Middle East
What you need to know before you go
The Middle East is a fascinating region of ancient civilisations and cultures – a crossroads of the world, where different peoples, religions and traditions meet. It’s also the meeting point of North Africa, East Europe and West Asia. Each corner has a remarkable claim to fame, from the ultra-modern Burj Khalifa of Dubai to the ancient Western Wall of Jerusalem and the desert landscapes of Saudi Arabia’s Empty Quarter.
You’ll find a wide range of very distinct atmospheres and attractions around the Middle East. Lebanon is full of surprises, from the ski resorts in the mountains to the parties in Beirut. The mountainous interior of Oman and the fjords of its Musandam Peninsula offer some challenging hikes and beautiful rugged scenery. Israel is the place to go if you want to see world history on every street corner but also has some fun beach destinations to enjoy.
Top destinations in Middle East
Where will you go next?Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and a remarkable destination in the Middle East. Most of the city is scattered across a series of islands in the Arabian Gulf, just off the mainland. The main island...Doha
Doha is a rising star of the Middle East – a city on its way to greatness. As it becomes a focal point for global events, the city’s infrastructure and range of attractions is being developed to meet the increasing demand...Israel
Israel is an impressively diverse destination, with its wide variety of landscapes, varied history and remarkable culture. Perhaps its biggest...United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is one of the richest countries in the world, not only as a flourishing oil economy...Dubai
Dubai is a vibrant, multi-cultural city situated on the Arabian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates. This glossy...
Trending now in Middle East
Featured stories & fun stuff10 Best Things to Do in Doha
Doha is a thriving city of some 2 million that offers an intriguing mix of modern wonders and ancient traditions to explore. The sparkling skyline that greets new arrivals to the Qatari capital forms a vivid display of the country’s...10 Best Things to Do at Night in Doha
Doha has a diverse nightlife scene that promises plenty of excitement despite the ban on public drinking. Qatar’s capital may...12 Best Shopping Experiences in Doha
Doha is a dream destination for those who love to shop thanks to its mix of sleek shopping centres, traditional...10 Best Dubai Foods Everyone Should Try
Emeriti cuisine is a combination of Lebanese, Iranian and even Indian flavours, with plenty of both vegetarian and meat-based...10 Best Things to Do in Dubai
Our guide to the best things to do in Dubai highlights the local and global sides to the so-called...10 Interesting Souvenirs to Buy in Qatar
Qatar is a fantastic shopping destination with some unique items that you'll rarely find in other countries. You’ll find a...