A practical guide to visiting Jordan’s only coastal city, where entry exemptions vary by nationality and point of arrival, and autumn offers favourable conditions for marine activities.

Aqaba, Jordan – AlRehla

Travelling to Aqaba differs from visiting many other Jordanian cities, not only because of its location on the Red Sea but also because of the special entry arrangements associated with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone and the variety of transport options available by air, land and sea.

Before booking a trip, travellers should identify their intended point of entry, verify visa requirements based on their nationality, and choose accommodation that suits their planned activities.
Visa Requirements: Pay Attention to Your Point of Entry
According to Aqaba’s official tourism portal, certain eligible visitors may obtain a free visa when entering through King Hussein International Airport or the Port of Aqaba, subject to the conditions established by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.

However, this exemption does not apply to all nationalities, and entry procedures may differ at certain land crossings, particularly the southern Wadi Araba border crossing.

The official authority also indicates that travellers entering Jordan through another point of entry who wish to benefit from Aqaba’s special arrangements may be required to register their arrival with the designated visa office within 48 hours.

Travellers should therefore consult Aqaba’s official visa regulations and the relevant Jordanian embassy before departure, rather than assuming that the exemption automatically applies to every visitor.
How to Get to Aqaba
Aqaba is served by King Hussein International Airport, while Queen Alia International Airport in Amman provides another option for travellers who cannot find a suitable direct flight to Aqaba.

From Amman, visitors can continue their journey by road using scheduled buses or private vehicles.

Travellers arriving from Egypt may also reach Aqaba by sea through ferry services, subject to the operators’ published schedules.

It is advisable to verify flight and ferry timetables before booking, as the existence of a transport route does not necessarily mean that services operate daily.
Where to Stay
Aqaba offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, beachfront resorts, serviced apartments and properties located within the city.

Staying in central Aqaba is convenient for visitors who wish to explore markets, restaurants and historic attractions on foot.

Beachfront resorts, meanwhile, are better suited to travellers who prioritise beach access, swimming and diving.

Hotel classifications alone should not determine the choice of accommodation. Visitors should also confirm whether a property has a private beach or provides beach access, and whether marine activities, meals and transfers are included in the quoted rate.
Weather and Marine Activities
Aqaba’s official tourism portal identifies September through November, along with the spring months, as favourable periods for visiting the city, thanks to milder conditions compared with the intense summer heat.

Travellers are advised to pack lightweight daytime clothing, an additional layer for the evening, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes.

Diving and snorkelling activities are best arranged through licensed operators, with visitors expected to follow the regulations of the Aqaba Marine Reserve, particularly the prohibition on touching or standing on coral reefs.
Do You Need the Jordan Pass?
The official Jordan Pass starts at JOD 70 and includes admission to selected tourist attractions, along with a conditional exemption from visa fees for certain eligible visitors.
Jordan Pass