If you’re planning a trip to Amman around Christmas, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Jordan’s winter. Daytime temperatures usually sit around 10–16°C (50–60°F), while nights get much cooler and can dip close to 5°C (41°F). Freezing temperatures are rare, but the evening chill makes a warm jacket a must.
Rain shows up more often in December, so don’t be surprised if you get a few wet days. Amman also gets just over ten hours of daylight, so you’ll want to factor that in when planning sightseeing or holiday outings.
This combination of mild days, cool nights, and occasional rain brings a calm winter vibe—so different from Jordan’s fiery summers. If you know what to expect, you can really enjoy comfortable walks through Amman’s lively streets or explore its historic landmarks during Christmas.
Typical Christmas Weather in Amman
Amman’s Christmas weather brings cool winter conditions, with mild afternoons, chilly evenings, and a decent chance of rain. Temperatures shift fast from day to night, so it’s smart to prepare for changes.
Average Temperatures During Christmas
In late December, Amman’s daytime highs usually land between 10°C and 15°C (50°F–59°F). These temps make afternoons great for walking tours or checking out outdoor sites.
The air cools off sharply at night. Lows often hit 3°C to 8°C (37°F–46°F), sometimes dropping close to freezing. You’ll want to pack layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Compared to warmer spots like Aqaba, Amman feels much colder. Rain comes more often too, with December averaging 60–100 mm of precipitation, making it one of the wetter months.
Daytime and Nighttime Conditions
Daytimes in Amman around Christmas feel crisp but pretty pleasant. Sunshine sometimes breaks through the clouds, but short rain showers are common too. You get about 10 hours of daylight, which is plenty for exploring the city.
Once the sun goes down, things turn much colder. Temperatures fall quickly, and the damp air can bite more than you’d expect. A medium or heavy jacket, plus gloves or a scarf, will keep you comfortable outside.
Nights get quiet and chilly, with lows sometimes near 2°C (36°F). Snow rarely falls, but it can happen if a cold front rolls in. It’s worth checking forecasts often, since weather can change fast late in the year.
Weather Patterns in Late December
Late December sits right in the middle of Amman’s winter. You’ll see rain more frequently, usually as light showers, but sometimes storms hit. Humidity stays between 60% and 80%, which gives the air a damp, cool feel.
Temperature swings are common. You might get a mild afternoon near 15°C (59°F), then face a cold evening closer to 3°C (37°F). Dressing in layers just makes sense.
Fog or mist sometimes shows up in the mornings after rain, especially in higher areas. This can cut visibility, but usually clears up by midday, leaving you with better skies for sightseeing.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
December brings cooler weather and noticeably more rain compared to Amman’s dry summers. Rain doesn’t fall every day, but when it does, it’s often concentrated and could change your plans.
Rainfall Amounts and Frequency
Amman usually gets 40–60 mm of rain in December. That’s wetter than most other months, especially compared to the long, dry summers.
You can expect about 7 to 9 rainy days in December. Showers are usually brief but can get heavy. Rain tends to come in bursts, so conditions might switch up quickly during the day.
Amman’s steppe climate means rain isn’t always evenly spread. Some years bring more precipitation, others are pretty dry. If you’re planning outdoor activities, it’s smart to stay flexible since rain can show up suddenly.
Possibility of Snowfall
Snow doesn’t show up often in Amman in December, but it’s not impossible. The city sits at about 850–1,000 meters elevation, so cold snaps happen more than in other parts of Jordan.
When snow does fall, it’s usually just a little and melts fast. Bigger snowfalls tend to wait until January or February.
Still, you should prepare for chilly nights and maybe even frost. Heavy snow during Christmas is unlikely, but a light dusting can happen during colder years.
Humidity Levels in December
Amman’s December humidity sits at a moderate level compared to coastal areas. You’ll usually see 60% to 70% relative humidity, depending on recent rain.
Mornings and evenings feel cooler and a bit more humid, but afternoons dry out. The air is generally comfortable, though a breeze can make it feel brisk.
Humidity rarely gets oppressive, thanks to the steppe climate. Indoors, you might notice it’s a bit higher if heaters are running, but outdoor conditions stay manageable for most travelers.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
In late December, Amman’s days are short and sunshine is limited compared to those endless summer days. The amount of daylight you get can really affect how you plan your outings.
Average Daily Sunshine
December brings some of the lowest sunshine levels of the year to Amman. You’ll get about 6 hours of sunshine per day, which is less than half of what you’d see in July.
Shorter days and more clouds mean less sun during winter. The sun sits lower in the sky, so the light feels softer.
If you compare Amman to places like London, though, it’s actually relatively bright—London sometimes gets less than 2 hours of sunshine per day in December. So, Amman isn’t too gloomy for a winter spot.
Length of Daylight in December
Daylight in Amman during December is pretty short. Around Christmas, the day length averages 10 hours, with sunrise around 6:30–7:00 a.m. and sunset before 5:00 p.m.
Evenings arrive quickly, so plan your outdoor sightseeing for midday when the sun is out. Shorter days also mean cooler temperatures, especially after sunset.
Compared to summer’s nearly 14-hour days, the difference is pretty striking. If you want to make the most of the light, plan ahead.
Daily Weather Variations
Christmas weather in Amman tends to shift between cool, damp mornings and milder afternoons, with colder evenings and nights. These changes affect what you wear and when you head out.
Morning and Afternoon Weather
Mornings usually start out at 5°C to 10°C (41°F–50°F). The air feels crisp, and you might get light fog or clouds. If you’re heading out early, you’ll want a jacket or sweater.
By midday, the sun often comes out and temperatures climb to 12°C–15°C (54°F–59°F). Rain is possible, but showers are usually light and scattered. Streets might still be damp from earlier rain.
You get about 10 hours of daylight, so afternoons are your best bet for sightseeing. The sun sits low, but you’ll still get several hours of brightness. UV levels are moderate, so sunglasses can help even in winter.
If you’re planning to visit outdoor sites like the Citadel or Roman Theater, afternoons offer the most comfortable weather. Wind is usually light to moderate, but open areas can feel colder.
Evening and Nighttime Climate
After sunset, temperatures drop fast, often reaching 3°C–6°C (37°F–43°F). Nights feel much colder than the day, so layering is your friend if you’re staying out.
Rain chances go up a bit in the evening, with cloudy skies pretty common. Streets can get slick, so you’ll want to watch your step at night.
Most hotels and restaurants have indoor heating, but older buildings might feel chilly. If you’re out late for dinner or a stroll, bring a heavier coat.
Clear nights do happen, and when the sky is open, the air feels drier and even colder. City lights look great, but gloves or a scarf help you stay warm.
What to Wear and Packing Tips
December in Amman brings cool days, colder nights, and rain that shows up more than you might expect. You’ll want clothes that keep you warm, comfortable, and fit in with local customs. Waterproof layers and good shoes really make a difference.
Recommended Clothing for December
Daytime temperatures usually stay between 10°C and 15°C (50°F–59°F), but nights can get close to freezing. Pack long pants, sweaters, and long-sleeved tops as basics. These keep you comfortable whether you’re in the city or at outdoor attractions.
Jordan tends to be conservative, so it’s best to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Women might find scarves handy for warmth and when visiting religious sites. Men should skip shorts in the city, especially in winter.
Bring comfortable walking shoes that can handle wet pavement. Waterproof shoes are best since December often brings steady rain. Wool socks help keep your feet warm on cold nights.
Don’t forget accessories. A warm hat, gloves, and a scarf make chilly mornings and evenings much easier. Even in winter, sunglasses and sunscreen are useful—the sun can be bright.
Layering and Outerwear Advice
With temperatures swinging between mild and cold, layering is the way to go. Start with a breathable shirt, add a sweater or fleece, then top it with a jacket. You can adjust as the weather changes.
A medium to heavy jacket is essential. Pick one that’s waterproof or at least water-resistant, since December is one of Amman’s wetter months. A hooded jacket helps when sudden showers hit.
If you plan to spend time outside in the evenings or visit higher elevations near Amman, pack thermal underlayers. These are especially handy if temperatures get close to freezing.
Keep your outerwear practical. A jacket with pockets lets you carry gloves, your phone, or maps without a bag. That’s just easier when it’s wet or windy outside.
How Christmas Weather Affects Visiting Amman
December weather in Amman means cool days, colder nights, and a higher chance of rain. These conditions will shape your activities and what you need to pack.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
Daytime temperatures usually run between 10–15°C (50–59°F), so walking tours and visiting sites like the Amman Citadel or Roman Theater are much more pleasant than in summer. You’ll probably find fewer crowds, so you can enjoy landmarks with a bit more space.
Rain is pretty common, with totals between 60–100 mm for the month. Showers might interrupt your plans, so keep a waterproof jacket handy and have some indoor options, like museums or galleries, as backups.
Evenings and nights get colder, often dropping to 3–8°C (37–46°F). If you’re heading out to Petra or Jerash, dress in layers and bring warm accessories like gloves and scarves. Occasional foggy mornings can slow things down, so give yourself extra time when moving between sites.
Travel Considerations During December
Cooler, wetter weather really changes how you get ready for a trip. You’ll want to bring layered clothing since temperatures can swing from mild in the afternoon to downright chilly at night.
A medium-weight, waterproof jacket helps. Comfortable walking shoes? Absolutely, especially if you plan to explore a lot.
Rain tends to slow down traffic in Amman. You might need to leave earlier than usual if you’re catching a taxi or using public transport.
If you’re driving, double-check that your car handles wet roads. It’s not fun to get caught off guard by a sudden downpour.
Humidity usually sits at 60–80%, so the air feels pretty damp. That chill can sneak up on you, making it feel colder than the thermometer says.
Pack clothes that keep you warm even if it’s damp outside. Snow doesn’t happen often, but it’s not impossible, so maybe check the forecast before heading out for a day trip.