Centuries ago Aceh was a prominent port of call for Chinese, Indian, European and Arab traders. In fact, its capital city, Banda Aceh, derives its name from the Persian word ‘Bandar’ which means ‘port’ or ‘haven’. This vibrant “Free Trade Zone of yore”, is credited with ushering in and spreading Islam in South East Asia. It is therefore also called “The Port to Mecca”.








