Aqaba

العقبة

Jordan's only coastal city on the Red Sea, offering world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities among vibrant coral reefs. Located south of Amman, it provides beach resort facilities, water sports, and a gateway to nearby Wadi Rum and Petra.

Things to do

• Coral Reef Diving — Explore the northern Red Sea's pristine coral gardens and tropical fish species at depths suitable for both beginners and advanced divers.
• Snorkeling at Japanese Garden — Wade into shallow turquoise waters near the Japanese Garden reef site to observe colorful corals and marine life without scuba certification.
• Aqaba Archaeological Museum — Tour artifacts spanning from Nabatean, Roman, and Islamic periods, including pottery, glass, and maritime finds from the ancient port city.
• Underwater Observatory Marine Park — Descend into a submerged chamber to view Red Sea marine life through reinforced windows without getting wet.
• Aqaba Fort (Mamluk Castle) — Climb through the restored 16th-century Ottoman fortress overlooking the harbor, featuring exhibits on Aqaba's strategic maritime history.
• Desert Jeep Tours to Wadi Rum — Take a day excursion into the nearby dramatic sandstone landscape of Wadi Rum, famous for its red dunes and Bedouin culture.
• Glass-Bottom Boat Tours — Cruise above vibrant reef ecosystems in a boat with a transparent hull, ideal for non-divers wanting close marine views.

Food to try

• Zarb (Bedouin Barbecue) — Lamb or chicken marinated with spices, slow-cooked in a sealed pit underground, traditionally served with rice and vegetables.
• Fresh Hammour (Grouper) — The Gulf's prized white fish, grilled whole or filleted, caught daily and served simply with lemon and local spices.
• Maklouba — An inverted rice dish layered with eggplant, tomatoes, and meat, then flipped onto the plate—a Levantine specialty common in coastal Aqaba.
• Umm Ali (Mother of Ali) — A warm, creamy dessert made with phyllo pastry, coconut, and milk, often served as a communal sweet after dinner.
• Fresh Sea Urchin (Qanik) — A local delicacy harvested from Red Sea rocks, eaten raw with lemon juice and bread as a coastal specialty.
• Shrimp Sayadieh — Plump Red Sea shrimp layered with rice, onions, and a distinctive spice blend, finished with toasted nuts and herbs.

Local customs & good to know

• Modest Dress at Beaches — While Aqaba is more liberal than inland Jordan, wearing conservative swimwear and covering up when away from the waterfront shows respect.
• Haggling in Souks — The waterfront markets expect negotiation on prices for souvenirs, crafts, and goods—starting at 30–40% above asking price is normal.
• Ramadan Observance — During Ramadan, many restaurants close during daylight hours and locals fast; dining and smoking in public during fasting hours is considered disrespectful.
• Friday Prayers and Closures — Many shops close mid-morning on Fridays for communal prayers; plan activities for early morning or late afternoon on the Islamic holy day.