Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) is the main gateway to Jordan, located in Amman just under an hour from the city center. As the largest and busiest airport in Jordan, QAIA offers daily direct international flights and excellent facilities to make your journey seamless and comfortable. With modern architecture, premium dining, duty-free shopping, and a luxurious spa, Queen Alia Airport is designed to meet every traveler’s needs.
Additionally, the airport serves as a hub for domestic flights to Aqaba, Jordan’s beautiful coastal city on the Red Sea.
How to Get from Queen Alia International Airport to Amman City Center
Amman’s downtown area is approximately 30 kilometers from Queen Alia Airport, and reaching the city takes around 45 to 60 minutes. Here are the best transportation options:
1. Airport Express Buses
The Airport Express Bus service operates daily from 6:00 AM to midnight, running every 30 minutes. After 6:00 PM, buses run hourly.
- Route: From QAIA to Tabarbour Bus Station in Amman.
- Travel Time: 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Location: Buses depart directly outside the terminal building and offer several stops along the way.
2. Airport Taxi Services
Queen Alia Airport taxis provide 24/7 service with fixed rates to ensure fair pricing.
- Average Cost: Approximately 20 JD (around $28.25 USD) to Amman city center.
- Rates: Official taxi prices are posted on signage within the airport.
3. Local Buses
Local buses also connect Queen Alia Airport with Amman, offering a cheaper alternative. However, they are less reliable, as departures depend on the bus reaching full capacity. Travelers should also be cautious, as some taxi drivers might falsely claim that buses are unavailable.
4. Car Rentals
Several car rental companies are located inside Queen Alia International Airport, and vehicles can also be booked online through the airport’s official website — a great option for visitors planning to explore Jordan independently.
Facilities and Services at Queen Alia International Airport
Travelers passing through Queen Alia Airport enjoy a variety of premium services and modern amenities:
Dining Options
QAIA features a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, from international fast-food brands to mid-range dining and specialty coffee shops. An ice cream parlor is also available for a sweet treat before your flight.
Duty-Free Shopping
Passengers can shop for luxury items including perfume, alcohol, cigarettes, and Jordanian souvenirs at duty-free stores, in addition to bookstores and fashion outlets.
Airport Lounges
Exclusive first-class lounges are available for premium passengers, while economy travelers can access lounges for approximately $39 USD. Lounges feature:
- Comfortable seating areas
- Private showers
- Quiet spaces for relaxation
Free Wi-Fi and Mobile Charging
Queen Alia Airport offers free Wi-Fi for the first four hours of your stay, with an option to reconnect for another free session.
Phone charging stations are also available throughout the terminal.
Nearby Hotels
If you arrive late at night, several hotels near Queen Alia International Airport provide easy accommodation. The Amman Airport Hotel, just five minutes away by a free shuttle, is ideal for short stays. However, these hotels are quite distant from central Amman and not recommended for longer visits.
Airport Spa
Travelers looking to relax can visit the Bloom Spa located in the airport’s north pier — the perfect place to unwind before a long flight.
Flights from Queen Alia Airport to Aqaba
For those wishing to explore more of Jordan, domestic flights from Queen Alia Airport to Aqaba take only 55 minutes, making it easy to enjoy the Red Sea’s beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
Final Thoughts
Queen Alia International Airport in Amman is a traveler-friendly hub offering excellent transport connections to the city center and top-tier airport facilities. Whether you’re arriving in Jordan or continuing your journey to Aqaba, QAIA provides everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
