The UN Special Rapporteur has called on Jordan to establish an independent mechanism to promote and monitor CRPD implementation under Article 33(2), in order to close the remaining gaps in disability rights protection. In practical terms, while ratification has driven meaningful legislative reform, the divide between written law and lived experience on the ground remains a frequently noted concern — a challenge shared by many CRPD states parties across different regions of the world.

How accessible is public transport in Jordan for disabled people?

Transport accessibility in Jordan represents a serious and ongoing challenge. During a country visit, the UN Special Rapporteur repeatedly heard from persons with physical disabilities and older people about the difficulties they face in finding transport that is both accessible and affordable, with knock-on consequences for their ability to reach schools, healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and workplaces.

Calls were made for further action to make transport accessible across the full range of disability types, with people with physical disabilities consistently reporting to UN visitors that getting around is both expensive and largely inaccessible. This is a substantial everyday burden, particularly for wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments.

Jordan’s principal cities — above all Amman — are served by buses, minibuses (locally referred to as servis or yellow buses), and ride-hailing platforms including Uber and Careem. The vast majority of buses in regular service are not fitted with ramps, low-floor boarding, or dedicated priority seating of the kind standard in many Western European cities or countries like Australia and Canada. Amman has no metro network. The city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) scheme incorporated some accessibility features in its design, but consistent implementation across the full network has been limited.

Accessibility barriers at tourist attractions and in public transport systems were still being reported as significant concerns in 2022 and 2023, with those affected noting that substantial progress remains to be made. Expats who depend on accessible transport should plan to use private taxis, ride-hailing services where available, or personal vehicles. The UN Special Rapporteur also highlighted pronounced disparities between locations, with rural communities receiving far less accessible transport provision than Amman.

How accessible are public buildings and spaces in Jordan for disabled people?

Jordan’s legal framework does address the accessibility of the built environment. The 2017 law defines accessibility as the design and construction of buildings, roads, facilities, and other public and private spaces in a manner accessible to all, with modifications required in line with the Building Code Requirements for Persons with Disabilities set out in the Jordan National Building Code.

In practice, however, compliance with these building accessibility standards is far from consistent. The built fabric of public buildings in Jordan frequently lacks adequate accessible features. Pavements across Amman can be uneven, obstructed, or too narrow for independent navigation by wheelchair users or people with visual impairments. Newer commercial developments, shopping centres, and international hotels in Amman tend to offer better provisions than older structures, government offices, and facilities outside the capital.

Human Rights Watch has recommended that Jordan dedicate resources to making public buildings and services genuinely accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities. The gap between what the law requires in terms of accessibility and what actually exists in the built environment is openly acknowledged by the government, UN bodies, and civil society groups operating in Jordan.

Stark disparities exist between different parts of the country. Urban centres such as Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid tend to offer more accessible services and environments, yet even within the capital, consistent accessibility across all public buildings and outdoor spaces cannot be taken for granted. Expats should conduct thorough, location-specific research before committing to a particular district or property.

What disability benefits or financial support is available to expats in Jordan?

In Jordan, only around 28.5% of persons with disabilities are formally covered by social protection arrangements (as of 2023). This coverage shortfall is significant even for Jordanian nationals, and foreign nationals face additional constraints. Jordan’s formal social security system is managed by the Social Security Corporation (SSC), which administers contributory benefits including those related to disability. Access to these benefits generally requires formal employment and a record of social security contributions within Jordan.

In 2019, Jordanian authorities launched the Unified Cash Transfer Programme (previously called Takaful) as a supplement to existing contributory schemes, aimed at supporting working-poor households. Eligible recipients receive between 40 and 136 Jordanian dinars (approximately US$56 to US$192) per month (as of 2023). This programme is means-tested and primarily directed at low-income Jordanian households; expats are generally ineligible.

Unlike arrangements such as the UK’s Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) — which provide payments based on needs rather than employment history — Jordan’s disability-related financial support is predominantly tied to formal employment and SSC contributions, or to welfare schemes reserved for Jordanian nationals. Expats in formal employment who contribute to the SSC may qualify for some disability-related benefits under the contributory scheme, though this will depend on the terms of their employment contract and their residency status.

Expats should not count on Jordanian state disability benefits as any meaningful source of financial support. Having adequate private income or insurance cover in place beforehand is strongly recommended. For the most current information on eligibility, contact the Social Security Corporation of Jordan and the Ministry of Social Development directly.

What healthcare and rehabilitation services are available to disabled expats in Jordan?

Jordan operates a two-tier healthcare system: publicly funded facilities under the Ministry of Health, and a well-developed private sector concentrated principally in Amman. Public healthcare access for expats is restricted — Jordan’s state health system is primarily available to Jordanian citizens and registered social security contributors. Expats in formal employment who pay SSC contributions may access certain public health services, but those on visitor or investor visas typically depend on private providers.

Private hospitals and clinics in Amman — including the Jordan Hospital, the Islamic Hospital, and Istishari Hospital — offer rehabilitation, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and various specialist disability-related services. Standards at these private facilities are generally high and broadly comparable to private hospitals in many other countries. Costs, however, can be substantial without adequate private health insurance.

The UN Special Rapporteur expressed encouragement at steps to improve access for students with disabilities in educational settings, noting that efforts to better equip higher education institutions in teaching Jordanian Sign Language are under way and that moves to dismantle exclusionary policies around course access are positive developments. Comparable incremental improvements are occurring in healthcare accessibility, though provision remains uneven across the country.

Assistive technology is obtainable in Jordan, mainly through the private sector and NGOs such as Handicap International (now Humanity & Inclusion). That said, specialist rehabilitation services outside Amman are limited. Expats with complex or ongoing rehabilitation requirements should ensure their private health insurance covers these costs and, where possible, establish care plans before they arrive. For current entitlements and registered service providers, visit the Jordan Ministry of Health.

How does the process of having a disability assessed or recognised work in Jordan?

Formal disability assessment and classification in Jordan is administered by the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), the principal government body responsible for implementing Jordan’s disability legislation. Registration with the HCD is the entry point to most disability-related services and protections, and requires obtaining an official disability card.

The assessment process typically involves:

1. Submitting an application to the HCD together with supporting medical records, including diagnoses and reports from relevant specialists.
2. Attending an evaluation conducted by a medical committee, which classifies the nature and degree of the disability according to standards established under the 2017 Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
3. Receiving a formal classification and, where the application is approved, an official disability identification card granting the holder access to relevant services and legal protections.
4. For expat residents, submitting valid residency documents alongside medical evidence — the extent to which foreign medical records are accepted can vary, and applicants may be asked to undergo further assessment by a registered Jordanian medical committee.

Processing times and any applicable fees are not consistently published and may differ depending on the type of disability and the completeness of the documentation provided. As of 2025, readers should contact the HCD directly for up-to-date procedures, costs, and processing timelines. For foreign diagnoses, having documentation translated into Arabic and formally certified is strongly advisable. The HCD’s official website is hcd.gov.jo.

What support exists for disabled children and young people in Jordan?

Jordan operates both mainstream schools with inclusion policies and a network of specialist centres catering to children with disabilities. The 2017 law enshrines inclusive education as a principle and requires educational institutions to provide reasonable accommodation. In practice, however, full inclusion for the majority of children with disabilities remains a distant goal.

A UN committee review found that 79% of children with disabilities in Jordan were either deprived of access to education or faced severe restrictions in obtaining it — a figure highlighted during the examination of Jordan’s CRPD implementation and one that the Committee urged must be addressed without delay. This remains one of the most pressing and unresolved challenges in Jordan’s disability landscape.

Strong social resistance to inclusive schooling persists, and sustained campaigning is needed to dismantle stereotypes, reshape attitudes, and build the foundations for a genuinely inclusive education system. The government has, however, been making incremental progress, introducing inclusive education initiatives and working in partnership with UN agencies.

In principle, expat children with disabilities are entitled to the protections of the 2017 law while resident in Jordan. In practice, access to specialist educational support within public schools is often limited, and many expat families turn to private international schools, some of which have more developed special educational needs (SEN) provision. It is strongly advisable to investigate specific schools’ SEN policies, staffing arrangements, and physical accessibility before enrolling a child. The Ministry of Education (moe.gov.jo) is the appropriate authority to consult regarding formal entitlements.

What advocacy and support organisations exist for disabled people in Jordan?

Jordan has a reasonably active civil society ecosystem focused on disability rights. Key organisations include:

• Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD) — the primary government body responsible for implementing disability law, overseeing rights, and issuing the national disability card. Website: hcd.gov.jo.
• Humanity & Inclusion (formerly Handicap International) — Jordan — an international NGO with a long-established presence in Jordan, providing rehabilitation services, assistive devices, and disability rights advocacy. Website: hi.org.
• Jordan Deaf Society — a disability-specific organisation supporting the Deaf community in Jordan, with particular emphasis on sign language access, education, and employment opportunities.
• Al-Amal Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled — provides rehabilitation and vocational training services for persons with physical disabilities.
• The Jordan Association for Disability and Rehabilitation — a civil society body working on disability policy, public awareness, and service delivery.
• UNICEF Jordan — active in disability-inclusive education and digital skills development programmes. Website: unicef.org/jordan.
• Jordan’s Civil Society Organisation (CSO) Portal — the national CSO website provides a comprehensive directory of disability organisations operating within the country, making it a valuable resource for expats seeking peer support or specialist services.

While most organisations focus primarily on Jordanian nationals and refugees, expats with disabilities can often access services and advocacy support on an individual basis. Reaching out directly to the HCD or Humanity & Inclusion is a practical starting point for expats navigating Jordan’s disability support landscape.

What practical tips should disabled expats know before moving to Jordan?

• Secure comprehensive private health insurance before departure. Ensure your policy covers disability-related healthcare, rehabilitation, assistive technology, and any specialist treatments you require. Confirm that emergency cover and medical repatriation are also included.
• Compile and translate your medical records. Bring certified Arabic translations of your medical history, diagnoses, prescriptions, and any existing disability assessments. These will be needed for registration with the HCD and for accessing healthcare providers in Jordan.
• Register with the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Obtaining an official disability card through the HCD gives you access to legal protections and makes it easier to request reasonable accommodation from employers, landlords, and service providers.
• Research your intended neighbourhood thoroughly. Accessibility varies dramatically — not only between cities and rural areas, but between different parts of Amman itself. Seek ground-floor or lift-equipped accommodation, check proximity to accessible private clinics, and assess pavement and road conditions before signing any lease.
• Make transport arrangements before you arrive. People with physical disabilities have consistently reported that transport in Jordan is expensive and largely inaccessible, with direct consequences for reaching healthcare and employment. Budget for private taxis or ride-hailing apps as your primary means of getting around.
• Raise the question of reasonable accommodation with prospective employers early. The 2017 law obliges employers to make reasonable adjustments, but awareness and enforcement are inconsistent. Ask explicitly about what adjustments are in place or can be provided before accepting any position.
• Tap into expat and disability communities. Online expat forums, international Facebook groups for Amman residents, and organisations such as Humanity & Inclusion can provide peer advice and hands-on support that official channels may not.
• Do not bank on state benefits. As outlined above, Jordan’s disability benefit system is largely tied to Jordanian nationality and SSC contributions. Ensure you have sufficient financial resources or employer support before relocating.
• Recognise what is genuinely well-established. Jordan’s Disabilities Law is broadly considered one of the most progressive in the MENA region, and awareness of disability rights is genuine at an institutional level. International hospitals in Amman, many formal-sector workplaces, and newer commercial premises frequently meet reasonable accessibility standards.

Frequently asked questions: disability as an expat in Jordan

Is Jordan a good destination for expats with disabilities?

Jordan has a well-developed legal framework for disability rights and is widely regarded as a regional leader in disability policy. That said, physical accessibility — particularly for public transport and older buildings — falls short of the legislative standards, and state-funded support for expats is scarce. Amman provides the best access to private healthcare and accessible facilities, making it the most viable base for most expats with disabilities.

Can I access Jordan’s public healthcare system as a disabled expat?

Jordan’s public health system is generally open only to Jordanian nationals and employees who contribute formally to the Social Security Corporation. The majority of expats will need private health insurance to cover disability-related medical care and rehabilitation. For the latest eligibility rules based on your residency and employment situation, consult the Jordan Ministry of Health.

Are disability benefits available to expats in Jordan?

As of 2023, only around 28.5% of persons with disabilities in Jordan are formally covered by social protection, and the main state disability benefits are generally reserved for Jordanian nationals or those who have contributed to the social security system through formal employment. Expats should not plan to rely on Jordanian state disability benefits and must ensure they have adequate private financial resources before relocating.

How do I get my disability officially recognised in Jordan?

You should apply to the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD) for an official disability card. The process requires submitting medical documentation and attending an assessment by a medical committee. Having your foreign medical records translated into Arabic and formally certified beforehand will help accelerate the process. Visit hcd.gov.jo for current procedures.

Will my child with a disability receive educational support in Jordanian schools?

The 2017 law entitles children with disabilities to reasonable accommodation in educational settings. However, a very high proportion of children with disabilities in Jordan face severe constraints in accessing education, and specialist support in public schools is limited. Many expat families choose private international schools with more developed SEN provision. Contact individual schools and the Ministry of Education to understand the specific support that would be available for your child.

Is Jordan’s disability law enforced in practice?

Enforcement of disability legislation in Jordan remains inconsistent. The government has not allocated sufficient funding to several ministries and programmes to fully implement the 2017 law. While the legal framework is strong and continues to improve, expats with disabilities should maintain realistic expectations around enforcement and prepare for practical obstacles that the law has not yet resolved at ground level.

What is the best way to get around Amman as a disabled expat?

Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem — both of which operate in Amman — and private taxis are generally the most workable options for disabled expats, given that the public bus network has very limited accessibility provisions. Accessible, affordable transport remains a persistent problem for people with physical disabilities in Jordan, and budgeting for private transport is strongly advised.

Which organisations can help me as a disabled expat in Jordan?

The Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is the main official body. At the international level, Humanity & Inclusion maintains a significant presence in Jordan and can link you to rehabilitation services and advocacy support. Jordan’s Civil Society Organisation portal also provides a comprehensive directory of disability organisations. Most organisations serve Jordanian nationals as their primary focus, but expats can often access services on a case-by-case basis.