Travel Guide to Aqaba
Discover Aqaba: Jordan's coastal gem where ancient history meets modern luxury, offering vibrant coral reefs, rich cultural heritage, and stunning desert adventures.
Aqaba: Where the Desert Meets the Sea
Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city, is a hidden gem on the shores of the Red Sea. Known for its clear, turquoise waters, Aqaba offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern luxury. The city is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Whether you're exploring the underwater museums or simply lounging on the sun-kissed beaches, Aqaba promises a memorable experience. Beyond the waters, Aqaba is steeped in history. The city has been a strategic port since ancient times. Explore the Aqaba Fort, which dates back to the 14th century, and visit the Aqaba Archaeological Museum to get a glimpse into the city's past. The bustling markets, or souks, provide an authentic taste of local culture and cuisine. Here, you can savor traditional Jordanian dishes and shop for unique souvenirs. For adventure seekers, Aqaba is the gateway to the stunning Wadi Rum desert. Just a short drive away, you can experience the breathtaking landscapes that have inspired countless films. Whether you choose to take a jeep tour, ride a camel, or camp under the stars, Wadi Rum adds an unforgettable dimension to your Aqaba visit.
Local tips in Aqaba
- Visit the local souks early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the freshest produce and best deals.
- If you plan to dive or snorkel, book your trips in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Carry sunscreen and stay hydrated, as Aqaba can get very hot, especially in the summer months.
- Try the local seafood dishes; Aqaba is renowned for its fresh and delicious seafood.
- Consider a day trip to Wadi Rum; it's a short drive and offers stunning desert landscapes.
Popular Attractions in Aqaba
Aqaba, a vibrant coastal city in Jordan, offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. From exploring ancient ruins like the Aqaba Castle and archaeological sites such as Ayla, to relaxing on the beautiful beaches overlooking the Red Sea, there is something for everyone. For thrill-seekers, Aqaba is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing. The city also boasts bustling markets, where visitors can shop for local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs. With its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, Aqaba is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Jordan.
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Discover tranquility at AlHafayer Park, a beautiful oasis in Aqaba with stunning views of the Red Sea, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
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Experience the ultimate beach getaway at Berenice Beach Club in Aqaba, where relaxation meets adventure in a stunning Red Sea setting.
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Discover the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea at Aqaba Aquarium, a captivating destination for families and ocean enthusiasts alike.
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Experience the heart of Aqaba at Arab Revolt Plaza, where history, culture, and local life converge in a vibrant setting.
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Explore the idyllic shores of South Beach in Aqaba, where adventure meets relaxation in a stunning seaside paradise.
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Explore Aqaba Fort: A Historical Fortress with Stunning Views of the Red Sea and Rich Cultural Heritage.
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Experience the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation at Ayla Oasis, a premier resort hotel in Aqaba, Jordan.
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Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of the Sharif Hussein bin Ali Mosque in Aqaba, a stunning architectural gem and spiritual haven.
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Unearth the treasures of Jordan's past at the Aqaba Museum, showcasing remarkable artifacts and rich cultural heritage.
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Discover tranquility at Princess Salma Park, a lush green escape in the heart of Aqaba, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
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Explore the vibrant underwater world with Arab Divers, a top diving center in Aqaba, offering unforgettable diving experiences in the Red Sea.
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Dive into the vibrant underwater world at Coral Garden Diving Center in Aqaba – an unmissable adventure for sea lovers.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Red Sea at Red Sea Dive Center, where adventure meets relaxation in a stunning marine paradise.
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Discover the vibrant underwater life at Deep Blue Dive Center, a PADI Eco Center in Tala Bay Resort, your gateway to unforgettable diving adventures.
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Dive into endless fun and relaxation at Saraya Aqaba Waterpark, the premier waterpark destination in Aqaba, Jordan.
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Explore the serene Aqaba Bird Observatory, a birdwatcher's paradise on the Red Sea, showcasing diverse avian species and breathtaking natural beauty.
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Explore the Marine Science Station in Aqaba: Dive into the wonders of marine life and discover the beauty of the Red Sea's ecosystems.
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Discover the underwater wonders of the Seven Sisters Diving Site in Aqaba, Jordan, a paradise for divers and marine life enthusiasts alike.
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Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes of Aqaba Marine Reserve, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Discover the stunning underwater beauty of Cedar Pride, a premier diving destination in Aqaba, Jordan, where vibrant marine life and shipwreck adventures await.
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Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Tala Bay, where adventure meets relaxation along the Red Sea coast.
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Explore the Archeological Church of Aqaba, a historical landmark that reveals the early Christian roots of Jordan amidst captivating ruins.
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Explore Southern Beach Aqaba: A Stunning Coastal Paradise for Sun, Sea, and Adventure.
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Unwind at South Beach Number 5, a breathtaking escape in Aqaba with pristine waters, vibrant marine life, and thrilling water activities.
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Experience the underwater beauty of the Red Sea at the Jordan Diving Centre in Aqaba, where adventure meets tranquility for every diving enthusiast.
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Discover the underwater paradise at Royal Diving Club Aqaba, where adventure meets expertise in diving and water sports.
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Explore the Underwater Military Dive Site in Aqaba, Jordan, where history and marine life converge in an unforgettable underwater adventure.
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Discover vibrant coral reefs and thrilling dive adventures at Coral Bay Diving Center in Aqaba, the ultimate diving destination on the Red Sea.
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Explore the stunning Cruise Pier in Aqaba, a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and adventure by the Red Sea.
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Dive into history at the C-130 Hercules Aircraft Wreck, an unforgettable underwater adventure and historical treasure in Aqaba's Red Sea.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ayla View in Aqaba, where serene landscapes meet stunning sunsets by the Red Sea.
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Experience the ultimate luxury on the Red Sea with the White Prince Yacht, where stunning views and relaxation await.
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Discover the enchanting Ayla Fountain in Aqaba, a stunning tourist attraction that beautifully blends art, culture, and tranquility.
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Experience tranquility and nature at Сквер, a charming park in Aqaba known for its lush greenery, scenic views, and cultural vibrancy.
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Discover the Historic Ayla Ship in Aqaba, a captivating symbol of maritime heritage set against the stunning backdrop of the Red Sea.
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Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the stunning Aussichtspunkt in Aqaba, a hidden gem for every traveler.
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Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Stella Maris Church, a cultural gem in Aqaba, Jordan.
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Experience Jordan's rich heritage through innovative virtual reality at the Virtual Reality Museum in Aqaba.
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Discover the cultural heart of Aqaba at the iconic City Sign, a historical landmark that offers stunning views and rich heritage.
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Discover the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority: A perfect blend of adventure, culture, and stunning coastal views in the heart of Jordan.
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Explore The Promenade Ayla in Aqaba, Jordan - A Stunning Waterfront Destination with Vibrant Culture and Breathtaking Views.
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Explore the stunning Port of Aqaba, a vibrant marina gateway to Jordan's Red Sea adventures and rich cultural experiences.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Al-Ghandour Corniche in Aqaba, a scenic waterfront perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
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Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Wadi Araba, a desert valley in Jordan that captivates every traveler with its beauty.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Aqaba
When is the best time to go to Aqaba?
Local Phrases
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- Helloمرحبا
[marhaba] - Goodbyeوداعا
[wada'an] - Yesنعم
[na'am] - Noلا
[la] - Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك / على الرحب والسعة
[min fadlik / 'ala al-rahb wa al-sa'ah] - Thank youشكرا
[shukran] - Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
['udhran] - How are you?كيف حالك؟
[kayfa halak?] - Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
[bi-khayr. wa ant?] - Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
[hal tatahadath al-inglizia?] - I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
[ana la afham]
- Helloمرحبا
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
[uridu an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik] - I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
[ana la akl al-lahm] - Cheers!صحتين!
[sahatin!] - I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
[awadu an adfa', min fadlik]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
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- Help!النجدة!
[al-najdah!] - Go away!انصرف!
[ansarif!] - Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
[iatisil bialshurta!] - Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
[iatisil bialtabib!] - I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
[laqad dalalt al-tariq] - I'm illأنا مريض
[ana mareed]
- Help!النجدة!
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- I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
[uridu an ashtari...] - I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
[ana faqat atatallu'] - How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
[kam huwa thamanuh?] - That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
[hatha ghali jiddan] - Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
[hal yumkinuka khafd al-sa'r?]
- I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
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- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
[kam al-sa'ah?] - It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
[al-sa'ah al-wahidah] - Half past (10)النصف بعد (العاشرة)
[al-nisf ba'd (al-'ashirah)] - Morningالصباح
[al-subah] - Afternoonالعصر
[al-'asr] - Eveningالمساء
[al-masa'] - Yesterdayأمس
['ams] - Todayاليوم
[al-yawm] - Tomorrowغدا
[ghadan] - 1واحد
[wahid] - 2اثنان
[ithnan] - 3ثلاثة
[thalathah] - 4أربعة
[arba'ah] - 5خمسة
[khamsah] - 6ستة
[sittah] - 7سبعة
[sab'ah] - 8ثمانية
[thamaniah] - 9تسعة
[tis'ah] - 10عشرة
['asharah]
- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
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- Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
[ayn al...?] - What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
[ma huwa al-anaan?] - Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
[hal yumkinuka an tarini (ala al-kharitah)?] - When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
[mata ya'ti al-hafilah al-taliyah?] - A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
[tadhkirat (ila ...)]
- Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
History of Aqaba
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Aqaba, historically known as Ayla, has a history that dates back to around 4000 BCE. The city's strategic location along the Red Sea made it a significant hub for trade and commerce. Archaeological evidence indicates that it was an important settlement for the Edomites, who were known for their copper mining and trade activities.
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During the 4th century BCE, Aqaba came under the influence of the Nabateans, a nomadic Arab people who built the remarkable city of Petra. Aqaba, known as Ailana during this period, served as the Nabatean's key port, facilitating trade across the Red Sea and beyond. The Nabateans’ sophisticated water management system and architectural prowess left a lasting mark on the region.
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In 106 CE, the Roman Empire annexed the Nabatean Kingdom, including Aqaba, renaming it Aelana. The Romans recognized its strategic importance and developed it further, constructing roads and fortifications. The city continued to thrive under Byzantine rule, becoming an important center for Christianity, evidenced by the ruins of early churches found in the area.
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Aqaba was conquered by Muslim forces in the 7th century CE during the rapid expansion of Islam. Under the Umayyad Caliphate, the city was known as Ayla and became an important station on the pilgrimage route to Mecca. The Umayyads built the Ayla Fort, remnants of which can still be seen today, underscoring the city's continued strategic and religious significance.
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In the 12th century, the Crusaders captured Aqaba and built a fortress on Pharaoh's Island to control the trade routes. However, their hold on the region was short-lived. Saladin's Ayyubid forces recaptured Aqaba in 1182, restoring Islamic rule and reinforcing its importance as a trade and pilgrimage hub.
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Aqaba fell under Ottoman control in the early 16th century and remained part of the Ottoman Empire for around four centuries. The Ottomans constructed the Aqaba Castle, which stands as a significant historical landmark. During this period, Aqaba's importance waned slightly due to the shifting trade routes but remained a vital stop for pilgrims.
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In 1917, during World War I, Aqaba gained international attention as the site of a pivotal battle. Led by T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, and the Arab forces, Aqaba was captured from the Ottomans. This victory was a significant milestone in the Great Arab Revolt, contributing to the eventual downfall of Ottoman rule in the region.
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Post-World War I, Aqaba became part of the Emirate of Transjordan, which later became the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. In recent decades, Aqaba has transformed into a bustling economic hub, thanks to strategic investments in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone. The city is now a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and historical landmarks.
Aqaba Essentials
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Aqaba is accessible by air through King Hussein International Airport, located approximately 10 kilometers north of the city. Direct flights are available from several major cities in the Middle East and Europe. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman and take a domestic flight or a four-hour drive to Aqaba. There are also bus services from Amman to Aqaba operated by JETT and other companies. Additionally, Aqaba can be reached by ferry from the Egyptian port of Nuweiba.
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Aqaba is a small city, making it easy to navigate on foot. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to popular attractions. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby areas, but schedules can be irregular. Renting a car is an option for those looking to explore the surrounding regions, including Wadi Rum and Petra.
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The official currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, particularly for small purchases and in local markets. ATMs are available throughout Aqaba, and many offer services in multiple languages.
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Aqaba is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure personal safety. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. While Aqaba does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Aqaba has a well-equipped hospital and several clinics for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or public sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, dress conservatively and remove shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do be respectful and avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Men should wait for women to extend their hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Aqaba like a local, visit the local souks and markets, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the chance to try local seafood dishes, as Aqaba is known for its fresh seafood. For a unique experience, take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea.
Trending Landmark in Aqaba
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منتجع وسبا موڤنبيك تالا باي العقبة
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منتجع وريزيدنسزز موڤنبيك العقبة
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Al-Ghandour Beach
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Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea
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Oryx Hotel Aqaba
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AlHafayer Park
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Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla
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Berenice Beach Club / شاطئ ومنتجع برنيس العقبه
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Al Mohandes Cafeteria
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Arab Revolt Plaza
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Aqaba Aquarium معرض الأحياء البحرية
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Red Coral Dive Center - Diving Aqaba
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Tunisian Hammamet Gardens
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Rakwet Kanaan Restaurant & Cafe
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Ayla Oasis
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