Aqaba and its strategic location in the northeastern part of the Red Sea at the crossroads of three continents have turned it into a very important port over the millennia, which today also serves the surrounding countries

Archaeological finds show that the city was inhabited more than 6,000 years ago and focused on copper production. It is believed that the first port in Aqaba was built around 1,500 BC. Over time, the city was gradually ruled by Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, and Romans. During this time, the Aqaba (known until the 7th century as Ayla) flourished and at the beginning of our era was even one of the most important Roman ports. In 300, the city fell under the rule of the Byzantine Empire and a church was built here, considered the first church in the world. Later, Aqaba developed under Islamic influence and passed through the hands of several dynasties. The last of these was the Mamluk dynasty, after which the Ottoman Empire took over the area and turned the town into an insignificant fishing village for another four centuries. After the defeat in World War I, Ottoman troops withdrew from the city and in 1925 the city became part of the British Protectorate. Today, Aqaba is an important tourist destination sought after by both domestic and foreign tourists. These are attracted by beautiful beaches and coral reefs, which make the area one of the best diving destinations in the world, and the rich history that has left a number of important monuments. In Aqaba itself, you will find Helim Fortress, built in the 12th century by the Crusaders. The Turkish bath (hammam) from 306 is also very popular, where both locals and foreigners come to relax after a busy day. The Archaeological Museum is housed in a former Sultan’s palace, built-in 1917. Here you will find artifacts throughout the city’s history, including recently discovered Bronze Age, remains, which proves that Aqaba is one of the oldest settlements in the region. Trips to the Wadi Rum Desert are very popular, with beautiful scenery awaiting visitors, as well as ancient rock paintings and Bedouin villages where they can sample delicious local tea. Lovers of gastronomy will also enjoy themselves here. The city has countless restaurants and cafés offering delicious desserts or traditional dishes.   

WHAT TO VISIT DURING THE STAY

Berenice Beach  – Relax and enjoy countless water activities on the 500-meter-long private beach on the Red Sea coast. Animation programs, diving, snorkeling, .. enjoy your day

Aqaba Marine Park – Go snorkeling or scuba diving and experience the unique underwater life of a coral reef, considered one of the best diving destinations in the world.  LEARN DIVING WITH US  (snorkeling, try 1 day for beginners, with the boat or just from shore,  3 or 5 days PADI course)

Aqaba Archeological Museum – Penetrate the city’s rich history with a museum exhibiting artifacts across thousands of years of past one of the oldest areas in the region.

 Ayla – Admire the ruins of the oldest church in the world, built in the 4th century AD.

Wadi Rum – Take a trip to the desert, enjoy the beautiful scenery created by the red sand, and taste delicious tea in a Bedouin village.

Petra – Be enchanted by the ancient rock city of the Nabataean people, inscribed on the UNESCO list and declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.