Among the most iconic sights in Aqaba, the Arab Revolt Flagpole Plaza combines historical intrigue with stunning scenery. Rising from its heart is one of the world’s tallest flagpoles, paying tribute to the Great Arab Revolt of 1916. Learn about the fascinating history involved in the fight for independence from Ottoman rule.
Arrive in this spacious plaza and admire the views of the bay and the dramatic mountains in the distance. In the foreground stand rows of palm trees and the iconic flagpole that rises to a height of 430 feet (130 meters). Gaze up at the black, red, green and white of the Great Arab Revolt flag, as it blows in the wind.
The flag is said to mark the spot where the first bullet of the Arab Revolt was fired. Consider the importance of the flag’s colors. Green represents peace, while red denotes the blood shed in wars. Chat with residents to hear about how local hero Sharif Hussein claimed independence from the Ottomans.
Enjoy the seafood and Middle Eastern cuisine in the restaurants enclosing the plaza. Relax at one of the tables spilling out onto the square in full view of the flagpole and the sea. Along the western flank of the plaza is a cobbled boardwalk with concrete benches facing the bay. Spot the hotels of Eilat in Israel across the water. The square is open to the public at all times for free.
Take a sailboat out on the water or go on a glass-bottom tour and look back on the plaza and its enormous flagpole.
The Arab Revolt Flagpole Plaza overlooks the Gulf of Aqaba in the southwestern corner of the city. Walk south from the Great Arab Revolt Circle for about 15 minutes to get here. See other nearby attractions such as Al-Ghandour Beach, the Sharif Hussein bin Ali Mosque and Princess Salma Park.
