Aqaba, Port city in southern Jordan
Aqaba runs along the northeastern shore of the Red Sea in Jordan's southernmost region, forming the country's only outlet to the sea. The town combines a waterfront promenade, residential districts, and a commercial harbor area with views of desert mountains in the background and shallow beaches at the water's edge.
Under Roman rule in the first and second centuries CE, the settlement grew as a crossroads for caravans traveling between Egypt and Syria. The place later changed hands several times before becoming part of modern Jordan in the 20th century.
The name comes from an Arabic word for a steep pass through the mountains, and today the town reflects both ancient and modern Jordanian life. Merchants sell spices, coffee, and silver jewelry in covered lanes where visitors can also find traditional pastries and freshly pressed pomegranate juice.
Most visitors arrive through the airport to the north or by buses from Amman and other Jordanian towns. Those wishing to travel onward to archaeological sites or desert landscapes can find connections to organized tours and shared taxis here.
At certain spots you can walk a few steps across the border into Israel, as the neighboring town of Eilat sits right next door. Underwater, coral gardens reach almost to the surface, so snorkelers often spot turtles and colorful schools of fish even in shallow water.
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