Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, sits in the Saraya Aqaba development and is aimed at travellers who want the most refined seafront stay in the city. It is described as a five-star property with sea views, a private beach area, a pool, and a full-service spa with a steam room, sauna and hot tub. Some rooms are described with private plunge pools, and there are beachfront restaurants where you can eat with your feet nearly in the sand. The hotel is around 0.8 miles from Palm Beach and about 1.2 miles from Al-Hafayer Beach, and it welcomes dogs and cats. The atmosphere is intimate and unhurried, a contrast with the larger family resorts further along the coast, and it suits couples, honeymooners and anyone who wants to treat a trip to Aqaba as a seaside escape rather than just a gateway to Wadi Rum and Petra.
Location and getting around
Like the neighbouring Westin, Al Manara is on the Saraya waterfront, a short taxi from the old centre, the fort and the Great Arab Revolt Plaza. The Ayla marina and its dining are close, while the reefs and dive centres lie to the south. A private driver is the easiest way to organise Wadi Rum and Petra, and the hotel can usually help, although you may want to compare prices with independent operators.
Rooms and who it suits
This is a hotel for people who value space, privacy and design. Private plunge pools are a major attraction in the hotter months, and sea-view rooms and suites make the most of the setting. Couples celebrating a wedding or anniversary often choose properties like this, and travellers who spend long days on tours appreciate coming back to a quiet base with a spa.
Families can stay, but check whether the room types and beach areas suit children. If you want a large resort with slides and kids' clubs, the Tala Bay and Mövenpick options are better matched.
Good to know
Ask about the exact configuration of any plunge pool room, the opening hours of the spa and beach, and whether breakfast and transfers are included. Beach and pool services can be seasonal, and the Red Sea is cooler in winter, so confirm what is available. Dogs and cats are reported to be welcome, but fees and rules should be confirmed with the hotel. Peak periods include spring, autumn, holiday weeks and weekends, when regional visitors fill the best rooms, so book early.
Using it well
Build the stay around a few unhurried days. Start with a swim and spa afternoon, add a snorkelling trip or glass-bottom boat, and keep a night free for Wadi Rum. If you want to see the city, a walking tour or a visit to the fort and museum fits neatly into an evening. A honeymoon or anniversary trip might combine two nights here with a night in a desert camp, a pattern that balances comfort and adventure.
Why stay here
- ✓Private beach area
- ✓Sea views
- ✓Swimming pool
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Steam room, sauna and hot tub
- ✓Private plunge pools in some rooms
- ✓Beachfront restaurants
- ✓Pet-friendly policy
Good questions
Does it have a private beach?+
A private beach area is described, but confirm access, hours and any charges with the hotel.
Are there private plunge pools?+
Some rooms are described with private plunge pools. Ask which room types include them.
Is it suitable for families?+
It can be, but it is quieter and more adult-oriented than the big family resorts. Check room types and beach areas.
