The world's eyes turned to Aqaba on June 4^th, 2003 as His Majesty King Abdullah hosted a three-party summit between U.S. President George W. Bush, Palestinian Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas and Israel's Premier Ariel Sharon. As top reporters converged on this Red-Sea city, the world held its breath in anticipation of the outcome of the Aqaba Summit. The summit was considered as vital step towards the implementation and follow-up of the internationally-backed roadmap to Middle East peace. The summit was ended with pledges to end violence and to dismantle Israeli “unauthorised outposts” in the West Bank.

ASEZA Chief Commissioner Akel Biljaji noted that Aqaba will always be a safe haven for tourists. "It is not an accidental choice," Biltaji said. "Owning to its pleasant relaxed atmosphere, the summit was held here."