# Canadian Travel Advisory Update: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About Jordan in 2026
If you’re an Ottawa resident planning a trip to explore Petra’s ancient wonders or float in the Dead Sea, you need to read the latest travel advisory issued by the Canadian government on March 31, 2026. Jordan is now under a **Level 3 advisory — Avoid Non-Essential Travel** — due to significant regional security concerns that could affect your safety.
## What Has Changed?
The Government of Canada has escalated its warning for Jordan due to the risk of falling military debris from intercepted projectiles, potential airspace closures, and heightened regional tensions. The security situation is fluid and could deteriorate rapidly without warning. While commercial flights are currently operating, they may become limited on very short notice.
Certain areas carry even greater risks. The government advises avoiding all travel within 5 km of the Iraqi and Syrian borders (except the tourist site of Umm Qais), all areas east of Ruwaished in northeastern Jordan, and exercising caution near refugee camps due to unpredictable security situations.
## Understanding the Real Risks
Beyond the immediate military concerns, Ottawa travellers should understand that land border crossings with Israel and Palestine may close suddenly or operate on reduced schedules due to ongoing hostilities in the region. This could impact your planned itinerary or exit strategy.
Emergency services and medical facilities may be stretched thin or difficult to access, particularly in areas experiencing military activity. Being prepared with proper vaccinations and preventive medications becomes even more critical when evacuation or emergency medical care might be compromised.
## Essential Preparation Steps
If you must travel to Jordan despite the advisory, comprehensive preparation is non-negotiable. Start by registering with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive real-time updates specific to your location.
From a health perspective, ensure you’re up to date on all routine vaccinations and Jordan-specific immunizations. Depending on your itinerary, you may need vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. Given the uncertain security environment, having the right medications for traveler’s diarrhea, a well-stocked medical kit, and prescriptions with documentation is essential.
## Professional Guidance Matters
In volatile situations like this, generic travel advice isn’t enough. A proper pre-travel health consultation helps Ottawa travellers understand not just which vaccines they need, but also how to manage health risks when medical infrastructure may be compromised. Your travel health professional can advise on water safety, food precautions, and emergency protocols tailored to current conditions.
Consider whether your trip is truly essential. If it is, don’t cut corners on preparation — your health and safety depend on it.
Travelling to Jordan? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.