Getting Around Aqaba. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

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

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

Limited Buses

Local 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 hail a taxi on the street or find them at designated stands.
Insist on the meter ("bil-aadad") or agree on a price before starting the journey.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Careem is widely available and highly recommended for fixed, upfront fares.
Careem tracks your journey 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

Car rental services 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 at least one year) and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
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; look for designated lots.
Roads within Wadi Rum are unpaved, requiring 4x4 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.
Some 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 paths for strolls.
Limited dedicated bicycle lanes; cycling on main roads can be hazardous.

Accessibility Services

Older City Parts

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is limited, with uneven pavements and common stairs.

Modern Areas

Newer hotels, resorts, and modern shopping areas 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, especially on the water, enhancing the travel experience.

Tour Buses

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off tour buses operate 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 tailored schedules.

Water Transportation

Various boats offer tours of the Red Sea (glass-bottom, diving/snorkeling, sunset cruises).
There is no regular water taxi service for commuting within Aqaba.
Boats are mainly for recreational purposes, showing marine life.
Book boat excursions 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 and not designed for pedestrians.

Stick to Corniche and city center.

Careem for City Trips

For short trips within the city, especially in the evening, using Careem is often the most convenient and transparent 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 areas not designed for pedestrians or cyclists, like major highways.

Important Considerations for Transit

Public buses are not wheelchair accessible.
Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not generally recommended due to traffic.
The Red Sea 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 desert 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 reliable.

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

Getting Around Aqaba