EXPLORE MIDDLE EAST
Middle East
Modern skylines, ancient ruins and desert landscapes sit close together across the Middle East. Pick a country to begin.
Why visit Middle East
The Middle East ranges from the futuristic skylines of Dubai and Doha to the rock city of Petra and the old streets of Istanbul. Many countries are compact and easy to cover in a week or two, which makes combining a city break with a desert or coastal trip straightforward.
Each guide below covers the main cities and sights, the best seasons to visit, and practical travel tips. Start there to build an itinerary that suits you.
Explore countries in Middle East
Choose a country to start planning. In-depth city guides are on the way.
United Arab EmiratesDubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah & more →JordanAmman, Petra, Aqaba & more →IsraelJerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa & more →OmanMuscat, Nizwa, Salalah & more →QatarDoha, Al Wakrah, Al Khor & more →Saudi ArabiaRiyadh, Jeddah, AlUla & more →TurkeyIstanbul, Goreme, Antalya & more →LebanonBeirut, Byblos, Baalbek & more →BahrainManama, Muharraq, Riffa & more →KuwaitKuwait City, Hawalli, Salmiya & more →
Planning a trip to Middle East?
Follow along for in-depth guides, hotel roundups and honest itineraries from Zee.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Middle East?
The cooler months, roughly October to April, are the most comfortable, especially in the Gulf where summers are very hot. Turkey and Lebanon have more temperate seasons.
Is the region suitable for first-time travelers?
Yes. Countries like the UAE, Jordan and Oman are well set up for visitors, with good infrastructure and plenty of organized tours.
What should I know about local customs?
Dress and etiquette expectations vary by country. Modest clothing is appreciated at religious sites, and it helps to check local customs before you go.