Plizio Visual Lab
Aqaba Fort
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
historical-site
Aqaba Fort, also known as the Mamluk Castle, is a significant fortress on the Gulf of Aqaba that played a central role in the defense and logistics of southern Jordan. The current structure was largely rebuilt in the early 16th century under Mamluk Sultan Qansuh al-Ghawri, sitting on the foundations of an earlier Crusader stronghold. The fort primarily served to protect the pilgrimage routes to Mecca and as a vital trade post on the Red Sea. During World War I, the fortress gained historical prominence when it was captured in 1917 by Arab forces led by T.E. Lawrence and Auda Abu Tayi during the Arab Revolt. This victory marked a turning point in the struggle against the Ottoman Empire and secured Aqaba as a strategic port. The square-shaped building features massive round towers at its corners and a monumental entrance gate adorned with Arabic inscriptions and Mamluk coats of arms.
- Location: Jordan
- Top sights: Aqaba Castle · Alghandour · Sheik Zayed Mosque
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 9 | 11 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Aqaba Fort is a Mamluk-era coastal fortress in Jordan, significant in the Arab Revolt. The fort is open to the public; parts of the interior can be visited.
Typical hours
The fort is typically open daily from 8 am to 4 pm, often shorter on Fridays. During peak season, hours may be extended.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the fort's exterior areas. Indoors, a flash ban may be in place to protect the walls.
Time needed
A visit to the fort takes about 30 to 45 minutes. With surrounding exhibitions, plan an hour.
Combine with
Combine the fort with a stroll along the Aqaba waterfront or a visit to the Aqaba Marine Park. Both are within walking distance.
Getting there
The fort is directly on the coast in downtown Aqaba, easily walkable from the port or hotels. Parking is available nearby.
Insider tip
Best to visit the fort in the morning when light is optimal for photos and it's still cool. Combine your ticket with the nearby Archaeological Museum.
Geography
Facts
- Reconstructed by Sultan Qansuh al-Ghawri between 1510 and 1517.
- Captured during the Arab Revolt in July 1917.
- Features the Hashemite coat of arms above the main entrance gate.
- Served for centuries as a caravanserai for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
- Originally established in the 12th century by Crusaders as 'Helim'.
- Located near the world's seventh tallest free-standing flagpole.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Aqaba Fort (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Aqaba Fort open to visitors?
Yes, it is in the city center near the coast and usually open during the day.
What historical role did it play?
It was an important site during the Arab Revolt in World War I.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is very cheap or free and often included in the Jordan Pass.
What is located next to the fort?
Right next to it is the huge Aqaba Flagpole and the Archaeological Museum.
Who built the current fort?
The current structure largely dates back to the Mamluk period (16th century).
Aqaba Fort: where is it located?
Aqaba Fort is located in Jordan.
Aqaba Fort: what is there to see?
Highlights include Aqaba Castle, Alghandour, Sheik Zayed Mosque.
Aqaba Fort: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Aqaba Fort: why is it worth visiting?
Aqaba Fort, also known as the Mamluk Castle, is a significant fortress on the Gulf of Aqaba that played a central role in the defense and logistics of southern Jordan.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Jordan →
Nearby cities
Aqaba
Aqaba is Jordan's only seaport on the Red Sea.
Eilat
Eilat is Israel's southernmost city, a busy port and popular resort at the northern tip of the Red Sea.
Fjord Bay
Fjord Bay is a spectacular diving and sightseeing spot south of Taba, famous for its deep blue hole and dramatic mountain backdrop.
Haql
A charming coastal city on the Gulf of Aqaba with views of the Sinai Mountains.
Taba Heights
A master-planned luxury resort community near Taba offering upscale hotels, golfing, and a relaxing ambiance nestled between mountains an…
Nueiba
Nueiba is a tranquil beach town on the Gulf of Aqaba, offering a serene escape with majestic mountains meeting the Red Sea.
Nuweiba
A quiet coastal town connecting Egypt to Jordan via ferries.
Nature
More places
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA)
A duty-free zone that attracts investors with low taxes and simplified regulations on the Red Sea.
Aqaba Bird Observatory
A vital stopover for migratory birds on their journey between Europe and Africa.
Aqaba Container Terminal
One of the most important ports on the Red Sea, connecting Jordan to global trade.
King Hussein International Airport
The airport in Aqaba, serving as an important center for tourism and air cargo in the south.
Aqaba New Port
A state-of-the-art port facility built to expand Jordan's maritime capacities.
Aqaba Marine Park
This marine protected area on the Red Sea conserves Jordan's colorful coral reefs.
Jabal Ram
A massive sandstone mountain in Wadi Rum that was long mistakenly believed to be the country's highest peak.
Wadi Rum
This spectacular desert valley is famous for its monolithic rock formations and red sand dunes.