Best Things To Do In The Middle East

Image: Exterior of the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (photo via Riyadh Airports) (Photo Credit: (photo via Riyadh Airports))
Image: Exterior of the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (photo via Riyadh Airports) (Photo Credit: (photo via Riyadh Airports))
Last updated: 5:25 PM ET, Wed March 15, 2023

Desert landscapes, unspoiled beaches, salt lakes, modern skylines, Islamic architecture, and unique local cuisines. These are just a few of the highlights you can look forward to when exploring the many wonders of the Middle East. 

With so many unique countries which you can visit, we have found that you can have a completely new experience in each place. Plan a lengthy trip to see everything, or come back again and again to see all the unmissable spots in this phenomenal region.

Dive In The Red Sea

If you visit Saudi Arabia, Jordan, or Israel, you will be able to access the extraordinary Red Sea. 

This is regarded as one of the best places for diving and snorkeling due to its vast plant and marine life. The water is also fairly warm, making it pleasant for swimming. 

We suggest doing either a beach day trip or booking into a seaside resort to enjoy these wondrous waters. 

Marvel At Dubai’s Skyline

Dubai is a must on any travel bucket list for its mind-blowing futuristic architecture that merges with its desert landscape. 

From pristine beaches to mega malls, there is plenty to do in Dubai. Our must-see sights include Dubai Mall, Dubai Miracle Garden, Burj Khalifa, the Spice Souk, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Museum. 

For an authentic outing, go dune-bashing and experience a desert safari. 

Explore Ancient Petra 

Jordan is well-known for its beaches, ancient ruins, and nature reserves. But our favorite attraction is Petra - the phenomenal ancient archaeological site that has temples and tombs still standing on a cliff within a valley. 

This is one of the most remarkable sights in the Middle East. You will feel like you’ve taken a step back in time. 

Enjoy Abu Dhabi

While Dubai might still be the most popular city in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi has quickly become a serious contender for the top spot due to its vast range of cultural attractions.

There are theme parks, museums, and mosques that you can visit. Our favorite sights include Ferrari World, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. 

See Sacred Jerusalem 

The capital of Israel, Jerusalem is a sacred city for Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, making it a popular place for religious pilgrimages. But due to its exquisite landscapes and architecture, it is quickly becoming a generally popular tourist destination. 

Some of our must-see sights include the Western Wall, Dome of the Rock, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 

Float On The Dead Sea

Sitting in between Israel and Jordan is the magnificent Dead Sea, named so due to its high salt levels that prevent any marine or plant life from surviving in its water. 

Despite the name, it is not a sea, but a salt lake, which is remarkably light blue. The high salt levels famously allow you to float on its surface with complete ease. It is believed to have healing powers, by reducing pain, inflammation, arthritis, and skin issues. 

Wander Through Wadi Rum

Another Jordan highlight is Wadi Rum, a spectacular desert landscape that is unlike anything we have seen before. 

Its sandstone mountains, canyons, valleys, and rocky caverns come together to form an area that makes us feel like we have stepped onto another planet. We suggest you stay for a day or two at a campsite (with luxury options on offer) that allows you to enjoy the starry skies at night. 

 

Experience The Middle East

The Middle East is a place of many wonders, and each of its unique countries has something different, but equally wonderful on offer for travelers. 

Whether it's beaches, deserts, architecture, or cultural sites that you are after, you are spoiled for choice in this relatively untouched region of the world. 

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Frank Belzer

Frank Belzer is the chief sales and marketing officer at Icon Park in Orlando and also serves on the board of the Grand Canyon...

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