Plizio Visual Lab
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA)
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
trade-hub
The Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA) is a specialized economic area established in 2001, covering the entire Aqaba Governorate. As Jordan's only window to the sea, the zone was created to stimulate investment in tourism, industry, and logistics. It operates under an autonomous legal and fiscal framework, providing low income tax rates and duty-free status for most imported goods. ASEZA is managed by its own authority, which streamlines administrative procedures and fosters a business-friendly environment. The initiative has successfully transformed Aqaba from a small port town into a major regional economic hub. Alongside modern container terminals, large-scale luxury resorts and residential projects have been developed. The zone is critical to the national economy, handling a significant portion of Jordan's exports and creating thousands of jobs in both the service and manufacturing sectors.
- Location: Jordan
- Top sights: Jabal al Akhdar · Aqaba Trail · Umayyad Gate
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
What is this place?
This duty-free special economic zone on the Red Sea is Jordan's absolute primary trade hub, actively attracting international investments through highly simplified commercial regulations and incentives.
Visiting
The bustling economic center is fully and easily accessible, as the lively city of Aqaba integrates seamlessly into the combined tourism and business zone, remaining completely open to all visitors.
Where to view it
An excellent, wide-ranging overview of the extensive port facilities and rapidly expanding urban infrastructure is offered from higher elevated viewpoints situated in the surrounding barren mountains.
Local products
Travelers benefit enormously from the fantastic duty-free shopping opportunities, which range widely from traditional local Jordanian handicrafts to discounted international electronics and luxury goods.
Active season
Bustling commercial and tourist activity is extremely high year-round, though the much milder winter months are particularly popular for tourists seeking to utilize the diverse retail and leisure offerings.
Nearby
A spirited stay here perfectly combines with relaxing scuba diving in the clear waters of the Red Sea and highly impressive, unforgettable excursions into the world-famous desert landscape of nearby Wadi Rum.
Geography
Facts
- ASEZA was officially launched on January 1, 2001.
- The zone covers an area of approximately 375 square kilometers.
- Registered firms within the zone pay a flat income tax rate of just 5%.
- The zone encompasses the entire coastline of Jordan on the Red Sea.
- It is governed by an independent Board of Commissioners (ADC).
- Aqaba is currently the second largest container port on the Red Sea.
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 Special Economic Zone (ASEZA) (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does Aqaba's special status mean?
It is a duty-free zone to encourage trade and tourism.
Are there customs checks when leaving the zone?
Yes, there are checkpoints for goods going to the rest of Jordan.
Is shopping cheaper here?
Many goods like electronics and perfume are often less expensive.
Which investments are promoted?
Mainly tourism, logistics, and light industry.
How large is the special economic zone?
It covers the entire Aqaba Governorate including the port.
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA): where is it located?
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA) is located in Jordan.
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA): what is there to see?
Highlights include Jabal al Akhdar, Aqaba Trail, Umayyad Gate.
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA): why is it worth visiting?
The Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA) is a specialized economic area established in 2001, covering the entire Aqaba Governorate.
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 Fort
A Mamluk-era coastal fortress that was the site of a major victory during the Arab Revolt of 1917.
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.