Azraq, located in the middle of Azraq Oasis has long been an important settlement in a remote and now arid desert area of Jordan. Its strategic value lies in the fact that the oasis is the only permanent source of fresh water in approximately 12,000 square kilometres of desert. The oasis has a long history stretching back to Paleolithic times and is located on a major desert route. Many ancient remains have been found in the Azraq Wetlands Reserve and in more recent times it served as the headquarters for T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt.

The marshy wetlands provide a resting place for many varieties of migrating birds on their way between Asia and Africa. The oasis was unsurprisingly well defended and there are several impressive Qasrs (fortified residences) to see including Kharanah, Amra and Azraq castle itself.