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The Ultimate Aqaba Cheat Sheet for 2025: Insider Tips from a Serial Jordan Visitor

Discover the ultimate 2025 Aqaba cheat sheet packed with insider tips, budget hacks, and local secrets for experiencing Jordan's Red Sea paradise like a seasoned traveler. Learn from my mistakes and follow this comprehensive guide for an unforgettable Aqaba adventure.

Introduction: Why Aqaba Stole My Heart

The first time I stepped onto Aqaba’s shores in 2018, I was woefully unprepared. I’d come for the famed Red Sea diving but ended up spending my first day desperately searching for an ATM that wouldn’t charge exorbitant fees, sweating through my completely inappropriate clothing choices, and paying tourist prices that made my wallet weep. Fast forward to 2025, and after seven visits to this Jordanian gem, I’ve compiled everything I wish I’d known that first time—and all the secrets I’ve gathered since.

Aqaba isn’t just a gateway to Petra or a quick Red Sea stop; it’s a destination worthy of your full attention, with its unique blend of laid-back coastal vibes and rich Jordanian culture. The call to prayer echoing across the water at sunset still gives me goosebumps every time. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, this cheat sheet will help you navigate Aqaba like a local in 2025.

“Aqaba isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about slowing down to the rhythm of the Red Sea.”

Getting to Aqaba: Your Transportation Options for 2025

Aqaba has become much more accessible since my first visit. Previously, most travelers defaulted to arriving via Amman, but 2025 offers several convenient options:

By Air: King Hussein International Airport (AQJ)

The airport has expanded significantly in 2024-2025. New direct routes from major European cities have been added, including:

  • Ryanair now flies direct from Berlin, Rome, and Warsaw (starting at €79 one-way)
  • EasyJet has routes from London and Manchester (around £120 return)
  • Royal Jordanian connects through Amman with better domestic rates in 2025

Insider Tip #1: Book flights for Tuesday or Wednesday arrivals—I’ve consistently found prices up to 30% lower than weekend arrivals.

From Amman to Aqaba

If you’re flying into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman:

  1. JETT Bus: The most economical option at 8-10 JOD (approximately $11-14 USD). Departs from Amman’s 7th Circle station. The 2025 schedule has expanded to 5 daily departures.
  2. Rental Car: The newly completed highway has cut driving time to 3.5 hours. Expect to pay around 25-35 JOD ($35-50) per day for a basic vehicle.
  3. Domestic Flight: Royal Jordanian offers 3 daily flights, taking just 45 minutes and costing around 50-70 JOD ($70-100) each way.

My Mistake: On my second visit, I booked the last JETT bus of the day without realizing it often sells out. I ended up paying triple for a private taxi. Reserve your JETT tickets online at least 48 hours in advance through their official website.

Border Crossings to Aqaba

Aqaba sits at a unique crossroads where Jordan, Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia nearly meet:

Border Crossing Country 2025 Status Notes
Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin Israel (Eilat) Open daily 6:30am-8:00pm Recently renovated; average crossing time now just 30 minutes
Durra Saudi Arabia Open to international tourists New in 2024! E-visa required for most nationalities
Taba Egypt Open with restrictions Multiple-entry visa needed; complex process

Insider Tip #2: The Jordan Pass (70-80 JOD depending on Petra options) waives your tourist visa fee (40 JOD) and includes entry to Petra and 40+ attractions. Buy it online before arrival through the official Jordan Pass website. The math works even if you only visit Petra!

Where to Stay: Neighborhoods & Accommodation Options

Aqaba’s accommodation landscape has evolved dramatically since my first visit, with new developments stretching both north and south of the city center.

City Center (Al-Balad)

The bustling heart of Aqaba, where you’ll find local life, the souq, and affordable options.

  • Budget: Darna Village Hostel (15-25 JOD for dorms, 45 JOD for private rooms) – My go-to for solo trips. Their rooftop gatherings introduced me to lifelong friends.
  • Mid-range: Lacosta Hotel (60-80 JOD) – Completely renovated in 2024, with surprisingly good coastal views.
  • Luxury: Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla (starting at 120 JOD in low season) – The business district’s crown jewel.

Best for: Budget travelers, authentic experiences, easy access to local restaurants and transportation.

South Beach

The area has transformed since 2023 with the completion of Ayla Oasis and Saraya Aqaba developments.

  • Budget: Captain’s Hotel (50-70 JOD) – Simple but clean with fantastic staff.
  • Mid-range: Al Manara, Luxury Collection (100-180 JOD) – Often has surprise off-season deals.
  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel Aqaba (200+ JOD) – Expansive pools and private beach access.

Best for: Luxury travelers, families, beach access, modern amenities.

Insider Tip #3: Hotels quote prices in Jordanian Dinar (JOD), USD, and Euro. Always check what works best. In my experience, paying in JOD typically saves 3-5% compared to the hotel’s USD conversion rate.

South Coast & Tala Bay

About 15 minutes south of the city center lies this upscale residential and resort area with Aqaba’s best beaches.

  • Mid-range: Marina Plaza (80-120 JOD) – Reliable comfort with excellent proximity to diving sites.
  • Luxury: Mövenpick Resort (150-250 JOD) – My splurge for special occasions; their private beach is unmatched.

Best for: Diving enthusiasts, beachgoers, those seeking quieter surroundings.

My Mistake: I once booked a budget hotel near South Beach thinking I could easily access the premier beaches. What I didn’t realize was many are private and require either hotel residence or day passes (15-30 JOD). The public beaches get extremely crowded on weekends and holidays.

Apartment Rentals – The Local Alternative

For stays longer than 3 days, consider apartment rentals. New buildings in the Al-Mafraq and Al-Sakaneyeh neighborhoods offer fully furnished units for 40-70 JOD per night, often with more space than hotels and kitchen facilities.

Look beyond the international booking platforms—local agencies like Aqaba Houses often have better rates and more authentic properties.

Diving & Snorkeling: Aqaba’s Underwater Treasures

The Red Sea’s crystal waters are what first brought me to Aqaba, and they keep drawing me back. What makes diving here special is the accessibility—shore dives are possible at many sites, saving you boat fees.

Top Dive Sites for 2025

  1. Cedar Pride Wreck: A Lebanese freighter sunk in 1985, now covered in soft corals. Depth: 10-25 meters.
  2. Japanese Gardens: Perfect for beginners and snorkelers with vibrant coral starting at just 2-3 meters depth.
  3. Hercules C-130: Newly accessible in 2024, this military transport plane was recently sunk as an artificial reef.
  4. The Tank: An American M42 anti-aircraft tank sitting at 6 meters—unique and perfect for all levels.
  5. South Beach/Rainbow Reef: Wall diving with stunning coral formations and abundant marine life.

Reputable Dive Centers

Dive Center 2-Tank Dive Cost Specialty Location
Arab Divers 70 JOD ($98) Technical diving South Beach
Aqaba Adventure Divers 65 JOD ($92) Small groups, flexible schedules City Center
Sea Star Watersports 75 JOD ($106) Luxury experience, photography Tala Bay

Insider Tip #4: Book a package of 5+ dives for 15-20% discounts. Most centers offer 10% off if you bring your own gear. I’ve had success asking for an additional 5% discount for cash payments during the shoulder seasons (April-May and October).

For Snorkelers: Skip the expensive tours and head straight to the public beach near the Marine Science Station (South Beach). Entry fee is just 2 JOD, and the protected reef starts meters from shore. Bring water shoes—the entry can be rocky!

My Mistake: I once booked diving for my entire stay, only to discover that Aqaba has a mandatory 24-hour no-fly/no-high-altitude period after diving. Plan your Petra or Wadi Rum visits before your diving days or leave a buffer day.

Marine Conservation Efforts

Aqaba has stepped up reef protection in 2024-2025. Many sites now limit daily visitors, and some operators charge a small reef conservation fee (2-5 JOD). This is legitimate and supports local conservation initiatives—please don’t haggle over it.

Beaches & Water Activities

Not a diver? Aqaba still offers plenty of ways to enjoy its 27km of coastline, which has seen significant development since 2023.

Public vs. Private Beaches

Aqaba’s beaches fall into three categories:

  • Free Public Beaches: Al-Hafayer (South Public Beach) and North Public Beach. Basic facilities, very crowded on weekends.
  • Paid Public Beaches: Berenice Beach Club (15 JOD entrance) and Al-Ghandour Beach (10 JOD). Include loungers, showers, and restaurants.
  • Hotel Beaches: Most offer day passes for non-guests (20-35 JOD) including pool access and towels.

My Local Phrase: “Kam el dakhool?” (How much is entrance?) is essential when approaching beach clubs. Followed by “Momken takhfeed?” (Can you discount?) often works magic during weekdays!

Beyond Swimming

Water activities have diversified tremendously since 2023:

  • Parasailing: 60 JOD for a 15-minute flight, offering stunning views of four countries on clear days.
  • Glass-Bottom Boats: 15 JOD for a 1-hour tour—perfect for non-swimmers.
  • Jet Skis: 40 JOD for 30 minutes (negotiate hard—I’ve gotten it for 30 JOD consistently).
  • SUP and Kayaking: Rentals available at Berenice and Tala Bay (15 JOD per hour).
  • Yacht Charters: The new Ayla Marina offers half-day charters from 200 JOD (for up to 8 people).

Insider Tip #5: Visit the Royal Yacht Club on a Tuesday evening (after 6pm). They host a weekly sailing meet where locals often offer free short rides to interested visitors. I’ve done this three times—just be friendly and show genuine interest!

Food Scene: From Street Eats to Fine Dining

Aqaba’s food scene has expanded dramatically, balancing traditional Jordanian cuisine with international influences and plenty of fresh seafood.

Budget Eats (Under 5 JOD/$7)

  • Al-Shami Restaurant (Al-Nahda Street): The shawarma (2 JOD) is consistently perfect. Look for the place with the spinning vertical spits visible from the street.
  • Hashem’s Aqaba (King Hussein Bin Ali Street): The falafel and hummus institution expanded from Amman in 2023. Full meal for 3-4 JOD.
  • Fish Market Kiosks (Near the Main Port): Pick your fresh fish (priced by weight, about 5-8 JOD/kg) and pay a small fee (1 JOD) to have it cooked. Add 0.5 JOD for rice.

Local Phrase: “Bidoon bahar” (without spice) is useful if you prefer milder food, though you’ll be missing out on Aqaba’s distinctive spice blends.

Mid-Range Options (5-15 JOD/$7-21)

  • Ali Baba Restaurant (Al-Nahda Street): Their sayyadieh (fish with spiced rice) is the best in Aqaba at 8 JOD.
  • Floka Seafood Restaurant (Al-Hammamat Al-Tunisyya Street): Greek-influenced seafood with a stunning terrace. Main dishes 10-15 JOD.
  • Syrian Palace (King Hussein Street): Extensive mezze selection and grilled meats. Dinner for two around 25 JOD total.

High-End Dining (15+ JOD/$21+)

  • Royal Yacht Club Restaurant: Upscale dining with marina views. Their seafood platter (35 JOD) is perfect for sharing.
  • Burj Al Hamam (Kempinski Hotel): Lebanese fine dining with impeccable service. Dinner averages 25-30 JOD per person.
  • Aziab (New in 2024, Saraya Aqaba): Contemporary Jordanian cuisine using traditional ingredients in innovative ways.

My Mistake: I spent years avoiding the tourist-filled restaurants on Al-Nahda Street, assuming they were overpriced and inauthentic. The truth? Many are run by local families and offer some of the freshest seafood in town. The trick is to eat early (before 7 pm) when locals dine, rather than during the later tourist rush.

Unique Food Experiences

  • Friday Bedouin Brunch at Mövenpick Resort (25 JOD): Authentic Bedouin dishes rarely found in restaurants, including zarb (underground-cooked meat) and authentic mansaf.
  • Aqaba Cooking Class at Beit Al Bahr (40 JOD): Learn to make maqluba (upside-down rice dish) and other local specialties.
  • Captain’s Fish BBQ Sunset Cruise (35 JOD including food): Combines sightseeing with freshly caught and grilled fish.

Insider Tip #6: Many restaurants offer a “business lunch” special between 12-3pm with the same dinner menu items at 30-40% discount. This is true even at upscale places like the Kempinski’s restaurants.

Day Trips from Aqaba

Aqaba makes an excellent base for exploring southern Jordan’s wonders, with several unmissable day trip options.

Wadi Rum Desert Experience

The otherworldly desert landscape of Wadi Rum is just an hour from Aqaba and offers several experience options:

Experience Type Duration Price (2025) What’s Included
Jeep Tour 4-5 hours 45-60 JOD Major sites, simple lunch
Camel Trek 2-3 hours 35-50 JOD Slower pace, traditional experience
Overnight Stay 24 hours 70-120 JOD All meals, accommodation, stargazing

My Mistake: I booked my first Wadi Rum tour through my Aqaba hotel, paying nearly double what I later learned was the standard rate. Book directly with Bedouin operators like Wadi Rum Nomads or Rum Stars for better prices and more authentic experiences.

Petra Day Trip

While Petra deserves more than a day, it’s possible to visit as a day trip from Aqaba (2 hours each way):

  • DIY Approach: Daily JETT buses leave Aqaba at 8:00am (15 JOD round-trip) and return at 5:00pm.
  • Guided Tour: Group tours run 60-75 JOD including transportation and guide (but not entry fees).
  • Private Driver: 70-90 JOD for the entire car (up to 4 people), flexible timing.

Insider Tip #7: If taking public transport to Petra, consider staying overnight in Wadi Musa and returning to Aqaba the next day. The 5:00pm departure means rushing through Petra, missing the magical late afternoon light when most tour groups have left.

Lesser-Known Day Trips

Venture beyond the famous sites to these hidden gems:

  • Mujib Nature Reserve: Wade through spectacular slot canyons (March-October only). 2 hours from Aqaba.
  • Dana Biosphere Reserve: Jordan’s most diverse nature reserve offers stunning hiking. The new Dana Visitor Center (opened 2024) provides excellent trail maps and guides.
  • Shobak Castle: Less crowded than Kerak, this Crusader castle offers spectacular views and fascinating history.

Sensory Detail: There’s nothing quite like the smell of Bedouin tea brewing over an open fire at a desert camp in Wadi Rum—cardamom and sage infusing the sweet tea as the sun sets, turning the red sand to a deep crimson before the stars emerge with breathtaking clarity.

Shopping: Souvenirs & Local Treasures

Aqaba offers tax-free shopping—a unique advantage in Jordan. In 2024, the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority expanded the tax-free status to include more consumer electronics and luxury goods.

Authentic Souvenirs

Skip the generic tourist trinkets and consider these local treasures:

  • Sand Bottles: Intricate desert scenes created with colored sand (10-40 JOD depending on size and complexity).
  • Dead Sea Products: Significantly cheaper in Aqaba than at the Dead Sea resorts. Look for locally-made brands like Trinitae or Bloom.
  • Jordanian Spices: Visit Al-Mukhtar Spice Shop (Al-Nahda Street) for za’atar blends, sumac, and unique Aqaba seafood spice mixes (3-5 JOD per package).
  • Bedouin Silver: The Aqaba Heritage Souk (near Ayla Gate) showcases authentic Bedouin jewelry and textiles.

Where to Shop

Traditional Markets

  • Aqaba Old Souk: (King Hussein Street) Best for spices, textiles, and local handicrafts.
  • Gold Souk: (Raghadan Street) Competitive prices on gold jewelry (sold by weight plus craftsmanship fee).

Modern Shopping

  • Ayla Oasis Boulevard: New in 2024, featuring international brands and upscale boutiques.
  • Tala Bay Marina Village: Beachfront shopping with designer swimwear and resort fashion.
  • Aqaba Gateway: Electronics, perfumes, and luxury goods at tax-free prices.

Haggling Etiquette: In traditional markets, haggling is expected but should be good-natured. Start at about 60-70% of the asking price. In my experience, a friendly “Shu akher se’er?” (What’s your best price?) works wonders. Fixed-price shops will clearly display “No Haggling” signs.

My Mistake: I once bought beautiful “traditional” ceramics in Aqaba, only to discover later they were mass-produced in China. For authentic Jordanian ceramics, look specifically for Tabriz or Jordan River Foundation pieces with their distinctive logos.

Practical Information & Money-Saving Hacks

Currency & Payment Methods

Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), which has maintained a stable exchange rate of approximately 1 JOD = 1.41 USD.

  • ATMs are widely available but often charge 5-7 JOD per withdrawal.
  • Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but smaller vendors and taxis require cash.
  • Currency exchange offices in the city center typically offer better rates than hotels or the airport.

Insider Tip #8: The Cairo Amman Bank ATMs (blue signs) charge the lowest fees in my experience (3 JOD versus 5-7 JOD at other banks). There’s one at the Raghadan Bus Station and another near the Movenpick Hotel.

Money-Saving Hacks

These tips have saved me hundreds of dinars across my visits:

  1. Jordan Pass: At 70 JOD, it pays for itself if you visit Petra (entry: 50 JOD) and saves the visa fee (40 JOD).
  2. SIM Card Deal: The Zain “Tourist SIM” offers 10GB data + limited calls for 10 JOD. Available at the airport or any Zain shop with your passport.
  3. Servees Taxis: These shared taxis run set routes for just 0.5 JOD per person within Aqaba. Look for white taxis with colored stripes.
  4. Free Beach Access: Stay at a city center hotel and ask for passes to their beach club partner (many have arrangements).
  5. Water Refills: The 2024 “Refill Aqaba” initiative placed filtered water stations throughout tourist areas. Bring a reusable bottle!

Sustainable Travel Tips

These eco-friendly choices also save money:

  • Use the new public electric buses (launched 2024) connecting major hotels and beaches for just 1 JOD per ride.
  • Support restaurants displaying the “Local Food Initiative” sign—they source ingredients within 50km, reducing carbon footprint while offering fresher dishes.
  • Join beach clean-ups organized by Project Seahorse every Saturday morning—participants often receive free snorkeling equipment rental.
  • Choose diving operators certified by the Green Fins initiative. They typically maintain smaller group sizes for better experiences.

My Local Phrase: “Ma beddi kees, shukran” (I don’t need a bag, thank you) helps reduce plastic waste when shopping.

Weather Considerations & When to Visit

Aqaba enjoys a desert microclimate with warm winters and hot summers:

Season Temperature Crowd Level Notes
Winter (Nov-Feb) 20-25°C / 68-77°F Moderate Perfect weather, European tourists
Spring (Mar-May) 25-32°C / 77-90°F Low-Moderate Ideal balance of weather and space
Summer (Jun-Sep) 35-40°C / 95-104°F High (Gulf tourists) Very hot, but great for diving
Fall (Oct-Nov) 25-30°C / 77-86°F Low My favorite time to visit!

Special Event: The Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival (October 2025) will showcase Bedouin crafts, music and dance. Local artisans offer workshops and demonstrations at minimal costs.

Cultural Insights & Etiquette

While Aqaba is more relaxed than much of Jordan due to its resort status, respecting local customs enhances your experience and interactions with residents.

Dress Code

Despite being a beach destination, Aqaba still observes moderate dress codes:

  • On Beaches/Resorts: Western swimwear is acceptable within hotel beaches and pool areas.
  • In the City: Both men and women should cover shoulders and knees. Women should avoid tight or revealing clothing.
  • For Religious Sites: Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair if visiting mosques.

My Mistake: During my second visit, I walked from my beach resort into town still wearing shorts and a tank top. The uncomfortable stares made me realize I had crossed a cultural line. Now I always carry a light cotton shirt and pants to layer over beach attire when leaving resort areas.

Social Customs

  • Greetings: A handshake is common for same-gender introductions. Wait for women to extend their hand first.
  • Ramadan Considerations: During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is considered disrespectful. Many restaurants close until sunset, but hotel establishments often remain open for tourists.
  • Photography: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially women and children.
  • Home Invitations: If invited to a local home, bring a small gift (sweets or fruit are appropriate). Remove shoes before entering and accept at least one cup of tea or coffee.

Local Phrase: “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you) as a greeting, followed by “Shukran” (Thank you) goes a long way in establishing friendly connections.

Tipping Culture

Tipping expectations have evolved since COVID-19:

  • Restaurants: 10% is standard if service charge isn’t included (check the bill).
  • Tour Guides: 5-10 JOD per day depending on group size and quality.
  • Hotel Staff: 1-2 JOD for housekeeping per day, 2-3 JOD for luggage assistance.
  • Dive Masters: 5-10 JOD per day is appreciated.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Aqaba Adventure

After seven visits spanning nearly a decade, Aqaba continues to surprise me with its evolution and hidden treasures. The city has transformed from a simple gateway to Jordan’s inland attractions to a destination worthy of extended exploration.

5-Step Action Plan for Your 2025 Aqaba Trip

  1. Pre-Arrival: Purchase your Jordan Pass online, download the “Aqaba Tourism” app (launched 2024), and reserve diving packages in advance.
  2. First Day: Orient yourself with a morning walk along the Corniche, then visit Al-Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque and the Aqaba Castle to appreciate the city’s history.
  3. Middle Days: Balance water activities with cultural experiences—follow a morning dive with an afternoon visit to the Heritage Museum or a cooking class.
  4. Day Trips: Schedule Wadi Rum and Petra visits at the beginning of your stay, leaving buffer days before diving.
  5. Final Day: Allow time for last-minute tax-free shopping and a sunset cruise—the perfect way to bid farewell to the Red Sea.

Aqaba offers a rare combination of adventure, relaxation, history, and culture that few destinations can match. By approaching it with respect for local customs and an explorer’s curiosity, you’ll experience far more than just another beach resort.

The smell of cardamom coffee brewing in seaside cafes, the call to prayer echoing across the water at sunset, and the feeling of weightlessness as you drift over vibrant coral gardens—these sensory memories of Aqaba will stay with you long after your tan fades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aqaba safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Aqaba is generally very safe for solo female travelers. The city is accustomed to international tourism and maintains strong security. However, I recommend modest dress when exploring the city center, avoiding isolated areas at night, and using registered taxis after dark. Using location sharing with trusted contacts is also wise, as it is anywhere you travel alone.

How many days should I spend in Aqaba?

I recommend a minimum of 3 full days in Aqaba itself, plus additional days for excursions to Wadi Rum (1-2 days) and Petra (ideally 2 days). A perfect itinerary would be 7 days total: 3-4 in Aqaba and 3-4 for side trips. This allows time to enjoy the beaches, diving/snorkeling, local culture, and nearby attractions without rushing.

Do I need a visa to visit Aqaba?

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Jordan, but if you arrive directly at Aqaba (either through King Hussein International Airport or via the Wadi Araba border crossing from Israel), you qualify for a free ASEZA (Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority) visa valid for 30 days. Alternatively, purchasing the Jordan Pass in advance includes your tourist visa if staying a minimum of 3 nights in Jordan.

Is it worth visiting Aqaba during Ramadan?

Yes, but with some planning. The city operates differently during Ramadan, with many restaurants closed during daylight hours and opening only after sunset. Hotels and tourist facilities continue to serve food, however. The evenings are especially vibrant as locals celebrate iftar (breaking the fast), with special food stalls and a festive atmosphere. Water activities and excursions continue to operate, making it still worthwhile to visit if you’re respectful of local customs.

Can I drink alcohol in Aqaba?

Yes, alcohol is available in Aqaba at international hotels, some restaurants with liquor licenses, and at the duty-free shop if arriving by air. However, drinking in public spaces is not acceptable. Respect local sensibilities by consuming alcohol only in appropriate venues, and never during Ramadan in public view. Prices for alcohol are higher than you might expect (a local beer costs 5-7 JOD in hotels).

Is the water safe to drink in Aqaba?

Tap water in Aqaba is technically safe but has a high mineral content that can cause digestive issues for visitors. I recommend sticking to bottled water, which is inexpensive (around 0.5 JOD for 1.5 liters). The 2024 “Refill Aqaba” initiative has installed filtered water stations throughout tourist areas where you can refill bottles for free, reducing plastic waste.

How do I get around within Aqaba?

Aqaba offers several transportation options. Regular taxis are plentiful but always negotiate the fare before departing (15-20 JOD to South Beach from the city center). Servees (shared) taxis follow fixed routes for just 0.5 JOD per person. The new electric bus service (launched 2024) connects major hotels and attractions for 1 JOD per ride. For longer stays, car rentals start at about 25 JOD per day from local agencies.

What’s the best area to stay in for first-time visitors?

For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in the city center if you value convenience to restaurants, shops, and local culture, or South Beach/Tala Bay if beachfront access and resort amenities are priorities. The city center offers better value and authenticity, while the beach areas provide more upscale experiences. Split your stay between both areas for the complete Aqaba experience.

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