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Az Zarqā’

Az Zarqā’, Az Zarqā’, Jordan

Az Zarqa: Experience Authentic Jordanian Life Step off the beaten path and discover Az Zarqa, Jordan's second-largest city, pulsing with a vibrant energy all its own. While not your typical tourist destination, Az Zarqa …

#City#Urban#Jordan#Middle East#Historic
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Az Zarqā’.

Top Hotels in Az Zarqā’

Top Flights to Az Zarqā’

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Az Zarqā’.

Tours

Visit Az Zarqa Archaeological Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Az Zarqa at the local Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibitions from ancient Jordan.

Shopping

Az Zarqa Souk Shopping Tour

Explore the bustling traditional markets of Az Zarqa, where you can find everything from spices to traditional clothing.

Outdoor

Ajloun Forest Reserve Hiking

Enjoy a guided hiking tour in the scenic Ajloun Forest Reserve, offering trails of varying difficulties through lush green landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Az Zarqā’.

Currency
JD | JOD | Jordanian Dinar
Population
1.6 million
Languages
Arabic, English, French
Average weather
Az Zarqā’
Jan
cold
12°3°
Feb
cold
14°4°
Mar
cloud
18°7°
Apr
clear
23°11°
May
sun
28°15°
Jun
hot
32°19°
Jul
hot
34°21°
Aug
hot
34°21°
Sep
clear
31°19°
Oct
clear
27°15°
Nov
cloud
20°10°
Dec
cold
14°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Az Zarqā’.

What people love

Az Zarqā' is the capital city of Zarqa Governorate in Jordan, known for its industrial and commercial significance. Here are some pros of traveling to Az Zarqā':

  1. Historical Sites: Az Zarqā' has a rich history and is home to several historical sites such as the Ajloun Castle, which was built in the 12th century.

  2. Local Culture: Traveling to Az Zarqā' will give you an opportunity to experience the local Jordanian culture, cuisine, and hospitality.

  3. Proximity to Amman: Az Zarqā' is located around 22 kilometers northeast of the capital city, Amman. This makes it convenient for travelers to visit both cities and explore more of what Jordan has to offer.

  4. Shopping: The city offers a variety of shopping opportunities, from bustling markets to modern shopping malls where you can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

  5. Outdoor Activities: Az Zarqā' is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring nature reserves.

  6. Affordability: Compared to other tourist destinations in Jordan, Az Zarqā' offers more budget-friendly options for accommodations, dining, and activities.

Overall, traveling to Az Zarqā' can provide a unique and authentic experience of Jordanian culture, history, and natural beauty.

What to know

Traveling to Az Zarqā’, Jordan, like any destination, can have its challenges. Here are some potential cons to consider:

  1. Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Az Zarqā’ is not a major tourist hub compared to other cities in Jordan like Amman or Petra. This means there might be fewer hotels, restaurants, and services catering specifically to international tourists.

  2. Cultural and Language Barriers: While English is spoken in some areas, particularly in the tourism sector, Arabic is the primary language. Travelers who do not speak Arabic might face communication challenges.

  3. Weather Conditions: Az Zarqā’, like much of Jordan, can experience extreme weather conditions. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), which might be uncomfortable for some travelers.

  4. Safety Concerns: While Jordan is generally considered a safe country, it is always important to stay informed about the local security situation. Az Zarqā’ itself does not have a high crime rate, but travelers should exercise standard precautions.

  5. Limited Attractions: Compared to other parts of Jordan, Az Zarqā’ might offer fewer historical and cultural attractions. Visitors may need to travel to other parts of the country to see major sites.

  6. Traffic and Transportation: Traffic congestion can be an issue, and public transportation options might be limited. Renting a car or hiring a driver could be necessary, which adds to travel costs.

  7. Pollution and Environmental Concerns: Like many urban areas, Az Zarqā’ faces environmental challenges, including air pollution and waste management issues, which might affect the quality of the visit.

These considerations can vary based on personal preferences and travel experiences, so it's important to research and plan accordingly.

Az Zarqā’, commonly known as Zarqa, is the third-largest city in Jordan and is located to the northeast of Amman, the capital. The city has a rich history and has undergone significant changes over the years.

Historical Background

  1. Ancient and Medieval Periods:

    • The area around Zarqa has been inhabited since ancient times, but the city itself does not have as many ancient ruins as some other locations in Jordan. The broader region has seen various civilizations, including the Romans and Byzantines.

  2. Ottoman Period:

    • During the Ottoman era, Zarqa was a small village. Its significance began to grow under Ottoman rule when the Hijaz Railway was constructed in the early 20th century. The railway linked Damascus to Medina and facilitated the movement of goods and people across the region.

  3. 20th Century:

    • The establishment of the Transjordan Emirate in the 1920s marked a new phase for Zarqa. The city developed as a military base, hosting a large military camp.
    • The presence of the military contributed to its growth, bringing economic activity and boosting its population.

  4. Post-Independence:

    • After Jordan gained independence in 1946, Zarqa continued to develop as an industrial and military hub. It became a focal point for Jordan's burgeoning industries, with numerous factories and businesses setting up in the area.

  5. Modern Era:

    • Today, Zarqa is known for its diverse community and significant industrial contributions to the Jordanian economy. It is a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Significant Events

  • Hijaz Railway (1900-1908): The construction of the railway was a critical development for Zarqa, connecting it to other major cities and promoting trade and movement.
  • Military Camp Establishment: The city's growth was significantly influenced by the establishment of military camps, which attracted workers and their families, increasing the population.

Historical Figures

  • While Zarqa itself may not be associated with specific historical figures, it has been home to many notable Jordanians in various fields due to its large population and strategic importance.

Important Landmarks

  1. Hijaz Railway Station:

    • The old railway station, part of the historic Hijaz Railway, is one of Zarqa's significant historical sites. It reflects the city's early 20th-century history and remains a symbol of its connection to the broader region.

  2. Royal Jordanian Army Base:

    • As a key military hub, the presence of the army base has been central to the city's identity and development.

  3. Zarqa University:

    • The university is an important educational institution in the city, contributing to its reputation as a center for learning and research.

  4. Industrial Zones:

    • Zarqa is known for its industrial areas, which house a variety of factories and contribute significantly to the local and national economy.

Zarqa continues to play a vital role in Jordan, both economically and culturally, reflecting its historical development and strategic importance.