This luxury resort on the Dead Sea shores features infinity pools cascading toward the sea, private beach access, and world-class spa facilities. Rooms have balconies overlooking the water, multiple dining options include Italian and Asian cuisine, and the spa uses Dead Sea minerals for treatments.
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea is a five-star luxury resort set on the western shore of the Dead Sea at Sweimeh, approximately 60 kilometres from Amman. The resort draws its name and visual identity from the ancient Babylonian goddess Ishtar, a theme expressed through intricate carved stonework, garden water features, and architectural motifs that run throughout the property. With terraced gardens descending to the water's edge, the resort commands one of the most dramatic vantage points on the Dead Sea's eastern shore.
The resort's 346 rooms and suites are arranged in low-rise wings that step down through the landscaped gardens toward the water. Guestrooms feature private balconies or terraces, sea-facing views in many cases, and marble bathrooms with soaking tubs. Signature suites include multi-room layouts and private plunge pools. The design emphasises natural materials — stone, warm timber, and traditional tilework — in keeping with the region's heritage aesthetic.
Seven dining venues range from Italian cuisine at Saraya to Asian-fusion options, plus an informal pool bar, a patisserie, and a terrace for outdoor dining overlooking the Dead Sea. The all-day dining restaurant serves an extensive international buffet at breakfast and dinner.
The resort's Dead Sea mineral spa is one of the most comprehensive wellness facilities in Jordan. Treatments incorporate Dead Sea black mud, salts, and mineral-enriched waters in packages designed for skin renewal and relaxation. The cascading infinity pools are the resort's centrepiece — multiple connected pools at different elevations lead the eye toward the shimmering Dead Sea. A private beach with wooden lounger stations allows guests to float in the hypersaline waters under supervision.
Families are well served by the Ishtarina Kids Club, a fully supervised children's programme with crafts and games. Tennis courts, a fitness centre, and organised activities including Dead Sea mud bath rituals complete the resort's offerings. The hotel is approximately 55 minutes by car from central Amman.
Amenities
- infinity pools
- private beach
- spa
- multiple restaurants
- kids club
- fitness center
- tennis courts
- free parking
Location
Sweimeh, Dead Sea Road, Jordan
31.7186, 35.5656 View on map
Highlights
- Cascading infinity pools with direct sight lines over the Dead Sea, surrounded by Babylonian-themed terraced gardens
- Dead Sea mineral spa offering mud, salt, and thermal water treatments using locally sourced ingredients
- Seven dining venues including Italian and Asian-fusion restaurants and a Dead Sea terrace bar
- Private Dead Sea beach access with flotation sessions in the world's most hypersaline natural body of water
- Ishtarina Kids Club with supervised children's activities, making it one of Jordan's most family-ready luxury resorts
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at the private beach in the morning — afternoon winds can make the Dead Sea experience less pleasant, and mud stations are busiest from 11 AM onward.
- The salinity of the Dead Sea is approximately ten times that of the ocean — rinse thoroughly after floating and avoid getting water in eyes or open cuts.
- Book spa treatments at least 48 hours in advance during high season — the Dead Sea mud packages in particular are in high demand.
- A private car from Amman costs approximately JOD 35–50 one way; the hotel can also arrange pre-booked transfers.
- Bring old swimwear for the mud bath experience — Dead Sea mineral salts and mud can permanently stain light-coloured fabric.
When to visit
The Dead Sea resort is pleasant year-round, though spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable outdoor temperatures. Summer is very hot, making the pools and air-conditioned interiors the primary draw. Winter evenings are cool but daytime is mild and sunny.
Accessibility
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea provides lift access throughout its main building, wheelchair-accessible rooms, and paved pathways through much of the resort's landscaped grounds. The terraced gardens involve some changes in elevation that may require assistance for wheelchair users; the hotel's concierge can advise on the most accessible route to the pool and beach areas.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to reach Kempinski Hotel Ishtar from Amman?
The resort is approximately 60 kilometres from central Amman, roughly 55–70 minutes by car via the Dead Sea Highway. The hotel offers pre-booked transfers, and private taxis are widely available from Amman for around JOD 35–50 one way.
Can non-hotel guests use the Dead Sea beach and pools?
The beach and infinity pools are reserved for hotel guests. Day visitor access is occasionally available through specific day-pass packages — enquire directly with the resort as availability and pricing vary by season.
Is the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar suitable for children?
Yes. The Ishtarina Kids Club offers supervised activities for children, and the pools include family areas. Shallow wading sections are available near the main pool complex.
Is it safe to float in the Dead Sea without swimming experience?
Floating in the Dead Sea is a unique natural experience that does not require swimming ability — the hypersaline water provides natural buoyancy. Staff on the beach provide instructions and safety guidance to first-time visitors.