Top 10 Countries to Explore in the Middle East
Most of the time Middle east isn’t looked at as a tourist attraction because of the news of destruction we see about countries of the middle east each day. Wars happening in these countries give us a perception that these countries are not safe to visit, but the middle east has something different to offer in terms of culture and history.
When we hear the word middle east, the scenery of deserts and beautiful oasis comes into mind, which is why tourists visit that continent, but it has much more to offer. Here is the list of the top 10 countries to explore in the middle east:
Table of Contents
Jordan
Jordan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the middle east as it has too much to explore in terms of the culture, which dates back to 2000 years. Jordan is the safest country to visit, and the people in Jordan are friendly and hospitable.
The must thing and city to explore in Jordan is its city Petra, also known as the red rose city because of its red sand mountains and the entire city carved into it. You can also visit mount Nebo which has a religious significance that the prophets used to come here. Don’t forget to cruise in the salty dead sea too!
Dubai
Dubai is the most beautiful country in the middle east, and a trip to the middle east is incomplete without Dubai. Dubai has so much to offer, but mostly the tourists keep the tour short for a week. According to us, one week isn’t enough to get amazed by the heights of Dubai. The best time to visit Dubai is winter or spring because of the hot weather, and there are many activities to do while in Dubai.
Excursions to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as Dhow ship trips, are must-do activities. From trendy Dubai excursions to desert safaris and vintage trips, Dubai can provide you with an unforgettable experience. You can visit Dubai’s most famous destination Burj Khalifa and if you get the chance, visit it on new year’s eve to enjoy its wild fireworks.
Israel
Israel boasts a plethora of historical and religious monuments, museums, and beaches that have drawn travellers worldwide. Israel has over 200 museums, making it the country with the most museums per capita globally.
The main attractions are the Dome of the Rock, a Unesco World Heritage site, the Western Wall, and the city of Jerusalem. Mount Olive, Mount Calvary, and Golgotha, where Jesus is supposed to have been crucified, are other popular tourist destinations.
Egypt
Egypt is often counted as a tourist destination because of the pyramids, which were used to be the tomb of pharaohs. These pyramids are one of the world’s seven wonders, but it has so much to offer other than the pyramids. You can explore the pyramids of Cairo.
But once you’re done with it, you can cruise on the River Nile, which has so much cultural and historical significance. Roaming in the streets of Egypt and bazaars can help you buy some decoration pieces which you can keep as a memory. There are ancient temples and mosques deeply rooted in their historical culture.
Turkey
Turkey is now among the ten tourist destinations, and the reason why it is is quite clear. Turkey is home to churches and mosques which dates back to the Byzantine empire. It is an amalgam of Asian and European cultures.
There is so much to explore in turkey; you can visit a blue mosque, Hagia Sofia, and museums in Istanbul, which have great historical significance. You can enjoy the nightlife or a dance show on a cruise while in Istanbul. A visit to Turkey is incomplete without exploring the grand bazaar, which consists of thousands of shops and workers.
Lebanon
Lebanon is a sovereign country in the Middle East. It is also known as the Lebanese Republic. It shares borders with Syria, Israel, and Cyprus, among others. Lebanon is said to be the smallest country on the whole Asian continent.
It has a beautiful coastline that you will never tire of seeing and even has a major metropolis – trendy Beirut. Lebanon is home to food that we have all tried in various forms at some point in our lives: Lebanese cuisine. The land, which is both old and modern, is full of peaceful charm and, at times, seclusion.
Oman
Oman is an Arab nation on the Arabian Peninsula’s southern coast. Though there is no religious diversity here, there is a wide range of serene landscapes and scenery. The emerald beaches, the rich Arab history in the historic forts, the lush green mountains, distinctive animals, and boundless deserts will provide you with an Arabian trip unlike any other on the Gulf Coast.
Local bazaars or souks are loaded with handicrafts and Oman’s most renowned commodity, frankincense. Kind-hearted, friendly, and law-abiding people combine to make this country a must-see destination.
Qatar
Qatar is one of the most beautiful countries in the middle east and is becoming a tourist destination in recent years because of its architecture and culture. The heart of Qatar is its capital Doha, a commercial city and a dream city for people who love shopping as there are huge malls and shopping centres in Doha.
Take a long, quiet walk along the Corniche, walkways by the water, at night to watch the brilliant lights reflected and immerse yourself in the calming environment. You can have an adventurous experience in deserts, and if you’re planning to visit Qatar, we recommend you to visit during FIFA as it is the first, middle eastern country to host it.
Kuwait
Kuwait, located at the top of the Persian Gulf, is a country well-known for its oil wealth. Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq are among its neighbours. Kuwait City is the country’s capital and is known for its contemporary architecture.
Kuwait contains modern skyscrapers and ancient, wonderfully constructed mosques, making it a true blend of technology and antiquity.
