Ben Gurion shutdown: Travelers turning to Jordan border crossing

With Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv currently closed, many travelers in Israel are left stranded, unable to depart the country. The timeline for the airport’s reopening remains uncertain and will largely depend on the ongoing conflict with Iran.

However, there is a viable alternative for those needing to leave Israel: traveling overland to Jordan.

Travelers can head south to the Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba border crossing, which connects Israel and Jordan near the city of Eilat. This land border is currently open and operational.

Once across the border into Jordan, it is possible to hire a taxi or private transfer from Aqaba to Amman, Jordan’s capital. The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and checkpoint conditions.

From Amman, travelers can fly out of Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA), which continues to operate international flights without disruption.

The estimated total travel time from Tel Aviv to Amman by road (including border procedures and transfers) is approximately 9 hours. It’s advised to check border crossing hours in advance and ensure all travel documents are in order.

This route provides a practical exit solution during the current aviation shutdown in Israel and is being used by both tourists and foreign nationals.