MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Aqaba

Getting Around Aqaba

Public Transportation

Public transportation within Aqaba city is limited. The city does not have a metro or tram system. Local public buses are infrequent and mainly serve residents on fixed routes.

They are not typically used by tourists, who find taxis or ride-sharing more convenient for reaching specific attractions. There are no readily available tourist-friendly route maps for local buses.

Fare & Accessibility

  • Prices for local buses are very low, typically JOD 0.5-1 per ride. Pay the driver directly in cash.
  • Local buses generally are open during daylight hours. Frequency is often low, departing when full, leading to long waiting times.
  • Public buses in Aqaba are not usually designed for wheelchair accessibility.
  • For most tourists, using public buses is not practical. Taxis or ride-transport apps offer a better experience.

Limited Buses

Municipal buses are infrequent and mainly serve residents.

Low Fares

Fares are low, paid directly to the driver.

Cash Only

Payment for local buses is cash only.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Hailing & Fares
  • Licensed taxis are white or yellow with green license plates.
  • You can signal for a taxi on the street or find them at designated stands.
  • Be firm about the meter ("bil-aadad") or agree on a price before starting the journey.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Careem is widely available and highly recommended for predetermined, upfront fares.
  • Careem tracks your travels and provides driver identification for safety.
  • Avoid unmarked cars offering rides; they are not legitimate taxis.

Typical Fares Estimates

Within Aqaba City

JOD 2-5

Careem within city

JOD 2-4

Airport taxi to city/Tala Bay

JOD 15-20

Payment

Almost always cash for taxis, Careem allows app payment.

Rental Options

For independent exploration, various rental options are available.

Car Rental

  • Rental car agencies are available at King Hussein International Airport and in Aqaba city center.
  • Major international companies (e.g., Hertz, Avis, Europcar) operate, alongside local agencies.
  • Requires a valid national driver's license (held for a minimum of one year) and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • A a credit card is typically required for a security deposit.

Driving & Parking

  • Drive on the right side of the road in Jordan; speed limits are enforced.
  • Road conditions on main routes are generally good.
  • Parking can be challenging in central Aqaba, especially during peak hours; seek out designated lots.
  • Roads within Wadi Rum are not paved, requiring off-road vehicles, typically with guided tours.

Other Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common and not generally recommended for tourists.
  • No formal city-wide bicycle sharing programs.
  • Certain hotels or specialized shops (e.g., in Tala Bay) may offer bicycle rentals for leisure rides.
  • Aqaba city center, around the souk and Great Arab Revolt Square, is quite walkable.
  • The Corniche and Tala Bay have pleasant pedestrian routes for strolls.
  • A small number of dedicated cycle paths; cycling on main roads can be hazardous.

Accessibility Services

Older City Parts

Accessibility infrastructure is limited, with uneven pavements and common stairs.

Modern Areas

Newer hotels, resorts, and current shopping districts are generally more accessible with ramps and elevators.

Private Transfers

Accessible vehicles can often be arranged if booked in advance through specialized tour operators.

Specialized Transportation

Aqaba offers some unique ways to get around, most importantly on the water, enhancing the travel experience.

Tour Buses

  • No dedicated hop-on-hop-off tour buses run within Aqaba city.
  • Tour operators in Aqaba offer organized bus trips to major sites like Petra and Wadi Rum.
  • These are convenient for travelers who prefer structured itineraries with transport included.
  • Private transfers offer flexibility for specially made schedules.

Water Transportation

  • Various boats offer tours of a Paradise For divers (glass-bottom, diving/snorkeling, evening boat trips).
  • There is no regular water taxi service for commuting within Aqaba.
  • Boats can be mainly for leisure purposes, demonstrating marine life.
  • Book boat trips in advance, especially during peak season.

Unique Transport & Local Tips

No Cable Cars

Aqaba does not have cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique local transport systems.

Focus on sea and desert tours.

Walking Safe Zones

Avoid walking or cycling on major highways; they are busy instead of designed for pedestrians.

Stick to Corniche and city center.

Careem for City Trips

For short excursions within the city, especially in the evening, using Careem is often the most convenient and clear option.

Easy and reliable.

Driving Habits & Pedestrian Safety

Local Driving Culture
  • Local driving habits can be aggressive, with frequent horn usage and sudden lane changes.
  • Defensive driving is recommended for self-drivers.
  • Be aware of traffic congestion in city centers.
Pedestrian Awareness
  • Be cautious of uneven pavements and busy intersections, specifically in older city parts.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.
  • Avoid places not designed for pedestrians or cyclists, like major highways.

Important Considerations for Transit

  • Public buses lack wheelchair accessibility.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not generally recommended due to traffic.
  • The Sea Between africa and asia ferry to Nuweiba (Egypt) is inconsistent and not a guaranteed service.
  • Limited dedicated bicycle lanes; cycling on main roads can be hazardous.
  • Local minibuses (Servess) only depart when full, resulting in waiting times.
  • Avoid driving in the sandy landscape without a guided 4x4 tour.
  • Do not walk or cycle on major highways; they are unsafe for pedestrians.
  • Always confirm taxi fares or use Careem to avoid negotiation surprises.

Final Transit Advice

While Aqaba is walkable in its core, for longer distances or convenience, taxis and Careem are the most trustworthy.

For trips to Petra or Wadi Rum, organized tours or JETT public buses are the best options.

← Previous
How to Get to Aqaba
← Back to Jordan
Next →
Where to Stay in Aqaba

Next Up: Where to Stay in Aqaba. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Continue to Where to Stay in Aqaba