Public transportation in Amman is a vibrant and bustling system that is as diverse as the city itself. The city offers a variety of public transportation options including buses, taxis, and a service known as the service taxi or “servees”. The bus system is run by the Greater Amman Municipality and includes a network of large buses and smaller minibuses. Taxis are a common sight in Amman, with yellow taxis being the most common and green taxis offering a shared service. The “servees” is a unique form of transportation that operates like a shared taxi, picking up and dropping off passengers along a specific route.
Buses
The bus system in Amman is a popular choice for locals and expats alike. The large buses are run by the Greater Amman Municipality and cover a wide range of routes throughout the city. The smaller minibuses, often referred to as “coasters”, operate on more specific routes and can be a quicker option for shorter distances. The buses in Amman are generally safe to use, even at night, and are a cost-effective way to get around the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and the routes can be confusing for newcomers. A single bus ride costs around 0.35 JOD (approximately 0.50 USD).
Taxis
Taxis are a common sight in Amman and are a convenient way to get around the city. Yellow taxis are the most common and can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. They are metered, so the fare is determined by the distance traveled. Green taxis, on the other hand, offer a shared service and follow a specific route, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way. They are a cheaper option, but can be less convenient as they only operate on specific routes. Taxis in Amman are generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.
Servees
The “servees” is a unique form of public transportation in Amman. It operates like a shared taxi, picking up and dropping off passengers along a specific route. The servees is a popular choice for locals as it is a cheap and efficient way to get around the city. However, it can be confusing for newcomers as the routes are not always clearly marked and the vehicles can be crowded. Despite this, the servees is a safe option for getting around Amman and offers a unique insight into local life.
So, could an expat live comfortably in Amman without a car? The answer is yes. The public transportation system in Amman is extensive and affordable, making it possible to get around the city without a car. However, it’s worth noting that the system can be confusing for newcomers and can be crowded during peak hours. Therefore, it might take some time to get used to the system and to figure out the best routes for your needs. But once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll find that getting around Amman without a car is not only possible, but also a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
