City in Aqaba Governorate, Jordan
Is Aqaba safe?
Low crime and welcoming, but Iranian strikes and intercept debris have affected Aqaba since July 2026.
Is Aqaba safe?
Low crime and welcoming, but Iranian strikes and intercept debris have affected Aqaba since July 2026. Check advice before travel and know your hotel's shelter plan.
Key facts
- SoloSquare safety rating: 3/5, take real precautions.
- US travel advisory: Level 3: Reconsider travel, updated 2026-05-03.
- Homicide rate in Jordan: 1.0 per 100,000 people (2023, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths in Jordan: 17.0 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: All emergencies 911.
Safety in Aqaba at a glance
| What to expect | |
|---|---|
| Overall | 3/5 · Take real precautions |
| Crime | Petty theft and aggressive touts are the usual issues. Violent crime against visitors is rare. |
| At night | The Corniche and restaurants stay lively until late; streets are quiet and safe. Use apps or hotel taxis after dark. |
| Solo women | Solo women find Aqaba relaxed, though staring is common. Cover shoulders and knees in town; resorts allow normal swimwear. |
| Other risks | Iranian strikes since July 2026; Heat above 40 °C in summer; Sea urchins and strong currents on reef entries |
Scams, areas and local laws
Common scams
- Taxi drivers 'forgetting' the meter
- Dive shops or boat tours quoting inflated prices without a written receipt
Take care
- Beaches and boats near the Israeli and Egyptian borders
- Driving into the Wadi Araba desert at night
Calmer areas to stay
Laws visitors break by accident
- Being inside Petra after closing time is an offence; tourists have been arrested.
- Drinking alcohol on the street is illegal; bars, hotels and homes only.
- Encouraging Muslims to convert to another religion is illegal.
How Aqaba compares in Jordan
Quick answers
Is Aqaba safe for solo female travelers?
Solo women find Aqaba relaxed, though staring is common. Cover shoulders and knees in town; resorts allow normal swimwear.
Is Aqaba safe at night?
The Corniche and restaurants stay lively until late; streets are quiet and safe. Use apps or hotel taxis after dark.
What is the crime rate in Aqaba?
Petty theft and aggressive touts are the usual issues. Violent crime against visitors is rare. Nationally, Jordan records 1.0 homicides per 100,000 people a year (2023).
What number do I call in an emergency in Aqaba?
All emergencies 911.
More about Aqaba
Going to Aqaba solo?
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Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority
- Visit Jordan
- Jordan Pass
- World Bank: intentional homicides (UNODC)
- World Bank: road traffic deaths (WHO)
Safety ratings are SoloSquare's editorial judgment from official advisories, crime data and local reporting. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.