Aqaba / Jordan

Aqaba is the only seaside resort in the state of Jordan and is located on the shore of the Gulf of Aqaba in the northern part of the Red Sea. This port city attracts visitors with its turquoise-colored sea, vibrant underwater world, and exotic Middle Eastern atmosphere. Thanks to sunny weather most of the year, Aqaba is a popular stop for cruise ships and an ideal place for seaside relaxation.

What to taste in Aqaba?

The local cuisine combines traditional Jordanian dishes with fresh fish from the Red Sea and the aroma of oriental spices.

• Mansaf – the national dish of Jordan made from lamb, rice, and fermented yogurt sauce jameed. Traditionally served on a large platter with bread, it is a symbol of Jordanian hospitality.
• Sayadieh – a typical coastal dish made from fresh fish, rice, and caramelized onions seasoned with a spice mix. It is one of the most famous specialties of the Gulf of Aqaba area.
• Falafel – crispy fried balls made from chickpeas or fava beans served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sesame sauce.
• Hummus – a smooth spread made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil, which is an essential part of local appetizers.
• Kunafa – a sweet oriental dessert made from thin noodle-like pastry, cheese, and sugar syrup, often topped with pistachios.

Why will you love Aqaba?

• Underwater paradise of the Red Sea – the clear water and vibrant coral reefs make this area one of the best places for snorkeling and diving. Popular spots include the Cedar Pride Wreck or the protected area of Aqaba Marine Park.
• History on the desert shore – the city offers interesting monuments reminiscent of its rich past, such as the Aqaba Fort from the 16th century or the archaeological site Ayla Archaeological Site.
• Gateway to Jordan's greatest treasures – from Aqaba, you can take trips to the country's iconic sites, such as the rock city of Petra (UNESCO) or the fascinating desert landscape of Wadi Rum.

Practical tips:

• Official language: Arabic, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
• Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
• Opening hours: Shops are usually open from around 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, sometimes with a shorter lunch break. Monuments and museums are typically accessible during the day, most often from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Public transport: Taxis and minibuses run throughout the city, connecting different parts of Aqaba. Organized trips to Petra or the desert Wadi Rum are also popular.
• Weather: Aqaba has a desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. The main tourist season lasts mainly from October to May, when daily temperatures range between 22 and 30 °C. In the summer months, temperatures can rise to 35–40 °C, while winters remain pleasantly warm around 20–23 °C.

The most interesting from Aqaba's history:

Aqaba's history stretches back more than four thousand years. Due to its strategic location on the shore of the Gulf of Aqaba, it has been an important trading port connecting the Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, and the Levant region since ancient times. In antiquity, there was already a city Ayla Archaeological Site, one of the first planned Islamic cities in the region. Over the centuries, many civilizations have passed through here – Nabataeans, Romans, Byzantines, and Arab dynasties. In the Middle Ages, Aqaba served as an important stop on trade and pilgrimage routes leading to Mecca. In modern history, the city was marked by the Battle of Aqaba in 1917, when it was captured by Arab forces supported by British officer T. E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt. From a former trading port, it gradually became a modern tourist and recreational center of Jordan.

Useful information

• How to choose the right cruise?
• How to choose a cruise company?