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Explore Middle East – Desert Tours, History, and Top Sights

Intro to Explore Middle East

The Middle East is a land of powerful contrasts — where modern skylines rise beside ancient ruins, desert silence meets bustling souks, and sacred sites coexist with futuristic innovation. Stretching from the Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf, the region blends millennia-old civilizations with vibrant cultural traditions and diverse geography.

Whether you’re floating in the Dead Sea, exploring Petra’s lost city, marveling at Dubai’s vertical marvels, or stargazing in Oman’s wadis, the Middle East offers rich, layered travel experiences. Here, faith, food, history, and hospitality converge to create some of the most unforgettable journeys on Earth.

Start your journey with our complete Middle East travel guide and explore every country, region, and experience waiting for you.

Countries and Territories to Explore in the Middle East

💡Quick Facts:
Continent: Asia (and part of North Africa for Egypt)
Region: Middle East
Area: ~7.2 million km² (2.78 million mi²)
Population: ~480 million (2024 est.)
Density: ~67 people/km²
Capital: Regional; varies by country (e.g., Riyadh, Tehran, Ankara, Cairo, Baghdad, Doha)
Regions/Subregions: Arabian Peninsula, Levant, Mesopotamia, Anatolia, Persian Gulf, Sinai
Language(s): Arabic (widely spoken), Persian (Farsi), Turkish, Hebrew, Kurdish, English (secondary)
Currency: Varies — Saudi Riyal (SAR), UAE Dirham (AED), Iranian Rial (IRR), Israeli Shekel (ILS), Turkish Lira (TRY), Egyptian Pound (EGP), others
Time Zone: UTC+2 to UTC+4:30; daylight saving time not observed in most countries
Airports: Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), Istanbul (IST), Riyadh (RUH), Tel Aviv (TLV), Cairo (CAI), Tehran (IKA)
Climate: Arid and semi-arid; desert climate dominates; mild winters in coastal and highland areas
Known For: Oil wealth, ancient civilizations, desert landscapes, religious heritage, historic cities, regional geopolitics

🛂Arrival Info:
Entry Requirements: Passport required; visas mandatory for most nationalities in many countries
Visa-Free Countries: Gulf states often allow mutual entry; visa-free for some EU/Asian countries depending on destination
Visa on Arrival: Available in Jordan, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE (for selected nationalities)
Maximum Tourist Stay: Ranges from 14 to 90 days, varies by passport and country
Electronic Travel Authorization: Required in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Israel (selected passports)
Visa Portal: Country-specific
Customs Info: Strict import rules; check for banned items (alcohol, religious materials in some countries)

💉Health Info:
Vaccines Recommended: Routine, plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B; Yellow Fever if arriving from endemic area
Local Health Risks: Heatstroke, water sanitation in rural areas, air quality in urban zones
Hospitals: Excellent in Gulf countries and Israel; limited rural access in Yemen, Iraq, Syria
English-Speaking Clinics: Common in cities like Dubai, Doha, Amman
Terrain-Specific Concerns: Sandstorms, high-altitude zones, extreme heat
Insurance: Strongly recommended, especially in countries with costly private care
Emergency Care: Advanced in Gulf and Israel; limited or unavailable in conflict zones
✅ Check travel insurance options for travel emergencies, delays, and medical needs abroad — Get coverage here
✅ Stay Informed with Official Updates: WHO – International Travel & Health | CDC – Travel health updates

🚨Travel Advisory:
Current Alerts: Armed conflict (Syria, Gaza, Yemen), political unrest (Lebanon, Iran), border security
General Safety Level: Varies widely — safe in Gulf countries and Jordan; avoid travel in conflict zones
Regional Restrictions: Some areas off-limits to foreigners; restricted border crossings
Local Risks: Scams, terrorism, petty crime in crowded markets or tourist zones
Civil Rights Concerns: Freedom of speech, assembly, and LGBTQ+ rights restricted in many areas
City-Specific Alerts: Political protests (Tehran, Baghdad), increased surveillance (Riyadh, Cairo)
✅ Stay Informed with Official Updates: US Travel Advisory | UK Foreign Travel Advice

📅Holidays:
Major Regional Holidays:
– Eid al-Fitr – Celebrated at end of Ramadan
– Eid al-Adha – Sacrifice Feast (based on Islamic lunar calendar)
– Ramadan – Holy fasting month (shifts annually)
– Nowruz – Persian New Year (Iran, Kurdistan, March 20–21)
– National Day – Country-specific (e.g., UAE Dec 2, Saudi Sept 23)
Travel Considerations:
– Expect reduced services during Ramadan
– Embassies and businesses may close for multiple days around religious holidays

💰Visitor Info:
Currency: Multiple; regional pegging to USD in Gulf countries
Exchange Tips: Use bank ATMs or exchange at authorized counters; avoid black market exchange
Cards & Tipping: Cards accepted in cities; cash preferred in markets. Tip 10–15% in restaurants
Duty-Free Limits: Varies; alcohol restricted or banned in some countries
Cash-Only Areas: Common in small towns and souqs (markets)
Tourist Taxes: Hotel taxes or municipal fees apply in UAE, Turkey, Egypt
Daily Budget Range:
– Budget: $50–$100
– Midrange: $120–$250
– Luxury: $300+

✈️Airports:
Major International Hubs:
UAE’s primary global hub – Dubai International (DXB)
Doha, Qatar – Hamad International (DOH)
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – King Khalid International (RUH)
Tel Aviv, Israel – Ben Gurion International (TLV)
Amman, Jordan – Queen Alia International (AMM)
Manama, Bahrain – Bahrain International (BAH)
Oman – Muscat International (MCT)
Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad, Saudia, Royal Jordanian, Pegasus
Airport Transport: Metro (e.g., Dubai, Istanbul), taxis, airport buses
Classification: Regional hubs and long-haul intercontinental gateways
Security: Enhanced screening; expect additional checks in Israel, Iran, and Saudi Arabia
✅ Delayed or canceled flight? Check if you’re eligible for compensation

🚍Transport:
Local Transit:
– Metro systems in Dubai, Riyadh, Doha, Tehran, Istanbul
– Taxis and ride apps widely available (Careem, Uber, Bolt)
Intercity Transit:
– Bus and private minivan networks in Levant, Egypt, and Turkey
– Rail services in Turkey and Iran; high-speed in Saudi Arabia
Driving Laws: Right-hand drive; IDP often required for tourists
Rental Availability: Widely available; 4WD recommended for desert areas
Common Scams: Unofficial taxis, currency switching, inflated tour pricing
✅ Book reliable airport transfers and in-city rides in advance. Reserve your ride here

📶Connectivity:
SIM & eSIM Access: Easily available at airports and shops
Best Traveler SIMs: Etisalat, STC, Ooredoo, Turkcell, Orange (Jordan), Vodafone (Egypt)
Coverage Quality: Excellent in cities and Gulf; variable in rural Iran, Iraq, Yemen
Public Wi-Fi: Common in malls, hotels, airports
Roaming: Expensive — use local SIM or eSIM alternatives (e.g., Airalo)
✅ Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data packs. Get your eSIM here

📜Laws & Etiquette:
Drinking Age: 18–21 where alcohol is legal; total prohibition in Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait
Alcohol Rules: Legal with restrictions (UAE, Jordan, Lebanon); illegal in conservative states
Smoking Rules: Banned in indoor spaces in many countries
LGBTQ+ Laws: Criminalized in most countries; avoid displays of affection
Cultural Taboos: Respect Islamic customs — modest dress, no public affection, Ramadan etiquette
Behavior Norms: Use right hand to eat/greet; avoid political or religious commentary
Photography: Restricted at mosques, military sites; ask before photographing people

🛡️Emergency Info:
Emergency Numbers:
– Police: 999 (Gulf states), 112/122 (Turkey, Egypt), 110 (Iran)
– Ambulance: Varies; often same as police
Tourist Assistance: Tourist police available in Jordan, UAE, Turkey, Egypt
Nearest Embassies: Present in all capital cities
Medical Emergency: Private hospitals in Gulf, Turkey, Israel are high-quality
Crisis Hotlines: Country-specific; limited availability in rural or high-risk areas
✅ Use embassy locator tools: Embassies Worldwide

🌦️Weather:
Best Time to Visit:
– October to April (cooler season across the region)
Summer:
– May to September – extremely hot, especially in Gulf and desert areas
Avg Temperatures:
– Gulf Summer: 40–50°C (104–122°F)
– Winter in Levant: 5–20°C (41–68°F)
Rainy Season: Minimal; brief rain in Levant (Nov–Feb), flash floods possible
Severe Weather Risks: Sandstorms, extreme heatwaves, occasional earthquakes (Iran, Turkey)
Microclimates: Coastal regions milder; desert interiors are harshly arid
✅ Stay prepared—check the weather forecast for your destination — Weather Forecast

Middle East by Region – Countries to Explore

For practical planning, the Middle East is divided into four key subregions — each offering distinct landscapes, cultures, and entry routes.

1. The Gulf States – Innovation, Desert Adventures & Luxury Travel

Modernity meets Bedouin roots in this fast-developing region.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Home to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, blending skyscrapers, desert safaris, and global culture.
Qatar – Doha offers world-class museums, souks, and modern towers beside Islamic heritage.
Bahrain – An island kingdom with pearl diving history, forts, and Formula 1 races.
Kuwait – Less touristed, with Islamic museums, maritime culture, and urban grit.
Saudi Arabia – Newly open to tourism; see AlUla’s rock-cut tombs, Red Sea coastlines, and Riyadh’s futuristic visions.
Oman – Traditional Arabia with mountain forts, wadis, desert camps, and coastal charm.

2. The Levant – Sacred Sites, Historic Cities & Layered Civilizations

Home to biblical lands and thriving urban centers.

Jordan – Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and Amman’s lively streets.
Lebanon – Mediterranean coastlines, Roman ruins, ski resorts, and food culture from Beirut to Baalbek.
Israel – Sacred sites of Jerusalem, vibrant Tel Aviv, and natural wonders like the Negev Desert.
Palestinian Territories – Bethlehem, Hebron, and West Bank heritage sites add deeper perspectives.
Syria – Previously rich with Roman and Islamic architecture, but currently impacted by conflict.

3. Mesopotamia & Interior Middle East – Ancient Cradles of Civilization

Travelers seeking ancient history and resilient cultures will find immense depth here.

Iraq – Rebuilding and opening gradually. Visit Babylon, Erbil, and the Tigris-Euphrates heartlands with guided tours only.
Iran – Persian gardens, Zoroastrian fire temples, mosques of Isfahan, and poetic traditions — travel advisories vary but potential is immense.

4. Peripheral Middle East & Neighbors – Crossroads of Cultures

Geographically and culturally intertwined with the region, these destinations offer hybrid identities.

Cyprus – A Mediterranean island split between Greek and Turkish cultures, often included in Middle Eastern discourse.
Türkiye (Asian portion) – Cappadocia, Konya, and eastern Anatolia share deep ties to Islamic, Hittite, and Kurdish history.
Egypt (Sinai Peninsula) – Though part of Africa, the Sinai’s Red Sea coast and pilgrimage routes feel culturally linked.

Top Places to Visit in the Middle East

From lost cities and desert valleys to cutting-edge skylines and spiritual centers, the Middle East’s top places span both mythic past and modern present.

Cultural Capitals

Istanbul, Türkiye – Once Constantinople, this city bridges Europe and Asia, with Ottoman mosques, Byzantine churches, and buzzing bazaars.
Cairo, Egypt (Sinai gateway) – Though African, its cultural weight in the Middle East is undeniable. Explore Islamic architecture, Coptic churches, and vibrant street life.
Beirut, Lebanon – A coastal capital of contrasts — bars and mosques, ruins and rooftop lounges.
Tehran, Iran – A dynamic capital of museums, bazaars, gardens, and complex history.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – A city in transformation, balancing traditional roots and modern mega-projects.

Natural Wonders

Wadi Rum, Jordan – Towering red sand formations, Bedouin camps, and dramatic landscapes often called “Mars on Earth.”
Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali), Oman/Saudi Arabia – The largest sand desert in the world, a vast sea of dunes and silence.
Dead Sea, Jordan/Israel/Palestine – Float effortlessly in mineral-rich waters at the lowest point on Earth.
Musandam Fjords, Oman – Nicknamed the “Norway of Arabia,” known for boat tours, dolphin sightings, and rocky cliffs.
Mount Ararat, Türkiye (eastern border) – Legendary peak said to be Noah’s resting place, with remote cultural intrigue.

UNESCO Heritage Sites

Petra, Jordan – A rose-red city carved into rock by the Nabataeans, one of the world’s most dramatic ancient ruins.
Persepolis, Iran – The grand ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire, built by Darius the Great.
Byblos, Lebanon – Among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with ruins from Phoenician to Crusader eras.
Hegra (AlUla), Saudi Arabia – Sister city to Petra with well-preserved tombs, now open to travelers.
Old Jerusalem, Israel/Palestine – Sacred to three faiths, this walled city is a spiritual crossroads.

Emerging and Off-the-Beaten-Path

Kurdistan (Iraq) – Erbil, Akre, and Duhok offer peaceful adventure, mountain hikes, and hospitable communities.
Qeshm Island, Iran – Surreal landscapes, mangroves, and geotourism in the Persian Gulf.
Feynan, Jordan – A remote eco-lodge surrounded by copper mines, stargazing skies, and Bedouin traditions.
Eastern Türkiye (Van, Mardin) – Historic Armenian and Kurdish regions rich with culture, architecture, and cuisine.

How to Choose Where to Go in the Middle East

Your ideal Middle East trip depends on interests, season, and travel experience. Here’s how to plan based on your goals:

For Ancient History & Ruins – Jordan, Türkiye, Iran, Iraq (guided), and Lebanon offer incredible archaeological sites.
For Spiritual Journeys – Visit Jerusalem, Mecca/Madinah (Muslim pilgrims only), Mount Sinai, or Najaf.
For Adventure & Nature – Explore Omani wadis, Jordan’s Wadi Mujib, or go diving in the Red Sea.
For Urban Culture & Design – Try Tel Aviv, Beirut, Doha, or Dubai — where modern living meets deep-rooted identity.
For Traditional Culture – Discover souks and Bedouin heritage in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Palestine.

Sample Itineraries:

Desert Explorer: Jordan (Petra + Wadi Rum) → Saudi Arabia (AlUla) → UAE (Abu Dhabi)
Holy Lands Trail: Jerusalem → Bethlehem → Amman → Mount Nebo
Arabian Peninsula Circuit: Muscat → Dubai → Riyadh → Jeddah
Historical Deep Dive: Istanbul → Tehran → Shiraz → Persepolis

How to Travel Between Countries in the Middle East

Transport varies widely across the region — air travel dominates for cross-border movement, but overland journeys are rewarding where safe and available.

Air Travel

Top Hubs: Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), Istanbul (IST), Amman (AMM), Tel Aviv (TLV)
Regional Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Saudia, Royal Jordanian, FlyDubai
Domestic routes are reliable in Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Iran.

Land Borders & Road Travel

Open Borders: Jordan–Israel (with permits), UAE–Oman, Türkiye–Georgia/Iraq/Nakhchivan.
Restricted/Closed: Israel–Lebanon/Syria; Saudi Arabia–Israel is closed; Iran–Afghanistan/Iraq borders require caution.
Overland Bus Travel: Limited but available between Türkiye, Syria (with guide), and into Iraq Kurdistan.
Car Rental: Common in UAE, Oman, Jordan — roads are excellent.

Visas & Entry

eVisas Available: Türkiye, UAE, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman.
Visa on Arrival: Jordan, Bahrain, Lebanon for many nationalities.
Complex Visas: Iran, Iraq (non-Kurdish areas), Syria — pre-arranged tours often required.

Best Times to Visit the Middle East

The Middle East experiences desert climates with seasonal extremes. Timing your visit is crucial for comfort and access.

High Season (October–April)

Ideal weather for most countries: cooler days, comfortable nights.
Best for desert treks, city exploration, and cultural festivals.

Shoulder Season (May, September)

Still manageable in northern and coastal regions.
Some heat in the Gulf but fewer crowds and good deals.

Low Season (June–August)

Travel still possible in highland or coastal areas like Lebanon, northern Türkiye, or Iran’s Caspian coast.
Extremely hot, especially in Gulf States and deserts (can reach 45–50°C).

Must-See Experiences Across the Middle East

The Middle East blends history, spirituality, cuisine, and desert adventure like nowhere else. Here are the signature experiences to prioritize:

Sleep Under the Stars in the Desert – Camp in Wadi Rum (Jordan), Wahiba Sands (Oman), or the Empty Quarter (Saudi Arabia) with Bedouin hosts.
Walk Through Lost Cities – Explore Petra’s narrow Siq, Hegra’s tombs, or the Roman ruins of Jerash and Palmyra.
Relax in a Traditional Hammam – Cleanse and unwind in a Turkish bath in Istanbul, a Moroccan riad, or a Beirut spa.
Wander Ancient Bazaars – Haggle in Jerusalem’s Old City, Aleppo’s souks (if reopened), or Tehran’s Grand Bazaar.
Experience the Call to Prayer – Hear the adhan echo across minarets in Istanbul, Amman, or Muscat — a deeply moving part of daily life.
Float in the Dead Sea – Slather on mineral-rich mud and enjoy effortless buoyancy between Jordan, Israel, and Palestine.
Attend a Religious Festival – Observe Ramadan, Nowruz (Persian New Year), or Ashura with respectful curiosity.
Dive the Red Sea – Snorkel and dive among coral gardens off Dahab, Aqaba, or the Saudi coast — with visibility up to 30 meters.
Taste Authentic Street Food – Try shawarma in Lebanon, falafel in Palestine, kabsa in Saudi Arabia, or saffron rice in Iran.
Photograph Epic Landscapes – From Cappadocia’s hot air balloons to Oman’s mountain wadis and Türkiye’s Lake Van.

Travel Safety and Cultural Etiquette in the Middle East

Safety by Region

Generally Safe: UAE, Oman, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon (with caution), Türkiye (west/central), Iraqi Kurdistan
Requires Caution: Iran (political issues), Palestine (restricted zones), Saudi Arabia (cultural compliance)
Avoid or Monitor Closely: Syria, Yemen, central Iraq due to conflict and instability

Travel Insurance is essential — including coverage for health, repatriation, and last-minute itinerary changes.

Cultural Etiquette Essentials

Modest Dress: Cover shoulders and knees in public. Women may need a headscarf in Iran or when visiting mosques.
Greetings: Use right hand for handshakes. Public displays of affection are discouraged.
Ramadan Etiquette: Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in Muslim countries.
Photography: Ask before photographing people, especially women, military areas, or mosques.
Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques.

Traveler Identity Guidance

Solo Female Travelers – Generally safe in UAE, Jordan, Oman, Türkiye, and Iran (with guides); dress conservatively and avoid isolated areas after dark.
LGBTQ+ Travelers – Legal restrictions exist in many countries. Discretion is advised in public and online.
Digital Nomads – UAE and Türkiye offer good connectivity, coworking spaces, and temporary work visas.

Middle East at a Glance – Key Travel Insights

Geography – Deserts, mountains, coasts, and fertile valleys (e.g., Nile, Tigris-Euphrates). Inland heat contrasts coastal breezes.
Currency – Dirham (UAE), Riyal (Saudi, Qatar, Oman), Lira (Türkiye), Shekel (Israel), Dinar (Jordan, Bahrain, Iraq), Toman/Rial (Iran)
Entry Points – Major airports: Dubai (DXB), Istanbul (IST), Doha (DOH), Amman (AMM), Tel Aviv (TLV), Muscat (MCT), Beirut (BEY)
Language – Arabic dominates; also Turkish (Türkiye), Farsi (Iran), Hebrew (Israel), Kurdish (northern Iraq), English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Religion – Islam is the main faith (Sunni and Shia branches), with significant Christian, Jewish, and Yazidi communities.
Cost Range – Budget travel possible in Iran, Türkiye, and parts of Jordan. Mid to luxury in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Digital Tools – Use Airalo for eSIMs, Google Maps (except Iran), Careem for ride-hailing, and Google Translate for Arabic, Turkish, or Farsi scripts.
Travel Style – Ideal for pilgrimage routes, desert expeditions, ancient city tours, cultural deep-dives, and dual-nation trips.

Final Planning Tips for Your Middle East Journey

Check visa and travel advisories – Entry rules vary dramatically by country and nationality.
Respect prayer times and religious holidays – Shops and transport may pause for prayers or fasting hours.
Carry local cash – ATMs can be limited outside major cities.
Layer clothing – Cool desert nights follow hot days.
Download offline maps and translation apps – Especially in Iran or remote desert areas.
Book cultural tours with local guides – Adds depth and helps navigate customs.
Bring a scarf or head covering – Useful for women in mosques and Iran.
Avoid discussing politics – Sensitive topics vary by region; listen and learn respectfully.

Explore the Middle East with Confidence and Curiosity

From spiritual cities and stone-carved kingdoms to golden deserts and futuristic skylines, the Middle East offers travel that touches both past and present. Explore our full destination hub for expert regional tips, country guides, and curated itineraries to unlock your journey through this fascinating and evolving region.