One city, three days : Aqaba

Let’s go: History of Aqaba

With evidence of settlements dating to 4000 BC, Aqaba was an important port city dominated by various kingdoms throughout its history, including the Greek, Roman and Byzantine empires. It fell to Muslim armies in the seventh century and then to the Crusaders in the tenth century. In the twelfth century, the area was captured by Saladin, the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty. In 1516, following the Egypt campaign of Sultan Yavuz Selim the city was under Ottoman rule until the First World War. With the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 and the Hejaz Railway in 1908, Aqaba gradually lost its importance as a strategic center. It became part of Jordan in 1946 and is currently a thriving tourism center, notable for its diving industry as well as its proximity to Wadi Rum and the Ancient City of Petra.

An authentic route: Places to visit 

Aqaba offers diverse sights and activities: this sunny city has historical sites as well as wonderful local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Speaking of sun, Aqaba has a mild climate throughout the year, with higher temperatures in the summer. In fact, temperatures between May and October can reach 40ₒ C. The months of November through April deliver slightly cooler weather.

Historical sites of Aqaba

The history of Aqaba is long and quite impressive. Let’s start exploring!

Aqaba Castle

Dominating the port area is Aqaba Castle. The castle was first erected by the Mamluks and underwent further fortification during the Ottoman era; in addition to its defensive functions, it was used as a caravanserai (inn) for Muslim pilgrims. The stone structure is partly intact and features inscriptions, as well as lovely sea views.

The Ancient City of Petra

Aqaba is a popular setting-off point for the Ancient City of Petra, which is approximately 130 kilometers from the Aqaba airport. Petra, also known as the Rose City for its pink-tinted sandstone structures; it was built as the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. The ancient city was accessible via a narrow passage, providing it – and its rulers – with a strategic defensive and commercial advantages. In 2007, Petra, with its dramatic setting and magnificent structures, was named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. 

Aqaba Church

This Christian church dates from the third century and is believed to be one of the oldest churches in the world. While the church was heavily damaged by an earthquake in the fourth century, the basilica-shaped structure remained somewhat intact, preserved by wind-blown sand until its discovery in 1998.

The Old City

Known as Early Islamic Aqaba, the area was excavated in 1989. Originally the old city was surrounded by twenty-four towers, with gates on the north, south, east and west; the western gate faced the Gulf of Aqaba.

Aqaba’s natural beauties

Aqaba’s natural beauty is a compelling reason to visit! Keep reading to discover some of the natural wonders in the region…

Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, about 70 kilometers from the Aqaba airport, is considered one of the most strikingly beautiful desert landscapes in the world. The area is so dramatic, in fact, that it has been used as a set for a number of movies, including “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Dune” and several films in the Star Wars franchise, as well as “The Martian” and “Prometheus.” While the area is protected, camel and jeep tours are available. Wadi Rum is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Diving in the Red Sea 

Flowing into the Red Sea, with some of the world’s premier dive sites, the Gulf of Aqaba also offers excellent diving and snorkeling. Various dive centers in Aqaba provide tours as well as diving courses.

Aqaba museums

As a city with a long and storied history, Aqaba has some interesting museums. The Aqaba Heritage Museum, set on the Great Arab Revolution Square, features exhibitions on the history, culture and lifestyle of Aqaba. The Aqaba Archaeological Museum and the Jordan Maritime Museum are also worth visiting.

Dining in Aqaba

Much of Aqaba’s culinary culture centers around Middle Eastern traditions, including yogurts, cheeses, kebabs and, of course, mezes!

Among the city’s most notable dishes:

• Sayadiyah (a set of fish, rice and side dishes)
• Falafel (fried spiced chickpea balls)
• Hummus (spiced pureed chickpeas)
• Shawarma (mutton served in lavash bread)
• Babagannush (roasted pureed eggplant)
• Mirra coffee (traditional bitter coffee)
• Halva (sweet tahini confectionery)

Important Aqaba notes

If you’re interested in exploring sunny Aqaba, just click here for flights to Aqaba and start planning your trip! In the meantime, here is some additional information on transportation and accommodation in Aqaba.

Transportation in Aqaba

Aqaba does have a public transportation system consisting of buses. Generally, the bus fare is related to the distance traveled. Car rentals are available as are taxis, though taxis tend to be relatively expensive.

For more information about Aqaba and Jordan, check out our Jordan blog!

Have a great trip!