Jericho / West Bank (Israel) & King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) Border Crossing

A Crossing to the West Bank

Important Note for Travelers: This is not an official international border crossing. It is the only designated crossing point for Palestinians between the West Bank and Jordan and is a highly controlled and politically sensitive checkpoint. It is subject to frequent closures and changes in procedure. Expect extremely thorough and potentially lengthy security checks. It is absolutely essential to consult official government sources and your own country’s travel advisories before planning any travel.

The border crossing known as the King Hussein Bridge in Jordan and the Allenby Bridge in Israel is the main crossing point between Jordan and the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This is not a border between two states, but a complex and heavily controlled passage that is a central part of the daily reality of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. To cross here is to travel a route of immense political and historical significance, a journey across the Jordan River from the Kingdom of Jordan into the Palestinian territories. It is a crossing defined by its unique political status, its meticulous security procedures, and its role as the primary gateway to the world for the Palestinians of the West Bank.

Operational Details

This checkpoint connects the Balqa Governorate of Jordan with the Jericho Governorate of the Palestinian Authority. The crossing is controlled by Israeli authorities, though it has a Jordanian and a Palestinian presence. It operates with limited hours and is often closed on weekends and holidays. It is essential to check the current schedule. The crossing is open to international tourists and to Palestinians. It is important to note that Israeli citizens are not allowed to use this crossing. The facility is large, but the process is notoriously slow and can be very crowded.

A History of a Contested River

The history of this crossing is the history of the conflict over the land. The original Allenby Bridge was built by the British during World War I. After the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, the West Bank was controlled by Jordan. The bridge was the main link between the two banks of the kingdom. During the 1967 Six-Day War, the bridge was destroyed, and Israel captured the West Bank. A temporary bridge was later built, and the crossing became the main point of passage between the occupied territories and the Arab world. It has been a place of constant tension and a key point in all subsequent peace negotiations.

The Complex Border Procedure

The border crossing procedure is a complex, multi-stage, and often very slow process. You will first complete exit formalities at the Jordanian checkpoint, which includes paying a Jordanian exit tax. You will then take a mandatory shuttle bus across the bridge to the Israeli terminal. Here, you will undergo a rigorous and meticulous security and immigration check by Israeli authorities. This can involve detailed questioning about your travel plans, your background, and your reasons for visiting. You will need a valid passport. Be aware that an Israeli entry permit from this crossing is for the West Bank and Israel; it is not a stamp. An Israeli exit stamp from here will show that you have been in the occupied territories, which may be relevant for travel to some other countries.

The Surrounding Region: Jordan Side

On the Jordanian side, the crossing is in the southern Jordan Valley. The main attraction of the region is the Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan,” a UNESCO World Heritage site where Jesus is believed to have been baptized by John the Baptist. The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, with its incredibly salty water and mineral-rich mud, is also a short drive away. The road from the border leads up the mountains to the capital city, Amman.

The Surrounding Region: West Bank/Israel Side

On the Israeli/West Bank side, the crossing is the gateway to the ancient city of Jericho, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The area is rich in archaeological and religious sites, including the Mount of Temptation and Hisham’s Palace. The crossing is the main entry point for travelers heading to the major Palestinian cities of Ramallah, Nablus, and Bethlehem, as well as to the holy city of Jerusalem. The journey from the crossing to Jerusalem takes about an hour.

Practical Travel Information

Practical planning is absolutely essential for this route. You must have all your documents in perfect order. The official currencies are the Jordanian Dinar (JOD) in Jordan and the Israeli Shekel (ILS) in the West Bank and Israel. Be prepared to pay the Jordanian exit tax and the fee for the mandatory shuttle bus. Private cars are generally not allowed to cross; most travelers cross as foot passengers and take taxis or service buses on the other side. Be prepared for a significant change in security atmosphere and a long, potentially stressful day of travel.

Final Considerations

The King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge is more than just a border crossing; it is a central feature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is a place of immense political weight and a daily reality for the millions of Palestinians for whom it is the only gateway to the outside world. For the traveler, it is a formal and meticulous process, a passage that requires patience and an understanding of the complex political context. It is a bridge that connects two peoples, a journey across the sacred Jordan River into a land of profound history, faith, and ongoing conflict.