Aqaba is a hidden gem in Jordan, nestled on the shores of the Red Sea. This seaside resort town offers visitors a range of activities, from water sports to historical exploration. The crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea make it a prime spot for diving and snorkeling, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life to discover. For history buffs, the ancient ruins of Ayla are a must-see, dating back to the 7th century AD. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty, Aqaba is a destination worth exploring.
Greatly cherished as the only outlet to the sea, the port city of Aqaba at the southwestern point of Jordan provides a breath of fresh air and the country’s only real beach resort, to which Jordanians and visitors alike flock in their droves. Aqaba also boasts nine months of mild summer weather during autumn, winter and spring. When temperatures reach a chilly 10°C in Amman, the temperature in Aqaba can be an enviable 25°C. There is plenty to do and see in Aqaba but its main appeal lies in its coral reef, offering some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world.
With origins dating back to the Mamluk Sultan Qanswah el-Ghawri’s reign (1501-1517 AD), Aqaba Castle is a symbol of Jordan’s rich past. Located along the Red Sea, this fort played a key role in defeating the Ottoman Empire. The fort underwent renovations under both Mamluk and Ottoman rule and functioned as a caravanserai and military barracks. Its main gate proudly bears the Hashemite Coat of Arms, reflecting its historical significance.
Your tour of Aqaba’s historical sites culminates at the Great Arab Revolt Plaza. This huge square is a great space to relax and enjoy the views of the middle beach, and as such is considered an ideal escape for visitors. The importance of the Plaza lies in its historical value.
It embraces the flag of the Great Arab Revolt, and the house of the Leader of the Arab Revolution, Al Hussein Bin Ali. It bears a deep significant national symbolism as the first Jordanian land set foot on by the armies of the revolution led by Al Sharif Hussein bin Ali. It is also the site where the first bullet of the Arab Revolt was shot.