Moving to a new country with children is a life-changing decision that requires careful planning. Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a city of contrasts—where ancient history meets modern living, and where a growing expat community coexists with traditional Jordanian culture.
This comprehensive 2026 relocation guide covers everything families need to know before moving to Amman, including:
- International and public schools (fees, curricula, top institutions)
- Childcare and daycare costs (nurseries, nannies, babysitters)
- Family-friendly neighborhoods (safety, amenities, expat hubs)
- Parks, recreation, and kid-friendly activities
- Pediatric healthcare (hospitals, vaccinations, insurance)
Family health coverage abroad: SafetyWing covers your whole family internationally from $45/month — including children under 10 for free.
- Safety for children (crime rates, traffic, cultural considerations)
- Family visa options (residency, work permits, sponsorship)
- Cost of raising a child in Amman (budget breakdown)
- Teen life (social scene, extracurriculars, challenges)
- Language challenges (Arabic vs. English, language schools)
- Expat family communities (Facebook groups, meetups, support)
- Maternity/paternity leave (laws, employer policies)
- Child-friendly restaurants and spaces
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear, data-driven roadmap for relocating your family to Amman in 2026.
1. International Schools in Amman (2026 Fees & Curricula)
Amman has a strong international school scene, catering to expat families from the U.S., UK, Europe, and the Middle East. Most schools follow American, British, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, with some offering French, German, or Canadian programs.
Top International Schools in Amman (2026)
| School Name | Curriculum | Annual Tuition (EUR) | Ages | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Community School (ACS) | American (AP) | €18,000 - €25,000 | Pre-K - Grade 12 | Top-tier U.S. curriculum, 100% college acceptance, strong sports & arts |
| International Community School (ICS) | British (IGCSE, A-Levels) | €15,000 - €22,000 | Pre-K - Year 13 | Highly ranked, diverse student body, excellent university prep |
| Amman Baccalaureate School (ABS) | IB (PYP, MYP, DP) | €17,000 - €24,000 | Pre-K - Grade 12 | One of the best IB schools in the Middle East, strong academics |
| Modern Montessori School (MMS) | Montessori + British | €10,000 - €18,000 | Pre-K - Grade 12 | Montessori approach, bilingual (English/Arabic) |
| Lycee Francais d’Amman | French (Baccalaureat) | €6,000 - €12,000 | Pre-K - Terminale | Affordable French curriculum, strong expat community |
| German Jordanian School (Deutsche Schule Amman) | German (Abitur) | €7,000 - €14,000 | Kindergarten - Grade 12 | German curriculum, bilingual (German/English) |
| Canadian International School (CIS) | Canadian (Ontario) | €12,000 - €19,000 | Pre-K - Grade 12 | Canadian curriculum, small class sizes |
| King’s Academy | American (AP) + IB | €25,000 - €35,000 | Grades 9-12 (boarding) | Elite boarding school, 100% university placement, Ivy League acceptances |
| Ahliyyah School for Girls / Bishop’s School for Boys | British (IGCSE, A-Levels) | €8,000 - €15,000 | Grades 1-12 | Historic schools, strong academics, bilingual (English/Arabic) |
| Nadeen School | British (EYFS, IGCSE) | €9,000 - €16,000 | Pre-K - Grade 11 | Inclusive, diverse, strong arts program |
Key Considerations When Choosing a School
✅ Curriculum preference (American, British, IB, or bilingual)
✅ University goals (IB and A-Levels are best for UK/Europe, AP for U.S.)
✅ Extracurriculars (sports, arts, Model UN, coding clubs)
✅ Location & commute (traffic in Amman can be heavy—choose a school near home)
✅ Diversity & expat community (some schools are more international than others)
✅ Waiting lists (top schools like ABS and ICS have long waitlists—apply early!)
Additional Fees (Beyond Tuition)
- Registration fee: €500 - €2,000 (one-time)
- Uniforms: €200 - €500
- Books & supplies: €300 - €800/year
- Transportation (school bus): €1,000 - €3,000/year
- Extracurriculars: €200 - €1,500/year (depending on activity)
Verdict: If budget allows, ACS, ICS, and ABS are the top choices for expat families. For French or German speakers, Lycee Francais and Deutsche Schule offer excellent (and more affordable) alternatives.
2. Public School System in Jordan
Jordan’s public schools are free for Jordanian citizens and follow the Jordanian national curriculum, taught primarily in Arabic with English as a second language.
Can Expat Children Attend Public Schools?
- Yes, but with restrictions:
- Non-Jordanian Arabs (Palestinians, Syrians, Iraqis) can enroll for free.
- Non-Arab expats (Westerners, Asians) must pay €500 - €1,500/year in fees.
- Private Arabic schools (e.g., Islamic Scientific College, Jubilee School) offer a middle ground—strong academics in Arabic with some English.
Pros & Cons of Public Schools for Expats
✔ Pros:
- Full Arabic immersion (great for long-term stays)
- Low cost (if eligible for free/reduced tuition)
- Cultural integration (local friends, traditions)
❌ Cons:
- Language barrier (most subjects in Arabic)
- Large class sizes (30-40 students per class)
- Less focus on critical thinking (rote memorization is common)
- Limited extracurriculars (sports/arts are minimal)
Verdict: Public schools are not ideal for most expat families unless they plan to stay long-term and want full Arabic immersion. Private bilingual schools (like Ahliyyah/Bishop’s) are a better middle-ground option.
3. Childcare & Daycare Costs in Amman (2026)
For families with toddlers and preschoolers, Amman offers a mix of daycare centers, nurseries, nannies, and babysitters.
Daycare & Nursery Costs (Monthly, EUR)
| Type | Price Range (EUR/month) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| High-end international nursery (e.g., Little Explorers, Kids Kingdom) | €400 - €800 | English-speaking, play-based learning, meals included |
| Mid-range bilingual nursery (e.g., Baby Academy, Little Scholars) | €250 - €500 | Arabic/English, basic curriculum |
| Local Jordanian nursery | €100 - €300 | Arabic-speaking, less structured |
| Montessori preschool (e.g., Modern Montessori School) | €300 - €600 | Focus on independence, mixed-age classrooms |
| Home daycare (unlicensed) | €150 - €400 | Cheaper but less regulated |
Nanny & Babysitter Costs
- Live-in nanny (full-time): €400 - €800/month (Filipino/Sri Lankan nannies are common)
- Live-out nanny (part-time): €300 - €600/month
- Babysitter (per hour): €5 - €15 (higher for Western babysitters)
- Au pair: €600 - €1,200/month (rare, mostly through agencies)
Key Considerations for Childcare in Amman
✅ Safety & licensing (check if the nursery is Ministry of Social Development-approved)
✅ Language (English vs. Arabic—some nurseries are bilingual)
✅ Meal plans (some include meals, others require packed lunches)
✅ Transportation (some nurseries offer pickup/drop-off)
✅ Cultural norms (some local nurseries have strict gender segregation)
Verdict: International nurseries (€400-800/month) are the best for expat families, while local nurseries (€100-300/month) are budget-friendly but less structured.
4. Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Amman
Amman is a sprawling city with distinct neighborhoods, each offering different lifestyles for families.
Best Neighborhoods for Expat Families (2026)
| Neighborhood | Pros | Cons | Avg. Rent (3BR Apt, EUR/month) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abdoun | Upscale, quiet, top schools (ICS, ABS), embassies, parks | Expensive, limited nightlife | €1,500 - €3,000 | High-income expats, diplomats |
| Sweifieh | Central, great restaurants, shopping, international schools | Noisy, traffic, less green space | €1,200 - €2,500 | Young professionals, families who want convenience |
| Dabouq | Safe, family-friendly, near King’s Academy, nature trails | Far from city center, limited amenities | €1,000 - €2,000 | Boarding school families, nature lovers |
| Deir Ghbar | Affluent, near ACS, large villas, quiet | Expensive, some areas lack sidewalks | €1,800 - €3,500 | Wealthy expats, long-term stays |
| Shmeisani | Business district, good schools, walkable | Busy, limited family housing | €1,000 - €2,200 | Working parents, short-term stays |
| Jabal Amman | Artsy, cafes, cultural scene, near ABS | Hilly, limited parking, older buildings | €900 - €2,000 | Creative families, young expats |
| Tla’ Al Ali | Affordable, good schools, family-friendly | Less expat-friendly, farther from center | €700 - €1,500 | Budget-conscious families |
| Khalda | Mid-range, diverse, near MMS | Traffic, some areas lack charm | €800 - €1,800 | Middle-class expats, long-term stays |
Safety & Walkability
- Safest areas: Abdoun, Dabouq, Deir Ghbar, Sweifieh
- Most walkable: Jabal Amman, Rainbow Street, Shmeisani
- Least walkable (car-dependent): Khalda, Tla’ Al Ali, Dabouq
Verdict: Abdoun and Deir Ghbar are the top choices for expat families, while Jabal Amman and Sweifieh offer a more urban, vibrant lifestyle.
5. Parks, Recreation & Kid-Friendly Activities
Amman has plenty of green spaces, playgrounds, and family-friendly attractions, though some require a car to reach.
Best Parks & Playgrounds in Amman
| Name | Location | Features | Entry Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| King Hussein Park | Abdoun | Large green space, playgrounds, walking trails, mini-golf | €1 - €3 |
| Al Hussein Public Parks | Shmeisani | Multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, small zoo | Free - €2 |
| Amman National Park | Al Jubaiha | Hiking trails, open fields, family events | Free |
| Wild Jordan Center | Jabal Amman | Nature reserve, animal exhibits, eco-education | €5 - €10 |
| Children’s Museum Jordan | Al Hussein Park | Interactive exhibits, science & art activities | €7 - €10 |
| Playmobil FunPark | Mecca Mall | Indoor playground, ball pit, toddler zone | €10 - €15 |
| Fun City (City Mall) | Sweifieh | Arcade, rides, soft play area | €5 - €15 |
| The Little Gym | Abdoun, Sweifieh | Gymnastics, dance, toddler classes | €10 - €20/class |
Weekend & Holiday Activities for Kids
- Day trips to the Dead Sea (€20-50 for family entry, mud masks, floating)
- Petra & Wadi Rum (overnight camping, jeep tours, €100-300 for family packages)
- Jerash Roman Ruins (€10-20 entry, gladiator shows in summer)
- Jordan Museum (interactive exhibits, €5-10)
- Royal Automobile Museum (car lovers, €5-10)
- Aquarium (at The Children’s Museum) (€3-5 extra)
Indoor Play Centers & Soft Play Areas
- KidZania (City Mall) – Role-playing city for kids (€15-20)
- Little Explorers (Abdoun) – STEM-focused play center (€10-15)
- Bounce (Sweifieh) – Trampoline park (€10-20)
- Inflatable Island (Mecca Mall) – Bouncy castle zone (€8-12)
Verdict: Amman has enough parks and activities to keep kids entertained, but weekend trips to nature sites (Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, Ajloun Forest) are a must for outdoor-loving families.
6. Pediatric Healthcare in Amman
Jordan has a strong healthcare system, with high-quality private hospitals and affordable pediatric care.
Top Pediatric Hospitals & Clinics (2026)
| Hospital/Clinic | Location | Specialties | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Khalidi Medical Center | Shmeisani | Pediatric ER, vaccinations, specialists | €50-200/visit |
| Jordan Hospital | Amman | Neonatal ICU, pediatric surgery | €80-300/visit |
| Specialty Hospital | Abdoun | Pediatric cardiology, neurology | €100-400/visit |
| Istishari Hospital | Dabouq | High-end pediatrics, international staff | €150-500/visit |
| Dar Al Shifa Hospital | Sweifieh | General pediatrics, affordable | €30-150/visit |
| French Clinic (Clinique Française) | Jabal Amman | French-speaking doctors, vaccinations | €60-200/visit |
| MedLabs (Diagnostic Centers) | Multiple | Blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds | €20-100/test |
Vaccinations & Child Health Requirements
- Mandatory vaccines (Jordanian schedule):
- BCG (tuberculosis)
- Polio (4 doses)
- DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Recommended additional vaccines (for expats):
- Meningitis (ACWY)
- Hepatitis A
- Rotavirus
- HPV (for teens)
- Cost of vaccines: €10-50 per shot (private clinics)
Health Insurance for Expats
- International insurance (recommended):
- Cigna Global (€1,500-3,000/year for family)
- Allianz Care (€2,000-4,000/year)
- Aetna International (€1,800-3,500/year)
- Local insurance (cheaper but limited):
- Arab Orient Insurance (€500-1,500/year)
- Jordan Insurance Company (€600-1,800/year)
Verdict: Al Khalidi and Jordan Hospital are the best for general pediatrics, while Istishari is the top choice for specialized care. International insurance is a must for expat families.
7. Safety for Children in Amman
Amman is one of the safest cities in the Middle East, but parents should be aware of traffic, cultural norms, and petty crime.
Crime & Safety Statistics (2026)
- Violent crime rate: Very low (0.3 incidents per 1,000 people)
- Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching): Moderate (mostly in crowded areas like Downtown, markets)
- Traffic accidents: High (Amman has one of the worst traffic safety records in the region)
- Kidnapping risk: Extremely low (almost unheard of)
Safety Tips for Families
✅ Traffic safety:
- Always use car seats (though enforcement is weak, expats should insist).
- Hold hands when crossing streets (drivers often ignore pedestrians).
- Avoid walking at night (poor street lighting in some areas).
✅ Cultural considerations:
- Dress modestly (especially girls—avoid short skirts, tank tops in conservative areas).
- Public displays of affection (holding hands is fine, but kissing is frowned upon).
- Alcohol consumption (legal but should be discreet—avoid drinking in front of kids in public).
✅ Emergency numbers:
- Police: 911
- Ambulance: 911
- Fire Department: 911
- Tourist Police (English-speaking): +962 6 560 3366
Verdict: Amman is very safe for families, but traffic and cultural norms require extra vigilance.
8. Family Visa & Residency Options (2026)
Jordan offers several visa options for expat families, depending on employment, investment, or retirement.
Visa Types for Families
| Visa Type | Requirements | Duration | Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Work Visa (Employment Sponsorship) | Job offer from Jordanian company, work permit | 1-2 years (renewable) | €200-500 | Most common for expat families |
| Investor Visa | Invest €70,000+ in Jordanian business | 2-5 years | €1,000-3,000 | Requires business registration |
| Retirement Visa | Proof of pension (€1,500+/month) | 1 year (renewable) | €300-800 | Must show financial stability |
| Student Visa | Acceptance into Jordanian school/university | 1 year | €100-300 | For kids in international schools |
| Family Reunification Visa | Sponsored by spouse/parent with residency | 1-2 years | €100-400 | Requires marriage/birth certificate |
| Tourist Visa (on arrival) | Passport, return ticket | 1-3 months | €40-60 | Can be extended for €50 |
Residency Permit Process
- Apply for entry visa (work, investor, or family reunification).
- Register with the Ministry of Interior (within 30 days of arrival).
- Submit documents:
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Employment contract (for work visa)
- Proof of address (rental contract)
- Medical test (HIV, hepatitis, chest X-ray)
- Police clearance certificate (from home country)
- Pay fees (€200-1,000 depending on visa type).
- Receive residency card (valid 1-2 years, renewable).
Dependent Visas for Children
- Children under 18 can be included on a parent’s residency permit.
- School enrollment letter may be required.
- Birth certificate (apostilled & translated) must be submitted.
Verdict: Work visas (sponsored by an employer) are the easiest for expat families. Investor visas are an option for those with capital.
9. Cost of Raising a Child in Amman (2026 Budget Breakdown)
Raising a child in Amman is more affordable than in Europe or the U.S., but costs vary widely depending on lifestyle.
Annual Cost of Raising a Child (EUR)
| Expense | Low-End (Local Lifestyle) | Mid-Range (Expat Lifestyle) | High-End (Luxury Lifestyle) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (extra bedroom) | €2,000 - €4,000 | €6,000 - €12,000 | €15,000 - €30,000 |
| School (international) | €5,000 - €10,000 | €12,000 - €20,000 | €25,000 - €40,000 |
| Childcare (nursery/nanny) | €1,200 - €3,600 | €4,800 - €9,600 | €12,000 - €24,000 |
| Healthcare (insurance + out-of-pocket) | €500 - €1,500 | €1,500 - €3,000 | €3,000 - €6,000 |
| Food (groceries + dining out) | €1,500 - €3,000 | €3,000 - €6,000 | €6,000 - €12,000 |
| Clothing & Shoes | €300 - €600 | €600 - €1,200 | €1,500 - €3,000 |
| Activities (sports, music, camps) | €500 - €1,000 | €1,000 - €3,000 | €3,000 - €6,000 |
| Transportation (car seat, school bus, fuel) | €1,000 - €2,000 | €2,000 - €4,000 | €5,000 - €10,000 |
| Toys, Books, Electronics | €200 - €500 | €500 - €1,500 | €1,500 - €3,000 |
| Miscellaneous (birthday parties, gifts) | €300 - €600 | €600 - €1,500 | €2,000 - €5,000 |
| TOTAL (per child/year) | €12,500 - €27,800 | €32,000 - €61,800 | €74,000 - €142,000 |
Cost-Saving Tips for Families
✔ Choose a mid-range international school (e.g., Nadeen School instead of ACS).
✔ Use local nurseries (€100-300/month vs. €500-800 for international ones).
✔ Shop at local markets (e.g., Souk Jara, Safeway) instead of Carrefour.
✔ Use public parks (free) instead of paid play centers.
✔ Buy second-hand clothes & toys (Facebook Marketplace, expat groups).
Verdict: A mid-range expat lifestyle for a family of four costs €50,000-80,000/year, while a luxury lifestyle can exceed €100,000/year.
10. Activities for Kids & Teen Life in Amman
Activities for Young Children (0-12)
- Sports: Swimming (private lessons €10-20/hour), football (€50-100/month), gymnastics (€80-150/month)
- Arts & Music: Piano lessons (€15-30/hour), painting classes (€10-20/session), theater (€50-100/month)
- STEM: Robotics clubs (€100-200/month), coding camps (€150-300/week)
- Language: Arabic lessons (€10-20/hour), French/German classes (€15-25/hour)
- Outdoor: Horseback riding (€20-40/hour), hiking (free), camping (€50-100/family)
Teen Life in Amman (13-18)
- Social scene:
- Malls (City Mall, Mecca Mall, Taj Mall) – Hanging out, cafes, cinemas
- Cafes (Books@Café, Wild Jordan, % Arabica) – Study spots, Wi-Fi
- Expat meetups (Facebook groups, sports clubs) – Making friends
- Extracurriculars:
- Model United Nations (MUN) – Offered at ICS, ABS, King’s Academy
- Debate clubs – Competitions at ABS, ACS
- Volunteering – UNICEF, Red Crescent, local NGOs
- Part-time jobs – Rare for teens, but some work in family businesses
- Challenges for Teens:
- Limited nightlife (no clubs for under-18s, strict curfews)
- Dating culture (conservative—public displays of affection are frowned upon)
- Gender segregation (some schools and social events are single-gender)
Summer Camps & Holiday Programs
- King’s Academy Summer Program (€1,000-2,000/2 weeks) – Sports, arts, leadership
- ABS Summer Camp (€800-1,500/2 weeks) – STEM, languages, outdoor activities
- Little Explorers STEM Camp (€300-600/week) – Robotics, coding, science
- Horseback Riding Camps (€200-500/week) – At Royal Jordanian Equestrian Federation
Verdict: Amman offers plenty of activities for kids, but teens may find it restrictive compared to Western cities. Expat communities and international schools help ease the transition.
11. Language Challenges & Learning Arabic
Language Landscape in Amman
- Official language: Arabic (Modern Standard Arabic in schools, Jordanian dialect in daily life)
- Business & expat language: English (widely spoken in schools, hospitals, malls)
- Other common languages: French, German, Spanish (in international schools)
Do Kids Need to Learn Arabic?
✅ Yes, if:
- You plan to stay long-term (5+ years).
- Your child will attend a local or bilingual school.
- You want them to integrate into Jordanian culture.
❌ No, if:
- You’re on a short-term assignment (1-3 years).
- Your child is in an English-only international school.
- You live in an expat-heavy neighborhood (Abdoun, Deir Ghbar).
Arabic Learning Options
| Option | Cost (EUR) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Private tutor | €10-25/hour | One-on-one lessons, flexible schedule |
| Language school (e.g., Ali Baba, Qasid Institute) | €500-1,500/semester | Structured courses, group classes |
| Online lessons (Preply, iTalki) | €8-20/hour | Convenient, affordable |
| School Arabic classes | Included in tuition | For kids in bilingual schools |
| Immersion (local friends, markets, TV) | Free | Best for natural learning |
Common Arabic Phrases for Kids
| English | Arabic (Jordanian Dialect) | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | مرحبا | Marhaba |
| Thank you | شكراً | Shukran |
| Yes | نعم | Na’am |
| No | لا | La |
| How are you? | كيفك؟ | Keefak? |
| I’m hungry | جوعان | Jaw’an |
| Where is the bathroom? | وين الحمام؟ | Wein el-hammam? |
Verdict: Basic Arabic is useful but not mandatory for expat kids. Private tutors and language schools are the best way to learn.
12. Expat Family Communities & Support
Amman has a growing expat community, with Facebook groups, meetups, and support networks for families.
Top Expat Groups & Resources
| Group/Organization | Platform | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Expats in Amman | General expat advice, housing, schools | |
| Amman Moms & Dads | Parenting tips, playdates, recommendations | |
| International Women’s Association of Jordan (IWAJ) | Website | Networking, charity events, social gatherings |
| Hash House Harriers (Amman Hash) | Meetup | Running/hiking social group (family-friendly) |
| InterNations Amman | Website | Expat events, professional networking |
| American Women of Amman (AWA) | U.S. expat women’s group | |
| British Expats in Jordan | UK-focused community |
Where to Meet Other Expat Families
- School events (PTA meetings, sports days, international fairs)
- Playgrounds & parks (King Hussein Park, Children’s Museum)
- Cafes & restaurants (Books@Café, Wild Jordan, % Arabica)
- Sports clubs (Amman Rugby Club, YMCA, tennis clubs)
- Volunteering (UNICEF, Red Crescent, animal shelters)
Verdict: Facebook groups and school communities are the best way to connect with other expat families.
13. Maternity & Paternity Leave in Jordan (2026)
Jordan has progressive maternity leave laws compared to other Middle Eastern countries, but paternity leave is limited.
Maternity Leave
- Duration: 10 weeks (70 days) fully paid
- Extension: Up to 1 year unpaid (job protection guaranteed)
- Eligibility: Must have worked 6+ months with the same employer
- Public sector: 14 weeks paid (more generous)
Paternity Leave
- Duration: 3 days paid (recently increased from 1 day in 2024)
- Eligibility: Must be legally married (no leave for unmarried fathers)
Employer Policies (Expat Companies)
- Multinational companies (e.g., UN, NGOs, banks) often offer better benefits:
- 4-6 months paid maternity leave
- 2-4 weeks paternity leave
- Flexible work arrangements
- Local companies usually follow minimum legal requirements.
Childbirth Costs in Amman
| Service | Public Hospital (EUR) | Private Hospital (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Vaginal birth | €200 - €500 | €1,500 - €3,000 |
| C-section | €400 - €800 | €2,500 - €5,000 |
| Prenatal care (per visit) | €10 - €30 | €50 - €150 |
| Ultrasound | €20 - €50 | €80 - €200 |
| Epidural | €100 - €300 | €300 - €800 |
Verdict: Private hospitals (Al Khalidi, Jordan Hospital) are recommended for expat mothers, but public hospitals are affordable for uncomplicated births.
14. Child-Friendly Restaurants & Spaces in Amman
Amman has plenty of family-friendly restaurants with kids’ menus, play areas, and high chairs.
Family relocation essentials: Kids Travel Journal | Universal Stroller Bag | International Power Adapter Family Pack
Top Child-Friendly Restaurants
| Restaurant | Location | Features | Avg. Cost (Family of