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About Aqaba

Aqaba is Jordan's stunning coastal gem, where the desert dramatically meets the Red Sea. This vibrant port city offers world-class diving and snorkeling in pristine coral reefs at the Aqaba Marine Park, home to over 500 fish species and the sunken Cedar Pride wreck. Beyond underwater adventures, Aqaba serves as the gateway to Wadi Rum's Martian landscapes and Petra's ancient wonders. The city blends modern luxury resorts with historic sites like Aqaba Fort and the early Islamic Ayla ruins. Duty-free shopping, waterfront promenades with seafood restaurants, and year-round sunshine create a relaxed resort atmosphere. Aqaba Special Economic Zone benefits make it exceptionally visitor-friendly with simplified visa procedures and tax-free shopping. From kite surfing and glass-bottom boat tours to desert jeep excursions, Aqaba offers diverse experiences where Middle Eastern hospitality meets aquatic adventure in Jordan's only coastal province.

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Travel Tips for Aqaba

Getting Around

Taxis are plentiful and affordable; ensure meters are used or negotiate fares beforehand. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem operate in Aqaba. Local minibuses serve main routes but can be confusing for tourists. Car rentals are available at the airport and downtown; international license required. Walking is pleasant along the corniche and in downtown areas. Bicycle rentals are growing in popularity. For desert excursions to Wadi Rum (1 hour drive), organized tours are recommended. The Aqaba Port receives cruise ships with shuttle services to city center.

Best Time To Visit

March to May and September to November offer ideal temperatures (25-30°C/77-86°F) for both beach activities and desert exploration. Summer (June-August) is extremely hot (35-45°C/95-113°F) but dry with excellent underwater visibility. Winter (December-February) is mild (15-22°C/59-72°F) but cooler for swimming. The Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival in February showcases local culture. Ramadan affects business hours but offers unique cultural experiences.

Local Customs

Dress modestly when leaving resort areas - cover shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection should be minimal. Remove shoes before entering homes and some shops. Tipping (baksheesh) is customary: 10% in restaurants if service not included, small change for porters and taxi drivers. Friday is the holy day with reduced business hours. During Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight hours. Hospitality is highly valued - accept tea invitations when offered. Bargaining is expected in markets but not in malls or duty-free shops. Use right hand for eating and handing items.

Safety Information

Aqaba is generally safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in tourist areas. The Aqaba Special Economic Zone has enhanced security. Avoid photographing military installations or ports. Common scams include overcharging in taxis (insist on meter) and inflated prices in some shops (negotiate politely). Beach areas and resorts are secure. Women should dress modestly outside resort areas. Road safety requires caution due to occasional aggressive driving. Political demonstrations are rare but should be avoided. Tourist Police (dial 911) provide assistance in multiple languages.

Health Information

Aqaba has modern medical facilities including Prince Hashem Military Hospital and Arab Medical Center. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations, but hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Dehydration and sunburn are common concerns - drink bottled water and use high SPF sunscreen. The Red Sea can have jellyfish; seek local advice before swimming. Pharmacies are widely available with English-speaking staff. For diving emergencies, the Royal Medical Services Hyperbaric Chamber is available. COVID-19 precautions may apply; check current requirements.

Languages Spoken

ArabicEnglish

Quick Facts

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
JD

Timezone

Asia/Amman +03:00 (GMT+3 during standard time, +02:00 GMT+2 during daylight saving)

Calling Code

+962

Electricity

Type C, D, F, G, J; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

188,160

Area

6900 km²

Government

Governorate within Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, administered by Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA)

ISO Code

JO-21

About Aqaba

Things to do in Aqaba

Wadi Rum Cave Camping with Jeep Tour

2-Hour Private Scuba Experience in Aqaba

Take advantage of a half-day boat dive experience in Red sea of Aqaba.

Jordan Joyride Tours & Transportation

5-hours Jeep Tours + Free sunset

Private Jordan Transportation

4h Jeep Tour + Bedouin Night (Dinner & Breakfast)

Wadi Rum Jeep Tour & optional night stay

Wadi Rum Full Day Jeep Tour - Stargazing Overnight in a Cave - Traditional Food

Full Day Jeep Tour and Overnight in Wadi Rum

Boat Dive 2 Guided Dives with Lunch Included wreck dive&reef dive

Full Day 4x4 Classic Desert Tour with overnight in private tent

Full day Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum desert

Full-Day 4x4 Wild Desert Expedition with night in private tent

Full Day Jeep Tour and Overnight in Bedouin Camp with Meal

Places to visit in Aqaba

Bedouin Moon Village

Snuba / Skuba Center

فندق مارينا بلازا

פתאל

הילטון אילת מלכת שבא

ישרוטל ריביירה

דן פנורמה

Leonardo Royal Resort Hotel Eilat

Aviv Motel

Airodium Eilat

Orchid Reef Hotel

מלון אורכידאה הריף

City Tower Hotel Akaba

Hospitality Palace Hotel

Roof viewpoint