Amman Airport Car Rental: Your Complete Guide to Queen Alia International Airport
Arriving at Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman? Skip the long taxi queues and expensive airport transfers by renting a car directly at the airport. With convenient pickup and drop-off services, airport car rental in Amman is the smartest way to start your Jordan adventure.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about renting a car at Amman Airport, from booking procedures to pricing, vehicle selection, and tips for a smooth rental experience.
Why Rent a Car at Amman Airport?
Immediate Convenience
Pick up your car right at the terminal and start your journey without waiting for taxis or shuttles.
Cost Savings
Save money compared to multiple taxi rides, especially for longer stays or multiple destinations.
Freedom to Explore
Visit remote destinations like Petra, Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum at your own pace.
Luggage Space
No need to worry about fitting luggage in taxis - rental cars offer ample storage space.
About Queen Alia International Airport
Airport Information
- Location: 30 km (19 miles) south of Amman city center
- Drive Time to Amman: Approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic
- Terminals: Two terminals (Terminal 1 for international flights, Terminal 2 for regional flights)
- Parking: Short-term and long-term parking available
- Facilities: ATMs, currency exchange, restaurants, duty-free shops
Getting to Amman from the Airport
With your rental car, you can easily reach downtown Amman and explore the entire country. Whether you're planning to visit Petra, the Dead Sea, or other destinations, having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore Jordan at your own pace.
- Downtown Amman: 30-45 minutes via Airport Road
- Dead Sea: 1.5 hours via Dead Sea Highway
- Petra: 3.5 hours via Desert Highway
- Wadi Rum: 4.5 hours via Desert Highway
- Jerash: 1.5 hours via King's Highway
Car Rental Prices at Amman Airport
Typical Airport Car Rental Rates (2024)
- Economy Cars: JOD 25-40 per day (Honda City, Toyota Yaris)
- Compact Cars: JOD 35-50 per day (Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra)
- Mid-Size SUVs: JOD 50-75 per day (Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail)
- Full-Size SUVs: JOD 80-120 per day (Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol)
- Luxury Vehicles: JOD 120-200+ per day (Mercedes, BMW, Audi)
Note: Airport locations may have slightly higher rates (5-10%) due to convenience fees, but booking in advance can help secure better deals.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Airport Surcharge: Some companies charge JOD 5-10 for airport pickup
- Insurance: Basic included; comprehensive adds JOD 5-15/day
- GPS Navigation: JOD 3-5 per day (highly recommended for first-time visitors)
- Child Seats: JOD 2-3 per day
- Additional Driver: Usually free, but some charge JOD 2-5/day
- Fuel: Return with same level or pay refueling fee (typically JOD 10-15)
How to Rent a Car at Amman Airport
Book Online in Advance
Reserve your vehicle 2-4 weeks before your arrival for the best rates and vehicle availability. Online booking often includes discounts and ensures your preferred vehicle type.
Arrive at the Airport
After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, proceed to the car rental counters located in the arrivals hall. Most major rental companies have desks at both terminals.
Complete Paperwork
Present your driver's license, passport, and credit card. The rental agent will review your reservation, explain the rental terms, and process payment. This typically takes 15-20 minutes.
Vehicle Inspection
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly with the rental agent. Document any existing damage with photos. Check fuel level, tire condition, and that all features work properly.
Pick Up Your Vehicle
Most rental cars are parked in the airport parking lot, just a short walk from the terminal. Some companies provide shuttle service to off-site locations.
Best Vehicles for Airport Pickup
Kia Pegas
From JOD 30/day
Kia Cerato
From JOD 30/day
Kia K3
From JOD 30/day
Kia K3
From JOD 30/day
Huyndai Elantra
From JOD 30/day
Kia K3
From JOD 30/day
Choosing the Right Vehicle
For Solo Travelers/Couples: Economy or compact cars are perfect. They're fuel-efficient and easy to navigate through Amman's traffic.
For Families: Mid-size SUVs offer space for luggage and passengers. Consider vehicles with good safety ratings and child seat compatibility.
For Desert Adventures: Full-size SUVs with 4WD are ideal for exploring Wadi Rum and other desert destinations.
For Business Travel: Mid-size sedans or luxury vehicles provide comfort and professional appearance.
Requirements for Airport Car Rental
Essential Documents
- Valid Driver's License: Must be valid for at least one year from rental date
- International Driving Permit: Highly recommended, especially for non-Arabic licenses
- Passport: Original passport required for identification
- Credit Card: For security deposit (typically JOD 200-500)
- Age: Minimum 21 years (25 for premium vehicles)
- Booking Confirmation: Print or digital copy of your reservation
Tips for Airport Car Rental in Amman
Expert Tips for Smooth Airport Rental
- Book Early: Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for best rates and availability
- Compare Prices: Check multiple rental companies - prices can vary significantly
- Read Reviews: Check customer reviews for rental company reliability and service quality
- Understand Insurance: Know what's covered and consider additional coverage
- Check Fuel Policy: Most require returning with same fuel level - fill up near airport before return
- Inspect Thoroughly: Take photos of any damage before leaving the lot
- Get GPS: Essential for navigating Amman and Jordan's highways
- Keep Documents Handy: Always carry license, passport copy, and rental agreement
- Know Return Location: Confirm exact drop-off location and hours
- Emergency Contact: Save rental company's 24/7 helpline number
Driving from Amman Airport
To Downtown Amman
The most direct route is via Airport Road (Highway 15), which connects to the city center. The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Key landmarks along the way include:
- King Hussein Medical City
- Amman Citadel (visible from the highway)
- Downtown Amman (Al-Balad)
To Popular Destinations
- Dead Sea: Take Airport Road to Dead Sea Highway (Highway 65) - 1.5 hours
- Petra: Follow Desert Highway (Highway 15) south - 3.5 hours
- Wadi Rum: Continue on Desert Highway past Petra - 4.5 hours
- Jerash: Head north via Airport Road and King's Highway - 1.5 hours
Returning Your Rental Car at the Airport
Return Process
- Fuel Up: Fill the tank at a gas station near the airport before returning
- Inspection: Rental agent will inspect the vehicle for damage
- Final Check: Review any additional charges (fuel, tolls, etc.)
- Receipt: Get a receipt for your records
- Security Deposit: Released within 7-14 business days after return
Early/Late Returns
Most rental companies allow early returns without penalty, but you may not receive a refund for unused days. Late returns typically incur additional daily charges. Always inform the rental company if you need to change your return time.
Why Choose Golden Drive for Airport Car Rental?
Golden Drive offers exceptional service for airport car rentals in Amman:
- Convenient Location: Counter at Queen Alia International Airport
- Competitive Rates: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Wide Selection: Economy to luxury vehicles to suit all needs
- Well-Maintained Fleet: Regular servicing ensures reliability
- 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock assistance for any issues
- Easy Booking: Simple online reservation system
- Flexible Terms: Accommodating policies for travelers
- Local Expertise: Knowledgeable staff to help with directions and recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the rental car lot from the terminal?
Most rental cars are parked in the airport parking lot, just a 2-5 minute walk from the arrivals hall. Some companies provide shuttle service if the lot is further away.
Can I return the car at a different location?
Many rental companies offer one-way rentals, allowing you to return the car at a different location (usually in Amman or other major cities) for an additional fee (typically JOD 20-50).
What if my flight is delayed?
Contact the rental company immediately if your flight is delayed. Most companies will hold your reservation, but policies vary. Some may charge for the extra time if the delay is significant.
Is insurance included?
Basic third-party liability insurance is typically included. Comprehensive coverage (CDW/LDW) is usually optional but highly recommended. Check your credit card - some offer rental car insurance coverage.
Can I add an additional driver?
Yes, most companies allow additional drivers. Some charge a daily fee (JOD 2-5), while others include it for free. All drivers must meet age and license requirements.
What payment methods are accepted?
Most rental companies accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Some may accept debit cards, but credit cards are preferred for security deposits. Cash is typically not accepted for the rental itself.
Book Your Airport Car Rental Today
Start your Jordan adventure the moment you land! Book your car rental at Queen Alia International Airport now.
Reserve Your Vehicle