Ancient civilisations, modern states, shifting realities
The Middle East is a region of ancient history, deserts, and modern skylines. From the luxury of Dubai and Qatar to the ancient wonders of Jordan and the culture of Lebanon and Oman, the region offers fascinating contrasts and easy access from Europe.
The UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan are easy and rewarding catches. Saudi Arabia is becoming more accessible, while countries such as Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Yemen require far more planning and remain challenging or uncatchable in places.
🇧🇭 Bahrain – A small island state with a modern financial centre, historic forts, and a relaxed travel atmosphere. 
Small country with good access on Gulf Air. The usual Middle East customs must be adhered to. The fort is the most iconic place to visit.
🇮🇷 Iran – Rich in culture, architecture, and hospitality, with some of the worlds most impressive historic cities. Currently uncatchable but has so much to offer when back up and running again.
🇮🇶 Iraq – Home to ancient Mesopotamian sites but still facing security challenges that limit tourism. Difficult to catch but the northern Kurdish region is generally more stable. Flights to Erbil on Turkish are regular. Visas still needed and take strong caution when visiting at all. Wonderful local culture if you do go there.
🇮🇱 Israel – A major religious and historical destination, with modern cities and complex political realities. Jerusalem is a city like no other where the bible literally comes alive. Complex and fascinating country. Jerusalem is where the bible comes alive and the old city is a unique place for many religions. No guided tour is needed but be very respectful of all customs. Only 1 hour from Tel Aviv. Visit the Mount of Olives for a great view over the city. Guides are generally very expensive. Tel Aviv is a very cool city with a wide wonderful beach in the city. Other places to visit include Haifa in the north, which can be more volatile, the Red Sea region and Eilat. A day tour to Petra from Eilat is iconic if the border is open. English is spoken everywhere and it is all very tech savvy. People are friendly but direct. Sometimes possible to visit Bethlehem in the Palestine controlled areas but this needs to be checked in advance.
🇯🇴 Jordan – One of the regions most popular travel destinations, known for Petra, desert landscapes, and strong tourism infrastructure. Interesting and stable country. Petra and Wadi Rum remain the highlights. Strong advice to take your time in Petra and if possible stay overnight. Friendly people and Amman is a well developed capital city.
🇰🇼 Kuwait – A wealthy and modern state with limited tourism focus beyond business and culture. Small oil rich country. Very hot in the summer with many indoor activites developing all the time.
🇱🇧 Lebanon – Famous for food, nightlife, and historic sites, but affected by economic and political instability. Currently uncatchable but the situation will change soon hopefully. Unique mix of cultures who have had a tough time but are genuinely welcoming. Enjoy the food and the people.
🇴🇲 Oman – One of the most welcoming and scenic Gulf countries, with deserts, mountains, and a strong cultural identity. Great alternative to Dubai. Main attractions include the great Mosque, the Fort and the dramatic beaches. Some luxury hotels mixed with more traditional accommodations. Calm, relaxed and enjoyable.
🇶🇦 Qatar – A rapidly developing state with modern architecture, museums, and growing tourism. Rapidly growing in wealth and importance. Now a major player in the sports world with major events taking place there. Plan a long time in advance due to cost and availability. Very hot in the summer months but a good city break in the shoulder seasons with amazing access and array of hotels.
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia – Recently opened to tourism, offering major historical sites, deserts, and ambitious new projects. Home to the Mecca pilgrimage. Developing rapidly in many ways. If going on the Hajj pilgrimage, then important to book with a reputable tour operator some time in advance. Red sea offer great water sports and beaches. Cities of Riyadh and Jeddah are continuously having new attractions. Remains a conservative nation so respect all local customs.
🇸🇾 Syria – Extraordinary cultural heritage but currently very difficult and unsafe for travel. Currently not recommended to catch. Will be very interesting and worthwhile when it is back.
🇦🇪 UAE – A major global hub with cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, focused on luxury, business, and modern travel. Major player in tourism with access all over the world. Shopping paradise. Dubai has a plethora of hotels and venues to visit. Drinking is possible in designated spots but do not overdo it. Desert safaris are well recommended and can be booked onsite. Plethora of hotel options and the creek area in Dubai is excellent. Some of the most lavish restaurants in the world but try to seek out some local style restaurants, where you can pick up fantastic Indian food especially due to the very large ex pat community there. Horse racing and rugby are great to do if you can. Abu Dhabi is the capital and a major hub. The other Emirates are less visited but can be very interesting, especially Sharjah. See more on the UAE here.
🇾🇪 Yemen – Historically rich but currently extremely dangerous and not suitable for tourism. Currently uncatchable but will be back one day. A short boat ride from Africa which would be a great catch in the future.
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