How long does it take to walk Abdali Boulevard?

The walk through the Boulevard itself takes about 15-20 minutes. However, if you include the Mall and surrounding architecture, the entire neighborhood stroll takes about 60-90 minutes.

Is Abdali Boulevard worth visiting?

Yes, it is worth visiting for its contrast to historic Amman. It offers a modern, pedestrian-friendly environment with international dining, high-end shopping, and the city's tallest architecture.

Can I walk to Abdali from the Citadel?

While technically possible, it is a long, uphill walk of about 3-4 kilometers through heavy traffic. It is much better to take a quick taxi to the Parliament and begin your walking route there.

What is the tallest building in Jordan?

The Amman Rotana is the tallest building in Jordan, standing 188 meters tall. It is a central landmark of the Abdali district and marks the end of this walking route.

Are there public toilets in Abdali?

Yes, there are high-quality public restrooms located inside the Abdali Mall. Additionally, most cafes and restaurants along the Boulevard provide facilities for customers.

Is the Abdali district accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, Abdali is one of the most accessible parts of Amman. It features flat paved surfaces, wide sidewalks, and modern elevators, making it ideal for wheelchair users and strollers.

What is the best time to visit Abdali?

The best time is late afternoon or early evening. This allows you to appreciate the architecture in daylight and then see the Boulevard come alive with lights and crowds as the sun sets.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 15 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Amman is a city of layers, where ancient Roman ruins sit just miles away from futuristic glass skyscrapers. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the newest layer of the Jordanian capital: the Abdali district. Known as the 'New Downtown,' Abdali is a multi-billion dollar master-planned neighborhood that has fundamentally shifted the city's skyline. This neighborhood stroll provides a fascinating look at how Amman is reinventing itself for the 21st century, moving away from the traditional limestone hills toward a high-tech, pedestrian-friendly urban core. Your journey begins at the civic heart of the country, the Parliament of Jordan, before leading you into a world of award-winning architecture and luxury lifestyle hubs. You will discover the sustainable design of the Abdali Mall, the vibrant energy of the pedestrian-only Boulevard, and the sheer scale of the Amman Rotana, the tallest building in the country. This walking route is perfect for those interested in urban planning, modern architecture, or simply looking for a more polished, contemporary side of Jordanian life. Along the way, you can explore independently, stopping for a coffee at a trendy cafe or browsing high-end international brands. While the historic Citadel offers a glimpse into the past, this walking tour Amman experience provides a window into Jordan's ambitious future. It is a stark, exciting contrast to the winding alleys of the old Balad, showing that Amman is a city that never stops evolving. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The legislative heart of Jordan at the Parliament building
Award-winning sustainable architecture at the Abdali Mall
A walk through The Boulevard, Amman's premier pedestrian promenade
Views of the Amman Rotana, the tallest skyscraper in Jordan
Modern urban design and luxury business centers

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Parliament of Jordan

Start exploring at the Parliament of Jordan, the legislative center of the Hashemite Kingdom. This building houses both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. Architecturally, it represents the formal, administrative side of the city, acting as a bridge between the older government districts and the ultra-modern Abdali development. Historically, this area was a military camp, but the relocation of the Parliament here signaled a new chapter for the neighborhood. As you stand outside, notice the blend of traditional Jordanian stone with modern, clean lines. This site is the anchor of the district, where the nation's political decisions meet the city's most ambitious urban expansion project.

2

Al Abdali Hospital

While a hospital might seem like an unusual stop, Al Abdali Hospital is a cornerstone of the district's 'city within a city' concept. It is a multi-specialty center that showcases the high-tech infrastructure integrated into this new neighborhood. The building's sleek, glass-heavy design is a departure from the traditional medical facilities found elsewhere in the city. It represents the 'wellness' pillar of the Abdali master plan, ensuring that this new downtown is not just for shopping and business, but a fully functional urban environment. The architecture here emphasizes light and transparency, mirroring the modern aesthetic of the surrounding business centers.

3

Abdali Mall

The Abdali Mall is much more than a shopping destination; it is an architectural landmark designed with sustainability in mind. Notice the unique, wave-like facade and the massive open-air spaces that use natural ventilation to keep the interior cool. The mall features a waterfall and a series of terraced gardens, blending nature with retail. It was designed to feel like an extension of the street rather than a closed box. Inside, you'll find a mix of international brands and local boutiques. The design has won several awards for its innovative approach to urban retail, making it a central hub for the modern Jordanian lifestyle.

4

Abdali Boulevard

Welcome to The Boulevard, a 370-meter long pedestrian-only promenade flanked by twelve buildings. This is the social heart of modern Amman. This area often hosts seasonal festivals, outdoor markets, and live music events, so the atmosphere can change depending on when you visit. The ground floors are lined with high-end cafes and restaurants, while the upper floors house luxury apartments and offices. It is one of the few places in Amman where you can walk for a long distance without worrying about traffic. Take a moment to appreciate the urban canyon effect created by the uniform height of the surrounding buildings, designed to feel like a modern European plaza.

5

Gateway Business Center

As you move toward the end of the Boulevard, you encounter the Gateway business center. This area highlights the commercial ambition of the Abdali project. These glass towers are home to multinational corporations, banks, and tech startups, marking Amman as a growing regional hub for business. The 'Gateway' name is literal; these buildings serve as the entrance to the denser business district of the project. The sharp angles and reflective surfaces are a photographer's dream, especially during the 'golden hour' when the setting sun hits the glass. It is a symbol of the corporate energy that drives the new downtown.

6

Amman Rotana

Your walk concludes at the Amman Rotana, the tallest building in Jordan. Standing at 188 meters with 50 floors, its tower design is inspired by the shape of a sail or a narrowing blade. It is a feat of modern engineering and a permanent fixture in the city's new skyline. The building houses a luxury hotel and private residences, offering some of the best views in the Middle East. Standing at its base gives you a true sense of the scale of the Abdali project. From here, you are perfectly positioned to grab a drink at one of the hotel's high-altitude lounges or head back into the Boulevard for dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through Abdali is the best way to see the district. You should focus on the route starting at the Parliament, moving through the Abdali Mall, and ending at the Amman Rotana skyscraper.