Opened in 2018 as part of the Saraya Aqaba
development by Eagle Hills Jordan, the hotel operates under Marriott’s Luxury Collection brand, combining Arabian-inspired architecture with views of the sea and an inland lagoon.
Aqaba, Jordan – AlRehla
Located near the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, offers an example of upscale hospitality that combines a coastal retreat with design inspired by Jordan’s cultural heritage.
The hotel forms part of the Saraya Aqaba development, developed by Eagle Hills Jordan. It opened in October 2018 under Marriott International’s Luxury Collection brand, becoming the brand’s first property in Jordan.
207 Accommodation Units with a Local Character
At the time of its opening, the hotel featured 207 rooms, suites and villas, including 43 suites and two villas, with balconies and expansive windows overlooking the Red Sea and surrounding mountains.
The interior design draws inspiration from Arabian architecture, incorporating geometric patterns, dark wood, decorative details influenced by traditional craftsmanship, and textiles reflecting local weaving traditions.
Samuel Creations and MMac Associates contributed to the interior design, with an emphasis on connecting the guest experience to the cultural identity of the destination.
Between the Red Sea and an Inland Lagoon
The hotel’s location offers views of both the Saraya Aqaba lagoon and the Red Sea, creating a different experience from properties situated in Aqaba’s city centre.
Marriott lists a selection of rooms, suites and villas among the hotel’s accommodation options, including choices suitable for families.
Guests may also have access to Saraya Beach Club, which offers leisure facilities, dining options and social activities.
However, travellers should confirm the conditions of beach club access when booking, including whether beach facilities are included in the room rate or subject to additional charges.
Dining as Part of the Guest Experience
When the hotel opened, its dining facilities included restaurants serving Mediterranean cuisine and dishes inspired by Levantine culinary traditions, including Taybeh Al Manara and Kubba Levantin.
This approach reflects an effort to integrate regional cuisine into an international hospitality experience rather than focusing exclusively on conventional hotel services.
Restaurant names, operating hours and menus may change, so guests are advised to check directly with the hotel before their visit.
Who Is the Hotel Best Suited For?
Al Manara appeals to travellers seeking upscale accommodation that combines coastal relaxation with heritage-inspired design.
It also caters to couples and families who prefer staying within an integrated tourism development.
Visitors whose itineraries focus primarily on traditional markets and historical attractions should consider transportation requirements when comparing Al Manara with other accommodation options in central Aqaba.
AlRehla Perspective
What distinguishes Al
Manara is its connection to a larger tourism development and its use of interior design to present a contemporary interpretation of Jordanian heritage.
The property illustrates how a hotel can contribute to a destination’s identity rather than simply providing a place to stay, provided that its design, services and location come together to deliver a meaningful guest experience.
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