With its 500-year-old fort, Aqaba also has its fair share of history and is well-placed for visits to the nearby popular tourist destinations of Petra and Wadi Rum. Since 2000, Aqaba has been designated a Special Economic Zone, meaning that tourists do not need visas to arrive here unless they plan to visit elsewhere in Jordan. Aqaba Fort: now partly ruined, the original fort was first built in the 12th century before it was rebuilt by the Mamlukes at the end of the 16th century during the Muslim period. What is left is impressive and one of the town’s most significant historic sites. Ayla: a 1,000-year old early Islamic city unearthed by archaeologists in the 1980s, Ayla offers a fascinating glimpse into early Islamic urban planning for history buffs. Tala Bay: an entrance fee is charged at this popular beach but there are plenty of activities on offer. The area includes a marina and farther back from the shoreline, a golf course along with numerous shops and restaurants. | 
