Aqaba, Apr. 10 (Petra)-- Dina Mahadin - The aroma of a bygone era permeates the center of Aqaba, combining the scents of old wood, antique tools, and metals that tell tales of bygone eras. History lurks in every nook and cranny, as though each artifact on display is narrating its own story.

Only here, at the "old markets," are things not just sold; memories are brought back to life and the local culture is conserved. These marketplaces are more than just commercial centers; they are a living story and cultural legacy that captures the customs of the people of Aqaba and reflects the history of the city. The relationships between traders are what really set the market apart, despite the bright overlap and similarities of the commodities on exhibit.

Yet within this harmony, each merchant maintains a unique identity and loyal clientele who return with trust and familiarity. Aqaba’s old market stands as a witness to a rich history spanning more than a century, where its features continue to narrate the story of a city that embraced trade and preserved its popular markets as an essential part of daily life.

During a tour by the Jordan News Agency (Petra) through the market’s narrow alleys, visitors are welcomed at the old entrance, which leads into a world filled with the fragrant scents of apothecary shops and spices. Sacks of herbs and seasonings are neatly arranged, some still prepared and blended by hand using traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Mohammad Al-Khodari, owner of one such spice shop, told Petra that his store is nearly 100 years old, dating back to the early days of the market’s establishment. He noted that the trade has been passed down through generations, with sons inheriting both the craft and dedication of their fathers and grandfathers.

He added that the shop attracts customers from across the Kingdom and even from abroad, thanks to its longstanding reputation. Al-Khodari emphasized that he continues to preserve his ancestors’ tools as part of safeguarding this heritage, along with a closely guarded family secret in spice-making, in addition to selling various medicinal herbs. He also maintains traditional methods of selling and dealing with customers.

Merchant Fadl Al-Baba also told Petra that the market has preserved its traditional business customs, which set it apart from modern markets, particularly in how goods are displayed and in the reliance on quality and mutual trust with customers.

He explained that he is keen to offer spices, heritage items, dates, and a variety of herbal products, noting that the market attracts visitors from inside Jordan as well as Arab and foreign tourists seeking its distinctive traditional character. He affirmed his commitment to maintaining the traditional sales approach inherited from previous generations, preserving the authenticity and spirit of the old market.

In interviews with Petra, market visitors also expressed their appreciation. Rabab Mousa, known as "Umm Mohammad," said she frequently visits the market due to the diversity and quality of its goods, emphasizing that the spices and herbs sold there have a unique flavor not found in modern markets.

She noted that her relationship with the traders spans many years, as she has grown accustomed to purchasing her needs from them in an atmosphere of trust, warmth, and familiarity.

Citizen Khaled Al-Khawaldeh said he prefers buying certain household items from the market because of its distinctive heritage character and his confidence in the known source and quality of its goods. He added that what most captures his attention is the traditional display on old wooden shelves, which gives the place a special spirit that evokes memories of the past.

Despite the city’s urban development, Aqaba’s old market continues to preserve its historical identity, remaining a cultural and tourist landmark that reflects the authenticity of the place and embodies the continuation of traditional professions that have withstood the test of time carrying with them the stories of traders and the collective memory and heritage of the city.

//Petra// MF

10/04/2026 14:16:05