A storied land that can be both sere and fertile, the Middle East exists within a tangle of cultures, religions and empires, both ancient and modern. Here, you’ll find cities from myth that still hum with life as well as people who live in the world’s most extreme climates. We can help you explore colossal monuments that date back millennia, ancient holy sites from many religions and landscapes of otherworldly beauty. Our specialists return regularly to this antique land and can work with you to plan a vacation to the Middle East that takes in the region’s marvels.
Delve into the hospitable soul of the region and uncover new perspectives on places like Jerusalem’s Western Wall, Petra’s hidden city and Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza. You could find yourself slipping into a Bedouin tent to share mint tea in Jordan or watching the sunrise from an Omani dune.
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Trip ideas in the Middle East
These itineraries will give you a starting point for what your trip could entail. They cover routes that we've found work particularly well and feature some of our favorite places to stay. Treat them just as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.
Our expert guides to exploring the Middle East
Capturing our specialists’ extensive travel experience in the Middle East, these guides share inspiration, recommendations and our honest advice for how to enjoy the best of what the region can offer in the most authentic ways. From the wealth of options we describe, you can narrow down the choices and start to shape your own trip.
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A guide to visiting Oman for the first time ![Bahla Fort, Oman]()
A guide to visiting Oman for the first time
A guide to visiting Oman for the first time
Oman’s understated pleasures make it a great introduction to the Middle East. Snorkel in the Arabian Sea, visit a traditional fish souq or livestock market, and stand alone at the edge of the Omani Grand Canyon.
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How to pack for the Middle East ![Taroudant, Morocco]()
How to pack for the Middle East
How to pack for the Middle East
First-time visitors can find it tricky to pack for the Middle East. Specialist and one-time resident Talia offers packing advice for handling the dramatic swings in temperature, the wide variety of terrains and the conservative culture.
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Self-drive Oman: Deserts, mountains and markets for the adventurous ![Traffic jam, Oman]()
Self-drive Oman: Deserts, mountains and markets for the adventurous
Self-drive Oman: Deserts, mountains and markets for the adventurous
Oman makes an ideal destination for a self-drive vacation. You can travel at your own pace and the roads are well-maintained, with signs in English.
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Amman for more than one night ![The Roman Theatre, Amman]()
Amman for more than one night
Amman for more than one night
Jordan’s capital city is much more than just a rest stop on your way to the country’s many ancient sites. It invites you to explore the Roman amphitheater, take a cooking class in a family kitchen and see the oldest known human statues.
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Family vacations in Egypt ![Giza pyramids and Sphinx, Cairo]()
Family vacations in Egypt
Family vacations in Egypt
If you're planning a family vacation to Egypt we can recommend family friendly activities as well as suitable places to stay. This captivating country has a very low malaria risk.
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An insider’s guide to Istanbul, from the Hagia Sophia to fried-fish sandwiches ![Hagia Sophia]()
An insider’s guide to Istanbul, from the Hagia Sophia to fried-fish sandwiches
An insider’s guide to Istanbul, from the Hagia Sophia to fried-fish sandwiches
Bridging Asia and Europe, Istanbul effortlessly mingles modern commerce and ancient cultures. One-time resident Ninwa introduces you to the city she loves, from the big-name sights like the Grand Bazaar to the best place to buy fish sandwiches right off the boat.
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Jordan and Egypt: Petra to Giza and Luxor ![A Bedouin man at Wadi Rum]()
Jordan and Egypt: Petra to Giza and Luxor
Jordan and Egypt: Petra to Giza and Luxor
In the sun-baked desert of Egypt and a hidden wadi in Jordan, ancient empires built enormous stone edifices that still stand thousands of years later. Middle East specialist Albert discusses the best way to see both countries on one trip.
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Dubai travel guide: our highlights ![Dubai Marina]()
Dubai travel guide: our highlights
Dubai travel guide: our highlights
Though it’s known for dizzying skyline, man-made islands and vast malls, Dubai has plenty to offer besides. Specialist Matt shares his recommendations, from its best beach areas to discovering the hidden traditions of this desert city in its souqs and bazaars.
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What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide ![Dahshur Pyramid, Egypt]()
What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide
What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide
Home to some of the world's most historical monuments and best dive sites, Egypt's size makes it possible for the first-time visitor to see many of its highlights in a relatively short trip.
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