In practice, no: don't bring a drone to Jordan unless you've secured approval in advance. The US State Department's Jordan page says drones are illegal to bring into Jordan without approval, that anyone seeking to bring one must first get pre-authorization from the authorities for entry and use, and that unapproved drones may be seized with possible fines. For a typical tourist visiting Petra, Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea, the realistic plan is to leave the drone at home.
What the State Department says
The State Department's Jordan page makes three points about drones:
- Drones, along with satellite phones and radios, are illegal to bring into Jordan without approval and may be seized, and travelers could be fined.
- Drones are on the list of items Jordanian customs strictly regulates.
- People who want to bring a drone into Jordan must first get pre-authorization and approval from the authorities for both entry and use.
The page also notes the regional threat of drone and missile attacks in its security section. Security forces in the region treat unknown drones seriously.
Who regulates drones
Jordan's Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC) regulates drone operations under the Civil Aviation Law of 2007, and introduced amendments to its drone rules in April 2025 covering licensing, manufacturing and operation. Customs and security agencies are involved in any import approval. If you have a real need, such as professional filming, contact CARC and the Jordanian embassy in Washington well before your trip and get the approvals in writing. Expect the process to be built for organizations, not individual tourists.
Shooting Jordan without a drone
You can still come home with great footage:
- Petra: the view down to the Treasury from the trail above is a classic high angle that needs no drone.
- Wadi Rum: dune tops and rock outcrops give wide views of the desert.
- Dead Sea and Amman: hotel rooftops and the Citadel give elevated city and water views.
A stabilized handheld camera like the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 or an action camera handles walking shots through the Siq and desert drives.
If Jordan is one stop on a longer trip
Don't carry a drone through Jordan on your way to another country where it's allowed. Customs can seize it on arrival, even if you only plan to fly elsewhere. Plan your route so the drone doesn't enter Jordan.
For drones that fit easily in a bag for trips where they're welcome:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro: 249 g with obstacle sensing.
- DJI Mini 5 Pro: 249 g with a 1-inch sensor.
- DJI Neo: 135 g for quick clips.
Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with CARC and the Jordanian embassy before you travel.
See drone laws by country for destinations that welcome drones, and traveling with a drone for packing tips.
Related guides
- Drone laws in Argentina: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Aruba: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Australia: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Austria: flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Bali (Indonesia): flying there as a US tourist
- Drone laws in Barbados: flying there as a US tourist
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