The Middle East is a region that never does anything halfway - think ancient wonders, futuristic cities and landscapes that feel straight out of a movie.

One day, you’re trekking through ancient canyons to reach a New Wonder of the World, and another, you’re gazing down from the tallest skyscraper in the world. The souks are buzzing, the history runs deep, and hospitality isn’t just a gesture, it’s a way of life.

Whether you’re here for the jaw-dropping architecture, the flavourful cuisine, or just an excuse to float in the Dead Sea, the Middle East is packed with experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

We list the most incredible travel destinations in the Middle East we've explored, along with our top experiences in each. Plus, each country links to a travel guide to help you plan your dream trip.

Overview: Amazing Countries to Visit in the Middle East

1. Israel

Best for cuisine / ancient history / bustling markets / local cultural experiences

The Dome of the Rock and church domes rise above historic stone rooftops in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Cec sips a gazoz drink while sitting in the open back of a rustic truck in the Florentin neighbourhood of Tel Aviv.
Israel

Israel’s history isn’t just preserved - it’s woven into daily life, from ancient streets to bustling markets and sacred sites still in use today.

In Jerusalem, sacred sites for Judaism, Christianity and Islam sit side by side, while Tel Aviv offers a modern contrast with beaches, nightlife and creative energy.

The landscapes shift from Mediterranean shores to otherworldly landscapes like the Negev Desert and the Dead Sea. And you can't beat the food here - a bold mix of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African flavours, with Tel Aviv at the forefront of plant-based dining.

Our Top 3 Travel Experiences in Israel

🎨 Exploring Tel Aviv's hip neighbourhoods with a creative energy

🥙 Trying local specialties at buzzing markets in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem

💀 Floating in the Dead Sea, an otherworldly experience that feels like you're floating in outer space.

Check out our Israel travel guide.

2. Jordan

Best for ancient wonders / desert adventures / rich culture / dramatic landscapes

Cec sits on a red-patterned rug at a cliff's edge, overlooking the carved façade of the Treasury at Petra.
Cec climbing into the back of an old white Toyota pickup truck in the vast Wadi Rum desert.
Jordan

Jordan is a land of ancient wonders, dramatic landscapes and warm hospitality. Home to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, its rock-carved tombs and hidden passages make it an unforgettable destination.

Beyond Petra, the vast Wadi Rum desert and the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea offer otherworldly experiences.

But what truly sets Jordan apart is its people - hospitality is at the heart of Bedouin culture. History lovers, nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers will find endless reasons to visit.

Our Top 3 Travel Experiences in Jordan

🏛️ Seeing the Petra Treasury emerge from the narrow canyon for the first time - a truly breathtaking sight.

🏜️ Riding in the back of a 4x4 across the vast Wadi Rum desert, where Lawrence of Arabia was filmed.

🍵 Sipping tea and relaxing on geometric-patterned seat cushions inside a traditional Bedouin tent.

Explore our Jordan travel guides.

3. Oman

Best for road trips / wild camping / unique landscapes / fun outdoor excursions

A rooftop tent on a 4x4 vehicle, with Cec and Ari preparing for an overnight stay in the golden sand dunes of Oman..
Cec stands in the clear turquoise stream of a Wadi in Oman, surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery.
Oman

Oman stands out for its diverse landscapes, rich heritage and warm hospitality. Towering dunes stretch across the Wahiba Sands, while the rugged Al Hajar Mountains rise sharply, carving deep canyons.

Unlike its glitzy Gulf neighbours, Oman preserves its historical charm with traditional architecture, lively souks, and deep-rooted Bedouin culture.

Its coastline is just as stunning, with turquoise waters, hidden wadis, and pristine beaches. For road trippers and adventure seekers, Oman is safe to explore independently, with wild camping allowed almost anywhere.

Our Top 3 Travel Experiences in Oman

⛺ Driving through Oman’s wild landscapes with a rooftop tent, setting up camp on remote mountaintops, golden dunes, and untouched beaches along the Arabian Sea.

🌴 Exploring swimming holes in a wadi, a lush desert canyon with crystal-clear pools hidden between towering cliffs.

🐪 Staying at a luxurious desert camp, surrounded by towering dunes that stretch endlessly in every direction.

See our Oman Travel guide.

4. UAE

Best for luxury / architecture / over-the-top experiences / bathtub-warm beaches

A luxurious pool with golden pillars at Raffles Dubai with and a cityscape view featuring the Burj Khalifa.
White domes of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi framed by an ornate archway.
UAE

In the UAE, futuristic cities, lavish experiences and bold architecture come together.

Dubai’s skyline is filled with record-breaking feats like the Burj Khalifa, while Abu Dhabi blends modernity with grandeur, home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and opulent palaces.

Beyond the skyscrapers, the country offers world-class shopping, Michelin-starred dining and entertainment on a grand scale. Its coastline is just as enticing, with blissfully warm beaches and luxurious resorts.

For travellers who love luxury, innovation, and effortless relaxation, the UAE delivers it all.

Our Top 3 Travel Experiences in UAE

🏙️ Seeing the leg-wobbling view from atop the Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world, while enjoying a luxurious afternoon tea.

🕌 Admiring Abu Dhabi’s ornate Islamic architecture, from the lavish Presidential Palace to the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

🏖️ Swimming at beaches so warm it feels like soaking in a bath.

Check out our UAE Travel guides.