Aqaba
Visited in January 2010
At a glance
- Country
- Jordan
- Region
- Aqaba Governorate
- Population
- 140,000
- Best time to go
- October to April
- Main airport
- Aqaba King Hussein International (AQJ)
- Coordinates
- 29.53°N, 35.00°E
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Overview
Aqaba is Jordan's only seaside city, squeezed onto a short stretch of Red Sea coast between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Desert mountains drop almost to the water, and coral reefs begin just offshore.
It is a relaxed place with a warm winter climate, popular with Jordanians as well as visitors. Combine a few days of diving and swimming with Wadi Rum and Petra, both within easy reach.
Things to see
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Photo: watchsmart, CC BY 2.0 Aqaba Fort
A Mamluk-era fort by the seafront, rebuilt by the Ottomans and linked to the Arab Revolt of 1917.
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Photo: University of the Fraser Valley, CC BY 2.0 Ayla
The low ruins of an early Islamic port town, uncovered beside the corniche in the city centre.
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Aqaba Marine Park
A protected stretch of coast to the south, where reefs start a short swim from the beach.
Things to do
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Snorkel or dive the reefs
Calm, clear water, colourful coral and sites such as the Cedar Pride shipwreck make Aqaba excellent for beginners.
Find tours -
Photo: Daniel Case, CC BY-SA 3.0 Day trip to Wadi Rum
Red sand, sandstone mountains and Bedouin camps about an hour away. Stay the night for the stars.
Find tours -
Photo: Ji-Elle, CC BY-SA 4.0 Glass-bottom boat trip
A gentle way to see the corals and fish without getting wet, leaving from the main beach.
Find tours
Where to stay
City centre
Simple hotels near the corniche, restaurants and the fort. Good value.
Hotels in City centreSouth Beach
Resorts and dive centres near the best reefs, quieter and better for swimming.
Hotels in South BeachAyla
A newer marina development with hotels, restaurants and a lagoon.
Hotels in Ayla
Getting around
The centre is walkable, and taxis are plentiful for trips to the south beaches. Agree the fare or ask for the meter.
King Hussein airport is about 15 minutes from the centre by taxi. JETT buses link Aqaba with Amman in around four hours.
When to go
October to April is warm and sunny, ideal for diving and day trips. Summers are extremely hot, though the sea stays inviting all year.
Plan your trip to Aqaba
- HotelsBooking.com
- Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
- FlightsKiwi.com
- Attraction ticketsTiqets
- Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
- Car hireAuto Europe
- Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
- GuidebooksAmazon
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Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.