From the Martian landscapes of Petra in Jordan to the Biblical landmarks of Israel, these are some of the most beautiful and interesting destinations to visit in the Middle East.
The Nile, Egypt
A lot of people plan on visiting the pyramids. Note that the big pyramids in Cairo are only the start of what you can see of ancient Egyptian culture.
The list includes the Karnak Temple, Abu Simbel, and any of the many Egyptian antiquities museums. Or visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest in the world. If you’re interested in a beach vacation, the South Sanai has several luxury beachside hotels.
Mecca, Saudi Arabia
If you’re Muslim, Mecca is literally on the bucket list of things you need to do before you die. While millions go on Hajj every year, you could book Mecca hotels reservation with Almosafer and immerse yourself in the culture at any point throughout the year.
Remember, if you’re not a Muslim, it is illegal for you to enter the city.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai has diversified its economy by becoming a major tourism hub. It is most famous for the Burj Al Arab hotel and mega-malls. But it also has indoor ski slopes, a massive aquarium, and the IMG Worlds of Adventure.
Don’t forget to visit the historic markets or the Al-Fahidi Fort. Or see the Jumeirah Mosque. It is one eighth the size of the Al-Azhar Mosque but otherwise an exact replica. If you’re looking for cheap flight tickets, you’ll find them in March.
Petra, Jordan
Jordan is one of the safest places to visit in the Middle East. Petra is Jordan’s most famous destination and has been named as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. You can also float in Jordan’s Dead Sea.
Israel
Israel is a tiny country that’s packed with big history. If you’re a member of any of the three Abrahamic religions, there are many religious sites important to your faith located here.
Haifa gains points for being the refuge for the Bahai. The Bahai Gardens tended by members of the faith is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For those interested in history, places like Masada make the list. There are Crusader castles and Greco-Roman sites you could visit.
And anyone can float in the Dead Sea. The mud supposedly contains beneficial minerals, and there are several luxury resorts that will give you a mud bath or skin treatments based on it.
Cyprus
Attracting some two million tourists a year, the Mediterranean island of Cyprus is safe, sunny and packed with fascinating historic sites. Salamis is probably the most famous, where you can walk among the massive marble pillars.
Kourion is an ancient Greek city in Cyprus that may have featured in the Argos of Peloponnese myth. The city was mostly destroyed in an earthquake in 365 AD, but the Greco-Roman ruins remain magnificent.
You can also tour one of dozens of medieval castles and ancient forts on the island.
Where else have you travelled to in the Middle Easy? Leave a comment below to share your experiences and recommendations.
