Practical Information

Aqaba’s overheated atmosphere has a discernible effect on human behavior. People drive like idiots here, even more so than in the rest of the country; there are (ignored) road signs telling drivers to lay off their horns. Aqaba is also far more lax about morality than the rest of Jordan. Hotels and most restaurants are licensed for drinking, and both men and women can wear shorts in and around the city. Finally, women should be especially careful about unwanted advances.

Visitors Center: (tel. 31 33 63 or 31 37 31), on the grounds of the new Islamic Museum between Salah ad-Dins fort and the southern waterfront. Helpful to campers. Officially open 8am-2pm, but staff is often inclined to close around 1:30pm.

Egyptian Consulate: Al-Istiqlal St. (tel. 31 61 71); turn right along the curve about 800m northwest of the Aquamarina II Hotel. Look for an empty guard booth in front. Egyptian visas can be obtained in 1 day. Bring your passport, a photo and JD12. Open daily 9am-l:30pm.