Aqaba Weather in August

August heat

Aqaba is seriously hot in August. Days reach 39°C, and even nights stay warm, around 23°C. The air is dry, with no rain, so shade can feel hard to find. Sightseeing in the midday heat gets tiring fast.

The sea is your best bet for the day: snorkel or dive around the reefs, or spend time at a beach club. Save Aqaba Fort and the old town for later, when the sun is lower. If you're hoping to hike in Wadi Rum, consider another month; the exposed desert heat makes long walks a tough choice.

Events and crowds

There isn't a major annual August festival in Aqaba that you can count on. Islamic holidays follow a lunar calendar, so Eid may fall in August some years, bringing local celebrations and busier travel. Check the dates for your trip.

Summer holidays can make the beaches and resorts popular with Jordanian families and visitors from nearby countries. Prices may be higher than in quieter months, though Aqaba's busiest international season is generally November to March. If you hate crowds, go for a swim at a less busy time of day and avoid relying on a holiday weekend for a quiet beach.

Make the heat work

Keep your plans short and close to the water. A boat trip or a reef snorkel gives you a reason to be in the sea, while an air-conditioned break in central Aqaba is welcome in the afternoon. August's comfort rating is poor, so don't try to fit a full day of walking into the heat.

Travelling with kids? Ask your beach club about shaded areas before settling in. For a local pause, try sayadieh, a spiced fish-and-rice dish served in Aqaba; it's a good choice after a day by the water.