Introduction
Nestled along the shimmering Red Sea, Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city and a paradise for beach lovers, divers, and history enthusiasts. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and ancient landmarks, city is a must-visit destination in Jordan’s Golden Triangle, which includes Wadi Rum and Petra. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, explore marine life, or experience Jordanian culture, Aqaba has something for everyone.
Essential Information About Aqaba, Jordan
- Location: Southern Jordan, on the northeastern tip of the Red Sea.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November) – Perfect temperatures for beach activities and sightseeing.
- Winter (December-February) – Warm, but nights can be cool.
- Summer (June-August) – Very hot, but excellent for diving and water sports.
- Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
- Language: Arabic (English is widely spoken in tourist areas).
- Time Zone: GMT+3.
- Dress Code: Modest in public, but swimwear is fine at resorts and private beaches.
Interesting Facts About Aqaba
- City is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back to 4000 BC.
- It’s home to the world’s northernmost coral reef ecosystem, making it a diver’s paradise.
- Aqaba was a key strategic location in the Arab Revolt of 1917, famously depicted in “Lawrence of Arabia”.
- The Gulf of Aqaba hosts over 1,200 species of fish and 200 species of coral, making it one of the most biodiverse marine areas.
- King Abdullah II of Jordan is investing in transforming Aqaba into a world-class luxury and adventure tourism destination.
How to Get There
By Air
- King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) is just 10 km from downtown Aqaba.
- Direct flights from Amman, Istanbul, Dubai, and Cairo.
- Seasonal flights from major European cities.
By Road
- From Amman: 4-hour drive (330 km) via Desert Highway or Scenic Kings Highway.
- From Petra: 2-hour drive (125 km).
- From Wadi Rum: 1-hour drive (70 km).
With Public Transport
- JETT Bus: Comfortable, air-conditioned buses from Amman and Petra.
- Shared Taxis: Faster but slightly more expensive than buses.
Best Things to Do in Aqaba
1. Snorkeling & Diving in the Red Sea 🤿
- Explore vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life at top dive sites:
- Japanese Garden – Colorful coral formations.
- Cedar Pride Wreck – A sunken Lebanese freighter.
- Seven Sisters & Tank – An artificial reef featuring an old military tank.
2. Relax on the Beaches 🏖️
- Berenice Beach Club – Private beach with pools, snorkeling, and water sports.
- South Beach – Best for diving and snorkeling.
- Al-Ghandour Beach – Public beach with a laid-back atmosphere.
3. Visit Aqaba Castle (Mamluk Fort) 🏰
- Built in the 16th century, this historical site played a crucial role in the Arab Revolt.
4. Explore the Aqaba Archaeological Museum 🏺
- Features artifacts dating back to Islamic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
5. Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour 🚤
- See Aqaba’s vibrant underwater world without getting wet.
6. Discover the Aqaba Bird Observatory 🦜
- A must-visit for birdwatchers, as the area is a key stop on migratory bird routes.
Best Accommodation Options in Aqaba
Luxury Hotels (5-Star) 🌟
- Kempinski Hotel Aqaba – Elegant beachfront resort with stunning views.
- Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba – Features private beach access and world-class dining.
- Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort – Set in the luxurious Ayla Oasis.
Mid-Range Hotels (3-4 Star) 🏨
- DoubleTree by Hilton Aqaba – Ideal for business and leisure travelers.
- Oryx Hotel – Modern and comfortable with great facilities.
Budget-Friendly Stays 🏡
- Al Qidra Hotel & Suites – Affordable and centrally located.
- Bedouin Garden Village – A great budget-friendly choice near South Beach.
Cultural & Modern Attractions in Aqaba
1. Ayla Oasis 🌊
- A modern luxury development with marinas, golf courses, and high-end shopping.
2. Souk by the Sea 🛍️
- A lively night market with local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
3. Aqaba Flagpole 🚩
- One of the tallest flagpoles in the world (130m), commemorating the Arab Revolt.
4. Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque 🕌
- Aqaba’s largest and most beautiful mosque, open to visitors outside prayer times.
Dining & Nightlife in Aqaba
Best Restaurants 🍽️
- Ali Baba Restaurant – Famous for fresh seafood and Jordanian cuisine.
- Syrian Palace Restaurant – Serves authentic Middle Eastern dishes.
- Romero Aqaba – Italian cuisine with views of the Red Sea.
Nightlife 🍸
- Royal Yacht Club – Best spot for cocktails and sunset views.
- Rover’s Return Pub – A British-style pub with live music.
- Ayla Oasis Beach Clubs – Trendy beachside venues for a relaxed evening.
Best Day Trips from Aqaba
1. Wadi Rum (70 km, 1-hour drive) ⛰️
- Explore the stunning desert landscape, enjoy a jeep safari, or go stargazing.
2. Petra (125 km, 2-hour drive) 🏺
- Discover the iconic Rose-Red City, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
3. The Dead Sea (280 km, 3.5-hour drive) 🏞️
- Experience floating in the world’s saltiest body of water and enjoy therapeutic mud baths.
4. Dana Biosphere Reserve (200 km, 3-hour drive) 🌿
- A paradise for hiking, wildlife spotting, and eco-tourism.
Getting Around
- Walking – The city center is compact and walkable.
- Taxis – Affordable and widely available.
- Rental Cars – Best for road trips to Petra, Wadi Rum, or the Dead Sea.
- Public Buses – Limited, but available for travel to Amman and Petra.
Practical Tips for Visiting Aqaba
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Bargain in the souks – Haggling is common in markets.
- Check visa requirements – Aqaba offers a visa-free entry for some nationalities.
- Respect local customs – Dress modestly in public areas.
- Stay hydrated – The desert climate can be very dry.
- Plan excursions in advance – Wadi Rum and Petra are popular, so book tours early.
Conclusion
Aqaba is a unique blend of history, adventure, and relaxation, making it a perfect stop in any Jordan itinerary. Whether you’re diving in the Red Sea, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying fresh seafood, Aqaba promises an unforgettable travel experience.
🌊🏝️ Plan your Aqaba adventure today and experience the magic of Jordan’s Red Sea coast!
