Aqaba Coast, Jordan Travel Guide

Discover the Aqaba Coast, Jordan's gateway to the Red Sea, where vibrant marine life, rich history, and luxury resorts create an unforgettable travel experience.

Home
Travel Guides
Jordan
Aqaba Coast

The Aqaba Coast is a stunning destination along the Red Sea in Jordan. This coastal gem offers a unique blend of rich history, vibrant marine life, and modern luxury. It's a paradise for divers, history buffs, and those looking to relax by the sea. Aqaba's crystal-clear waters are home to some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish and marine creatures, making it a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts. If diving isn't your thing, you can still enjoy the sea by taking a leisurely boat trip or simply lounging on the pristine beaches. Beyond the sea, Aqaba is steeped in history. Visit the Aqaba Fort, an ancient fortress that tells the story of the region's past. The nearby Ayla Oasis offers a glimpse into early Islamic history with its archaeological remains. For a modern touch, the city boasts luxury resorts, fine dining, and bustling markets where you can buy local crafts and spices. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Aqaba Coast has something for everyone. Its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a standout destination in the Middle East.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aqaba Coast.

Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to enjoy the best weather.
Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world at your leisure.
Don't miss the chance to taste fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Always carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards.
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of Aqaba's historical sites.

Top City Travel Guides in Aqaba Coast

The cities of Aqaba Coast, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Aqaba

Explore Aqaba Coast: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Aqaba Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Al-Ghandour Beach

Experience the tranquility of Al-Ghandour Beach, a stunning destination in Aqaba, Jordan, perfect for relaxation, water sports, and unforgettable sunsets.

3.5

AlHafayer Park

Experience the tranquil beauty of AlHafayer Park in Aqaba, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families seeking relaxation in a vibrant setting.

3.9

Berenice Beach Club / شاطئ ومنتجع برنيس العقبه

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Berenice Beach Club in Aqaba, where sun-soaked beaches meet vibrant marine adventures.

4.3

Wadi Rum Visitor Center

Discover the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, your essential guide to exploring the majestic landscapes and rich culture of Jordan's Wadi Rum desert.

4.4

Best landmarks in Aqaba Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

AlHafayer Park

Experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of AlHafayer Park in Aqaba, a perfect escape for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.

3.9

Berenice Beach Club / شاطئ ومنتجع برنيس العقبه

Discover the beauty of Berenice Beach Club in Aqaba, where relaxation meets adventure on the stunning shores of the Red Sea.

4.3

Arab Revolt Plaza

Experience the vibrant culture and historical significance of Arab Revolt Plaza in the heart of Aqaba, where tradition meets modernity.

4.1

Ayla Oasis

Experience luxury and adventure at Ayla Oasis, a premier resort hotel in Aqaba, Jordan. Enjoy golf, gourmet dining, and stunning views along the Red Sea.

4.6

Best restaurants in Aqaba Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

خبزة وصينية khubza & Seneya

Discover authentic Jordanian flavors at Khubza & Seneya in Aqaba - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.8

Al Shami Restaurant

Discover authentic Jordanian flavors at Al Shami Restaurant in Aqaba – where every dish tells a story.

4.3

Tikka Chicken Plus

Discover authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Tikka Chicken Plus in Aqaba - where every bite takes you on a delicious journey.

4.3

Pachi pizza & pasta

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Pachi Pizza & Pasta in Aqaba - where every meal is crafted with passion.

4.9

Best bars in Aqaba Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Buffalo Wings & Rings - Aqaba

Savor the best American chicken wings and fast food in Aqaba at Buffalo Wings & Rings, where flavor meets fun.

4.5

Mirwas Cafe and Restaurant

Experience the best of Middle Eastern and Italian cuisine at Mirwas Cafe and Restaurant in Aqaba, with a stunning marina view and diverse menu options.

4.4

B12 Beach Club

Experience luxury and relaxation at B12 Beach Club, Aqaba's premier destination for sun, sea, and sensational dining.

4.5

Rovers Return

Discover the lively ambiance and delicious cuisine at Rovers Return, Aqaba's premier pub for locals and tourists alike.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Aqaba Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

B12 Beach Club

Experience the ultimate beach getaway at B12 Beach Club in Aqaba, where stunning views meet delectable dining and thrilling water sports.

4.5

Rovers Return

Experience the vibrant local culture at Rovers Return, a beloved pub in Aqaba known for its diverse menu and lively atmosphere.

4.4

Saraya Aqaba Beach Club

Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment at Saraya Aqaba Beach Club, a vibrant retreat by the Red Sea.

4.4

Trio

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aqaba at Trio, a cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for all occasions.

4.6

Best shops in Aqaba Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Shweikh Mall

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Shweikh Mall in Aqaba, Jordan's premier shopping destination.

3.9

China Town

Discover the vibrant shopping and cultural scene at China Town in Aqaba, a hub of local crafts, cuisine, and unique shops.

3.6

Aqaba Gateway

Discover Aqaba Gateway, the ultimate shopping mall in Aqaba, Jordan, featuring duty-free deals and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists.

4.1

Arab Revolt Plaza

Explore the Arab Revolt Plaza in Aqaba, where history meets vibrant local culture amidst stunning views of the Gulf.

4.1

Explore Aqaba Coast on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Aqaba Coast, mapped for you.

Aqaba Coast Essentials

Aqaba Coast is accessible via King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), which is located just 10 kilometers north of Aqaba city. There are direct international flights from several major cities. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman and then take a domestic flight or a 4-hour drive via the Desert Highway to Aqaba. Buses and taxis are also available for transportation between Amman and Aqaba.
Within Aqaba, taxis are the most common mode of transport and are relatively inexpensive. It is advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. There are also public buses that operate within the city and to neighboring areas. For a more flexible option, car rentals are available and can be booked in advance. Walking and cycling are feasible in the city center, especially along the coast.
The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is recommended to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in Aqaba, and currency exchange services can be found in banks and exchange offices.
Aqaba is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to exercise standard safety precautions. Avoid isolated areas after dark and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. While Aqaba has a low crime rate, it is advisable to stay alert and avoid displaying valuables openly. The area around the port and some parts of the old town can be less secure, so it is best to visit these places during the day.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, ambulance, and fire services. Aqaba has a modern hospital and several clinics that provide medical care. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, dress conservatively and remove your shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. It is customary to greet with 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Aqaba Coast like a local, visit the local souks where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with the locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area. Don't miss the Aqaba Marine Park for snorkeling and diving. For a unique experience, take a glass-bottom boat tour to view the vibrant marine life. Enjoy local delicacies such as mansaf and knafeh.

When is the best time to visit Aqaba Coast?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Aqaba Coast

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Aqaba Coast. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
- Goodbyeمع السلامة
  [Ma'a as-salama]
- Yesنعم
  [Na'am]
- Noلا
  [La]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
- Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعفوا
  [Afwan]
- How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa halak?]
- Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
- Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?]
- I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [Awad ru'yat al-qa'ima, min fadlik]
- I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحم
  [Ana la akul al-lahm]
- Cheers!صحتين
  [Sahtein]
- I would like to pay, pleaseأود الدفع، من فضلك
  [Awad ad-daf', min fadlik]
- Help!نجدة!
  [Najda!]
- Go away!اذهب بعيداً!
  [Izhab ba'idan!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Ittasil bil-shurta!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Ittasil bi-tabib!]
- I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [Ana da'ia]
- I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana marid]
- I'd like to buy...أود شراء...
  [Awad shir'a...]
- I'm just lookingأنا فقط أنظر
  [Ana faqat anzur]
- How much is it?كم ثمنه؟
  [Kam thamanu?]
- That's too expensiveهذا غالي جداً
  [Hatha ghali jidan]
- Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuka takhfid as-si'r?]
- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam as-saa'a?]
- It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [As-saa'a al-wahid]
- Half past (10)نصف بعد (10)
  [Nisf ba'd (10)]
- Morningصباح
  [Sabah]
- Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [Ba'd al-zuhur]
- Eveningمساء
  [Masa']
- Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
- Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
- Tomorrowغداً
  [Ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [Wahid]
- 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
- 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
- 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
- 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
- 6ستة
  [Sitta]
- 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
- 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniya]
- 9تسعة
  [Tis'a]
- 10عشرة
  [Ashara]
- Where's a/the...?أين يوجد ...؟
  [Ayn yujad ...?]
- What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al-'unwan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuka an turini (ala al-kharita)?]
- When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي (الباص) التالي؟
  [Mata ya'ti (al-bas) at-tali?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [Tadhkarah (ila ...)]

History of Aqaba Coast

Aqaba has been a crucial trade hub since ancient times due to its strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe. The Nabateans, who controlled the region from the 4th century BCE to the 1st century CE, used Aqaba as a key maritime node in their extensive trading network.
During the Roman era, Aqaba was known as Aila and was part of the Roman province of Arabia Petraea. The city flourished as a commercial center and marked the southern terminus of the Via Nova Traiana, a major Roman road constructed under Emperor Trajan.
In the early Islamic period, Aqaba, known as Ayla, became an important Muslim trading port. It was during this time that the city saw the construction of the Ayla Fort by the Umayyad Caliphate in the 7th century CE, reinforcing its significance in regional trade.
Aqaba came under Crusader control in the 12th century and was known as Aila. The Crusaders built the fortress on Pharaoh's Island, but it was later recaptured by Saladin and remained under Ayyubid rule, marking a period of military and strategic importance.
In the 16th century, Aqaba was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans constructed the Aqaba Castle in the 14th century to protect the city from potential threats. The castle stands as a testament to the Ottoman military architecture and their influence in the region.
Aqaba played a pivotal role during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire in World War I. Led by T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, and Sharif Hussein of Mecca, the capture of Aqaba in 1917 marked a significant turning point in the revolt, helping to pave the way for the establishment of the modern state of Jordan.
In the 20th and 21st centuries, Aqaba has seen significant development as a modern port and tourist destination. The establishment of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone in 2001 has boosted economic growth, making Aqaba a key economic hub in Jordan. The city is known for its luxury resorts, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage.