Current time in Ash Shawbak, Jordan

Ash Shawbak is located in Jordan, specifically at the coordinates 30.52134, 35.57135. This city is situated in the Ma’an Governorate, approximately 30 kilometers north of the city of Aqaba, in the southern region of the country. It operates within the Asia/Amman timezone.

Ash Shawbak is known for its historical significance, particularly for the nearby ruins of the Shawbak Castle, which dates back to the Crusader period. The city serves as a point of interest for visitors exploring the surrounding desert landscapes and the ancient sites in the region. Its strategic location makes it a gateway for travelers heading to Petra and other archaeological attractions in southern Jordan.

Timezone in Ash Shawbak

Ash Shawbak is located in the Asia/Amman timezone, which has a UTC offset of +2 hours during standard time. When daylight saving time is in effect, the offset shifts to UTC +3 hours. In Ash Shawbak, daylight saving time begins on the last Friday in March and ends on the last Friday in October.

This means that from late March to late October, the clocks are set one hour ahead. When coordinating with the United States, it’s important to note that the time difference can vary greatly depending on the specific U.S. timezone. For instance, if it is 12:00 PM in Ash Shawbak during standard time, it will be 5:00 AM in New York (UTC -5) or 9:00 AM in Los Angeles (UTC -8).

Therefore, the best time to contact someone in Ash Shawbak would be mid-morning to early afternoon in their local time, as this would correspond to the early morning in the United States, making it more likely to reach someone. In comparison with other major cities in the region, such as Cairo, which operates on Eastern European Time (UTC +2) but does not observe daylight saving time, Ash Shawbak’s daylight saving time practices can create a temporary one-hour difference during the summer months. Meanwhile, cities like Riyadh operate on Arabian Standard Time (UTC +3) year-round, making Ash Shawbak one hour behind Riyadh during standard time and in sync during daylight saving time.

Attractions and Activities in Ash Shawbak

Ash Shawbak, located in southern Jordan, is known for its rich history and proximity to significant archaeological sites. The town is situated near the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which draws many visitors to the region. Ash Shawbak itself features remnants of historical significance, including the ruins of Ash Shawbak Castle, a Crusader fortress that offers insight into the area’s medieval past.

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged mountains and desert terrain, typical of the region. This geography not only provides stunning views but also opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring the natural beauty of southern Jordan. The culture in Ash Shawbak reflects a blend of Bedouin traditions and influences from various historical periods, making it a unique place to experience local Jordanian hospitality and cuisine.

While it may not be as famous as other destinations, Ash Shawbak serves as a gateway to exploring the rich heritage and natural wonders of the broader region.

Practical Information for Visitors

Ash Shawbak, located in southern Jordan, is best accessed via Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, followed by a drive or bus journey to the town, which takes about three hours. Buses regularly run from Amman to Ma’an, and from there, you can find local transportation to Ash Shawbak. The region is not serviced by train, so road travel is your best option.

The climate in Ash Shawbak is generally arid and desert-like, with hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius in July and August, while winter temperatures rarely drop below 0 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are more moderate and pleasant for outdoor activities.

It’s advisable to carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes, especially if you plan to explore the nearby ruins of Shawbak Castle. Additionally, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and enrich your travel experience.