Wadi Araba

Wadi Araba is a vast rift valley extending 166 kilometers from the Dead Sea in the north to the Gulf of Aqaba in the south. It forms a significant segment of the Great Rift Valley system and serves as a natural border between Jordan and Israel. The region is characterized by an extremely arid climate, with annual precipitation levels often falling below 50 millimeters, resulting in a sparse but ecologically unique desert environment. Geologically, the valley is a tectonically active zone where the African and Arabian plates slide past each other along the Dead Sea Transform fault. Historically, Wadi Araba was a vital trade corridor and a major center for copper mining, particularly in the Faynan region, where operations date back to the Bronze Age. Today, the valley holds strategic importance for regional water management and conservation efforts, including the proposed Red Sea-Dead Sea Water Conveyance project. The terrain varies from expansive sand dunes and gravel plains to rugged mountain ranges lining its eastern and western flanks.

Nearby cities

Aqaba

Aqaba is Jordan's only seaport on the Red Sea.

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Wadi Dhana / Feynan

A spectacular biosphere reserve featuring diverse wildlife and hiking trails through desert valleys.

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Jordan's largest nature reserve offers incredible biodiversity and spectacular hiking trails.

Busaira

Busaira sits atop a mountain ridge and looks back on a long history.

Eilat

Eilat is Israel's southernmost city, a busy port and popular resort at the northern tip of the Red Sea.

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Ma'an

Ma'an is the largest city in Jordan's arid south.

History & landmarks

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)

The Monastery is one of the largest monuments in Petra and requires climbing over 800 steps.

Great Temple of Petra

This vast monumental complex is located in the center of Petra.

The Siq

The narrow canyon is the dramatic main entrance to the ancient city of Petra.

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

This remote site north of Petra once served as a suburb for passing merchants.

Makhtesh Ramon

Makhtesh Ramon in the Negev Desert is the largest erosion crater in the world, captivating visitors with its dramatic cliffs and colorful…

Nature

Gulf of Aqaba Coast

Jordan's only maritime access in the south, characterized by warm sandy beaches and the crystal-clear Red Sea.

More places

King Hussein International Airport

The airport in Aqaba, serving as an important center for tourism and air cargo in the south.

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.

Aqaba Bird Observatory

A vital stopover for migratory birds on their journey between Europe and Africa.

Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA)

A duty-free zone that attracts investors with low taxes and simplified regulations on the Red Sea.

Aqaba Fort

A Mamluk-era coastal fortress that was the site of a major victory during the Arab Revolt of 1917.

Aqaba Container Terminal

One of the most important ports on the Red Sea, connecting Jordan to global trade.

Aqaba New Port

A state-of-the-art port facility built to expand Jordan's maritime capacities.