Aqaba is where many southern Jordan trips begin or end, and the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort is one of the most polished places to stay in town. It is part of the Ayla development, a modern waterfront community with a marina and lagoon-style waterways on the north shore of the Red Sea, and the hotel is laid out to enjoy the view. Guests highlight the rooftop pool, which looks out over the marina, and the choice of restaurants, with some staying open until midnight, which is handy if you are arriving late from the desert or coming off a flight. The rooms are modern and comfortable, with good air conditioning, which you will appreciate in the summer heat, and many have views across the water. The resort is a calm, resort-style alternative to the older beachfront hotels along the corniche, and it suits travellers who want to unwind with a swim and a good dinner after days of walking and jeep rides.
Living in it
Aqaba has its own airport, and the resort is a short drive from it, so it works well as a first or last night. From here Wadi Rum is about an hour away by road and Petra about two, which makes the hotel a practical base for day trips, though the longer drive means you should plan an early start if you want to see Petra in a day.
Many visitors choose to spend a night in a desert camp and return to the resort afterwards for a proper shower, pool time and a meal. The hotel can help arrange jeep tours, transfers, diving and snorkelling trips, and the marina and waterfront nearby are pleasant for an evening stroll.
Trade-offs
Aqaba is a coastal resort town, so it feels very different from Petra, and the resort is geared towards relaxation rather than archaeology. The sea is not directly at the door in the way it is at some beach hotels, so if you want to step onto the sand from your room, check the beach access arrangements when you book.
Summer temperatures in Aqaba are very high, and winter is mild and pleasant, which is when the town is at its best. As with all resort hotels, rates vary a lot by season and by day of the week.
Who it suits
Couples and families who want a comfortable resort after a busy sightseeing trip, divers and snorkellers who want to be near the Red Sea, and anyone flying in or out of Aqaba. Pair a stay with a day at Wadi Rum, a morning of diving or snorkelling with a local centre, and a seafood dinner by the water. For a longer trip, a typical loop runs from Amman to Petra, on to Wadi Rum, and then south to Aqaba for the last two nights, which gives your tired legs a rest and gives you time for the sea.
If you are visiting with children, ask about family rooms and pool rules. Book early for school holidays and winter weekends, when Jordanians from Amman head south to enjoy the mild weather, and always confirm the airport transfer arrangements in advance.
Why stay here
- ✓Rooftop pool with marina views
- ✓Several restaurants
- ✓Late-night dining options
- ✓Marina and waterfront setting
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Tour and transfer assistance
- ✓Short drive from Aqaba airport
- ✓Marina promenade nearby
Good questions
How far is the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla from Wadi Rum?+
About an hour by road, so it works well as a base for a Wadi Rum day trip or a return after a desert night.
Is it close to the airport?+
It is a short drive from Aqaba’s airport, which makes it convenient for a first or last night.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes, guests highlight a rooftop pool with views over the marina.
