The Dead Sea, is known in Arabic as "Bahr Lott" (the Sea of Lot). As the name suggests, the Dead Sea is entirely devoid of plant and animal life. This is due to an extremely high content of salt and other minerals, 350 gm of salt per kilogram of water, as compared to about 40 gm in the world's oceans. These natural elements give the waters of the Dead Sea certain curative properties, recognized since the days of Herob the Great over two thousand years ago.

The Dead Sea is also famous geographically as "the lowest point on earth", lying some 400 metres below sea level. In addition the historical significance of the "Salt Sea", as it was referred to in the Bible, the Dead Sea in an important and rich source of minerals essential for agricultural and industrial development, as well as for the treatment of various medical conditions such as psoriasis. Visitors to the Dead Sea come always with an unforgettable swimming experience, as the high density of the water makes sinking virtually impossible. While marine enthusiasts will find a paradise in Aqaba, the Dead Sea is a great place to catch up on your reading.

The only resort on the eastern banks of the Dead Sea is government-owned, and located at Sweimeh. There is a resthouse, showers and a few facilities for visitors. Newly built is Salt Land Village, nicknamed The Basement of the World. Its various buildings include the Dead Sea Spa Hotel, assorted bungalows and the German Medical Centre which is aimed at helping patients with skin diseases, using the healing powers of the Dead Sea. As well as the highly saline water, are other therapies including black mud, highly oxygenous air treatment and filtered sunrays. The centre has its own access to the Dead Sea and also provides medical assistance on request.