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This extraordinary region lying both geographically and politically between the Far East and the West, is fascinating for its ethnic diversity, colourful bazaars and its incredible blend of modern and ancient worlds. From the famed cities of history such as Ephesus and Petra, to the great pyramids of Egypt and the incredible mosques of Turkey, much speaks of the civilizations past. While in modern terms the capitals of Baghdad, Cairo and Istanbul frequently take the world stage, there’s the engineering feat of the Suez Canal and the bustling business centre of Dubai.
The Middle East is also the birthplace of major religions such as Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Bahai, however almost every country has a Muslim majority except Israel and speaks Arabic except for Iran (Persian), Turkey (Turkish) and Israel (Hebrew). English is spoken by middle and upper classes and in tourist areas. The largest ethnic groups are Arabs, Jews, Persians and Turks but there are many minorities with their own languages and customs. The common ground between many of these races seems to be the food. Those travelling across the region find similar dishes such as flat breads and kebabs everywhere prepared by people with the same genuine, open hearted hospitality.
Landscapes
While it does have an arid and hot climate, to picture the Middle East solely as desert and shifting sands does it an injustice as there are features such as the Red Sea’s dazzling underwater world, Turkey’s snow-capped mountain peaks and the fertile plains along the River Nile.
Seasons
Generally the best time to visit is in autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). Winters can be very cold and the summers blindingly hot. Ramadan (November) is a period of fasting for Muslims and best avoided as food options for tourists are rather slim picking, prices increase and transport services booked out or limited.
Safety and Visas
Travellers should keep up to date on problematic regions and be aware that some areas enforce strict Islamic Law in regard behaviour and dress. Some countries do not allow entry to people with an Israeli stamp in their passport or a visa issued from Israel.
Getting There
There are plenty of transport options to the Middle East from ferries to buses, planes, trains and various overland routes. Air travel is the easiest way of getting to principal cities from major European and Asian centres. The cheapest flights are to Cairo, Istanbul and Tel Aviv while other places can be horrifically expensive. From Africa and Australasia it maybe cheaper to get a flight to London with a Middle East stopover and travel to other places overland. Israel, Turkey and Egypt are well connected to southern Europe by regular ferries and cruise liners. Trains are limited and run from some Eastern and Western European countries into Istanbul. For the more adventurous, there are land crossings and overland routes such as Istanbul to Cairo. These routes can be slow and more dangerous and you should ensure you have the necessary documentation.
Bahrain
This tiny archipelago is one of the most liberal Arab states and popular with tourists for its shopping, access to the beautiful Arabian Gulf and rich history. The best time to visit is November-March. Intercontinental and Middle Eastern flights come into the capital Manama, one of the busiest airports in the Gulf. The only land crossing is with Saudi Arabia across the causeway, on which buses operate. It is easy to get around on the island by taxi, bus or rented car. The biggest annual event is the Bahrain Grand Prix F1 race in April.
Manama
Alcohol is legal in Bahrain and the capital is known for its nightlife particularly on weekends. The major sights include the excellent Bahrain National Museum, a good introduction to the country and its 5000 years of history ad the Bahrain Fort. There is also a golf course, camel riding and plenty of souq for shopping and authentic pottery.
Other Places
The traditional 19th Century houses of Muharraq, the burial mounds at Sar and sea activities such as sailing and scuba diving are all worth checking out. Bahrain is also known for its pearls and tourists can go pearl diving or visit some of the first oil wells discovered in the Gulf.
Egypt
The land of the pharaohs needs little introduction. It’s one of the most exotic, in-your-face places in the Middle East that teems with history and touts. The Egyptian Civilization is well known for its temples, mummies and pyramids but there’s a plethora of activities from felucca rides down the Nile to diving in the Red Sea. While travel here is certainly not hassle free, it remains one of the world’s most popular destinations.
Egypt is mostly desert except for the fertile plains along the Nile River. November to March is the best time to travel. There are several international airports including Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan. Other options for getting there include the ferries between Jordan and the Sinai and buses from Israel. Trains and buses are the best way of getting around the country and taxis are a cheap transport mode in the cities. One of the most amazing Egyptian festivals is at Abu Simbel on February 22 and October 22 when the inner sanctum lights up.
Cairo
The national capital is a vast city of 19 million. Major sights include the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum with a collection of ancient artefacts, the grand castle known as the Citadel and the Cairo Tower for 360 degree city views. You can also sail on a felucca down the Nile, smoke a shisha water pipe, people watch in the souq and have a coffee or two in a traditional café. You may love or hate the crowds, heat and noise, but Cairo is definitely unforgettable. Getting around is easy on crowded public buses, cabs or the metro.
Other Places
Luxor - A trip isn’t complete without taking in the majestic tombs and temples of Luxor including old Tut’s resting place in the Valley of the Kings.
Alexandria - Egypt’s second largest city, the cosmopolitan Alexandria, has many sights including the 15th Century fort of Qait Bey, a stunning new Bibliotheca in memory of the former that was once the largest in the ancient world, Roman catacombs and theatres and a beautiful beach front.
Red Sea – A must see are the resorts on the Sinai peninsula, including Dahab, Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh. Diving is excellent and accommodation is plentiful.
Iraq
Recent events have not been kind to this nation with such a rich history. Dangerous though it still might be for travellers, if it does get back on track it could well rival places like Egypt as a must see place in the Middle East. Iraq traces its history back to the golden age of ancient Mesopotamia when land was first cultivated, writing invented and life here was the centre of the world.
Flights into Baghdad are possible on Royal Jordanian Airlines and Iraqi Airways from Amman in Jordan. Iraqi Airways will start domestic flights when possible. For getting around in Iraq travellers should stay abreast of current trouble spots. Travel between Baghdad and Damascus (Syria) or Amman (Jordan) should be possible by buses and shared taxis. Overland routes into Turkey and northern Iraq are generally okay. Visiting Iraq in summer (May-September) is like entering a sauna while winters are mild except in the northern mountainous regions where it gets very cold. Iraq is mostly desert except for the regions bordering the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. The north is mostly mountainous and there is a small 58km coastline along the Persian Gulf.
Baghdad
The capital city of Iraq is the second largest in the Arab world after Cairo with 7.4 million people. It is located on the River Tigris and dates from the eighth century. Tourist sights are numerous although the potential for bombing damage has been and remains high. However things to look out for include the National Museum housing many ancient manuscripts and historical relics, the panoramic views from Baghdad Tower, the two level bridge in Jadriyah and the hugely popular football games and horseracing. For getting around in Baghdad the more armour involved the better but there are a few buses and share taxis.
Iran
This Islamic Republic must be one of the most widely misrepresented nations in the Middle East. Despite recent history it’s a fantastic place to travel, relatively safe, packed with sights and ruins, rich in history and culture and abounding with friendly people. Iran is the hallmark of Persian culture and has a history that dates back to 7000 BC. From the confusing bustle of Tehran to the UNESCO listed city of Esfahan, the northern mountains to the southern coastlines and Caspian Sea resorts there is a variety of things to see and do.
Iran is very mountainous with rugged ranges in the west including the highest peak in Eurasia Mount Damavand (5610m). In the north there is dense rainforest while the east is mostly desert and salt lakes. Large plains rim the coastal regions by the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf. The climate varies widely depending on topography and altitude but generally spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit.
You can travel overland into Iran from borders with Afghanistan, Turkey, Pakistan Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. Cyclists, motorists and motorcyclists regularly cross from Turkey and Pakistan. Buses and trains link Iran with Azerbaijan and Turkey. Most international flights come into Tehran but there are other airports in Shiraz, Esfahan, Bandar Abbas or Kish. Domestic flights are quite numerous and affordable. Public transport is frequent and cheap and buses go just about anywhere within and between towns. Trains also operate, mostly from the hub in Tehran, and more tracks are being laid to expand the network. Metros operate in Tehran and similar systems are being built in other large cities.
Tehran
This polluted city of 15 million is a place many skip for the attractions of Esfahan or Persepolis. But there are plenty of good restaurants, interesting art galleries, historic museums and comfortable hotels to cater for all traveller’s whims. Key sights include the Golestan Palace, the National Jewels Museum and Darbandto Park-e Jamshidiyeh for views.
Other Places
Esfahan – a UNESCO World Heritage site with historic monuments and outstanding Islamic architecture including the incredible Imam Square, grand mosques and palaces, bridges and bath houses.
Persepolis – The UNESCO listed ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire lies 70km from Shiraz and is considered an archaeological treasure.
Tabriz – the old capital with a fantastic bazaar.
Yazd – a historic town of winding lanes, silks and fabrics and local villages.
Israel and the Palestinian Territories
Occupying a tiny strip of land in the Middle East, this place has always been at the forefront of world history. Birthed in controversy as the homeland for Jewish people in 1947 it has been a hotbed every since. However most travellers find it’s best to leave their opinions at the door and enjoy this holy land for what it is – a lesson in history, varied sights from mountains to deserts and beaches and cities filled with both modern and ancient traditions. Many travellers also engage meaningfully by volunteering on a kibbutz or in a West Bank School.
It is possible to visit this country throughout the year as there is always a cooler area to go if it gets too hot, however spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the mildest seasons. Jewish holiday periods are best avoided as businesses close, prices double for hotels and public transport is limited.
Most travellers enter Israel through the International Airport in Tel Aviv. You can cross land borders with Egypt and Jordan and there are sea connections with Cyprus and Jordan. Transport within the country is efficient and cheap with the option of trains and buses.
Jerusalem
This holy city is considered a place of importance for three religions. For Christians there are sights such as Via Dolorosa believed to be where Jesus walked to Calvary, for Judaism the Western Wall is the holiest place and for Muslims the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Furthermore there are some sights that are sacred to more than one faith such as the Dome of the Rock in the Temple Mount. The Old City is particularly fascinating with its myriad of alleys and bazaars. The southern part of the city houses the original City of David, the east is predominantly Palestinian and the western part is a mix of secular and religious areas. Jerusalem has very good bus and taxi networks for getting around.
Other Places
A lot of Israel’s sights read like a list of credits from the Bible, recent history and other texts and those familiar with them will appreciate visiting places such as Jericho, Bethlehem and Galilee.
Nazareth – The childhood home of Jesus and centre of Christian pilgrimage is filled with churches. It is also the largest Arab city and full of winding alleyways, authentic souq and restaurants.
Tel Aviv – A seaside city a world away from historic Jerusalem with all night discos, crowded restaurants and a youthful counterculture.
Dead Sea – at 400m below sea level, the dry shores and salty waters are great for a buoyant float, the nearby ruins at Masada or a hike in the Ein Gedi National Park.
Jordan
This is one of the region’s safest and most stable countries and generally maintains peaceful relations with its neighbours. It offers much to visitors with scenes right out of a history book such as castles, citadels, Roman ruins, biblical sites and old style agriculture to the modern world with more mobile phones per head of capita than other Middle Eastern nations, the best education system and highest quality of life.
Much of Jordan is desert but the northwest is particularly fertile and there is coastline along the Gulf of Aqaba and the Dead Sea. The best time to visit is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Ramadan is a tricky time to visit although the celebrations at the end are fun.
The capital Amman is well connected by air links to cities in the Middle East and Europe. The only domestic flights are between Amman and Aqaba. Overland borders are open with Israel, Syria and by ferry services to Egypt. Private vehicles can be taken across some border crossings or you can use bus services. Service taxis and trains also operate to Damascus (Lebanon). Jordan has no problem admitting those with Israeli stamps in their passport. Transport within Jordan consists of buses or minibuses, service taxis and private taxis. You should learn to bargain if you plan on taking a taxi.
Amman
The capital of Jordan is a rather modern city. The western part boats cafes, bars, art galleries, high rise and wealthy residences while the east is more traditional and hosts poor Palestinian and Iraqi refugee camps. While there are not the incredible mosques, bazaars and souq of other countries Amman is striking for its modernity, cultural diversity, ease of getting around and its warm welcome of foreigners. Freedom of worship is encouraged and there are no dress enforcements.
Other Places
Petra – the lost ancient Nabataean city is not to be missed.
Wadi Rum – with extraordinary red desert sands and starry skies you’ll find yourself humming the theme from Lawrence of Arabia here. Indeed Lawrence made this region famous.
Gulf of Aqaba – an aquatic playground with coral filled, aqua seas perfect for diving, snorkelling or sunbathing.
Jerash – the ruins of a well preserved Roman city.
Karak – a Crusader stronghold boasting an old castle.
Kuwait
The rich nation of Kuwait owes its enormous wealth to large oil reserves and is something of an oasis in the desert with a 500km long coastline and several islands. Something of a city state, it is largely dominated by Kuwait City and Jahra. Despite recent invasion the country has largely recovered from the economic and environmental fallout from the Iraqi occupation and oil fires. The society is largely cosmopolitan and vibrant with Arab style culture, music, attire, food and architecture.
The sandy Arabian Desert covers much of Kuwait so it is mostly arid. Spring (March) is warm and pleasant and generally considered the best time to visit.
Sea crossings between Bahrain (Manama), Iran (Bushehr) and Qatar (Doha) are possible. Land crossings are possible with Saudi Arabia and sometimes Iraq. Buses travel to Cairo (Egypt) via Aqaba (Jordan). International flights to the Middle East, Europe and the Indian subcontinent use the Kuwait International Airport although flights are not cheap. There isn’t a great deal of public transport although there are ferries to Failaka Island, taxis and some local buses.
Kuwait City
Kuwait City is located right on the shores of the Persian Gulf around a natural harbour. Sights to visit include the Kuwait Towers, Kuwait National Museum, Aquarium, the shopping malls and sophisticated restaurants.
Other Places
Jahra – a town northwest of Kuwait City that was once largely agricultural. The Red Fort is the most important historic site here. Jahra is the location of the famous 1920 Battle of Jahra where invading Saudi Arabians were defeated.
Lebanon
Lebanon is a favourite in many traveller’s sojourns to the Middle East. With a history dating back to the ancient maritime culture of the Phoenicians, there is a palpable storyline to the country with many architectural and religious sights to enjoy. There are wonderful souq for shopping, fantastic people, amazing cuisine, adventurous pursuits such as skiing and much that is laid back and liberal. Even better is since the civil ended in 1990, the country has been mostly stable, with just one hiccup in 2006.
Lebanon has a 225km coastline which is the only non-mountainous terrain in the country along with the Beqaa Valley. The Mediterranean climate means hot dry summers (June-August) and cool rainy winters (December-January). Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most comfortable times to visit, however winter is good for snow sports. High season is from mid June to mid September. You may wish to time your visit for one of several famous music festivals held annually in Lebanon.
It is sometimes possible to get a boat to/from Cyprus between May and October, otherwise the only other overland routes are to/from Syria by bus or taxi from Beirut or Tripoli in Lebanon to Damascus and Aleppo. Beirut International Airport is the only airport and has international carriers to Australia, Europe and the Middle East. There is no domestic network of flights or trains, but there are plenty of cheap, efficient bus, minibus and service taxis for getting to and around cities.
Beirut
This vibrant capital is known as the Paris of the Middle East for good reason. Here you’ll find equally good cafes, bars, galleries, museums and colonial relics as its European twin. It also enjoys a gorgeous peninsula location on the Mediterranean Sea with a wonderful promenade. Places to visit include the Al-Omari Mosque, the AUB Beach, the Roman Baths and the National Museum of Beirut. Buses and taxis are the best way of getting around.
Other Places
Baalbek – the ‘Sun City’ is renowned for one of the most important Roman sites in the Middle East. A famous arts event takes place in July and August.
Byblos – A popular favourite with archaeological remains including Roman ruins, Crusader castles and an old souq.
Tripoli – The second largest city famed for Mamluk architecture, a medieval souq, huge fortress and sweets.
Tyre – a former Phoenician city with excavations of Crusader, Arab, Byzantine and Roman cities.
Oman
The Sultanate of Oman is mostly gravel desert with lonely mountain ranges in the north and southeast and some 2700km of sandy beaches. These landscapes have helped create a popular tourist destination. Camping in the mountains, sand skiing in the desert and camel racing are other popular tourist activities. The largest events include the Muscat Festival at the beginning of the year and the Khareef Festival in August in Salalah.
Oman is one of the most English speaking nations in the Middle East and warm hospitality is common. Men and women dress largely in traditional clothes but women do not have to cover their faces. For the best weather time your visit between November and March.
Cruise liners call in at Muscat but there are no ferries operating in or out of Oman. Land crossings are often possible at the Yemen and UAE borders on buses or in your own vehicle. The Seeb International Airport in Muscat is how most people enter the country, although some flights land in Salalah. Domestic flights run from Muscat to Salalah and Khasab although more destinations will be added. Efficient intercity buses operate between main provincial towns or you can make use of the slow, long-distance shared taxis and microbuses.
Muscat
The nation’s capital and port city is very attractive thanks largely to a policy of keeping high rise at a minimum and ensuring most buildings are low lying, spotlessly white and feature traditional domes and arabesque windows. The sea is a big part of what makes up Muscat; cruise and goods ships pass through, fishermen operate out of the harbour and it’s a form of recreation for many. Muscat has the largest mall in the country.
Other Places
Sharqiya Region – this eastern corner is worth exploring for its desert dunes, tiny villages, turtle nesting and good swimming beaches. Rent a vehicle to tour the area.
Jebel Shams – This mountain is the highest in Oman at 3000 metres and is the central point along the northern mountain range. From the top you have a fantastic view into Wadi Ghul, an impressive gorge.
Dhofar – the most southern region of Oman features groves of frankincense, good beaches, Job’s tomb, the blowholes of Mughsail and the popular festival Khareef.
Qatar
An Arab emirate with the second highest GDP per capita in the world, thanks to its oil rich status. Before this the economy was focused on fishing and pearling. Sharia law is enforced in Qatar although it is more liberal than other Arab states and women do not have to wear headdress although many do. Much of the country is low sandy plains and rolling sand dunes in the southeast. The climate is mild in the winter and hot and humid in summer.
It is possible to travel to Saudi Arabia overland with the appropriate visa. It may also be possible to travel to Bahrain via a causeway in the near future. Bus routes also provide access via connections in Damman (Saudi) for Amman (Jordan), Damascus (Syria), Manama (Bahrain), Abu Dhabi (UAE), Dubai (UAE) and Kuwait. You need a transit visa for Saudi Arabia and the onward ticket and visa for the country beyond before you start. You can fly to/from the Doha International Airport to ports in Europe, Asia and most of the Middle East. Public transport was limited in Doha but the government has set in place 35 bus routes with modern, air-conditioned vehicles. Taxis also operate to cover any gaps in the system. Most locals use their own cars so it’s mostly foreigners and immigrants using public transport.
Doha
The capital Doha hosted the 15th Asian Games in 2006 and has put in a bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics. It’s keen to enter the world stage and much has been done to make it ready for this. Places to visit include the modern seafront, the Doha Fort, Grand Mosque, the maze like Souq Waqif, modern shopping malls, good restaurants and cafes. There are plenty of luxury hotels to pick from and plenty of sea based activities.
Other Places
Al-Khor – a former pearl fishing village on the north east coast with a quiet harbour and fish market.
Khor al-Adaid – this natural reserve around the inland lake is the perfect place for an overnight sojourn with encroaching sand dunes surrounding it.
Al Zubara – this tiny fort in northwest Qatar is remote and compelling.
Messiad – a resort town on Doha’s east coast that attracts off-road enthusiasts thanks to the sand dunes created by wind deposits.
Saudi Arabia
There is an air of a mystery still about Saudi Arabia because for many centuries it was closed to foreigners and then open only to those with business visas. But now the largest country on the Arabian Peninsula is slowly opening up. It is the world’s largest petroleum exporter but more importantly it houses Islam’s two holiest places, Mecca and Medinah.
Geographically Saudi Arabia features deserts, a thin mountain range, some interior oases and coastal regions with coral reefs and rich marine life. Much of the land is uninhabited because its desert and semi arid. Visit from November to February for the best weather. The annual Jenadriyah cultural festival in January/February is a good chance to see Saudi’s celebrate with camel racing, music and food.
You can access Saudi Arabia by sea from Egypt, Sudan and possibly Yemen. Border crossings are open with Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, UAE, Oman and Yemen. Buses to Riyad, Jeddah and Damman are possible from centres such as Amman, Kuwait, Aden, Bahrain, Qatar, Dubai, Cairo, Khartoum, Damascus, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Four international airports operate in Saudi Arabia in Jeddah, Dammam, Riyadh and Jeddah with flights to the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the USA. Domestic services operated by Saudia go to major towns and are reasonably priced. Trains operate between the capital and Damman on the Gulf and more routes are planned. There are good highways for road transport and fast, efficient buses make journeys between towns.
Riyadh
The Saudi capital has a population of almost six million and the name means “garden”. Indeed it is set in a fertile area and trees, dates, orchards and palms are common although the modern towers, big cars, fine hotels and places to eat are probably going to make more of an impression. Major sights include Al Masmak Castle, the National Museum, Murabba Palace, Qasr Al Hokom and the 311m Kingdom Tower. Taxis and buses operate in the city centre while trains and buses travel inter city.
Other Places
Jeddah – the commercial centre of the nation and the most liberal with the beautiful Red Sea coast, lovely coral houses, old souq, remnants of Old Jeddah and a range of restaurants and shops.
Mecca – the holiest city in Islam houses the largest mosque in the world, Al-Masjid al-Haram. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter.
Syria
Unfortunately Syria has also received negative press for its role in Middle East events, however travellers are usually impressed by the charm of the people, the modernness of the nation, a fair smattering of historical sights such as ancient Damascus and the usual cacophony of sounds, tastes and experiences in the souq.
Syria is arid and hot and summers are best avoided. Winters are mild although in higher parts snow does fall. Spring is the best time to visit. Busy periods include Easter, July, August, October and Islamic holidays.
Open land borders exist with Iraq, Jordan, Turkey and Lebanon and buses or service taxis operate across the borders. There are three airports in Damascus, Aleppo and Lattakia with domestic and international services. You can get around within the country on buses, minibuses and microbuses. There’s even a train service although buses are still the prime mode of travel. Damascus is the hub of transport services.
Damascus
Ancient Damascus was the seat of the Umayyad empire. Today it’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities and as a result architecture and culture has accumulated over the centuries. The Old City is the best example of this with bazaars, mosques, street vendors, cafes and exotic foods. Other sights include the Umayyad Mosque, the many old houses, Azem Palace, Damascus Walls, Damascus Citadel and Straight Street with its covered market and many shops.
Other Places
Aleppo and Bosra – both UNESCO listed towns containing real treasures of ancient Syria.
Palmyra – contains the fascinating ruins of a city dating from the second century AD with ruined towers, columns and tombs.
United Arab Emirates
Often a stop over destination for those doing long intercontinental flights, the UAE is a showcase of luxurious hotels, designer shops, man made islands and all the hallmarks of western consumerism in an Islamic state – something of a paradox. Bedecked sheiks in flowing robes have become highly prosperous from the rich oil and natural gas reserves in the country. In all the UAE is a very safe destination with many comforts.
The UAE has a very long coastline of over 1300km while much of the country is desert and unchartered. The best season to visit is October-March when temperatures and humidity are bearable, although it is high season when accommodation prices rise. Ramadan and Christmas are best avoided.
Access to the UAE is possible by ship from Iran. Otherwise you can cross overland by bus from Oman. There are bus companies in the UAE going to other Arab states but officially non Gulf Country citizens cannot use them. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the main international airports although Sharjah has some services. Flights are available to Gulf, Middle Eastern, European and Asian destinations. Internal buses and minibuses travel routes between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Al-Ain.
Abu Dhabi
The capital city of the UAE is not its most populous or most famous, both honours belong to Dubai. But it also doesn’t have the congestion and is far more relaxed. It lies on an island that juts out into the Persian Gulf and is joined to the mainland by bridges. Sights include the beautiful seaside promenade, the various public parks and gardens and the Emirates Palace. Private vehicles, taxis and buses are the best way of getting around.
Other Places
Dubai – the hammed up city of Dubai delivers on many levels. You can certainly get VIP treatment in the hotels if you’re willing to pay, shop til you drop in the malls or pull all-nighters at the clubs and bars. But there’s some semblance of old Dubai as well in the old Bastakia area, the old covered Deira Souq and the Heritage Village.
Al-Ain – located east of Abu Dhabi is famed for its supply of fresh water and shady oases.
Dibba – A popular spot on the seacoast for camping, water sports and sandy beaches.
Yemen
Yemen borders the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea and has over 200 islands. The country has a rich history like many in this region, including the early civilization of Sheba and several UNESCO sites.
There are four regions including the hot western coastal planes, the western and eastern highlands and the low ground of Rub al Khali populated with Bedouin herders and camels. Try to time your visit for November-February if you are visiting the coastal strip. The central highlands are temperate most of the year and the desert regions are best avoided June-September. The peak seasons are Christmas, New Year and Ramadan.
Land borders with Oman are currently open but those with Saudi Arabia are not. Buses do travel to/from Oman. International air traffic arrives at Sana’a or Aden from the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia. Domestic flights are also available. Buses operate between the larger towns and are safe and frequent while minibuses shuttle about within the major towns. Other options include shared, contract and motorcycle taxis.
Sana’a
This ancient walled city is one of the most enticing in the Arab world. It contains some 6500 houses and more than 100 mosques all with traditional architecture. The Old City is the world’s oldest at over 2500 years and UNESCO listed. Sights include the Great Mosque, any of the hammams, the National Museum and Old San’a and it’s Souq al-Milh. Buses and taxis can get you around locally.
Other Places
Shibam – a 16th Century UNESCO inscribed city with a fortified wall.
Zabid – the former capital of Yemen and also UNESCO inscribed. Its university was a centre of learning and Algebra is believed to have been invented here.
Socotra Archipelago – Consists of four islands and two rocky islets with rich biodiversity including snails, reptiles, birds, coral and coastal fish.
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