Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15–25 | $35–70 |
| Food | $8–15 | $18–30 |
| Transport | $3–7 | $10–20 |
| Activities | $10–25 | $40–70 |
| Extras | $3–8 | $10–15 |
| Daily Total | $30–50 | $80–150 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities get a visa on arrival — 40 JOD single-entry, waived with the Jordan Pass
- Jordan Pass must be purchased online before arrival and activated within 2 weeks of entry
- ASEZA zone means no visa fee if entering and staying only in Aqaba — but the Jordan Pass is better value for most
Health & Safety
- Aqaba is very safe for tourists — Jordan has one of the lowest crime rates in the Middle East
- The sun is intense year-round — wear high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and drink plenty of water
- Princess Haya Hospital in Aqaba provides emergency medical care — travel insurance is recommended
Getting Around
- Central Aqaba is walkable — the souk, corniche, fort, and hotels are all within a 20-minute walk
- Taxis are cheap and unmetered — agree the fare before getting in. Downtown to South Beach costs about 3 JOD
- JETT buses connect Aqaba to Amman (4 hours, 10 JOD) and Petra/Wadi Musa (2 hours, 7 JOD)
Connectivity
- Buy a Zain or Orange SIM card at the airport or in town — tourist SIMs with data cost about 5–10 JOD
- WiFi is reliable at most hotels and cafes in Aqaba — speeds are generally good
- Download offline maps for Wadi Rum as phone signal is limited in the desert
Money
- The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is a strong currency — 1 JOD ≈ 1.41 USD. ATMs widely available
- Carry cash for taxis, markets, and small restaurants — cards accepted at hotels and larger establishments
- Tipping 10% at restaurants is customary. Round up taxi fares. Tip diving instructors 3–5 JOD per dive
Packing Tips
- Modest clothing is respectful — cover shoulders and knees away from the beach, especially for women
- Reef-safe sunscreen protects the coral — standard sunscreens contain chemicals that damage marine life
- A rash guard for snorkelling, comfortable sandals, a wide-brim hat, and a light scarf for desert trips
Cultural tips
Jordanian Hospitality
Jordanians are famous for their hospitality — accepting offered tea or coffee is polite and refusing can cause offence. If invited to someone's home, bring a small gift (sweets or pastries). Remove shoes before entering homes.
Respect Islam
Jordan is a Muslim country. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting. Dress modestly when visiting mosques — women should cover their hair.
Photography Courtesy
Ask before photographing people, especially women. Most Jordanians are happy to be photographed but appreciate being asked first. Military installations, border areas, and some government buildings should not be photographed.
Bargaining Culture
Bargaining is expected in souks and markets — start at about 50% of the asking price. Be friendly and light-hearted about it. Fixed-price shops and supermarkets do not negotiate. Never bargain for food at restaurants.
Dining Etiquette
Eat with your right hand when sharing from communal plates. If mansaf is served traditionally on a large platter, follow the lead of your Jordanian hosts. Finishing everything on your plate signals you want more — leave a little to show you are satisfied.
Modest Dress
Aqaba is more relaxed than other Jordanian cities thanks to tourism, but conservative dress away from the beach is respectful. Women should cover shoulders and knees in town. Swimwear is only appropriate on the beach itself.
