5 Beautiful Places To Visit In The Middle East
The Middle East likely isn’t the first place that pops into your mind when you think of the world’s best holiday destinations. Yet with over 40 countries to choose from, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the most unforgettable attractions and sights on earth.
Coupled with immense cultural diversity, the Middle East encapsulates everything good about traveling. With so many available options, you may be a little conflicted about where to go.
Coupled with the guidance of a Middle Eastern Travel Blog, we’ve created a definitive list of five beautiful places to visit in the Middle East.
Read on to find out more!
- Amadiya, Iraq
Located around 10 km from the Turkish border, Amadiya is a breathtaking Kurdish village that sits nestled atop a flat-topped mountain (around 4,600 feet above sea level).
Surrounded by luscious mountain scenery, the picturesque village has become a major pull for tourists as a popular summer resort in recent years. Yet it’s not just the spectacular scenery that draws you in.
This multicultural gem is also steeped in nearly 5,000 years of history and was once believed to be home to the Three Wise Men. Now that is something worth celebrating!
On your way up, you’ll also meet locals who will happily share their knowledge of Amadiya’s history with you which adds to the overall experience.
- Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv encapsulates the scenic beauty of the Middle East. This city is considered to be one of the most vibrant in the world and is practically non-stop. With an incredible atmosphere, you’ll want to revisit time and time again.
There are plenty of things for you to do here from visiting golden sandy Mediterranean beaches, sampling cuisine at local cafes and markets, to even partaking in some of its world-class nightlife.
Most notably, however, Tel Aviv is packed with UNESCO-recognized architecture and home to some of the world’s best-preserved International and Bauhaus-style inspired buildings. These put a whole new spin on the city.
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is a modern, safe, and extremely wealthy city that houses some of the world’s tallest and most glitzy including the iconic Burj Khalifa. It also offers spectacular entertainment opportunities and some of the most amazing shopping malls featuring thrilling attractions, aquariums, and even a zoo!
At night, you can watch some incredible shows at Dubai Fountain that feature lots of impressive tricks and immersive lighting that lights up the city in a completely different way.
Overall, Dubai is a highly attractive and spectacular city that is flocked by millions of tourists each year. So, if it’s a diverse mix of entertainment, luxury, and delectable cuisine you’re after, Dubai may be your next travel destination!
- Cairo, Egypt
In recent years, there has been a considerable amount of political unrest in Egypt, yet its magic remains. This is especially true for its capital city, Cairo, nestled on the banks of the River Nile.
With a myriad of palaces, pyramids, minarets, and mosques for you to take a look at, Cairo embodies grand Egyptian architecture.
On the outskirts of Cairo, you’ll also get to witness the beauty of the largest Egyptian pyramid, the Great Pyramid, for yourself. With a height of 450 feet, these ancient tombs of kings continue to astound tourists and spectators alike.
There are plenty of buzzing cafes, restaurants, and markets for you to visit, and some incredible nightlife to experience first-hand.
- Petra, Jordan
Jordan offers many amazing opportunities like floating in the Dead Sea, relaxing in some natural hot springs, diving in the warm waters of Aqaba, or even exploring Mujib Biosphere Reserve where the world’s lowest altitude nature reserve is located.
But you will never forget the first time you set your eyes on Petra, one of Jordan’s most historic cities, and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
This ancient archaeological city has a distinct allure that attracts many tourists each year. Not only is it hewn from rock and packed full of narrow gorges but it also features some of the most picturesque palaces and temples.
It’s especially beautiful as the sun sets and during nighttime. Petra truly is unlike any other place in the world.
Summary
The Middle East is home to some of the most glorious travel destinations on earth. With a focus on incredibly detailed architecture and a mixture of ancient and modern culture, any type of destination within this region will prove to be an unforgettable travel experience.