Aqaba

Aqaba is a port city on the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea. It has been inhabited since around 4000 BC and is home to many fascinating historical sites. Its beautiful blue waters and warm climate make it a popular holiday destination, ideal for watersports such as diving and windsurfing. With a population of just under 200,000, Aqaba is a medium-sized city, making it an excellent place for a fun and relaxing beach holiday.

With a warm climate year-round, the summer months are particularly enjoyable. Average temperatures remain above 20 degrees Celsius from May to October, with July and August the hottest, typically reaching the mid-thirties. Winters are mild and wet, with January and December the coldest and rainiest months.

Originally known as Ayla, the city dates back to pre-biblical times. It was believed to be the site of a naval base built by King Solomon at the nearby Ezion Geber. The Romans used the location from 106 AD, after which it passed to Byzantine control following the fall of the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, Aqaba changed hands between Crusaders and Muslims, as it was considered essential to maintaining control over the region. For 400 years, Aqaba was then ruled by the Ottomans until Lawrence of Arabia aided the Arabs in defeating them, leading to the city’s incorporation into Jordan as part of the post-war settlement.

Set in a sheltered bay, this area is ideal for children to enjoy safe water-based activities during their family holiday. It is well known for the quality of its snorkelling and watersports, allowing older children to try new experiences. The Aqaba Park features an intriguing aquarium showcasing the region’s best marine life. Additionally, the surrounding desert offers opportunities for children to try camel riding or enjoy an exhilarating jeep ride.

This destination offers a variety of activities for visitors, ensuring an excellent holiday for everyone. At the forefront are the stunning beaches, where the gentle waves of the Red Sea create the ideal setting for a beach getaway. It is also a fantastic location for windsurfing and diving, with numerous coral reefs in the sheltered bay. History enthusiasts should not miss the ruins of Ayla, a fascinating remnant of the area’s ancient past. Additionally, the crusader-built Aqaba Fortress is worth a visit, offering beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The desert surrounding the city is another great place for trekking, exploring, and enjoying a camel ride, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of the famous Lawrence of Arabia.

This bustling tourist resort offers plenty of evening entertainment for visitors, centred on its vibrant port and harbour area. Here, you’ll find a variety of seafront clubs and bars, making it the perfect spot to relax with a drink or dance while enjoying spectacular views of the Red Sea. Inland, the atmosphere is quieter, but visitors can still find excellent restaurants and a few bars.

The resort is ideal for those seeking local handcrafted goods, with a wide range of small vendors offering artisan products and handmade Bedouin jewellery. There are also many modern boutiques selling fashion items from internationally recognised brands, ensuring something for everyone. Aqaba also has a ‘Free Zone’ where visitors do not have to pay tax on their purchases, making shopping even more affordable. If you’re particularly interested in locally made goods, consider visiting the Queen Noor Hussein Foundation, established to support local traders.