📖 About Aqaba

Aqaba is Jordan's only coastal city and its gateway to the Red Sea, offering world-class diving, luxury resorts, and year-round sunshine. With just 27 kilometers of coastline, this special economic zone punches far above its weight in driving Jordan's tourism economy. In the first half of 2025, Jordan welcomed 3.29 million visitors—an 18% increase—with Aqaba's sun, sea, and resorts attracting the lion's share.

The city is undergoing massive transformation with the $10 billion Marsa Zayed development, the largest mega mixed-use project ever envisioned in Jordan. This 320-hectare waterfront development, backed by UAE and Jordanian governments, aims to establish Aqaba as a principal entry point to the Red Sea and a major regional tourism hub. The Ayla Oasis project adds 1,540 hotel rooms and Jordan's first international golf course.

Sustainability leads Aqaba's tourism strategy. The Green Fins Programme has reduced environmental threats to coral reefs by 51% through responsible diving practices. European flight routes are expanding for 2025, and proximity to Saudi Arabia's NEOM development promises increased cross-border traffic. Aqaba's blend of history, diving, and development makes it Jordan's crown jewel.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Aqaba operates as a Special Economic Zone with tax incentives driving investment. Tourism leads the economy, supported by port operations and trade. The Marsa Zayed mega-project and Ayla developments signal massive investment in hospitality, residential, and commercial sectors. European visitor growth and sports tourism events like the Ayla Half Marathon diversify the tourism base.

Aqaba's culture blends Bedouin heritage with modern resort lifestyle. Traditional hospitality, Arabic cuisine, and Jordanian warmth welcome visitors. The city serves as a base for exploring Petra and Wadi Rum, connecting Jordan's greatest treasures. Environmental awareness grows through Green Fins sustainability initiatives, positioning Aqaba as a responsible tourism leader in the Red Sea region.

📜 History

Aqaba has served as a strategic port for over 6,000 years, known to ancient Egyptians, Nabataeans, Romans, and Islamic traders. The early Islamic city of Ayla flourished here from the 7th century. Crusaders built fortifications, and Mamluks constructed the castle that still stands today, later made famous in Lawrence of Arabia's 1917 capture during the Arab Revolt.

Modern Aqaba emerged as Jordan's sole Red Sea port and evolved into a resort destination. The establishment of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone in 2001 accelerated development. Today's billion-dollar investments continue this ancient city's tradition as a crossroads of trade and travel, now rebranding itself as the Red Sea's premier destination.