The term ‘Middle East’ was coined by the British in the 19th century and also represents a political, as well as a geographical, term by separating the West from the East. The Middle East proper is situated in between the western part of Asia and North Africa.
What is it?: The Middle East is a region known for its ancient history, rich cultural heritage, and modern cities. Countries like Israel, Jordan, and United Arab Emirates offer a blend of historic landmarks, modern infrastructure, and desert landscapes, while nations like Iran and Saudi Arabia are renowned for their religious significance and traditional cultures.
Affordability: Varies - The Middle East offers both budget-friendly and luxury travel options. Countries like Jordan and Lebanon provide affordable accommodations and local experiences, while United Arab Emirates and Qatar are generally more expensive due to their modern infrastructure and luxury tourism offerings.
Safety: Varies - The Middle East has some areas of instability due to political tensions, especially in countries like Syria and Yemen. Israel and Jordan are generally considered safe for tourists, with well-developed infrastructures. It’s important to stay informed about the current political climate and exercise caution in certain areas.
Popularity: Popular - The Middle East is a significant destination for travelers interested in history, religion, and cultural exploration. Countries like Israel, Dubai, and Jordan attract millions of visitors each year to iconic landmarks such as Petra, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, and Jerusalem.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed - Cities like Dubai, Tel Aviv, and Doha have modern tourist infrastructure, including luxury hotels, world-class shopping malls, and excellent public transport. Other countries like Lebanon and Jordan also have solid infrastructure, though remote areas may require more planning.
Weather: Arid and warm - The region is generally hot and dry, with summer temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). The best time to visit is during the cooler months (November to March), when temperatures are milder, making outdoor activities and sightseeing more comfortable.
Best Time to Go: November to March - The cooler months are ideal for visiting most Middle Eastern countries, especially for outdoor activities like desert safaris, trekking, and sightseeing.
Known For: Ancient history, desert landscapes, religious landmarks, modern cities, oil wealth, Arabian culture, bustling souks, and luxury shopping.
Top Destinations: Jerusalem • Dubai • Petra • Doha • Tel Aviv • Muscat • Riyadh • Beirut • Abu Dhabi • Cairo • Damascus • Yemen’s Old Sana’a • Qatar’s Souq Waqif
- Bahrain: A small Gulf island known for modern architecture, ancient forts, and a more liberal atmosphere compared to its neighbors.
- Iran: Offers stunning Persian architecture, ancient ruins, and welcoming hospitality, though political tensions and visa issues can complicate visits.
- Iraq: Home to ancient Mesopotamian sites and vibrant culture, but ongoing security concerns and instability make travel risky outside Kurdistan.
- Israel: A major religious and historical destination with sites like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv’s beaches, and desert landscapes, though regional tensions exist.
- Jordan: Famous for Petra, the Dead Sea, and desert adventures in Wadi Rum, with a strong reputation for safety and hospitality in the region.
- Kuwait: A wealthy Gulf state offering modern shopping, museums, and a quieter, more traditional culture compared to its flashier neighbors.
- Lebanon: A Mediterranean gem blending ancient ruins, beaches, mountains, and vibrant Beirut nightlife, though political instability occasionally flares.
- Oman: A rising destination known for its rugged mountains, desert dunes, historic forts, and unspoiled beaches, offering an authentic Arabian experience.
- Qatar: A compact, ultra-modern country with luxury shopping, futuristic architecture, and a growing cultural and sporting scene centered in Doha.
- Saudi Arabia: Now open to general tourism, offering ancient sites, Red Sea beaches, and futuristic projects, but travelers must respect strict cultural norms.
- Syria: Home to incredible ancient cities and ruins, but ongoing conflict makes most areas extremely unsafe for travel.
- United Arab Emirates: Known for extravagant cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, desert adventures, and luxurious shopping and resorts.
- Yemen: Rich in history and traditional architecture, but ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises make travel extremely dangerous.
The Middle East is a region of ancient cities, desert landscapes, and deep cultural roots. Jerusalem, Mecca, and Medina are sacred to millions, while Cairo, Baghdad, and Damascus echo with history and resilience. Modern skylines rise in Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh, while Petra’s stone-carved tombs and Persepolis’s ruins tell stories of ancient empires. The Dead Sea, Empty Quarter, and Zagros Mountains showcase natural extremes. Food, from hummus to kebabs, brings people together across borders. The Middle East is a place of contrasts, old and new, sacred and everyday, where history, faith, and daily life are woven tightly together.
The Middle East is where you can walk through the ruins of Petra in Jordan, float in the Dead Sea, camp under the stars in the deserts of Oman, or explore futuristic skylines in places like Dubai. Most travelers come for the history, the food, and the sheer diversity, this region holds some of humanity’s oldest stories and most ambitious modern projects side by side.
The borders of the Middle East are not set in stone, with Turkey being a prime example of a country with both Middle Eastern and European tendencies. Most countries of the Middle East, however, are Muslim majority, apart from of course Israel, which is largely Jewish.
For travelers, the Middle East is an extraordinary place to visit, with its numerous ancient cities and deep-rooted culture. Egypt is a major Middle Eastern destination, famed for the Pyramids at Giza on the banks of the Nile near Cairo.
Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is also hugely popular; a desert city with a great tourist infrastructure that includes fine beaches, shopping, dining, and hotels. Turkey is also a major tourist draw in the Middle East, with its ancient culture, bustling markets, beautiful temples and mosques, and Mediterranean beach resorts.
Arabic is the main language of the Middle East, and is also widely spoken in Israel as its second language. English is also generally spoken in the most popular tourist areas.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the main hubs for flights into the Middle East, both of which hail from the UAE. Flights from these cities to elsewhere in the Middle East are frequent with good international connections. You can also get to most countries and regions in the Middle East from many major European cities.
Traveling in the Middle East is affordable to mid-range, depending where you go. Countries like Egypt and Jordan are budget-friendly, while the Gulf States (UAE, Qatar, Oman) are pricier. You’ll find hostels, family-run guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts everywhere. Food is a highlight: think hummus, falafel, shawarma, kebabs, and endless plates of mezze. Western food is widely available in big cities but less common in rural areas.
Getting around is fairly easy. Domestic flights, long-distance buses, taxis, and rideshares are common, and in places like Jordan and Oman, renting a car gives you a lot of freedom. Arabic is the dominant language across the region, though English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. The Middle East is safe for travelers in many places, though it’s important to check local news before traveling, conflicts and political tensions can change conditions quickly.
Families: The Middle East has a lot to offer adventurous families , cultural sites, beaches, desert resorts, and ancient history. Jordan, United Arab Emirates, and Israel are the easiest for family travel. More conservative or conflict-affected countries require extra caution.
Couples: Romantic adventures abound , desert glamping in Oman, spa resorts in Israel, luxury hotels in Dubai, and ancient ruins in Jordan. It’s a region where natural beauty and cultural depth create memorable couples’ experiences, though public displays of affection are restricted in conservative areas.
Backpackers: Backpacking the Middle East is highly rewarding but logistically tougher than Southeast Asia or Europe. Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, and parts of Turkey offer affordable routes. Iran is backpacker-friendly but requires careful planning. Transport and visas can be challenging across borders.
Digital Nomads: Dubai, Amman, and Tel Aviv offer good infrastructure for short stays, but high costs, visa issues, and cultural restrictions make long-term nomad life harder. Turkey has more affordable and flexible options, especially in cities like Istanbul.
Luxury Travelers: The Middle East is a powerhouse for luxury travel , ultra-modern hotels in Dubai, desert resorts in Oman, Red Sea villas in Jordan and Saudi Arabia, and luxury heritage hotels in Jerusalem. High-end service and design are world-class.
Foodies: The region is a paradise for food lovers , mezze spreads, falafel, shawarma, tagines, kabsa, and Persian stews. Lebanon, Israel, Iran, and Turkey are standout culinary destinations. Street food scenes are lively, and hospitality often includes incredible meals.
Beach Bunnies: Beaches in the Middle East are underrated. Tel Aviv, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman’s coastline, and parts of Lebanon offer excellent seaside escapes. Dress codes and modesty expectations vary, but luxury resorts provide relaxed, private settings.
Nature Buffs: Dramatic deserts, rugged mountains, coral reefs, and fertile valleys await. Hike in Oman, dive in the Red Sea, float in the Dead Sea, or explore the Wadi Rum desert. Wildlife is more limited, but landscapes are stunning and diverse.
History Buffs: Few regions rival the Middle East for historical depth , from ancient civilizations in Mesopotamia to biblical sites in Israel and monumental ruins in Jordan, Iran, and Egypt. Everywhere you go, the past feels tangible and awe-inspiring.
Culture Vultures: The Middle East pulses with living traditions , call to prayer echoing from mosques, bustling souks, vibrant festivals, and intricate crafts. Istanbul, Beirut, Cairo, and Jerusalem are cultural hubs offering intense, authentic experiences.
Adventure Seekers: The region offers desert trekking, diving, climbing, and canyoning. Trek across Wadi Rum, dive shipwrecks in the Red Sea, or hike through Oman’s mountains. Infrastructure for adventure is growing, though self-guided exploration often requires extra planning.
Solo Travelers: Solo travel is possible and rewarding but requires situational awareness, especially for women. Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, and Turkey are among the easier destinations. Local hospitality is strong, but conservative norms must be respected.
Party Animals: Nightlife varies wildly. Tel Aviv and Beirut are major party hubs, while Dubai has a luxury club scene. Alcohol restrictions and conservative laws limit nightlife elsewhere, particularly in Saudi Arabia, Iran, and smaller Gulf states.
Wildlife Watchers: Wildlife isn’t a major draw, but marine life in the Red Sea is excellent for divers. Birdwatching in Israel and desert species in Oman and Jordan offer niche experiences. Conservation areas exist but are often secondary to cultural tourism.
LGBTQ+: The Middle East is difficult for LGBTQ+ travelers. Israel and Lebanon are relatively safe and open in urban areas, while Turkey is mixed. In most countries, LGBTQ+ rights are limited or non-existent, and discretion is crucial.
Why Go to the Middle East?
- Ancient Cities and Archaeology: Wander through the temples of Luxor, the Roman ruins of Jerash, and the cliffside monasteries of Lebanon.
- Deserts and Epic Landscapes: Camp among towering dunes in Wadi Rum, hike the wadis of Oman, or float between canyons in Israel‘s Negev Desert.
- Iconic Cities: Explore historic cities like Jerusalem, Cairo, and Istanbul, or modern metropolises like Doha and Dubai.
- Spiritual Journeys: Visit sacred sites from three major religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, sometimes within the same day.
- Incredible Food Culture: Feast on shawarma wraps, lamb tagines, Turkish breakfasts, and strong Arabic coffee.
- Diverse Experiences: Go diving in the Red Sea, ski in Lebanon, shop in traditional souks in Morocco, or soak in natural hot springs in Jordan.
- Warm Hospitality: Experience the strong tradition of welcoming guests, often with tea, sweets, and genuine kindness.
Who Might Not Enjoy the Middle East?
The Middle East is one of the world’s most culturally rich and historically significant regions, but it also presents unique challenges. Here’s who might find traveling there difficult:
-
Travelers Uncomfortable with Conservative Social Norms: Many Middle Eastern countries have strict expectations around dress, gender roles, and public behavior. Modesty is often required, and LGBTQ+ travelers may face legal or cultural discrimination in some areas.
-
Visitors Expecting Political Stability Everywhere: While some countries (like the UAE, Oman, and Jordan) are very stable, others experience ongoing conflict, political unrest, or sudden security issues. Travelers must stay informed and plan carefully.
-
Luxury-Only Travelers in Less Developed Areas: While cities like Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi offer luxury beyond compare, rural areas, desert towns, and smaller cities often have basic accommodations and variable service standards.
-
Strict Vegetarians or Vegans: Middle Eastern cuisine has many vegetarian staples (like hummus, falafel, and lentils), but in some areas, particularly smaller towns, meat dishes dominate menus, and vegan options may be limited.
-
Tourists Sensitive to Heat: The Middle East can be brutally hot for much of the year, especially in countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Kuwait. Outdoor activities can become extremely uncomfortable or even dangerous in peak summer.
-
Travelers Wanting Open Alcohol Culture: In many countries, alcohol is restricted or banned altogether (e.g., Saudi Arabia, Iran). Even where legal (like in the UAE or Lebanon), it’s often confined to licensed venues and can be very expensive.
-
Visitors Seeking Easy Border Crossings: Visa policies in the Middle East can be complicated, vary by nationality, and sometimes involve political sensitivities (e.g., Israeli passport stamps affecting travel to other countries).
-
People Expecting Seamless Public Transportation: While some cities have excellent metro systems (like Dubai), public transport infrastructure is limited or nonexistent in many places. Renting a car or hiring drivers is often necessary.
-
Travelers Needing Reliable Internet or Medical Services Everywhere: Urban centers generally offer good healthcare and internet, but rural areas, deserts, and conflict zones can have minimal services.
What’s Cool
Deep historical and religious significance with ancient cities like Jerusalem, Petra, and Persepolis, stunning desert landscapes like Wadi Rum and the Empty Quarter, rich and diverse cultures blending Arab, Persian, Turkish, and other traditions, world-class hospitality and generosity, vibrant souks and bustling street life, incredible food scenes with dishes like mezze, kebabs, and falafel, architectural marvels from ancient ruins to modern skyscrapers, pilgrimage sites and sacred landmarks, beautiful beaches along the Red Sea and Mediterranean, adventurous activities like desert camping and scuba diving, strong coffee and tea cultures, colorful festivals and music traditions, safe and welcoming atmospheres in many countries.
What’s Not
Political tensions and occasional security risks in certain regions, strict laws on behavior and dress in conservative countries, visa complications and travel restrictions between neighboring countries, hot and extreme desert climates, language barriers outside tourist areas (Arabic, Persian, Turkish dominate), limited public transport in rural zones, occasional internet censorship and surveillance, high costs in Gulf countries, cultural misunderstandings without local awareness, limited nightlife in conservative regions, frequent military and police checkpoints, travel disruptions due to regional conflicts.
The Middle East spans from the eastern shores of the Mediterranean to the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula and into the mountains of Persia. It’s a region with deep religious, cultural, and historical importance, connecting Africa, Asia, and Europe. The countries here vary widely, from wealthy modern cities to ancient ruins and remote deserts.
Geographically, the Middle East includes vast deserts like the Rub’ al Khali, mountain ranges such as the Zagros and Anti-Lebanon, and important rivers like the Tigris, Euphrates, and Jordan River. The climate is mostly arid or semi-arid, with some coastal Mediterranean areas and highland regions offering milder weather.
Travel in the Middle East is rewarding but can require careful planning due to political tensions and visa rules. Some areas are extremely safe and accessible, while others remain challenging. Tourism focuses on historical sites, religious landmarks, desert adventures, and modern urban experiences.
Most visitors arrive at major hubs like Dubai, Doha, Tel Aviv, or Amman. Regional flights, long-distance buses, and car rentals are common ways to move between countries and within them.
Bahrain
Bahrain is a small island kingdom in the Persian Gulf known for its blend of modern life and ancient history. Travelers come to visit the ancient Dilmun burial mounds, explore Manama’s souks, and experience the Formula 1 Grand Prix. It’s one of the more liberal Gulf states, with a small but growing cultural scene. Alcohol is permitted, and English is widely spoken, making travel easy.
- Manama: Capital city with traditional souks, modern malls, and the Bahrain National Museum.
- Qal’at al-Bahrain: UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient fort ruins.
- Muharraq: A historic town known for its restored merchant houses and heritage paths.
- Amwaj Islands: Man-made islands offering beaches, resorts, and cafes.
- Al Areen Wildlife Park: A conservation park for Arabian wildlife.
Iran
Iran is a country of incredible depth: ancient cities, intricate mosques, dramatic deserts, and hospitable people. Highlights include the magnificent squares of Isfahan, the ancient ruins of Persepolis, the colorful mosques of Shiraz, and the urban energy of Tehran. Despite political issues, independent travel in Iran is usually safe and highly rewarding. Dress codes are strictly enforced, and many nationalities need a visa obtained in advance.
- Tehran: Bustling capital with museums, parks, and modern life.
- Isfahan: Stunning Persian architecture and historic squares.
- Shiraz: City of poets, gardens, and the gateway to Persepolis.
- Yazd: An ancient desert city known for its windcatchers and Zoroastrian heritage.
- Persepolis: Ruins of the ancient Achaemenid Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Iraq
Iraq is the birthplace of ancient civilizations like Sumer and Babylon. Southern Iraq remains difficult for tourists, but the north, especially Kurdistan, is relatively safe and open. Travelers explore ancient ruins, bustling bazaars, and mountainous landscapes. Visas are required, but Kurdistan issues separate visas on arrival for many nationalities.
- Baghdad: The capital, home to markets and a few restored historical sites.
- Erbil: Capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, with a lively citadel and vibrant modern life.
- Sulaymaniyah: A cultural center in Kurdistan, known for its arts and museums.
- Babylon: Ruins of one of the most famous ancient cities.
- Najaf: A sacred city for Shia Muslims with important religious shrines.
Israel
Israel blends ancient religious sites with modern cities and natural beauty. Tourists come to walk through the streets of Jerusalem, float in the Dead Sea, hike the Galilee, and enjoy the beaches of Tel Aviv. It’s highly developed, with easy transportation and English widely spoken. However, security checks are tight, and tensions in some areas persist.
- Jerusalem: One of the world’s most significant religious and historical cities.
- Tel Aviv: A modern coastal city known for nightlife, beaches, and culture.
- Dead Sea: The lowest point on Earth, famous for floating and mineral mud.
- Nazareth: A Christian pilgrimage site with historical churches.
- Eilat: A Red Sea resort city popular for diving and beaches.
Jordan
Jordan is one of the Middle East’s safest and friendliest countries for travelers. The ancient city of Petra, the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea are its biggest draws. Jordan is also a gateway to biblical sites and the Crusader castles scattered through its interior.
- Amman: The capital city, a mix of ancient ruins and modern cafes.
- Petra: The rock-cut Nabatean city, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Wadi Rum: A stunning desert valley famous for red sand and towering rocks.
- Aqaba: A Red Sea port with diving and snorkeling opportunities.
- Jerash: One of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy.
Kuwait
Kuwait is a small, oil-rich country with a reputation for conservatism and wealth. While it’s not as touristed as its Gulf neighbors, visitors can explore modern malls, the traditional Souq Al-Mubarakiya, and museums that reflect its resilience after the Gulf War. Alcohol is banned, and public behavior is expected to be modest.
- Kuwait City: Modern skyline mixed with traditional markets and excellent museums.
- The Avenues Mall: One of the largest shopping centers in the Middle East.
- Failaka Island: Historic island with Greek ruins and beaches.
- Tareq Rajab Museum: A private collection of Islamic art and cultural artifacts.
- Grand Mosque: The country’s largest mosque, open to respectful visitors.
Lebanon
Lebanon offers a striking mix of Mediterranean beaches, snow-capped mountains, ancient ruins, and lively cities. Visitors explore cosmopolitan Beirut, the ancient ruins of Baalbek, the wine country of the Bekaa Valley, and coastal cities like Byblos and Sidon. Political instability exists, but when calm, Lebanon is one of the most exciting travel destinations in the region.
- Beirut: Vibrant, resilient capital city with nightlife, art, and history.
- Baalbek: Imposing Roman ruins in the Bekaa Valley.
- Byblos: One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
- Jeita Grotto: An impressive limestone cave complex.
- Sidon: A historic port city with ancient markets and sea castles.
Oman
Oman is a calm, welcoming country with dramatic deserts, lush oases, stunning coastline, and medieval forts. It feels more traditional compared to other Gulf states. Highlights include the Wahiba Sands, Wadi Shab, and the capital city of Muscat. Travel is straightforward, but modest dress is expected.
- Muscat: A laid-back capital known for the Grand Mosque and waterfront Mutrah Souq.
- Nizwa: A historic town famous for its fort and traditional market.
- Wahiba Sands: A sea of sand dunes ideal for desert camping and 4x4 adventures.
- Salalah: Southern Oman’s green escape, especially during the monsoon.
- Wadi Shab: A beautiful canyon popular for hiking and swimming.
Qatar
Qatar is small but immensely wealthy, thanks to natural gas and oil. Travelers come to explore Doha’s museums and skyscrapers, and the desert landscapes just outside the city. Qatar is preparing to host more tourism after the World Cup, investing heavily in infrastructure. Alcohol is tightly regulated but available in international hotels.
- Doha: Capital city with the Museum of Islamic Art and modern skyline.
- Katara Cultural Village: A hub for arts, culture, and performances.
- Souq Waqif: A lively traditional market in central Doha.
- The Pearl-Qatar: An artificial island with luxury shops and restaurants.
- Al Zubarah Fort: A UNESCO-listed fort and archaeological site.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is newly open to tourists beyond religious pilgrims. Visitors explore ancient Nabatean cities like Al-Ula, the Red Sea coast, and futuristic new cities under construction. Travel requires cultural sensitivity, including adhering to conservative dress codes. Women travelers can now travel independently, though local norms vary.
- Riyadh: The capital city with modern towers and museums.
- Jeddah: A Red Sea port city with historic districts and vibrant arts scenes.
- Al-Ula: Home to the stunning tombs of Madain Saleh.
- Abha: A cooler mountain city with traditional architecture and greenery.
- Mecca: Islam’s holiest city (only Muslims are permitted).
Syria
Syria once drew visitors for its ancient cities, bustling souks, and deep history. Due to ongoing conflict, tourism is limited, and most governments advise against travel. Those who do visit focus on areas under government control like Damascus, Aleppo, and Palmyra, though conditions remain unpredictable.
- Damascus: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
- Aleppo: Ancient souks and citadels slowly being restored after conflict.
- Palmyra: The ruins of a once-great desert city, heavily damaged but still haunting.
- Krak des Chevaliers: A massive Crusader castle near Homs.
- Bosra: A well-preserved Roman city with an ancient amphitheater.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE is famous for its dazzling modern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, luxurious resorts, and ambitious mega-projects. Beyond the skyscrapers, visitors can explore deserts, mountains, and restored heritage villages. Travel is easy and safe, but public modesty is expected.
- Dubai: Known for its skyscrapers, shopping malls, and desert safaris.
- Abu Dhabi: The political capital with grand mosques and cultural landmarks.
- Sharjah: A cultural hub with museums and art centers.
- Al Ain: A UNESCO World Heritage oasis city.
- Fujairah: A quieter emirate with beaches and diving.
Yemen
Yemen is famous for its stunning architecture, ancient history, and dramatic landscapes. Unfortunately, due to ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis, travel to most of Yemen is not currently advised. The island of Socotra, however, remains a remote and otherworldly destination for adventurous travelers under specific arrangements.
- Sana’a: A UNESCO-listed old city with distinctive tower houses (currently unsafe to visit).
- Shibam: Nicknamed the “Manhattan of the Desert” for its mudbrick skyscrapers.
- Socotra Island: Remote island known for unique dragon’s blood trees and surreal landscapes.
- Aden: A historic port city on the Arabian Sea.
- Hadramaut: A valley of ancient mudbrick towns and caravan history.
Highlights
- Petra: (Jordan) An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, known as the “Lost City” and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Burj Khalifa: (UAE) The world’s tallest building, offering panoramic views of Dubai from its observation decks.
- Al-Ula: (Saudi Arabia) A historic city with stunning rock formations and ancient Nabatean tombs.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: (UAE) An architectural marvel in Abu Dhabi, known for its stunning white marble structure.
- The Dead Sea: (Jordan/Israel) The lowest point on Earth, famous for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud.
- The Pyramids of Giza: (Egypt) The iconic ancient pyramids and the Great Sphinx, representing one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Wadi Rum: (Jordan) A dramatic desert landscape with towering sandstone mountains and ancient rock carvings.
- Masada: (Israel) An ancient fortress atop a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea, known for its historical significance and archaeological remains.
- Jeddah’s Old Town (Al-Balad): (Saudi Arabia) A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring traditional coral houses and historic souks.
- Persepolis: (Iran) The ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, featuring impressive ruins and ancient reliefs.
- Dome of the Rock: (Israel) An Islamic shrine in Jerusalem with a stunning golden dome and significant religious history.
- Baalbek: (Lebanon) An ancient Phoenician city known for its well-preserved Roman temples and impressive ruins.
- Byblos: (Lebanon) One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, rich in archaeological sites and history.
- Al-Fateh Grand Mosque: (Bahrain) The largest mosque in Bahrain, known for its impressive architecture and cultural significance.
- The Western Wall: (Israel) A sacred site in Jerusalem where Jewish pilgrims come to pray and place written prayers in the wall’s crevices.
- Babylon Ruins: (Iraq) The ancient ruins of the city of Babylon, including the remnants of the Hanging Gardens and the Ishtar Gate.
- Qatar National Museum: (Qatar) A modern museum in Doha designed to showcase the cultural heritage and history of Qatar.
- Amadiya: (Iraq) A historic Kurdish town perched on a mountain, known for its ancient architecture and stunning views.
- Jerash: (Jordan) An ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins, including a colonnaded street and amphitheater.
Top Cities
- Dubai: (UAE) A global hub known for its iconic skyline, luxury shopping, and innovative architecture.
- Jerusalem: (Israel) A city of profound religious significance, home to sacred sites for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
- Beirut: (Lebanon) The capital known for its nightlife, history, and cultural diversity.
- Riyadh: (Saudi Arabia) The modern capital with historical sites, towering skyscrapers, and cultural scene.
- Tehran: (Iran) The bustling capital offering a blend of historical palaces, museums, and bazaars.
- Doha: (Qatar) The rapidly developing capital known for its futuristic skyline and cultural landmarks.
- Muscat: (Oman) A coastal city known for its beautiful mosques, souks, and dramatic mountain scenery.
- Amman: (Jordan) The ancient and modern capital with historical sites, markets, and a dynamic cultural scene.
- Cairo: (Egypt) A historic city with the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and bustling bazaars.
- Manama: (Bahrain) A financial hub with modern architecture, traditional markets, and cultural landmarks.
- Damascus: (Syria) One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities, known for its historical sites.
- Baghdad: (Iraq) The historic capital with significant cultural sites, including the National Museum and ancient markets.
- Sana’a: (Yemen) An ancient city known for its unique multi-story buildings and the historic Old City.