Car hire Amman

Introduction

Amman is the capital of the Kingdom Jordan. It's one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world. About ten thousand years ago there was already a settlement at the place where nowadays lies Amman. The city consists of an old, historic part (East Amman) and a part where modern high-rise buildings dominate the townscape (West Amman).

Population

The city has grown rapidly, especially because of the large number of fugitives that has found a new home in Amman. The city now has more than two million inhabitants.

Location

Amman is located in a very hilly area of northwestern Jordan. The original city was built on seven hills, but because of the fast growth it now spans over as many as nineteen hills.

Economy

Amman is the economic heart of Jordan and in an increasing degree of the Middle East. The city is already called 'the new Beirut'. Beirut used to be the financial center of the region, but has lost that position following the continuous civil war of many years. Amman is experiencing a rapid growth in the commercial and financial sector. The construction sector is also growing unruly which is demonstrated by the large number of skyscrapers under construction.

Airports

Queen Alia International Airport is located 32 kilometers south of Amman. Outside of rush hour the airport is easily reachable by rental car via route 15 South. Just before the town Al Jizah the exit to the airport is clearly indicated.

Public Transport

Amman has a reasonable public bus system. The city council is working on the construction of free bus lanes to aid the circulation. There are also plans to construct a metro system, but it will take many more years before the first subway trains will run.

Traffic and Parking

Traffic in Amman is busy and chaotic. Although many new freeways have been built, traffic in the morning and evening rush hours is often completely stuck. It's absolutely advised against driving around in the old city center, with the many narrow streets. Jordanians park their car anywhere possible; as a foreigner you better leave your car at a guarded parking lot or parking garage.

Hotels

There is no shortage of accommodation in Amman. Ranging from very basic guesthouses to five star hotels. Amman is clearly emerging as a commercial and financial center of the Middle East. If you want to stay in one of the better hotels, we therefore recommend you book your hotel room well in advance.

External Sources

For more information about Amman we recommend Google and the following sources:

• Wikipedia, Amman
• Official website Amman (English, Arabic)
• Tourist Information Amman (English)