Jordan Halal Travel Guide: Islamic History of the Prophets and Sahaba

Yes, we know, Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with readily-available halal food options. But did you also know that Jordan is home to a rich Islamic history of the prophets and sahaba? Prophets such as Musa (Moses), Harun (Aaron), Shuaib (Jethro), Ayyub (Job), Yusha (Yeshua) (peace be upon them) – to name only a few – have marked sites in Jordan where they once lived, worked or passed away. And since Jordan is the site of one of the first battles that took place between the early Muslim community and the Byzantine Empire, several sahaba (close companions of The Prophet ﷺ) are also buried here. We’ve compiled this information for you in an easy, accessible 7-day itinerary of Jordan, in this halal travel guide that connects you with the Islamic history of the prophets and sahaba.

Beyond the iconic Petra, Jordan offers a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. For Muslims, this land is steeped in history and offers a profound spiritual journey, connecting you with the stories of prophets and sahaba. With its predominantly Muslim population, travelling in Jordan as a fellow Muslim brings an added layer of comfort, as your needs are thoughtfully catered to – from culinary preferences to convenient places of prayer.

This comprehensive Jordan halal travel guide aims to inspire you to make a trip to Jordan, where you can connect with stories of the prophets and sahaba who once graced this very land. At the same time, you can enjoy the popular highlights of Jordan, including Petra, Wadi Rum and of course, kunafeh.

If you’ve been looking for a comprehensive itinerary and halal travel guide to help you plan your trip to Jordan, you’re on the right page!

Jordan Halal Travel Guide: Prophets and Sahaba History

Day 1- Arrival and Explore Amman

Amman Citadel
Roman Theatre

Welcome to Jordan, and welcome to Amman International Airport! This airport is also known as Queen Alia International Airport, named after the queen of Jordan and the wife of King Hussein, Queen Alia.

Depending on your passport, you can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. This is possible for UK, US, EU, Malay and Singaporean passport holders, among others.

If you arrive in Amman when the sun is still up, you are lucky because you have time to explore the city. For those who cannot wait to explore the history here, start with a visit to Amman Citadel—located on top of Jebel Al Qala’a, a hill in Amman. You can see the whole city from this landmark, including the Roman Theatre.

Day 2 – In The Blessed Footsteps of The Prophets

As-Salt City
The burial grounds of Prophet Shuaib (Jethro), Prophet Yusha (Joshua), and Prophet Ayyub (Job)

Did you know that in Jordan, numerous prophets and companions of the Prophet (SAW) have lived, worked and also passed away? Most itineraries of Jordan focus on touristic spots, missing these historical sites. However, this Jordan Halal Travel Guide is designed to help you delve deeper, enabling you to uncover incredible stories of those who once lived here, many of whom are mentioned in the Quran.

Since you’re starting in Amman, you’re already in a great location to learn more about these great historical figures.

The ancient city of Al Salt, Jordan, is less than one hour’s drive from the capital, Amman. Photo: Ahmad Qaisieh/Unsplash

Today, you can walk on the very same land where some of the most blessed people have lived. Take yourself a few miles northwest of Amman, where lies the ancient town of As-Salt. Built on three mountains (the Cadital, Gadaa and Salalem), it is surrounded by the city square. As-Salt is enclosed by breathtaking views, which is a beautiful contrast to some of the westernised sites of Amman.

As-Salt is thought to have been built by Alexander the Great’s army over 300 years before the birth of Isa (Jesus) peace be upon him. In and around Salt, many significant figures in Islamic history – along with Judeo-Christian traditions- once lived. Prophet Shuaib (Jethro), Prophet Yusha (Joshua), and Prophet Ayyub (Job) all have marked burial grounds that you can visit today. Also, you can see the final resting places of some of the closest companions to the Prophet ﷺ and learn more about their lives and stories.
Please note that places like maqam Shuaib (below) are not actually burial sites. The place of his (peace be upon him)’s burial is not actually known. This is a site that is there to acknowledge and commemorate that he lived, worked and passed away in this area. The valley where this is located is itself named after him, ‘Wadi Shuaib’.

Maqam Prophet Shuaib in Jordan Halal Travel Guide

Mosque and tomb of Abu Ubayda Amir bin Al-Jarrah Jordan Halal Travel Guide

Note: You can go to As-Salt by joining a tour group. Also, you can rent a car if that’s more convenient for you. Do keep in mind that you might need an International Driver’s License. Moreover, an International Driver’s license must be accompanied by your original domestic driving license. Otherwise, the rental company may not accept your booking.

Day 3 – Kahf al Raqeem, also known as ‘The Cave of The Seven Sleepers’

The cave of the seven sleepers
Mount Nebo
Kerak

10 km east of Amman lies Kahf al Raqeem, also known as the Cave of the Seven Sleepers. Mentioned in both the Quran and Christian historical texts, this is believed to be the cave where a group of pious youths once took refuge from a despotic Roman ruler persecuting anyone who believed in the one god. They fled to the cave to seek refuge from being killed, where they were blessed with their miracle. They slept for more than 300 years, and when they finally woke, monotheism was widespread. If you book your visit with a tour group, you’ll be able to hear this story in more detail while standing inside the cave.

“Some will say, “They were three, their dog was the fourth,” while others will say, “They were five, their dog was the sixth,” ˹only˺ guessing blindly. And others will say, “They were seven and their dog was the eighth.” Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “My Lord knows best their ˹exact˺ number. Only a few people know as well.” So do not argue about them except with sure knowledge,1 nor consult any of those ˹who debate˺ about them.”
Quran 18:22

The entrance of the cave of seven sleepers Jordan Halal Travel Guide

Once you are done visiting the cave, you can explore the next site, one of the most revered sites in Jordan, Mount Nebo. This place is believed to be where Prophet Musa once stood overlooking the Jordan River towards Palestine. Although it’s not certain whether he did instead stand here, Mount Nebo is still a breathtaking place to visit. From the top of the mountain, you can see 360 degree panoramic views of the beautiful Jordanian Valley, and as far as the holy city of Jerusalem.

From Mount Nebo, you can head to Kerak to witness the site of the Battle of Mutah; the fiercest battle fought during Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ life. This battle took the lives of his closest companions, who were martyred fighting against a combined Byzantine/Ghassanid army. You’ll visit the tombs of the venerable companions Zaid Ibn Harithah, Ja’far Ibn Abi Talib, and Abdullah Ibn Ruwahah in the town of Al-Mazar Al-Janubi.

Day 4 – Petra, One of The New Seven Wonders

Petra
Mount Haroun

Today you can go south to visit the more than 2000-year-old Nabatean city of Petra. The Nabataeans are industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2,000 years ago. You can admire this old complex that is full of preserved culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels. Additionally, Petra is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new Seven Wonders.

At the beginning of the walking trail to Petra, you’ll see many horse riders who offer their horses to take you to The Treasury. You might also want to check your ticket since there is a ticket option that includes horse riding. Even though the locals manage these horses, we highly encourage you not to use the service because we do not know if the horses are in good condition to carry the weight of humans. Instead, we recommend you to walk or take the electric buggies, which the locals also manage. Therefore, you can still help the locals make money, but in a more sustainable way.

Architectures in Petra Jordan Halal Travel Guide

Besides the Treasury (or Al-Khazneh in Arabic), different architectures exist within this massive complex. Following the path after passing the Treasury, you’ll find Royal Tombs, Theatre, Qasr al-Bint, and the Monastery (or Ad Deir in Arabic). If you head southwards after the Qasr al-Bint, you can go on a hike to the top of Mount Haroun. It’s the highest peak in the Petra region and is believed to be where Prophet Harun passed away over 1200 years ago.

Note: Some of you might hear or believe that it is not permissible to visit Petra. Petra is not considered to be one of the sites of those who were punished, which the Prophet ﷺ advised against visiting. Please research this and we advise that you visit at your own discretion.

Day 5 – Bedouin Adventures

Wadi Rum
Jeep tours, camel rides, or hiking trips
Enjoy sunset on the dunes

Today you can continue your adventure in Wadi Rum, a protected desert reserve in southern Jordan. This desert is also often called as Valley of the Moon. Wadi Rum is well-known for its red sands, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings. Plus, it’s just under a two-hour drive from Petra, so it’s definitely worth your visit!

Ready to explore Jordan?
Join our highly-rated 7 day tour through Amman, Al Salt, Petra and Wadi Rum!

View trip!

You have several options to explore Wadi Rum: by jeep, camel, horse or foot (including climbing and trekking). Jeep tours are the quickest way to see well-known scenic and archaeological sites. You can sign up for a trip usually arranged by local Bedouin cooperatives. Another popular one is camel rides, where you can go in a group but ride the camel individually. Lastly, you can go on hiking trips with Bedouin guides.

After exploring the area, take some time to wait and enjoy the sunset on the dunes and Bedouin tea around the campfire.

Day 6 – Hungry People Street

Explore Jordanian food on Hungry People Street
Try kunafeh from Habibah Sweets

Yes, there’s a place in Jordan nicknamed Hungry People Street because of all the great eateries you can find there. You can travel back to Amman from Wadi Rum in the morning and explore the city at your leisure. Besides history, Amman has a variety of delicious foods: rice, chicken, lamb and many more. Moreover, for those who have a sweet tooth, you don’t want to miss out on kunafeh. Some ingredients to make this traditional Middle Eastern dessert are a spun pastry called kataifi, soaked in sugar-based syrup, and typically layered with cheese. It can come with other ingredients such as clotted cream, pistachio or nuts depending on the region.

The actual name of Hungry People Street is Al-Madina Al-Munawarah, and if you’re lucky enough to stay in one of the hotels here, you’ll find it convenient to walk to one of the HTG team’s personal favourite kunafeh spots – Habibah Sweets.

Day 7 – Farewell

Today is time for you to head home through Queen Alia International Airport.

There you have it, the Jordan Halal Travel Guide for an extraordinary 7-day trip, enabling you to explore the country’s treasures. From delving into prophets’ and sahaba history to immersing yourself in nature and vibrant culture, this journey offers it all.

Additional Note

Since most activities are outdoors, kindly check the weather before purchasing for your trip. Therefore, equip yourself with the proper clothing to maximise your trip enjoyment. Also, bring comfortable footwear as you’ll walk a lot here. It’s advisable to bring a raincoat and hiking boots for exploring Petra, as it is prone to rain showers outside of the summer season.

In terms of flying, you have several options from direct to indirect flights. Let’s say you fly from London, you can opt for Royal Jordanian and British Airways since they fly direct from London to Amman International Airport with prices starting at around £313. Another option, you can fly indirectly from Manchester Airport for £400. Other indirect flights are with Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Austrian.

Feeling inspired to visit Jordan?

If you want to immerse yourself in Jordan’s culture, heritage and Islamic history, we’re happy to share that we organise group tours to Jordan on this very itinerary. this trip is for you! We host multiple departures to Jordan throughout the year. Go check out the Halal Travel Guide trip page and find out if there’s a set of dates that matches your schedule. You can reserve your space on the Spirit of Jordan Tour with only a £60 deposit.

The Author

Assalamu’alaikum, hi!
I’m Gia, the Digital Content Creator of Halal Travel Guide. I’m an Indonesian living in Jakarta. Other than writing (mostly about travel-related topics), I’m also keen on travelling and cooking. My love language is food and I’m a cat person. Hope you enjoy this article! ☺️

Find me on Instagram and TikTok! 👋🏼

September 26, 2023

7 Essential Muslim Travel Apps

Latest

See All

September 19, 2023

Jordan Halal Travel Guide: Islamic History of the Prophets and Sahaba

Jordan Halal Travel Guide: Islamic History of the Prophets and Sahaba

Jordan Halal Travel Guide: Islamic History of the Prophets and Sahaba