Dead Sea | Jordan

The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel/the West Bank to the west. At approximately 430 meters (1,410 feet) below sea level, it is the lowest point on the Earth’s land surface. It is famous for its extreme salinity (roughly 34%), which allows humans to float effortlessly but prevents all macroscopic life from surviving.

Historical & Biblical Context

Inhabited since the 9th millennium BCE, the region is central to Abrahamic history. It is the traditional site of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Nearby caves (Qumran) housed the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the area served as a refuge for King David and a luxury retreat for Herod the Great.

Environmental Crisis (2026 Status)

The Dead Sea is currently in a state of rapid regression, dropping at a rate of approximately 1.1 to 1.2 meters per year.

Causes: Massive water diversion from its primary source, the Jordan River, and mineral extraction (potash and bromine) by industrial plants on both shores.

Sinkholes: Over 7,000 sinkholes have appeared along the coast as freshwater dissolves underground salt layers left behind by the receding sea. This has led to the closure of several public beaches and damaged infrastructure.

Prognosis: Models suggest it will reach a new "steady state" at -550 meters in 100–150 years, losing about 25% of its current surface area.

Tourism & Logistics

Resort Zone (Sowayma): The northern Jordanian shore is lined with high-end luxury resorts. Top properties include:

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar: Known for the most extensive spa facilities.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa: Features traditional stone architecture.

Hilton & Marriott: Standard luxury beach access.

Public Access: Most travelers use "Day Passes" (JOD 20–50) at resorts to access private beaches, mud pits, and showers, as public beaches are becoming increasingly difficult to access due to the receding shoreline.

Transportation: 50 km (1 hour) from Amman. Accessible via the Dead Sea Highway. No train service; private car or tourist bus is required.

Health & Safety

UV Protection: The high atmospheric pressure at this depth naturally filters out many harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, though sunscreen is still advised.

Floating Safety: Do not splash; the water is caustic to the eyes. Do not drink the water, as it can cause internal chemical burns.

Wound Care: Even tiny cuts will sting intensely due to the salt concentration.

Key Landmarks & Day Trips

Wadi Mujib: Often called the "Grand Canyon of Jordan," offering canyoning and trekking in a river that flows into the Dead Sea.

Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan): Located at the northern tip, believed to be the site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.

Ma’in Hot Springs: Thermal waterfalls located in the mountains overlooking the sea.

Mount Nebo: 15 minutes away, where Moses allegedly saw the Promised Land.

Local Cost Index (2026)

Resort Day Pass: JOD 25.00–45.00

Private Taxi from Amman (Return): JOD 40.00–50.00

Jar of Dead Sea Mud: JOD 5.00–10.00

Facts & Legends

The air around the Dead Sea contains 8% more oxygen than air at sea level and has high concentrations of bromine, known for its calming effect on the nervous system. A verified historical oddity is that the ancient Egyptians used bitumen (asphalt) harvested from the Dead Sea's surface for mummification. Local legend identifies a specific rock formation on the southern shore as Lot’s Wife, turned into a pillar of salt.