Aqabawi

Our Story

Aqabawi is a community-based, youth-led enterprise that seeks to introduce visitors from throughout Jordan and the world to the unique culture and history of Aqaba, Jordan’s Jewel on the Red Sea.

The company was founded in 2018 by Mustafa Al Ajlouni with the support of the USAID Sustainable Cultural Heritage Through Engagement of Local Communities Project (SCHEP), and today offers over two dozen cultural, culinary, and nature-based experiences.

While much of Aqaba’s preexisting tourism industry focuses on luxury seaside hotels, Aqaba has much more to offer than just its scenic beaches. Aqabawi’s experiences provide a unique opportunity to visitors to connect with local food, art, nature, and history, while also employing local community members and serving as a source of income for those in need.

Aqabawi offers something for all kinds of travelers, and has something for the whole family to enjoy, no matter your age, timeline, or budget. If you’re only in town for a quick visit, Aqabawi also has online and physical storefronts where you can browse locally-crafted products and support the community at the same time.