Cannabis, also called marijuana, is one of the most talked-about plants in the world. Did you know that over 200 million people use cannabis globally? But laws about it vary widely. In Jordan, a country in the Middle East with a population of 11 million, cannabis remains a hot topic. Many people wonder: Can you use, grow, or sell cannabis here without breaking the law? Let’s explore the facts, laws, and future of cannabis in Jordan.
Is Cannabis Legal in Jordan? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is illegal in Jordan for recreational, medical, or industrial use as of 2025. The country has strict anti-drug laws, and breaking them can lead to heavy fines, jail time, or both. Jordan adheres to Islamic principles and international drug control treaties. Because of this, using or trading cannabis is a crime.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis use is fully banned in Jordan. Even small amounts for personal use can lead to arrest. In 2023, Jordan’s Anti-Narcotics Department said that 85% of drug arrests were for cannabis. Possession of any quantity is treated as a crime.
2. Medicinal Use
Medicinal cannabis is not legal in Jordan. Jordan does not permit cannabis use for pain, epilepsy, or other conditions, unlike France, Italy, or Australia.
CBD oil, which does not cause a high, is sometimes available with special permits. It is rare and tightly controlled.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (a cannabis plant with low THC) is illegal to grow or sell in Jordan. The government fears it could be misused for drug production. This blocks farmers from using hemp for eco-friendly products like textiles or biofuels.
Cannabis Law and Control in Jordan
1. How Jordan Applies Cannabis Laws
Jordan enforces cannabis laws through police checks, border controls, and undercover operations. In 2023, authorities seized more than 2.5 tons of cannabis, the Public Security Directorate reported.
First-time offenders may face up to 2 years in jail for possession. Repeat offenders or those caught selling cannabis risk 5–15 years in prison.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite strict laws, Jordan’s illegal cannabis market is growing. A 2024 UN report revealed that 12% of young adults in Jordan have used cannabis. This cannabis is often smuggled from nearby countries. Gangs sell it secretly in cities like Amman and Irbid, charging $10–$20 per gram.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Jordan
1. Recreational Drug Use
Cannabis is the second most-used illegal drug in Jordan after Captagon (a stimulant). A 2024 survey by Jordan University found that 8% of males aged 18–25 admitted to trying cannabis. Most users say they do it for fun or to cope with stress.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Doctors warn that cannabis can harm mental health. Jordan’s Health Ministry says that 15% of rehab patients are there for cannabis addiction. Regular use is linked to anxiety, memory loss, and paranoia, especially in teens.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Jordan misses out on the $4.9 billion global hemp market by banning industrial cannabis. Farmers say that legalizing hemp could create jobs. It might also help cut down on imports, such as cotton. However, the government remains cautious.
Cannabis Cultivation in Jordan
Growing cannabis is illegal in Jordan. The dry climate makes farming hard. Still, some hidden farms thrive in the Jordan Valley. Police destroyed 1,200 cannabis plants in 2023. Farmers caught growing cannabis face 3–10 years in prison, even if they claim it’s for personal use.
Cannabis Penalties in Jordan
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Up to 2 years in jail or a $700 fine. |
| Trafficking | 5–15 years in prison, and fines up to $14,000. |
| Growing | 3–5 years in jail. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Jordan
Jordan’s government shows no signs of legalizing cannabis soon. Religious and cultural values strongly oppose drug use.
However, activists argue that regulated medical cannabis could help patients and boost the economy.
With nearby Lebanon legalizing medical cannabis in 2020, Jordan may face pressure to rethink its policies—but change is unlikely before 2030.
Cannabis is illegal in Jordan for any purpose, and penalties are harsh. While global trends shift toward legalization, Jordan prioritizes strict drug control.
For now, residents and visitors should avoid cannabis to stay safe. Always check updated laws, as rules can change over time!
