Irbid City Guide

Try local dishes like Mansaf and Maqluba. International variety is growing, with fast food, some Asian, and Western chains. Late-night options around the university area include shawarma stands and cafes.

Irbid's nightlife is subdued compared to Amman, focusing on cafes and shisha lounges. There are very few bars or clubs.

Strong coffee culture with both traditional Arabic coffee and modern cafes, particularly around the university.

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants (10% is common) and for other services like taxis and hotel staff. Check if a service charge is included first.

Local SIM cards can be purchased on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman or from official stores in Irbid. Best providers are Zain, Orange, and Umniah. ID/passport registration is mandatory for SIM card activation.

Street cleanliness varies. Main roads and new areas are cleaner, while older parts can be less so. Waste pickup is regular.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and minimarts open late.

International products are available in larger supermarkets, though selection might be limited compared to Western countries. Fresh markets offer local produce, meat, and spices. Typical shop hours are from 9 AM to 10 PM. Some close for a midday break and may not open on Fridays.

Cash is widely used, especially in smaller shops and local markets. Card acceptance is growing, particularly in larger supermarkets, modern cafes, and restaurants. It's advisable to carry cash for daily expenses.

ATMs are widely available from major banks like Arab Bank, Housing Bank, and Jordan Commercial Bank. They are generally reliable. Common fees include withdrawal fees from non-bank ATMs, which can vary.

Notable local schools include Irbid National School. International schools are less prevalent here compared to Amman, although some private schools offer international curricula.

The digital nomad community is nascent. Few nomad meetups or co-living spaces. Cafes around the university serve as informal workspaces.

Major parks like King Abdullah II Park offer green spaces for recreation. Suitable for walking and light running.

Popular running routes include public parks. Safety for runners is generally good during daylight hours.

Gyms such as Fitness One and Gold's Gym are popular for workouts.

Court availability is limited, mostly found within private sports clubs or university facilities.

Padel courts are not common in Irbid, with limited availability at specific clubs.

Yoga studios and wellness centers exist but are less common than in larger cities.

Dojos and training for martial arts like Taekwondo and Karate are available but BJJ or Muay Thai options might be limited.

No ski resorts or skiing culture in Jordan due to lack of suitable mountains.

Limited watersports opportunities in Irbid. Some might be available further away, but not a major feature here.

No surfing spots in Irbid or nearby. Jordan's coastline in Aqaba is not known for surfing.

No dive sites in Irbid. Diving is available at Aqaba on the Red Sea coast.

Hospitals like Princess Basma Teaching Hospital and King Abdullah University Hospital are major facilities in Irbid. English-speaking staff are more common in private and larger public hospitals. Public healthcare quality can be variable, but private hospitals offer higher quality services.

Tap water in Irbid, like much of Jordan, is generally not recommended for direct drinking due to varying quality and taste, though it is treated. Bottled water is widely available and preferred for consumption.

Irbid has some playgrounds in public parks. Attractions include local parks and cultural centers. Baby supplies are readily available.

Jordan is conservative; while not illegal, LGBTQ+ relationships are not widely accepted publicly. Discrimination remains a risk.

Pet policies vary widely. Vet services are available but pet parks are rare.