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Middle East

The Middle East is a grand epic, a cradle of civilisations and a beautiful, complicated land that's home to some of the planet's most hospitable people.

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Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab's graceful silhouette – meant to evoke the sail of a dhow (a traditional wooden cargo vessel) – is to Dubai what the Eiffel Tower is to…

Burj Khalifa

Downtown Dubai

The Burj Khalifa is a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, with two observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors and a restaurant-bar on the…

Madinat Jumeirah

One of Dubai’s most attractive developments, Madinat Jumeirah is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Arab village, complete with a souq (market…

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, a little way north of Jumeirah Public Beach, is a major draw for sporty types, with a range of activities on…

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Four magnificent arches, their lintels richly decorated with Crusader crosses, herald the entrance to one of Christianity's most sacred sites. The church…

Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif

There are few patches of ground as holy – or as disputed – as this one. Known to Muslims as Al Haram Ash Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary) and to Jews as Har…

The spectacular sandstone city of Petra was built in the 3rd century BC by the Nabataeans, who carved palaces, temples, tombs, storerooms and stables from…

Western Wall

The air is electric at Judaism's holiest prayer site, where worshippers recite scriptures, lay their hands on 2000-year-old stone and utter impassioned…

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Ultimate MIDDLE EAST Travel Guide

The  Middle East  is one of the most notorious regions to visit on the planet. It gets a bad rap due to sensationalized media but the reality is that much of the reason is  safe for travel . It’s a region that provides fascinating culture, history and food to experience. The goal of our Middle East travel guide is to show you exactly why.

Geographically, the Middle East is comprised of 3 distinct regions broken down into North Africa, Western Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. This area covers a total of 20 countries.

North Africa  includes the countries of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt.

Western Asia  includes the countries of Turkey, Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel and Palestine.

The  Arabian Peninsula  includes the countries of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Yemen.

We’ve spent just over two months traveling in the countries of Morocco, Egypt and Jordan during our Middle East travels. We have seen the very best they have to offer and have a good pulse on what it’s like to actually travel there.

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Middle east travel: quick tips, don’t visit the middle east without:.

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MIDDLE EAST BUCKET LIST

Pyramids & tombs in egypt.

Egypt  is a gem of the Middle East and for good reason! It is here that you can find massive pyramids and colorful tombs that stretch along the Nile. You can use the cities of  Alexandria ,  Cairo ,  Luxor  and  Aswan  to explore the wonders of Ancient Egypt. 

LOST CITY OF PETRA IN JORDAN

The  Lost City of Petra  is a highlight to any  Jordan itinerary , featuring massive structures carved right into the side of the cliffs. During the day, the sight is lively with bedouin traders offering shopping and banter. When the sun sets, head to  Petra by Night .

PAMUKKALE POOLS IN TURKEY

If your  Turkey itinerary  doesn’t include  Pamukkale , you’ll be missing out! This natural wonder forms some stunningly beautiful geothermal travertine pools affectionately referred to as the cotton candy pools. They are best viewed at sunrise and sunset.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

There is no shortage of great things to do in the Middle East during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each country has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our country guides once you decide where your itinerary will take you.

CAMEL SAFARI INTO THE SAHARA DESERT: (Morocco)  Getting up close and personal with the mighty Sahara Desert is a rite of passage adventure in the Middle East. Taking a  Merzouga Sahara desert tour  will find you on camels, trekking a few hours across massive sand dunes before arriving at a desert camp for a spectacular sunset followed by campfire stories and some intense star gazing.

VISIT THE BLUE CITY OF CHEFCHAOUEN: (Morocco)  One of the most beautiful cities you’ll find in the Middle East is the  blue city of Chefchaouen , located in the northern hills of Morocco. Here you’ll spend your time wandering bright blue colored streets while popping into shops, markets and mingling with the locals.

SHOP AT THE MARRAKECH SOUK: (Morocco)  If you seek a traditional Middle Eastern souk, then  Marrakech  certainly delivers. The medina harkens to the explorers of time gone by and you can shop the intimate alleys for spices and leatherwares or hang out in the central area. There you’ll find great people watching and even snake charmers.

TOUR KING TUT’S TOMB: (Egypt)  The most famous tomb in the world, that of King Tutankamun, can be toured when you visit the Valley of the Kings outside of Luxor, Egypt. Inside you’ll find the actual mummy of the boy king along with beautiful wall paintings depicting his life.

SEE ABU SIMBEL: (Egypt)  This is easily one of our favorite  places to visit in Egypt  as the ruins are large, ornate and very impressive. Overlooking the giant Lake Nassar, formed when the Aswan High Dam was constructed, these ruins were built for King Ramses II. The entire complex was once located further south, actually within the borders of Sudan, but the formation of the lake meant that it was moved to preserve the structure.

TAKE A NILE RIVER CRUISE: (Egypt)  Taking a  Nile River Cruise in Egypt  will get you up close with the lifeblood of Africa and Egypt. Typically sailing from Aswan to Luxor, or reverse, you’ll experience the mighty river, local life and have a chance to tour off some incredible temples. It’s a great way to see the best sites without having to move hotels every few nights too.

VISIT THE ROMAN CITY OF JERASH: (Jordan)  Located outside the capital city of  Amman , Jerash is a massive ruined Roman city complex that blew our minds when we visited. It features a large amphitheater and plenty of intact roads lined with columns. If you visit after a rain, you may even find roman coins on the ground!

GLAMP IN THE WADI RUM DESERT: (Jordan)  This is one of the most unique  things to do in Jordan  and was easily a highlight of our trip. The Jordanians stop at nothing to give you an authentic desert experience, complete with storytelling, activities and posh accommodation. One of the highlights was staying up all night to stargaze.

FLOAT IN THE DEAD SEA:  When you think about  swimming in the Dead Sea  it’s hard to imagine that you’ll actually float. Well, let us tell you, it happens and it’s a strange sensation! But of course, one that you cannot miss. It’s possible to access the Dead Sea from both Israel and Jordan, with both offering posh resort experiences.

DISCOVER THE CITY OF ISTANBUL: (Turkey)  The Turkish city of  Istanbul  is a melting pot of culture due to its location. It marries a little bit of Europe with a lot of the Middle East, making it one of the most fascinating  places to visit in Turkey . Be sure to give yourself enough time to truly appreciate the city.

SEE CAPPADOCIA FROM THE AIR: (Turkey)  Taking a  hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia  will show you an otherworldly landscape that you won’t soon forget. You’ll have an early start, but you’ll forget all about that when the sun rises over the land below you, illuminating it in an array of pinks and oranges. Of course, there are other cool  things to do in Cappadocia , but this one tops the list.

EXPLORE THE ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS: (Turkey)  The very first place I ever visited in the Middle East was the  Ancient City of Ephesus, Turkey  and it was then that I knew I wanted to see more of what the region has to offer. At this site, you will see one of the largest Roman theaters to ever be discovered, along with the towering front of the once grand Library of Celsus. While in ruins, the city offers a fascinating look into life in Roman times and offers up stone streets, intact shopping huts, mosaic floor tilings and plenty of statues. When you finish touring this site, be sure to check our nearby  Selcuk  too.

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

The Middle East is one of the best destinations for foodies. Each country has its own national dish, but there are many staples that you’ll find all over the region.

Kebabs  and skewered meat (or vegetables) are incredibly popular, while rice dishes similar to  Pilau  (or Biyrinais) are hearty and filling.

Chickpeas  are a staple and are often fried up into falafel, while hummus, pitta, and Kanafeh are ubiquitous across the Middle East.

MIDDLE EAST FESTIVALS

There are many festivals and events, both religious and cultural, to look out for when organizing your Middle East travel itinerary.

The biggest event in the region is  Eid , which marks the end of  Ramadan . It’s celebrated with huge feasts and festivities.

The  Prophet Mohammed’s birthday  is often observed, while many countries have parades to mark independence days or national holidays.

THINKING ABOUT VISITING JORDAN?

Popular regions in the middle east, arabian peninsula.

When you envision the Middle East, you probably imagine the dusty deserts and mega-cities of the Arabian Peninsula. This is the classic Middle East region, where you can revel in the glitz and glamour of the Gulf States, including  Dubai ,  Abu Dhabi ,  Bahrain , and  Qatar . But there’s more to the region than this. You can explore the ancient ruins and diverse history of  Jordan  (a visit to  Petra  is a must!) or visit the authentically Arabian climes of  Oman . Off the beaten track travelers can head to  Saudi Arabia , which is slowly becoming more welcoming to tourists. Or they could get really off the radar and join a tour to  Socotra , the only part of  Yemen  that’s been stable in recent years.

WESTERN ASIA

Western Asia is a roughly defined region, but it’s where the Asian continent merges with the European, in Turkey, the Caucasus, and along the Mediterranean coastline. Broadly speaking, Western Asia can include  Turkey , Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel,  Kuwait , and Palestine. This is one of the most fascinating regions in the world, but it’s not exactly an easy region to travel to the Middle East to explore. In Turkey, you can cross from Asia into Europe if you visit  Istanbul . Spend one day seeing ancient Roman ruins and the next sunning yourself at a beach resort. Iraq and Syria are mostly off-limits, except to the hardiest travelers (there are more and more group tours heading to these well off-the-beaten-track destinations). Iran is open to some nations and closed to others, but stay away from politics, and you’ll enjoy supreme hospitality in a country like no other in the Middle East. Lebanon, Israel, and Palestine often make the news for the wrong reasons, but there’s so much to see in this compact part of the Middle East. This is the Holy Land; in Lebanon, you can marvel at crusader castles devoid of tourists. In Israel, you can visit Jerusalem then head to the beaches of Tel Aviv. In Palestine, you can see first-hand one of the oldest parts of the world, a literally biblical place.

NORTH AFRICA

North Africa is culturally and religiously very similar to the Arabian Peninsula, but it can also be extremely different. North Africa roughly encompasses destinations such as  Egypt ,  Morocco  Tunisia, Libya, and Algeria. North African cities are busy, bustling, and have a lot more life and history than you’ll find in the Arabian metropolises. Cities like  Marrakech , Casablanca, Algiers, Tunis,  Cairo , and  Alexandria  are packed with ancient sites, but you can also become quickly overwhelmed in the markets and souks! Explore the Sahara Desert in Morocco, stay at a beach resort in Tunisia or  cruise down the Nile  to see the ancient sites of  Luxor  in Egypt. North Africa offers some of the best wonders in the Middle East.

MIDDLE EAST TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to the Middle East is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within the Middle East. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

Travel costs vary massively from one country to the next. While Turkey is inexpensive, Gulf State nations such as Qatar and UAE are some of the most expensive destinations to travel to the Middle East and visit.

ACCOMMODATION: Hostels  (where they exist) and  guesthouses  are the cheapest options. They vary from USD 10 to USD 30 per night.  Private rooms  will start at USD 50 and go up to USD 100. In the Middle East,  luxury  accommodation really has no limits when it comes to price.

FOOD:  Food can be inexpensive across the Middle East, as long as you stick to the  local cafes, restaurants, and markets . Even in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you can find great meals for as low as USD 5 per plate.  Mid-range restaurants  will be more in the region of USD 20 per person, while in the Gulf States, you can easily spend upwards of USD 100 on a meal if you desire!

TRANSPORT:  Transport can be cost-effective if you stick to local routes.  Local buses, trains, and boats  can cost just a few dollars for a ride. In Turkey, you can cross the entire country by train for just USD 20.  Flights  are good value, too; the Middle East is the hub for the world’s best airlines.

ACTIVITIES:  The cost of activities when you travel to the Middle East varies dramatically from one country to the next. In Turkey, you can go  diving  for USD 50 a tank, but in Oman, it might cost you USD 150. A  multi-day Nile cruise  costs around USD 200 per day, while entry to  Petra  costs 70 USD.

50-100 USD PER DAY

You will only get away with a budget of USD 50 or less in destinations like Egypt and Turkey. For Gulf states, you’ll need USD 100 per day. Stay in hostels, use public transport, and eat like a local to save on cash.

100-200 USD PER DAY

Depending on your destination. This will get you private rooms and restaurant meals, as well as plenty of day tours.  You’ll still use public transport. This budget will be more comfortable for the more expensive Gulf States.

400 USD + PER DAY

Luxury travelers will be able to live in supreme comfort in resorts in Turkey or North Africa, while a higher budget will be needed for true luxury in the Gulf States (where there is no limit to the luxury hotels you can stay at!).

WHERE TO STAY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in the Middle East. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN THE MIDDLE EAST

There are a few ways to get around the Middle East during a visit, including cruises, buses, car rentals and flights. There are few railways outside of Egypt and Turkey. Plan ahead and be flexible.

CRUISES:  In some destinations, boat travel is an option, particularly along the River Nile, where a cruise is one of the best experiences you could enjoy when you travel to the Middle East! There are also cruises that ply the waters of the Mediterranean stopping at ports in both North Africa and Western Asia.

BUS & TAXI:  Most countries have efficient public transport systems that at least link major cities. Bus travel is the most common way to get around. Failing this, you’ll often find shared taxis operating routes, or tourist buses heading to popular attractions (Petra, in Jordan, for instance).

FLIGHTS:  The quickest way to travel between countries in the Middle East is to fly. The region is incredibly well connected by many different airlines, as many Middle Eastern cities serve as global hubs for air transport.

CAR RENTAL:  Often, car hire can be the best way to get around the Middle East if you’re short on time and want to see one specific region. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TOP MIDDLE EAST TOURS

Highlights of morocco.

15 Days Casablanca to Marrakech Visits: Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Ait Benhaddou & Essouira

EXPLORE JORDAN

8 Days from Amman Visits: Jerash, Dead Sea, Madaba, Petra & Wadi Rum

HIGHLIGHTS OF EGYPT

14 Days from Cairo Visits: Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Nile Cruise & Hurghada

WHEN TO VISIT THE MIDDLE EAST

Much of the Middle East is scorching throughout the year. If you’re not used to extreme heat, you’ll want to plan your Middle East travel itinerary to visit in winter.

The colder months of the year,  between October and March , are the best times to travel to the Middle East if you’re heading to the Arabian Peninsula or North Africa. Temperatures will still be hot, averaging around 20 degrees Celsius, but you’ll be able to get out and about and enjoy hiking and sightseeing throughout the day.

Summers  in the UAE, for instance, can often reach 50 degrees Celsius. On the plus side, flights and accommodation will be cheap!

For countries further north, such as Iran and Turkey, you’ll want to visit in  spring or fall . Winters in this part of the Middle East can be bitterly cold, especially at altitude. Summer in Turkey is a busy time to visit, while summer in Iran is scorching hot.

Before you plan your Middle East travel trip, consider important religious events, especially Ramadan, which can affect how and even where you might be able to travel.

For more specific information, check out:

• Best Time to Visit Jordan: Month by Month Breakdown

Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown

• Best Time to Visit Turkey: Month by Month Breakdown

PLAN YOUR MOROCCO ITINERARY!

Safety in the middle east.

The Middle East is often seen as a hospitable and welcoming palace to visit, despite all the bad press. Locals will go out of their way to make you feel at home and show their culture. Strict laws ensure petty crimes such as theft are few and far between.

Women often have a different experience to men, however, when they travel to the Middle East. It’s a very chauvinistic culture, and female travelers, unfortunately, can be victims of harassment or even assault.

The region does have significant political tensions. Border areas in hot zones such as Syria, Iraq, and Israel should be avoided. When you plan your Middle East travel itinerary, always keep one eye on the news, as things can flare up dramatically without warning.

Islam is the predominant religion of the region. The laws of many countries here can be very different from those in the west, and comparatively, the culture is incredibly conservative. What might be the cultural norm in your home country might be illegal in the Middle East.

Worthwhile reading if you’re planning to visit the Middle East:

• 25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel
• Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan?
• Is Egypt Safe to Visit?

MIDDLE EAST TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Middle east travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Middle East and start planning your dream trip.

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Middle East Travel Guide

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Best Places to Stay in Abu Dhabi

Best things to do in the Middle East

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How to Plan a Trip to the Middle East 2024/2025 & Itinerary Ideas

Are you dreaming of a captivating journey to the Middle East? The thought of choosing the right destinations and maximizing your time might seem daunting.

Don't worry, our dedicated travel advisors are here to make every step easy. We're committed to helping you select the best destinations, create the perfect itinerary, navigate your budget wisely, and uncover the best times for you to enjoy your Middle Eastern escapade.

• 1. How to Choose Your Destinations
• 2. How Many Days to Spend
• 3. Top 3 Handpicked Itineraries
• 4. Cost of a Trip to the Middle East
• 5. Best Times to Visit the Middle East
• 6. Getting to and Around the Middle East
• 7. Is the Middle East Safe for Traveling

How to Choose Your Destinations in the Middle East

If this is your first time in the Middle East, Egypt and Turkey are not to be missed. As popular travel hubs, you can easily reach them and experience the best of the region. If your time is limited, Egypt is most recommended, whether you are taking a family or a couple's trip.

If you'd like to escape from the chaotic pace of life, you could consider delving into the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

If you're interested in the ancient civilizations of the Middle East, you could add Jordan to your trip.

To gain a deep understanding of the religious aspects of the Middle East, visiting Israel is essential.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

1. Egypt: the Epitome of the Middle East

Egypt is the epitome of the Middle East, boasting historical wonders, sunny beaches, and exciting outdoor adventures.

There's nothing more exciting in Egypt than seeing the pyramids and mummies up close. Camel riding around the pyramids would make the experience more interesting for teenagers, while a sunset drink with a panorama of pyramids would give you a chance for romantic moments.

Taking a Nile cruise would make a relaxing component to your trip and provide an opportunity for a deep exploration of the Nile. A traditional dahabiya would offer a personalized boutique hotel experience on the water.

Whether you're traveling with active teenagers or want a slow-paced romantic celebration, you shouldn't miss the Red Sea. Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh are popular for luxury resorts and water activities. If you seek untouched coastal charm, El Gouna is an ideal choice.

2. Turkey: the Premier Destination for Hot-Air Balloon Experiences

At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey offers diverse experiences. You could travel back to ancient times from the cultural melting pot of Istanbul to the best-preserved ruins of Ephesus. If you like natural adventures, Cappadocia and Pamukkale would never disappoint you. For family or couple vacations, Antalya and Bodrum are great for beach relaxation.

Among these highlights, the most impressive thing could be a sunrise balloon ride in Cappadocia, especially for milestone celebrations.

If you prefer not to wake up too early, you could opt for a boutique cave hotel where you could effortlessly capture stunning photos against the backdrop of numerous hot-air balloons . An exotic cave spa and private cave dining experience would be perfect for unwinding together.

3. Israel: a Must-Visit Once-in-a-Lifetime Destination for Pilgrims

For religious pilgrims and history enthusiasts, Israel is a must-visit destination as the birthplace of three major world religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Jerusalem should be top of your bucket list for Israel. For a first-time visit, it's highly recommended to include its holy landmarks, such as the Mount of Olives, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Western Wall.

4. Jordan: See the Out-of-This-World Petra and Float on the Dead Sea Effortlessly

Jordan is home to an archaeological treasure: the "Rose-Red City" of Petra. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it stands as a timeless rock-cut architectural wonder. To enhance your experience, you could hike across off-the-beaten paths, such as Little Petra, or enjoy the atmospheric Petra by Night.

More than Petra, you could take a desert safari to Wadi Rum to see the Mars-like landscape . If you are traveling with teenagers, floating on the Dead Sea is a must, offering educational opportunities and fun.

5. Morocco: Best Place to Experience the Sahara Desert

If you want the best Sahara Desert experience to complement your tour, you should go to Morocco.

The Sahara promises to fulfill all your desert fantasies. Beyond camping in a traditional Berber tent, you could have special sunset experiences in the desert, such as dune-top dinners. For big celebrations, contact us for a professional photographer to capture your cherished moments.

As a well-known movie location, you could marvel at its colorful historical cities, including Marrakech, Aït Benhaddou, and Essaouira.

How Long to Spend in the Middle East

Usually, a duration of 10–14 days is popular for a first-time visit to the Middle East. Instead of rushing through multiple destinations, you're advised to focus on a large country, such as Turkey, Morocco or Egypt. Alternatively, you could take a combo trip to two neighboring countries, such as Jordan and Egypt or Jordan and Israel.

If you have a longer vacation of more than 2 weeks, you could visit three or more countries to unveil the multiple facets of the Middle East at a comfortable pace. The popular combos are Egypt–Jordan–Israel for 3 weeks and Turkey–Israel–Jordan–Egypt for 4 weeks.

You can get more details from  How Long to Spend in the Middle East .

The Top 3 Itineraries for a Trip to the Middle East

Below, you'll find our three handpicked itineraries that have served as the foundation for many of our previous clients' Middle East trips. We're ready to tailor them to your preferences!

1. A 10-Day Egypt Itinerary for Families

This 10-day Egypt itinerary is particularly designed for those who have limited time to go to the Middle East, such as families with teenagers. After exploring the pyramids in Cairo, you would enjoy the peaceful Nile by a sunset felucca in Aswan, encounter the majestic temples in Luxor, and conclude your trip at the Red Sea.

Besides the pyramids, you and your teens could discover the secrets hidden within the pharaohs' tombs or take a night city tour to Luxor. A foodie adventure would also be the icing on your Egypt "cake", creating unforgettable memories together.

At the Red Sea, your children could unleash their natural instincts to the fullest whether they like swimming, snorkeling, or desert adventures. You can also experience the thrill of an Aqua Park at the Titanic Palace in Hurghada.

If you like this itinerary, you could learn about more exclusive activities from our popular Egypt family tour . For longer family trips, you could check out our 2-week Egypt and Jordan tour and family tour of Egypt, Jordan, and Israel .

2. A 15-Day Morocco and Egypt Itinerary for Couples

This itinerary expertly combines iconic highlights with romantic moments for couples. For a winding-down tour pace, you would travel from Morocco to Egypt: 8 days in Morocco and 7 days in Egypt.

In Morocco, a Sahara Desert safari with camping would create lifelong memories. You and your partner could engage in cooking traditional Moroccan dishes in a cooking class, indulge in a traditional Moroccan hammam spa, and craft your own souvenirs together in the local medina (old town area).

Beyond the iconic attractions in Egypt, we could arrange a dahabiya — a traditional wooden boat with 5–6 cabins — for a more exclusive experience. Hot-air balloon rides over Luxor and sunset felucca sailing trips are highly recommended.

Click here to see the details of our 15-Day Morocco and Egypt Highlights Tour . Or feel free to contact us to customize your own itinerary!

3. A 24-Day Biblical Pilgrimage Itinerary to Turkey, Israel, Jordan, and Egypt

If you're planning a pilgrimage trip to the Middle East, look no further than this itinerary.

You would journey through the spiritual essence of the Middle East: 8 days in Turkey, 4 days in Israel, 2 days in Jordan, and 10 days in Egypt.

Besides the iconic highlights of each country, you could gain deeper insights into the historical and geographical context of the Bible — from Ephesus in Turkey to Jerusalem in Israel and from Petra (Sela) in Jordan to Mount Sinai in Egypt.

Do You Have Your Own Bucket List Destinations?

The above-mentioned itineraries have been welcomed by our clients as the basis for many customized tours. If you have your own bucket list, just let us know. We are always ready to tailor-make a fulfilling tour for you from your dream trip ideas.

If you don't have enough inspiration yet, check out our Middle East tours .

How Much Is a Trip to the Middle East?

A private trip to the Middle East would offer more personalized experiences and flexibility. Generally speaking, a mid-range to a luxury private trip to the Middle East for a single person would start from around $3,000 to $5,000 for a 2-week trip.

Morocco, Egypt, and Jordan are budget-friendly destinations ranging from US$200–300 per person per day. They offer affordable options with wonderful experiences. Turkey and Israel are more expensive, with costs ranging from about US$500–700 per person per day.

Traveling with us , you could save on the cost per person by inviting more family members or friends.

Best Times to Visit the Middle East

As the Middle East has diverse climates, you could enjoy pleasant and comfortable weather whenever you go.

If you're going to visit Jordan, Morocco, Turkey, and Israel, the best times are between March and May as well as September to November. From November to March, the best place to go is Egypt. For a fulfilling grand tour of the Middle East, October to March would be your best choice.

If you're considering a summer getaway, June is the best time because of its cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the more popular summer months (July and August). Countries around the Mediterranean, such as northern Egypt, Israel, and Turkey, are highly recommended for the cooler weather. A flexible private tour (which we provide) would help you keep cool with cold drinks supplied and a private air-conditioned car.

How to Get Around the Middle East

When entering the Middle East, major Middle Eastern cities, such as Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, and Istanbul, serve as the major international flight hubs.

European travelers have the advantage of more direct flight options. If you're traveling from North America, consider using Turkey or Egypt as entry points.

Upon arrival, flights are also the most efficient way to cover long distances between countries in the Middle East. For example, the flights from Cairo in Egypt to Amman in Jordan only take about 1 hour, while road trips take over 10 hours.

For city tours and journeys to remote areas, private transfers are recommended to spare you the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. They would also provide a more comfortable and personalized travel experience.

Is the Middle East Safe for Traveling?

When visiting the Middle East, you're advised to visit the popular tourist countries, such as Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey, which are generally considered to be safe for travelers.

Opting for a private tour provides an extra layer of security. Our local drivers and guides are very familiar with the local conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for you.

Personalizing Your Middle East Trips With Us

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

In addition to the above itineraries, we also have other itineraries you may be interested in:

• 2-Week Egypt and Jordan Family Adventure Tour
• 15-Day Best of Israel Jordan and Egypt Family Tour
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Middle East Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Middle East travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

The Middle East is probably one of the most misunderstood regions in the world, one that many see as dangerous or off-limits to travelers.

While a trip to the Middle East requires a bit more planning and consideration than many other destinations, it’s a place that everyone should visit at some point in their lives.

Rich in history, culture, and beautiful places, it’s no wonder the region is high on the bucket lists of so many travelers around the world.

If you’re a history buff, you definitely won’t want for things to do in the Middle East. The region is home to some of the top historic sites in the world such as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Old City Jerusalem in Israel , and the Roman ruins at Jerash in Jordan .

As the birthplace of the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), the Middle East is a great place to learn more about some of the world’s most practiced religious traditions.

From ancient sites like the Western Wall in Jerusalem to modern wonders like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi there is much to explore.

If you want to embark on a grand tour of the Middle East, you’ll want to plan for at least a 10-day itinerary in order to spend enough time in each country.

You also may need to plan some extra time to get from one destination to the other, as security and border crossings between countries can be complicated. It’s best to research your destinations thoroughly before booking anything in this region, as you don’t want to find yourself with the wrong visa or unprepared for any necessary expenses.

You’ll find some great tips below in the FAQ section of this guide and more specific information in our travel guides for Jordan, Israel, and Turkey .

Many travelers to the region also opt to sign up for an organized tour which can take some of the guesswork out of planning a Middle Eastern adventure and provide access to exclusive experiences.

Whatever way you choose to travel, you’re sure to have an incredible time in the Middle East.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to the Middle East.

Note: This ultimate guide to Middle Eastern travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Travel Tips For Israel

Jordan travel advice, turkish cuisine, middle east map.

Use this Middle East travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Middle East Travel Tips

Confidently travel solo in the Middle East with the help of the following guides:

11 Amazing Places For Solo Travel In The Middle East

Iran Travel Guide

Visiting Iran? The following posts will help you plan the perfect trip!

11 Important Tips For Traveling To Iran As A Woman Alone

Is Iran Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Israel Travel Guide

These guides share travel tips and recommended highlights for planning the perfect Israel itinerary!

Best Places To Visit In Israel

The following guides share Israel highlights and experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Active Middle East: Amazing Desert Adventures In Israel

Ramon Crater Adventure: That Time I Hurled Myself Into Israel’s Largest Crater

Israel’s Best-Kept Secret: Eliat’s Treehouse Spa

Awesomely Offbeat Things To Do In Tel Aviv, Israel

Israel’s Dead Sea Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

Plan the perfect trip with these Israel travel tips !

10 Reasons Why Israel Should Be Your Next Trip

Solo Female Travel In Israel: The Ultimate Guide

10 Best Hikes In Israel You Shouldn’t Miss (Epic!)

Jordan Travel Guide

These guides share travel tips and recommended highlights for planning the perfect Jordan itinerary!

Jordan Tourism Highlights

The following guides share Jordan highlights & travel experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Having Lunch With A Local Family In Jordan

Unexpected Highlights From My Journey Through Jordan

Adventures In The Middle East: Top Hikes In Jordan

Not Another Historical Petra Article: Hiking In Petra

Smoking Shisha In Jordan

How To See A Spectacular Desert Sunset In Jordan

Plan the perfect trip with these Jordan travel tips !

6 Essential Jordan Travel Tips

5 Amazing Experiential Stays In Jordan

Guide For Experiencing Bedouin Culture In Jordan

Getting To Know The Many Personalities Of Jordan (Unique Jordan Travel Experiences Included!)

Solo Travel In Jordan: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Morocco Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Morocco with the help of the following travel guide

Solo Female Travel In Morocco: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Turkey Travel Guide

These guides share travel tips and recommended highlights for planning the perfect Turkey itinerary!

Solo Travel In Turkey

Plan a safe and fun solo trip to Turkey with the following guides:

Solo Travel In Istanbul: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Turkey Travel Itinerary

Explore Turkey through these recommended experiences!

Cruising The Mediterranean: Turkey & Greece

Okey & Turkish Tea In A “Men Only” Hangout In Istanbul

Antalya: Luxury, History & Culture On The Turkish Riviera

Explore local culture through Turkish food & recipes!

Tracing The Heritage Of Delicious Turkish Dolma [Recipe Included]

United Arab Emirates Travel Tips

The following guides will help you plan the perfect trip to the UAE!

Solo Trip To Dubai: The Ultimate Guide

Best Middle East Tours

Explore local culture with a Middle Eastern tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Private Tour Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Dead Sea Day Trip with Amman Sightseeing from Amman (Jordan)
• Half-Day Desert Tours | Wadi Rum Desert (Jordan)
• Jet Ski Tour of Dubai: Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, Atlantis, Palm & Burj Khalifa (United Arab Emirates)
• Sunrise Desert Safari Tour from Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates)
• Guided Tour To The Giza Pyramids & Sphinx With Lunch & One Hour Quadbike from Cairo (Egypt)
• Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Tel Aviv (Israel)
• Cappadocia Sunrise Hot Air Balloon with Flight from Istanbul (Turkey)
• Wadi Shab Coastal Trekking from Muscat (Oman)
• Nature Flora and Fauna Trip from Manama (Bahrain)

Click here for a full list of Middle East travel tours!

Renting A Car In The Middle East

Need a rental car for your Middle East trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Middle East Hotels

Click here to browse the best Middle East travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. I have the map set to Amman, Jordan, but you can easily change it to your destination of choice:

Middle East Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Middle East tour. When visiting the Middle East — or any other country or continent in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Middle East travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Middle East Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in the Middle East .

Q: What are 15 attractions in the Middle East that shouldn’t be missed?

Though every traveler will have their own priorities and must-do list when visiting the Middle East, be sure not to miss these top attractions:

• Petra – Jordan
• Wadi Rum – Jordan
• Burj Khalifa – Dubai, UAE
• Giza Necropolis (or the Pyramids of Giza) – Giza, Egypt
• Goreme National Park – Cappadocia, Turkey
• Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock – Jerusalem, Israel
• The Dead Sea – Israel & Jordan
• Luxor – Egypt
• Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Beirut, Lebanon
• Nile River – Egypt
• Ephesus, Turkey
• Bethlehem, Palestine
• Burj Al-Arab – Dubai, UAE

Q: What are the best Middle Eastern countries to visit?

While every Middle Eastern country is home to its set of attractions and incredible sites, some countries are more traveler-friendly than others. Safety and infrastructure are things to keep in mind when traveling to any new destination and when planning a trip to the Middle East in particular.

The United Arab Emirates has quickly become a top destination for travelers around the world for its luxurious accommodations, incredible cities, and unique experiences.

Jordan is home to some of the most quintessential Middle Eastern experiences like Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea and is a favorite among travelers for its excellent hospitality and safety.

Israel blends old and new with a mix of modern, cosmopolitan cities and ancient sites that tell the stories of the three Abrahamic religions.

Egypt is high on the bucket list of many travelers for a reason. How could you miss the Pyramids of Giza, one of the last remaining Wonders of the World?

And for truly incredible sites that range from ancient mosques to grand bazaars, head to Turkey, one of the most popular destinations in the world.

By the way, all of the above-mentioned destinations are some of the top places for solo female travel in the Middle East .

Q: What do I need to know before going to the Middle East?

You need to be particularly strategic when planning a trip to the Middle East. Though the countries in this region are fairly close to each other, traveling from one to the other isn’t quite as easy as it is in Europe and other parts of the world.

This is particularly true when traveling to certain Middle Eastern countries from Israel. In the past, certain countries have denied travelers entry at the border if they had Israeli stamps in their passports.

Israel has stopped stamping passports at airports in recent years and instead gives visitors a small entry card that essentially acts as a free tourist visa. You’ll need to hang onto this during your stay in Israel but it will save you some trouble when traveling to other Middle Eastern countries after your trip.

If you’re crossing into Egypt or Jordan from Israel by land, you may receive a stamp in your passport; if you’re concerned about the stamp, you can ask the agent at the border not to stamp your passport. If you do have an Israeli stamp in your passport, you should avoid traveling to Syria, Sudan, Iran, Yemen, Libya, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. You will be allowed to enter Turkey, Morocco, and the UAE but you may run into some trouble in the unlikely event that you are stopped by police.

If you’ve traveled to other Middle Eastern countries prior to your trip to Israel, expect a fair amount of questions at the border. Be aware that you cannot cross into Syria or Lebanon by land from Israel. And also note that several countries, including the UAE, Lebanon, and Morrocco have banned direct flights to Israel.

Be aware that many countries in the Middle East may have different cultural norms and etiquette expectations than your home country.

In this predominantly Muslim region, it’s best to dress conservatively, regardless of gender. A good rule of thumb is to keep your arms and legs covered unless you’re going swimming. Women should also keep a scarf or shawl handy in case they need to cover their heads at a religious site.

Along those lines, it’s important to be respectful of local religions and religious practices. Be aware of Muslim and Jewish holidays, as local business hours and operations may change.

For example, if you’re traveling to a majority Muslim country during Ramadan, you’ll want to avoid eating and drinking in front of others during the day and seek out restaurants with private dining areas for tourists.

And if you’re visiting a religious site like a Mosque, be respectful of the fact that you are in a house of worship. Keep your voice down and do your best to maintain the sacred environment.

As with any destination, it’s important to be aware of local laws when traveling in the Middle East. Alcohol is prohibited in several countries in the region including Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Other countries like Qatar and Iran make exceptions for non-Muslims, so just be sure to do your research before you go.

Public displays of affection can also be illegal in certain Middle Eastern countries. While this varies from country to country, it’s best to keep PDA to a minimum when visiting the region, even if it’s just holding hands.

Q: Is the Middle East safe for tourists?

Your level of safety will vary from country to country in the Middle East. Countries like Jordan, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait are considered some of the safest countries to visit in the region as they have a high level of security and are generally not involved in major conflicts.

Israel and Egypt do face a fair amount of unrest but the major tourist areas — such as Jerusalem in Israel and Giza in Egypt — are generally pretty secure. Turkey is also generally considered safe for travelers as long as they avoid the borders with Syria and Iran.

Unfortunately, due to ongoing conflicts, most governments have advised their citizens not to visit Syria, Libya, and Yemen. Since situations can change quickly in this region, it’s best to check your local government’s travel advisories before planning your trip.

Q: Is the Middle East cheap or expensive?

Travel costs vary from country to country in the Middle East.

If you’re traveling to the United Arab Emirates, you can expect to spend about $200 USD per day whereas you’ll probably spend about half of that in Israel.

Your money will also go pretty far in Turkey where prices have dropped on accommodations, food, and other travel expenses in recent years.

Prices can also vary greatly within one country depending on where you are so it’s best to do your research on each individual destination so you can budget appropriately.

Q: What amount should I have in mind when it comes to Dubai vacation costs?

Dubai can be pricey but there are definitely ways to save on your vacation. The average traveler spends about $200 USD per day in the city on food, transportation, accommodation, attractions, and other travel expenses.

You can find a lot of great deals in the city on Groupon and through The Entertainer , a local magazine full of discounts.

The metro is also an easy and cheap way to get around town. If you have a lot of hotel points stashed away, you’ll find that they go far in Dubai.

Q: Where can I take a Middle East road trip?

A road trip is a great way to see the Middle East and there are some truly beautiful drives throughout the region. One popular route in Jordan is Amman to Wadi Rum, where you’ll get to see the country’s gorgeous sandstone mountains from the comfort of your car.

The drive from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Damman, Oman is a great showcase for the natural wonders of the region and you’ll definitely want to stop at some of the coastal towns and nature reserves along the way.

If you really want to feel like you’re a world away, drive from Dubai to Liwa in the United Arab Emirates. This route cuts straight through the desert where there’s nothing but sand and sky. You’ll end up in an amazing oasis city where you can have a truly luxurious desert experience.

Q: Do I need a Middle East travel visa?

Visa rules differ by country, so you’ll need to check your country’s International Travel Information page for your destination for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements.

You can also contact the embassy of your destination.

Q: What countries are in the Middle East?

The full list of Middle Eastern countries include:

• Saudi Arabia
• the Syrian Arab Republic
• the United Arab Emirates

Q: What are some major Middle East airlines?

A few major Middle Eastern airlines include Middle East Airlines, Fly Dubai, Gulf Air, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Emirates, and Etihad Airways.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in the Middle East?

The answer to this question varies drastically depending on the country you’re visiting as well as what part of the country and the size of the establishment. In general, larger establishments in more touristy areas will accept credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard. It is also wise to carry cash.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in the Middle East?

While the tap water is safe to drink in certain Middle Eastern cities, it’s certainly not the case overall. Check the water quality in your specific destination to be sure.

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The middle east.

A Testament to Wonder

Explore all the places we go in the Middle East

Destination must-sees.

The pyramids of Egypt are true wonders of the ancient world. First built as tombs for the pharaohs and their queens, it’s believed the pyramids are slanted so the pharaoh could symbolically climb to the sky and live forever. It’s still unknown exactly how the pyramids were made – something you’ll likely contemplate as you stare in awe at these feats of ancient architecture.

Tel Aviv is a thriving, reinvented city nestled along the Mediterranean coast. The metropolis is quite progressive and most visitors enjoy its relaxed and breezy atmosphere. The city is brimming with up-and-coming restaurateurs, white sand beaches, and chic style. Here, you can taste freshly made hummus, see famous Bauhaus architecture, and experience Tel Aviv’s dynamic boardwalk.

Sacred Sites:

The Middle East is the mecca for those looking to embark on a religious pilgrimage. Thought of as the cradle of civilization by many, the Middle East is where the monotheistic faiths of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam began. Here, sacred sites and relics abound – ranging from the Wailing Wall and the Sea of Galilee to Mount Nebo and the Temple Mount.

Nicknamed the Valley of the Moon, this ethereal landscape in southern Jordan is truly otherworldly. This protected desert wilderness sculpted by undulating sienna-hued mountains, narrow canyons and shifting sands. Board a jeep, hop a camel or take a hike and explore its incomparable landscape.

Destination Must-Do's

Walk the Walled Old City:

In Jerusalem, the walled Old City is of great symbolic importance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In spite of its diminutive size, the sacred gates and labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets captivate all those who enter. From the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, to the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock, the hallowed Walled Old City must be seen while in Israel.

Visit a Bedouin Camp:

In Dubai, away from the gleaming glass of this contemporary city is a different world. Rolling dunes stretch out towards the horizon, rippled like water by the warm winds of the desert. Hop aboard a 4x4 vehicles or a camel and experience the golden sands the way the locals do. At nightfall, share a meal with some new friends and listen to rhythmic beat of Berber drums.

Float in the Dead Sea:

Did you know that the Dead Sea is 8.6 times saltier than the ocean? Known in the bible as Sea of the Arabah or Salt Sea, the Dead Sea’s name derives from the high mineral content preventing anything from living in it. Experience the natural buoyancy of the Sea during a tranquil "float" in its healing waters, rich with salt and minerals.

Cruise the Nile River:

Considered one of the longest rivers in the world, cruising the Nile River allows you to take in the iconic, ancient monuments of Egypt in a completely different way. Start in Cairo and venture to Aswan. On the way you’ll see incredible temples, elaborate tombs and a mix of lush and barren landscapes.

Expert Advice

Featured Tours to Middle East

Treasures of Turkey Istanbul, Ancient Ephesus & Cappadocia

Colors of Morocco

Treasures of Egypt

Iconic Israel

Israel: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Israel: A Journey of Faith

Jordan & Israel: Cultural Crossroads

Spain & Morocco

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Experts in tailor-made vacations to the Middle East

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.

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Middle East specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4775
• Make an inquiry

Where you can travel with us in the Middle East

Our specialists can help you plan your trip, individually focusing on your tastes and interests, to the destinations below.

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.

Highlights of Egypt: Cairo & Nile cruise

7 days from $3,955pp

Luxury Cairo & the treasures of the Nile

12 days from $15,995pp

Classic Cairo, Luxor & Aswan overland

9 days from $5,055pp

Jordan & a romantic Egyptian Nile cruise

16 days from $10,995pp

Classic Jordan tour: Amman, Petra & the Dead Sea

8 days from $4,295pp

Luxury Turkey tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Bodrum

12 days from $11,930pp

Grand tour of Oman

13 days from $8,595pp

Grand tour of Egypt

15 days from $11,655pp

Huvafen Fushi and Dubai

12 days from $12,505pp

Historic Greece & Turkey

16 days from $11,990pp

Luxury Dubai: beach & desert

8 days from $9,940pp

Highlights of Turkey & Jordan

15 days from $13,315pp

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.

Top 5 trips to Egypt

Would you prefer to cruise along the Nile, soaking up Egypt’s ancient vistas, or combine a city stay in Cairo with time on the Red Sea’s coral-fringed coast? We’ve curated our specialists’ top Egypt tour ideas to help you plan your next trip.

What to do in Morocco: our highlights guide

Morocco is a destination with fascinating local customs, a rich history and many geological wonders. Immerse yourself in the labyrinth of Medieval souqs, try the local cuisine, go walking in the beautiful High Atlas Mountains, or take a camel trip into the desert and sleep under the stars.

Family vacations in Morocco

A vibrant and diverse country, Morocco is a very family-friendly destination with plenty of hands-on experiences and quirky accommodation options for families. Morocco specialist Kerry explains how to get the most out of your time here.

Luxury Egypt: live like a pharaoh

A room at the foot of the Great Pyramid, an opulent ship on the Nile, and private guides — Egypt specialist Emma outlines the most indulgent ways to enjoy the country’s classic sights.

Nile cruises: the route to ancient Egypt

A Nile cruise is the classic way of exploring Egypt. Drift down the Nile in a comfortable cruise boat, making stops to visit Ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Egypt specialist Steve outlines how you can make the most of your cruise.

10 min read

Walking and trekking vacations in Morocco

Home to North Africa's highest mountain and the stunning Ourika Valley, Morocco is the perfect choice for a walking or trekking vacation in North Africa. We can advise you on the best places to stay to make the most of these wonderful walking opportunities.

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.

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.

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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Middle East Tour Companies

List of middle east travel companies & tour operators with 211539 reviews.

Click Tours

• Good - 712 reviews for Middle East tours

We make reservations for Highlights of the Holy Land Israel & Jordan & Cairo Tour - 13 Days" with Click Tours. Upon arrival at the airport we could not find our transfer to the hotel, as the tour was subcontracted by CTG. After over 1/2 hour of seeking for our transportation, we finally figured out by moving around and asking transportation reps holding signs. Our tour guide with CTG was fantastic and sites visited were all great. Two hotels were poor (Tel-Aviv, and Petra). The driver that took us from Israel to border with Jordan, overcharged us for country fee, he also delayed by at least one hour our crossing from Israel to Jordan because he decided to pick up a lot of passengers from another bus, thus we ended up arriving too late at Iman to appreciate some of the sights during daytime. Even worst, that driver was often reading text messages on his cell phone while driving a coach. CTG's staff in Egypt was very good, as well as food and hotel was decent.

Well done with scheduling and good hotels and good choices

Agate Travel

• Excellent - 288 reviews for Middle East tours

This was an excellent tour with 2 full days of activities seeing both the highlights of Doha and the north of Qatar. It included also a Desert Safari with Camel rides, SUV dune bashing and a relaxing rest in a camp by the Red Sea.

My guide mr. Jemal was excellent. Very experinced and know all the best places and time to see everything. Also restaurants we ate at were all local and super rick)))

Uniworld Boutique River Cru…

• Excellent - 82 reviews for Middle East tours

Everything was perfect. The guides,very knowledgeable. All tours very good. The hotels excellent Food very good for all different tastes. The

Timeless Tours

• Excellent - 2,883 reviews for Middle East tours

The tour was amazing. I had such a fantastic experience on this 10 day tour. Ramez, our tour guide was exceptional, very knowledgeable and looked after us really well. The accommodation was excellent and we were well fed! Luckily we only had a small group, 5 of us in total and all the group members were lovely and we all got along well. Two of us celebrated our birthday's while on the tour and Ramez our tour guide made sure we had special celebrations on the day...thank you Ramez! The tour is quite jam packed but once you get to Hurghada you get time to chill and relax. We also went snorkelling in the Red Sea whilst in Hurgharda which was also an incredible experience! This holiday was an experience of a lifetime :)

A very enjoyable experience that you simply must do if you have an interest in the pyramids, temples, and ancient Egyptian history, and if you would love to cruise the Nile River and eat delicious food. The river cruise boat and the hotel accommodation was simply excellent… the sleeper train was not, but it was a unique experience 😅. Amgad is a polite and friendly guide who is knowledgeable and flexible. He wants you to have the best experience possible, which makes the whole tour even better. I highly recommend this tour to anyone! Thank you kindly, Amgad and Timeless Tours, for a wonderful journey through Egypt! ❤️

CroisiEurope River Cruises

• Excellent - 368 reviews for Middle East tours
• This operator has no Middle East reviews

• Excellent - 26 reviews for Middle East tours

The tour in Egypt and the people I met in Egypt were very professional, friendly and helpful. I would visit Egypt again but I would not use Flo Tours. I found the last minute demand for money and the threat to cancel the arrangements made in Egypt extremely unsettling. It brought to mind a travel company run by amateurs and extortionists. Flo Tours…. no thank you. Derrick

A great way to see the most important cities and sites in Egypt . We benefited (as off season ) in being the only two people in the tour group, and were spoilt in a private tour scenario, with two excellent, friendly and well informed guides, Suzanne in Cairo, and Khaled on the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. All crew on the Liberty boat were happy and always obliging. The boat is a bit tired , the food buffet good quality, if somewhat repetitive . Tipping is very big in Egypt, cards are rarely accepted and this information needs to be given in advance , by TourRadar / Flo’s Tours , so guests are WELL prepared with plenty of Egyptian Pounds.

A.B Worldwide Voyages ltd.

• Excellent - 152 reviews for Middle East tours

Well organised tour with excellent guides. Beautiful hotels. The operator was very accommodating with requests. Anas and Nasser were particularly very professional and knowledgeable. I would 100% recommend this tour if you want to see the best of what Egypt has to offer.

Knowledgeable guided tour from Marwan in Cairo and Anas (Aswan - Luxor) with excellent tour of pyramids and temples. Really fascinating!

Beyond The Nile Tours

• Excellent - 808 reviews for Middle East tours

This was a great tour. Professional and knowledgeable staff who are accommodating. The temples are not crowded, in August. We added the carriage ride, Nubian village and the one temple which takes you south near Nassar lake. These were worth it.

Awesome tour from start to finish. Even without the optional extras you get so many experiences and information. For the price you pay the value is absolutely incredible. Shout out to our habibi Saladino for always going above and beyond to make sure we are safe and looked after.

AmaWaterways

• Excellent - 27 reviews for Middle East tours

Holiday In Egypt

• Excellent - 530 reviews for Middle East tours

A fabulous and adventure packed 3 days along the Nile. Hassan our guide was very knowledgeable on all the sites we visited and kept us informed of the itinerary along the way. We enjoyed our time with him. There was ample free time at each location to explore. Be prepared for some early mornings, but absolutely worth every bit!

Out tour guide Suhaila was great, her English and knowledge on the historical locations we visited were outstanding, showing local culture and explaining the history of Egypt in depth

Egypt Direct Tours

• Excellent - 248 reviews for Middle East tours

A well put together tour, beautiful hotel facilities & lovely Nile Cruise boat. There was always something to see and do. Tour Directors cannot be faulted in their passion for their country and their ability to provide expert commentry. We had a lovely time.

They offered amazing tour around the city.. And tour guide nasser was amazing.

Nicko Cruises

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Logistically, this company makes things impeccable and the value for your money is undeniable. One of our guides was a little inappropriate which cast a small shadow on the trip, but even still, all guides were knowledgeable and we felt safe at all times. I’d recommend this trip and company.

Excellent tour with reasonable prices. The tour guides were also excellents. Touradar takes care of everything, I recommend this tour.

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Middle East

Ideal 1 month middle east itinerary.

 There’s no doubt that travelling the Middle East is a very different experience to adventuring in many other parts of the world.

But there’s also no doubt that this very different experience is actually what can give you the most enjoyment from travelling in the Middle East too.

For starters, the sort of people that travel in this part of the globe are definitely an interesting bunch, for this is not the sort of travel that just involves lying on a beach or partying.

Steeped in history, layered cultures and dramatically different landscapes, visiting the Middle East attracts a different sort of explorer crowd – ones who aren’t afraid to buck the trend, step out from the norm or discover for themselves what this fascinating part of the world is like in reality.

So if you’re up for a real adventure soon, check out my perfect 1 month Middle East itinerary – the ideal taster to travelling in this amazing part of the world…

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• 21 Things to Know About Travelling Jordan
• Solo Female Travel in the Middle East – What to Expect!
• The Only Turkey Itinerary You’ll Need!

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4 Weeks, 3 Countries

It’s a big claim and you will be travelling fast and seeing a lot, but if you want to fit as much into a month as you can in the Middle East, then I do think it’s possible to squeeze 3 of the best destinations into this short timeframe.

And the countries I’d choose are Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan.

Not only do these 3 countries offer an amazing array of adventures and opportunities, they are also dazzling in their diversity and will give you a great, snapshot into this part of the world.

These 3 countries are also quite close together meaning you are able to fly quite cheaply between them – you can’t, of course, currently travel overland between them because of the Syrian crisis, among other difficult border factors, but flying is possible and easy.

As always, I use Skyscanner to get the best prices on my plane tickets and you’d be wise to do the same!

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Beginning with Turkey, I’d allow 10 days to 2 weeks to explore this huge country, which spans the bridge between Europe and Asia and is a great introduction to visiting the Middle East.

Stay: Moda Hostel, Kadikoy

Likely to be your first point of entry into Turkey if you’re flying here, or crossing by land from Europe, Istanbul is a much-fabled city whose idyllic Bosporus setting and an insane amount of cafes make it a very pleasant city indeed.

Staying in the truly authentic suburb of Kadikoy is a great backpacker choice, as trendy locals dart in and out of vintage shops and hipster delis.

Otherwise, more tourist-popular areas on the Western side of the city, such as Galata, Eminönü and Balat, offer an amazing array of historical sights and marvellous markets.

DISCOVER MORE: Top Things to Do in Istanbul for First Timers

Stay: Cave Hotel Saksagan, Goreme

After a few days in Istanbul, Middle East backpackers can’t miss the fabulous area of Cappadocia, located in Turkey’s Central Highlands.

Take the night bus here from Istanbul or hop on a budget flight and spend a few days hiking and gazing at the amazing landscape formations in this otherworldy destination.

Budget travellers are best to base themselves in Goreme and if you can stretch to it, a hot air balloon ride here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s highly worth the splurge.

LEARN MORE: Unbelievable Things to Do in Cappadocia + Itinerary

Ephesus & Pamukkale

Stay: ANZ Guesthouse, Selçuk

After Cappadocia, no backpacking Middle East adventure would be complete without seeing the amazing Roman ruins at Ephesus or the dramatic calcite formation at Pamukkale.

Both can be visited from the cute town of Selçuk, near the Aegean Sea, which is ideal for budget travellers with its very cute guesthouses and totally local feel.

You can easily walk to Ephesus, perhaps the most significant and best preserved Roman city in Turkey, from Selçuk as it’s just 3km away.

Pamukkale however, requires a train and then bus ride via the city of Denizli, which makes staying the night here a great option, especially as you’ll get to enjoy a stellar sunset as a result.

READ MORE: The Complete Travel Guide to Selçuk

Mediterranean Coast

Stay: Reflections Camp, Kabak

Finish your time in Turkey at this country’s amazing Mediterranean coastline.

Choose from popular backpacker spots such as Kaş or Olympos, or channel your inner hippy and get away from it all at peaceful Kabak.

Accessing any of these beachside areas is best done from either the city of Fethiye or Antayla, which both have great transport connections, as well as beautiful Old Towns that are well worth a night of your itinerary.

DISCOVER MORE: Why Kabak is Turkey’s Most Guarded Travel Secret

After Turkey, fly to Lebanon, one of the smallest countries in the world and an absolute gem in your backpacking Middle East itinerary.

Honestly, everyone who goes to Lebanon is blown away by it. Exceeding, as it does, all expectations, with more than enough activities to fill at least a week of your adventure.

Stay: Hostel Beirut, Mar Mikhael

Base yourself in the capital Beirut during your time in Lebanon, which has many young, fun and vibrant suburbs to explore, including my favourite, the arty enclave of Gemmayze.

From hipster cafes to amazing galleries, atmospheric buildings and a gorgeous Mediterranean coastline, this truly is one of the most fun cities in the Middle East, if not the world.

DISCOVER MORE: 10 Best Free Things to Do in Beirut

The great thing about Lebanon being so small is that you can then day trip all across the country very easily from Beirut including to these top picks:

The Cedars & Qadisha Valley

Lebanon’s most popular winter resort – yes you can snow ski and sea swim in this country in one day – the beautifully preserved area of the Cedars in the north makes for an ideal day trip even in the warmer months with some excellent hiking trails when the snow has melted.

READ MORE: Discovering the Stunning Cedars of Lebanon

Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos

The amazing cave of Jeita Grotto, and lookout from Harissa, are located just a short drive from Beirut.

Grab an Uber with some fellow hostel guests to share the cost as no public transport runs here.

If you set out early enough in the morning, then after these 2 sites, you’ll still have enough time to relax on the gorgeous coastline around Byblos, which is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

LEARN MORE: 10 Epic Things to Do in Lebanon

Baalbek & Bekaa Wineries

Over in the east of Lebanon, the amazing Roman ruins of Baalbek are some of the most spectacular in the world and with Lebanon’s growing viticulture industry based out this way too, in the Bekaa Valley, combining some wine tasting with your history fill here is what backpacking Middle East mixes are all about!

DISCOVER MORE: 23 Amazing Things to Do in the Middle East

Lebanon’s second city, Tripoli is a world away from Beirut and provides the perfect counter-balance and proof of just how diverse this small country is.

Heading to the Citadel, the souk and snapping the ancient streets of Tripoli makes for an amazing day trip and you can easily catch a public bus to and from Beirut which makes it a super cheap one too.

EXPLORE MORE: The Perfect 1 Week Lebanon Itinerary

And the final country to hit up on your 1 month backpacking Middle East itinerary is Jordan.

Again, flying here from Beirut is the only way to travel from Lebanon to Jordan given the land borders with Syria and Israel aren’t options right now.

Another small country, you can see a lot in Jordan in just 7 days, so if you’ve still got the energy, pull on your sightseeing hat and strap in for the ride!

Oh and don’t forget to buy the Jordan Pass before you arrive.

Including your visa fee, as well as entrance to Petra and a heap of other attractions, this is a great money-saving option to stop your Middle East travel costs getting out of hand!

Stay: Jordan Towers, Amman

From Lebanon, you’ll enter Jordan via the country’s international airport in the capital Amman.

This very relaxed and small city is then the perfect place to stay for a few days as you explore its amazing street food, historic sights, museums, mosques and souks.

You can also take a number of excellent day trips from Amman and those to the Dead Sea and the Roman ruins of Jerash are the ones I recommend most.

Luckily, Jordan Towers Hostel offers some excellent backpacker trips to both these destinations or there is a regular public bus service to Jerash too.

DISCOVER MORE: 13 Epic Things to Do in Amman

Stay: Petra Gate Hostel

After your stay in Amman, it’s time to head to Jordan’s piece de resistance and jewel in the crown of your backpacking Middle East experience – Petra.

This Red Rose City is truly spectacular and I’d highly suggest having at least a couple of days here to see as much as you can in this amazing, ancient and HUGE desert civilisation.

The nearby town of Wadi Musa is the best place to stay around Petra and is easily accessible from Amman via public bus.

From here you can also book your excursion to Wadi Rum at some great backpacker rates…

READ MORE: Top Tips for Visiting Petra for Less

The spectacular desert scenery of Jordan will bring a new element to your backpacking Middle East itinerary and makes Wadi Rum an absolute must-visit in Jordan.

Safari tours and Bedouin camps are the order of the day here, so grab your camera and prepare to be spellbound by the beauty and desolation of this incredible landscape as you sleep out under the brightest of starry skies.

LEARN MORE: 10 Things to Do in Jordan You Can’t Miss

FAQs about Middle East Travel

Travel Insurance for the Middle East

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

5 Middle East Packing Essentials

#1 Middle East Lonely Planet – A great travel aide to this part of the world with tons of historical info, the Middle East Lonely Planet will help you get the best from your time here.

#2 Arabic Phrasebook – Most people in the Middle East who are connected with the tourism industry speak good English, but learning some Arabic never goes a miss, especially if you want to ensure you’re paying the best prices! The Lonely Planet Middle East Phrasebook & Dictionary is a super affordable example.

#3 Good Camera – The Middle East is one of those jam-packed destinations and travelling here with a good camera will help you preserve the memories. I highly recommend the mirrorless Sony A6000 . Light, compact and robust, it’s been perfect for my Middle East travel adventures.

#4 Sun Hat – The Middle East can be hot and dry, really like hot and really dry. When you’re walking around temples, ruins, mosques, churches and other sights, you’ll be exposed to the sun for long periods of time, so make sure you pack a sunhat for adequate protection is key. I love this one from Hello Sunshine .

#5 Amazon Audible – Travel in the Middle East can often involve a lot of planes, trains and automobiles, so having something to listen to while you enjoy the scenery is a must! I love Amazon Audible , which is the best audiobook service around.

Travel Money in the Middle East

When it comes to paying for things in the Middle East, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise Card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups, no sneaky transaction fees and a range of currency accounts, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here.. and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold!

Get yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

Talk about jampacked, but there’s no doubt that this 1 month Middle East travel itinerary will have you falling in love with this amazing part of the world just as much as I did!

And tell me, have you visited the Middle East?

Which was your favourite country? And why?

Drop your answers into the comments below. I’d love to hear them…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ Ideal 1 Month Middle East Itinerary ”

Steph, thank you for sharing your middle east itinerary – we are currently planning a trip to Europe and have been tossing up whether to visit Turkey, but now I need to add Lebanon and Jordan to our list… I am not sure if we will get there on our upcoming trip but maybe the one after that!

Wonderful to hear Anne and yes, of course, I can highly recommend both. That list just keeps on growing, doesn’t it?!

Hello, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your blog site in Ie, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, awesome blog!

Thanks, Brett, I’ll check it out. Best Steph 🙂

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Wander-Lush

25 Most Beautiful Places in the Middle East: The Ultimate List

An incomplete list of the most beautiful places in the Middle East – from Bahrain to Yemen, the Dead Sea to the Empty Quarter, modern metropolises to mud villages, and everything in between.

Natural wonders, Holy sites, ancient beauty and modern Islamic architecture, bustling souks, Norwegian-style fjords, brilliant oases, endless deserts, and enough UNESCO World Heritage Sites to please even the most discerning history buff. Yes, the Middle East really does have it all.

Discover 25 of the most beautiful places to visit in the Middle East region (Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, UAE and Yemen), as recommended by me and other travel writers.

• Looking for Turkey inspiration? See my list of the most beautiful places in Turkey .

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

25 beautiful places in the Middle East

Bald sayt | oman.

Nested in the foothills of the Al Hajar mountains, Bald Sayt (Bilad Sayt) is a true Middle Eastern oasis and a must-visit destination in the beautiful country of Oman .

Remote and secluded, the tiny village is accessed on foot by walking through Wadi Al Sahtan and Wadi Bani Awf. As you emerge from the final canyon, the first thing that greets you are the terraced fields – tinted ruddy brown or brilliant green depending on the season – and thick groves of date palms heavy with fruit.

The knot of tan and ivory houses that is Bald Sayt is wrapped in mountains on all sides, adding to the feeling that it emerged out of the pebbly hills by magic. Follow the snaking hiking path for different perspectives of the village with the terraces and palm groves in focus.

Oman is made for road trips – and Bald Sayt is a case in point. It can only be reached with a combination of 4×4 and hiking. When planning your Oman driving itinerary , make sure you hire an off-road vehicle (provided you’re comfortable with driving narrow, precipitous paths) or alternatively, budget a few days to travel to the village with a driver and guide from Nizwa .

There are no guesthouses in Bald Sayt – the closest accommodations can be found in Al Hamra. Misfah Old House , a guesthouse set in a traditional mud brick house, is highly recommended.

Wadi Rum | Jordan

At the southern edge of Jordan lies one of the most magnificent deserts on earth, Wadi Rum . Here, rock-ribbed mountains grow from an ocean of unending red sand while the blistering sun vaporises every last drop of water.

It’s a surreal scene that resembles something from outer space. And, for this reason, Wadi Rum is nicknamed ‘The Valley of the Moon’.

But this is not the only attraction: Relics from the Nabataean peoples can be found throughout the desert. From petroglyphs and inscriptions to ancient ruins, there’s a wealth of history.

There are several ways to explore this natural wonder. From jeep tours and camel treks to hikes and overnight stays, there is something for everyone. With an area of 720 square-kilometres, you could easily spend a week here, but an overnight stay is the best compromise. There’s nothing like indulging in a delicious meal prepared by a local family and sipping fresh mint tea under the stars.

Be sure to bring a warm jacket and a scarf. Temperatures plummet in the evenings and the dry desert winds can be unforgiving. No matter which adventure you choose, it’s sure to be an experience of a lifetime!

By Jen from Dabbling in Jet Lag

Sharqiya Sands | Oman

As you’re about to discover, there is so much more to the Middle East beyond desert landscapes. Yet the scale and solitude of the Empty Quarter somehow captures the endless beauty of the region so well.

The Rub Al Khali is shared between Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. Oman’s portion, the Sharqiya Sands (formerly known as the Wahiba Sands), is one of the most accessible areas for travellers, with desert safaris departing from the capital, Muscat.

Dune bashing, camel rides and sand surfing are all on offer – but in truth, it’s just as fun to walk the rippled dunes and dip your fingers into the melting red sands.

Luxury hotels in the form of desert camps dot the landscape. The Desert Nights Camp is one of the finest and takes cues from the area’s Bedouin heritage. A night here – with sunset from the dunes and dinner under the stars – is hands-down one of the best experiences you can possibly have in the Middle East.

Valley of the Kings | Egypt

Not only is Egypt’s legendary Valley of the Kings a beautiful place to visit, it’s also one of the Middle East’s most significant historical sites. This archaeologically rich area was the burial ground for royal Ancient Egyptians between the 11th and 16th centuries BC. New discoveries are still being made to this day. Located on the western river bank from the city of Luxor, it’s easy to get to with a Nile cruise, train or coach from Cairo.

It’s possible to visit many of the ancient tombs and see their beautiful paintings up close. Depending on the time of your visit, the authorities that look after the Valley of the Kings open certain tombs at different times.

At the time of writing there were 62 documented tombs, all discovered before 1922. The best ones are always visitable on a daily basis. Some special tombs include Ramesses IV KV2, Ramesses KV9 and Tutankhamun KV62. It’s highly recommended to buy a ticket for Seti 1 KV17 as well.

As a top practical tip, visit with a local, knowledgeable tour guide. This will be most beneficial for truly understanding the history and significance of each tomb. Else to watch a documentary or read a specific book beforehand to learn more.

By Zoe from Together in Transit

Petra | Jordan

The beautiful city of Petra is located about 240 kilometres south of Jordan’s capital city, Amman, and is significant to archaeologists because of its rock-like structures. It dates back to the 4th century BC, is a Wonder of the World – and should be included on your bucket list.

Visitors enter the park at Wadi Musa and follow a trail into the Siq, a gorge formed by tectonic plates that broke the mountain into two pieces. Snaking down a path with rock walls that tower above your head is quite an entrance. You might know this path as it featured in the 1989 adventure film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade , with Harrison Ford.

As the mysterious path finally opens up, you will come to your first awe-inspiring view of the Treasury Monument, built as a tomb for the Nabataean King Aretas III. The Treasury is the highlight of Petra, but this is only really the start of your visit. There is so much more to see.

Once you pass the Treasury, you could easily spend a day exploring the rest of the ‘Red Rose City’, so-called because of the pink-hued stone it’s carved from. Other highlights of Petra include the tombs and houses on the Street of Facades, and hiking unmarked roads to find spectacular views. Eventually, you will make it to the Royal Tombs and the magnificent Monastery.

By Chris from Aquarius Traveller

Abyaneh | Iran

One of the most uniquely beautiful villages in the Middle East is the red mountain village of Abyaneh . Sitting beautifully in the Karkas mountains, this is one of the oldest villages in Iran, dating back at least 2,500 years.

What makes Abyaneh so unique is that villagers still live according to pre-Islamic ancient customs. They still speak their original language and dress in traditional clothing. The costume of the women is especially distinct, with white flowery shawls.

Abyaneh’s crimson colour comes from the red clay used to cover the houses, which makes the village blend in with the surrounding nature. Aside from exploring the streets and admiring the architecture, there are old castle ruins and underground cave houses that visitors can walk to. This is where you will get the best view of the village, so it’s worth the short hike.

With no public transport available, the easiest way to visit Abyaneh is by car. You can hire a driver from either Kashan, Natanz, or Esfahan. To enter the village, visitors must pay a maintenance fee of 10,000 rials.

When visiting Abyaneh, it’s important to be respectful towards the locals. Keep this in mind when snapping your Instagram photos.

By Linn from Brainy Backpackers

Jerash Ruins | Jordan

It’s likely that whenever someone mentions ruins in Jordan you’ll instantly think of Petra. However, there are many other archaeological sites worthy of adding to your Jordan itinerary , including the stunning Jerash Ruins.

The city of Jerash is located about 50 kilometres north of Jordan’s capital of Amman and can be accessed within about an hour by taxi or collective bus. It’s certainly worth taking the trip out of the city for.

Jerash has been dubbed ‘Pompeii of the East’, and if you’ve ever visited the original Pompeii ruins in Italy , you’ll be able to see parallels between the two sites. Although the Jerash Roman Ruins weren’t obliterated by a volcano, the layout and structures have a lot in common with Pompeii. This is also one of the biggest Roman ruin sites outside of Europe.

The site of Jerash is reasonably extensive, and like many ruins, has little in the way of shade and shelter from the sun. Remember to pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting during the middle of the day. Ideally you should try to get there early to dodge both the heat and the tour groups.

Unmissable sites include the Oval Forum and the ancient Colonnaded Street along with the Temple of Artemis and the Arch of Hadrian.

By Becki from Meet Me in Departures

Qeshm Island | Iran

The charming Iranian island of Qeshm is the largest island in the Persian Gulf. Its important geographical location in the Strait of Hormuz means it’s always been a vital trading and navigational centre, precipitating invasions by the Dutch, French and Portuguese in centuries past.

Qeshm is a free zone allowing nationals of most countries to acquire a visa on arrival. The ease of travel, rich artisan traditions and wealth of rare geological landscapes are all amazing reasons to explore Qeshm island .

Designated as Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark in 2017, the island is home to a diverse range of natural phenomena. Take a trip around the Hara Mangrove Forest, a real treat for birdwatchers with 220 species nesting amongst the winding trees and calm waters. The dhow boats in the port are a testament to the traditional Bandari way of life on the island.

The Fallen Star Valley is best seen at sunset as the glow falls on the weather-eroded ravines and towers. Explore Chahkuh Valley in the northwestern part of Qeshm, where tectonic movement and washed away rock create a labyrinth of crazy cavities and shapes along the walls of the gorge.

Another highlight is discovering the salt cave at Namakdan, which is believed to be the largest in the world at 6,850 metres long. Qeshm is an incredible destination full of culture, tradition and mind-blowing terrain.

By Vanessa from Wanders Miles

Tower of David | Israel

One of the most prominent silhouettes in Jerusalem’s skyline along with the Temple Mount, the Tower of David is a must-see historical site in the Middle East.

Even though it is named after the biblical king of the United Kingdom of Israel and Judah, David, the citadel actually dates back to medieval times. That said, the complex does include some remains of walls and towers from much earlier eras, including the First Temple (1006-586 BC), the Hasmonean Period (141-63 BC), and the Herodian Period (37 BC-70 AD).

The beautiful fortress sits at a strategic high point between eastern and western Jerusalem close to Jaffa Gate, which is one of the biggest reasons it has such great historical importance. As cliche as it may sound, visiting it can make you feel like you’ve been transported to the past, and that’s an experience you cannot skip out on.

Today, the citadel complex houses the Museum of the History of Jerusalem, where you can learn about more than 3,000 years of the city’s past. Throughout the year, it also hosts the most incredible night experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in the stories of Jerusalem and King David through sounds, videos, and images screened on the citadel walls.

By Or from My Path in the World

Masada National Park | Israel

Located in the centre of Israel, Masada National Park is named after the legendary Masada Fortress that stands atop a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea and Judean desert. It was once home to an entire civilisation, which you can imagine whilst exploring the nooks and crannies of the walls that still stand there today.

On top of its historical beauty, one of the most popular things to do here is arrive very early in the morning and hike to the top of the plateau for sunrise. The trek takes around 60-90 minutes, stretches 2.7 kilometres and rises to an elevation of 350 metres. Despite starting the trail in the dark hours of the morning, it still feels very safe.

Although the climb can be done at your own pace, most people have the goal of reaching the top before the sun comes up. Be sure to bring plenty of water, and you will be rewarded with undeniably beautiful sunrise views of the desert and Dead Sea from the top of the mountain.

If it’s history and Israeli culture you’re after, it’s possible to visit the park during the day and take the cable car up and down the mountain instead. Most tours to this location from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv also include visiting Ein-Gedi Natural Reserve and taking a dip in the Dead Sea.

By Barbora from Often Out of Office

The Dead Sea | Israel & Jordan

When you float in the Dead Sea, it feels like you’re floating in outer space. The lowest body of water on Earth sits in a beautiful desert environment and has a salt content almost 10 times higher than regular seawater. This makes it so dense that our bodies become buoyant and easily float.

The Dead Sea is so salty that there is no life present outside of algae and microorganisms. However, that doesn’t mean the natural phenomenon doesn’t have any health benefits. Due to its elevation, the Dead Sea is about eight percent richer in oxygen than at sea level. The water and natural mud also reduces skin impurities and detoxifies the body due to its high mineral content.

It’s easy to add this otherworldly spa destination to your Israel or Jordan itinerary since it lies on the border between the two countries. When looking for a beach to visit, make sure it’s one with access to natural mud on the seafloor. At some beaches you won’t find any natural mud in the water and will have to purchase it by the pack from vendors instead.

Kalia Beach is one of the top beaches to visit and can be done as a day trip from Jerusalem. At this beach, you can easily scoop up black mud from the seafloor and make yourself a cleansing body mask. There is an entrance fee of 60 NIS per person, but it includes nice facilities and access to the ‘lowest bar in the world’.

By Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes

Hormuz Island | Iran

Hormuz Island in Iran , also known as the ‘Bloody Island’ and the ‘Rainbow Island of Iran’, is one of the most colourful, unique and beautiful islands not only in the Middle East, but in the world.

This epic gem is situated in the province of Hormozgan at the southernmost end of Iran. Travelling on this tiny little island feels like exploring another planet as a character of a magical sci-fi fantasy. Hormuz doesn’t even have cars – you can only move around the island on foot, by bike, motorcycle or tuk-tuk (rickshaw).

The island boasts brilliant and colourful beaches, mountains, valleys and caves. The two most stunning places are the Red Beach and the Rainbow Mountains.

The Red Beach, so-called because the sand on the beach is literally red, is the most iconic landmark of Hormuz Island. The sand colours the sea water a kind of pinkish-reddish. The second most famous sight on the island is the Rainbow Mountain. An endless flood of shades and hues of terrain makes this mountain exceptional.

If the landscape on Hormuz doesn’t blow your mind, the local gastronomy will. Fish stew – as red as the Red Beach itself because it’s flavoured with soil – is the most popular meal. Would you try it?

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Siwa Oasis | Egypt

Siwa Oasis in Egypt’s Western Desert is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in the Middle East, especially if you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience .

Located just 50 kilometres from the border with Libya, the only way to reach Siwa is to drive or to take a 10-hour coach trip from Cairo. It’s a long, hot slog along a bumpy desert road full of potholes, but it’s worth it to explore this stunning historic oasis town with its unique Amazigh culture.

Once known as ‘Palm Land’, Siwa has 10 times more palm trees than people (33,000 trees in total), warm oasis pools to bathe in, and a huge salt lake that’s simply the best place to watch the sunset.

There’s a surprising number of things to do in Siwa. You will probably be tempted to climb the Mountain of the Dead, which dates back to the time of the Romans who settled in Siwa after Cleopatra died, and you’ll want to see the Temple of Si-Amun while you’re there. A trip to the medieval Shali (or ‘City of Mud’) is unmissable.

One of the highlights of a visit to Siwa is a trip into the desert to try a sand bath or sandboarding and take a dip in a desert pool. Stay overnight on a desert safari and huddle around a campfire, swapping stories and watching the brightest stars you’ve ever seen.

Siwa is a treat and it’s sure to work its magic on you. Stay in an eco-lodge or tiny boutique hotel to make the most of your trip.

By Coralie from Grey Globetrotters

Byblos | Lebanon

Located only 30 kilometres from the capital of Lebanon, Beirut, Byblos is a true gem and one of the most interesting places in the region. According to historical sources, this is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with the first settlers arriving here between 8000 and 5000 BC. 

These days Byblos might seem like a small, sleepy town, but don’t let that fool you – there are plenty of attractions to see. The major landmark is the 12th century Crusaders Castle. Even if it’s mostly in ruins today, visiting feels a bit like travelling back in time. Ancient ruins such as the King’s Well, Royal Tombs and Roman Theatre help you imagine the grandness of the place at its peak of prosperity.

From the castle, you can also admire a beautiful vista of Byblos and the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon. The nearby souk area is a vibrant treat for the senses, with winding cobbled lanes, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants, and picturesque corners. From there, it’s a short walk to the harbour, the formerly busy ancient port that today hosts numerous fisherman’s boats mixed with fancy yachts. 

Visiting Byblos is very easy as frequent minibuses connect the town with Beirut. The journey takes around one hour.

By Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World

Sheik Zayed Mosque | UAE

Located in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque is the biggest and most-visited mosque in the entire country – and one of the largest mosques in the world.

The Grand Mosque was built between 1996 and 2007 and represents the fusion of different Muslim cultures inspired by Turkey, Morocco , Egypt and Pakistan . It was designed by British, Italian and Emirati architects to reflect how Islam interacts with the rest of the world.

The result is mesmerising: The Sheik Zayed Mosque is probably the most impressive mosque built in the 20th century and also one of the most welcoming to outsiders.

At the centre of the mosque stands a courtyard with one of the world’s largest marble mosaic floors. Inside, the mosque features over one thousand columns, 82 marble domes, gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, and hand-woven carpets.

It’s possible to visit the Grand Mosque on a day trip from Dubai. There are a lot of travel tour agents that will organise the logistics for you. Women are required to wear a full-body covering, including a headscarf. If you book through a tour company, they usually provide suitable dress.

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams

Doha | Qatar

Sitting somewhere between Muscat and Dubai on the Middle Eastern cities sliding scale, Qatar’s capital city, Doha, is a marriage of the traditional and the contemporary. If you only have a short airport layover, one day in Doha is still enough time to take in the contrasts and contradictions.

The Museum of Islamic Art, one of the most amazing pieces of architecture in the region, is a must-visit. Head out the back for a brilliant view of downtown Doha’s skyscrapers framed by stone arches. The museum is walking distance from the fragrant Souq Waqif, which charms with its piles of colourful rugs and miniature dunes made of spices. In the evening, don’t miss visiting the nearby Falcon Souq and Falcon Hospital, one of Qatar’s most unique attractions.

After a self-guided city tour, travel beyond Doha to Khor Al Adaid, the famous Inland Sea. One of the few places on earth where the sea meets the desert, it’s under consideration to become the country’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site. Day tours from Doha to Khor Al Adaid are a convenient option if you don’t have off-roading experience.

Dynamic, budget-friendly and one of the safest cities in the Middle East (and in the entire world for that matter), Doha is the perfect destination for solo female travellers or first-time visitors to the region. See these Qatar travel tips for more advice .

Dubai | UAE

One of the most vibrant cities in the region, Dubai is an ultimate travel destination in the Middle East that has it all. It has come a long way from a tiny fishing village to a sprawling metropolitan city.

From glittering skyscrapers to sandy beaches and adventurous desert safaris, this is a city full of possibilities. One of the first things to see in Dubai is of course the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Marvel at unparalleled views of the city from the Sky Lounge and Observation Deck on the building’s 148th floor.

Fair to say that Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa is the world’s largest mall, The Dubai Mall. Here you will find all kinds of retail outlets, cafes and restaurants along with an indoor ice rink, a huge aquarium, and the dazzling Dubai Fountain.

Don’t leave the city without making a visit to the Dubai Creek and the Al Fahidi Neighbourhood where you can see the cultural centres, the Dubai Museum, souks and traditional buildings. To end your trip, sail through the seas at the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina on a yacht or a cruise to admire the incredible views of the skyline.

By Anjali from Cheerful Trails

Al Fateh Mosque | Bahrain

Bahrain is a surprisingly interesting place to visit in the Middle East for a short, 3-4 day trip. One of the must-see-places in Bahrain is the Al Fateh Mosque in the capital, Manama.

Built in the 1980s, it can accommodate up to 7,000 people for prayer, making it the biggest place of worship in Bahrain. The building is made from light coloured marble from Italy and the dome that covers the main prayer hall is the biggest fibreglass dome in the world.

Apart from the architectural beauty, the main reason why you should visit the Al Fateh Mosque is the tour they offer for visitors. Al Fateh claims to be the first mosque to offer visitor’s tours and it really is worth your time. As a woman, you will be given a cloak and scarf to cover up so you can walk around the courtyards and the main prayer hall.

Here you can see the Mihrab, the prayer niche, surrounded by calligraphy in a very old Bahraini style and the huge, Austrian-made chandelier. You will sit for a while and learn a lot about Islam and mosques.

The mosque is open from 9am-5pm every day except during prayer times. Tours are available in many languages.

By Eva from Not Scared of the Jetlag

Musandam Fjords | Oman

Another unexpected landscape in the region, Oman’s Musandam Fjords have earned the nickname ‘the Norway of the Middle East’. The thousands of serrated khors (ravines) with spectacular drop-offs into the Strait of Hormuz does indeed resemble the majestic side arms of Scandinavia’s coast – yet the colours and ecology makes Musandam beyond comparison.

Coves and cliffs define the entire length of the shoreline that wraps around the northern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. The longest fjord, Khor Ash Sham, stretches for some 16 kilometres. The only way to immerse yourself in this larger-than-life landscape is by taking a wooden dhow boat cruise. You’ll likely see pods of frolicking dolphins along the way.

A popular tourist destination among travellers from the UAE (Musandam is an enclave easily reached by Dubai or Abu Dhabi), the beautiful beaches, warm waters and coral reefs attract snorkellers and scuba divers as well. Don’t miss a stop at Telegraph Island (Jazirat Maqlab), once a British communications outpost.

Rawanduz Valley | Iraqi Kurdistan

The mountains of the Kurdistan region are one of the most epic parts of Iraq, with beautiful green forests, gushy waterfalls, steep cliffs and winding canyons including the Canyon of Rawanduz. Being the most impressive pearl of mountainous Kurdistan, the canyon and valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iraq .

Situated in the rural part of Erbil Governorate, surrounded by the Zagros Mountain Range, Rawanduz features a snake-like river moving between dramatic rock formations. You can enjoy the canyon both from inside its valley and from above. The hiking path inside the Valley of Rawanduz is perfect for adventure lovers.

If you want to see the canyon from above, there are several viewpoints in the village of Rawanduz. The best way to track down the viewpoints and to witness the beauty of this place is through a drive along the canyon rim. Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like this before.

Close to Rawanduz Valley, there are other beautiful natural marvels you cannot miss, such as the mountains of Soran, the Bekhal Waterfall, and the Geli Ali Beg Waterfall.

Socotra | Yemen

Nowhere captures the unworldly natural beauty of the Middle East quite like Socotra. The largest of four islands in an archipelago of the same name, Socotra is lauded for its ‘alien-like beauty’ and biodiversity, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008.

Socotra is associated with dragon trees (Dracaena cinnabari), an endemic species with curious branch formations. Beyond its famous flora, the island is incredibly diverse, with a rugged coastline and interior mountains.

Located in the Arabian Sea, the island was only accessible by cargo ship up until a few decades ago when an airport was built. There is limited tourist infrastructure and just a handful of guesthouses. Because of ongoing conflicts in the region, travelling to Socotra island is, unfortunately, not as easy as it once was. Be sure to do your research before you start planning a trip.

Shiraz | Iran

A Silk Road city and one of the oldest settlements associated with ancient Persia, Shiraz is known as the city of poets, literature, fruit trees and manicured gardens. This should give you a clue as to why Shiraz is considered by many to be the most beautiful city in Iran.

Shiraz’s heritage goes back to at least 2000 BC. For most of its history, it has been a hub for regional trade, and it remains a popular destination today as the largest city in south-west Fars Province.

The city wears its rich history proudly on its sleeve: Beautiful gardens including the Eram Garden and opulent ancient mosques, most notably the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque with its iconic tinted glass, make Shiraz a darling of Iran tourism.

Another layer to Shiraz’s character: This is a city of heritage crafts, where masters have perfected inlaid mosaics, silverware and pile carpets over the course of centuries. Save your shopping for Shiraz, because this is the best place in the country to find an authentic souvenir .

Baalbek | Lebanon

If you’re spending time in Lebanon, be sure to visit the Roman ruins of Baalbek, known as Heliopolis to the Romans. The legendary birthplace of Baal, the Canaanite god of the sun, Baalbek existed long before the Romans conquered the city in 47 BC.

Baalbek is a vast site known for its ancient temple complex. The Temple of Jupiter, now almost completely destroyed, was once the largest temple in ancient Rome. A smaller temple dedicated to Bacchus, however, is beautifully preserved and is still larger than the Parthenon in Athens . There are other remarkable ruins to wander through at Baalbek and as a plus, the site is usually quiet, with relatively few visitors.

Baalbek is under two hours’ drive from Beirut. You can do an organised day trip from the city or visit yourself by taking the public bus – just keep in mind that the trip takes approximately three hours each way and you’ll need to walk from the final stop to the ancient city.

You can buy tickets at the gate, which is open from 8.30am until sunset. If you’re travelling independently, it could be worth hiring a local guide. Keep in mind that the ruins can get very hot in summer, so you may prefer to visit during the cooler months.

By Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

Temple of Edfu | Egypt

Starting from Luxor, a Nile River Cruise is a great way to explore the many heritage sites in Upper Egypt including the temples at Kom Ombo, the Temple of Esna, and the Aswan High Dam.

Edfu is located around 100 kilometres south of Luxor and is usually the first stop on the journey. The temple was constructed between 237 and 57 BC under the Ptolemaic Kingdom. It’s an important archaeological site of ancient Egypt because it’s one of the best-preserved, with an almost complete pylon and numerous wall engravings.

This temple is the largest in Egypt dedicated to Horus, God of kingship and the sky, and Hathor of Dendera. It is believed that Horus gave power and recognition to the ruling Pharaoh, Ptolemy VIII, who conquered upper Egypt. Ptolemy XII Auletes, the father of Cleopatra, can be seen engraved on the left of the temple’s Pylon, holding a stick to defeat his enemies with.

Because it’s situated on higher ground, the Temple of Edfu escaped the flood damage that ruined many other buildings in the area. In fact, the ruin was buried under sand for centuries until Napoleon’s French expedition unearthed it in 1798, revealing it to the world in 1860.

By Kenny from Knycx Journeying

Salmiya | Kuwait

Salmiya, Kuwait is an amazing city 15 kilometres from the capital, Kuwait City. It has many interesting attractions where you can see and learn more about Kuwait’s history and culture. Visit the Tareq Rajab Museum of Islamic Calligraphy that has more than 30,000 items relating to Islamic manuscripts, calligraphy, carvings, jewellery and more.

The Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre has over 1,100 different exhibits and 22 galleries. With six different components, it’s the largest museum complex in the world.

Salmiya is also home to the Salem Al-Mubarak Street shopping district, one of the largest and oldest shopping districts in the country. While you’ll find that parts of the district are modernised, there are also traditional stalls in the side streets that take you back to old Kuwait.

Even though the country has a low crime rate, visitors should exercise the same precautions as they would when travelling in any other city. Visit Salmiya for its combination of Arab and Indo- Pakistani cultures while being surrounded by modern architecture.

By Rasika from Bae Area & Beyond

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Countries To Visit In Middle East

Best Time: March - May (Spring) Read More

Budget: Moderate

Here are the top 11 countries in Middle East

1 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Bahrain is a small Island nation tucked away in the Persian gulf sharing its borders between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It is known for its petroleum reserves,offshore banking and tourism. Despite being a Muslim nation,it doesn't impose strict Islamic laws like its neighbours thus , paving way for a relaxed atmosphere which draws a large number of tourists. Bahrain's biggest yearly event - Bahrain Grand PrixÊF1 race is held in the month of April each year.

2 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Jordan, situated in the Middle East, is renowned for Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Beyond the famed Petra, Jordan boasts impressive desert castles and the awe-inspiring Wadi Rum, characterized by its striking landscapes—towering cliffs and crimson sands create a mesmerizing panorama.

3 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Located at the top of the Persian Gulf, Kuwait is a country that has often been well-known for being rich in oil. Its neighbouring countries include Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq. Kuwait City is the capital of the country and is famous for its modern architecture. Kuwait includes modern day skyscrapers as well as ancient, beautifully built mosques, so it truly is a mix of modernity and the ancient times.

4 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Oman is an Arab country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Though there is no diversity in religion here, you will find a variety of tranquil landscapes and sceneries. The beauty of the emerald beaches, the rich Arab history in the ancient forts, the lush green mountains, unique wildlife and endless deserts will give you an Arabian adventure unlike any other country in the Gulf Coast. You will find local bazaars or souks filled with handicrafts and the most famous item of Oman, Frankincense. Kind-hearted, helpful and law-abiding people add up to make this country a must-visit place.

5 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

In just forty years, this Gulf state has grown from one of the poorest countries in the Gulf to the richest in the world. Mainly functioning on oil and natural gas revenue, Qatar is developing at breakneck speed, and everything from universities to shopping malls, 5-star hotels to football stadiums (in preparation for the 2022 World Cup) are springing up along the desert floor.

6. Saudi Arabia

6 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an Arab country located in Western Asia and constituting most of the Arab Peninsula. Most of the citizens are Muslims, and freedom of religion is restricted by the laws of the country. Only Muslims are respected in the country but, people are very helpful and friendly towards tourists. The rich history, vast stretches of deserts, forts, mosques and temples spread throughout the country will overwhelm you. The out-of-the-box festivals and Islamic cultures, etiquettes and tradition will leave you fascinated.

7. United Arab Emirates

7 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Once known for its fishing-based economy, today, UAE is much more than vast deserts and ancient forts. Immersed in its rich Emirati culture, the UAE is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world offering touches of modernity with its ever-expanding infrastructure. From its traditional souks to palm-shaped islands, glittering huge malls, luxurious hotels, grand architecture and theme parks, the country offers you a complete package to relax, rejuvenate and be adventurous, all at the same time.

8 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Nestled at the crossroads of Africa and Asia, Egypt beckons travelers with its unparalleled blend of ancient wonders and modern marvels. Home to some of the world's most iconic ancient landmarks, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt holds the legacy of the ancient world. The Great Pyramid , the sole survivor of the Seven Wonders, alongside the enigmatic Sphinx and the majestic temples of Luxor and Karnak , offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

9 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Israel is a considered as a Holy nation bordered by Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. It is also home to Jerusalem ( the birth place of Lord Jesus). It has a vibrant history and culture . It has ties to diversified religions, and this makes it a interesting place to visit for travellers . It is also a highly modernised country, and the regions are divided into cities which are further sub-divided into towns. Israel-Palestine conflict is an ongoing issue, and after the peace negotiations fell apart in 2014, the countries are working on a two-state solution.

10. Lebanon

10 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Lebanon lies in the Middle East and is a sovereign. It is often called the Lebanese Republic. It shares its borders with countries like Syria, Israel and Cyprus. Lebanon is actually supposed to be the smallest country in the entire continent of Asia. It has a wonderful coastline that you can never get tired of and even boasts of a popular city - fashionable Beirut. Lebanon is home to a cuisine that we have all sampled at some point, in several different versions - Lebanese cuisine. Both traditional and modern, the country is full of quiet charm and at times, solitude.

11 out of 11 Countries To Visit in Middle East

Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey stands as a mesmerizing fusion of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Istanbul, straddling two continents, is the vibrant heart of this country, boasting architectural wonders like the Hagia Sophia and the iconic Blue Mosque. Beyond its bustling cities, Turkey's ancient ruins, from Ephesus to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia with its whimsical rock formations, paint a canvas of diverse experiences.

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Where in the Middle East is safe to travel to?

By Joan Torres 6 Comments Last updated on July 25, 2024

Wanna travel to the Middle East with Against the Compass?

Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kurdistan and more. We have group expeditions scheduled every month to the most exciting destinations in the Middle East.

Concern about potential Middle Eastern dangers is one of the topics readers of this blog ask me about the most so, in this guide, you will find everything you need to know about it

Right before I began to write this article, I decided to Google the latest Middle East-related news, and these were the first results that showed up:

• How Europe is getting entangled in the big Middle East conflict
• Saudi Arabia hinders Yemeni agreement
• Israel and UAE historic deal to normalize relations
• UAE and Israel to establish spy base in Yemen

They are all related with the ongoing Middle Eastern issues, to a greater or lesser degree.

That’s what the international media talks about and, unfortunately, pretty much the only information most people from around the globe get access to.

As a result, the Middle East is perceived by many as an unsafe territory, hence an unlikely place to travel to, which is extremely sad and wrong, because this region is large, rich, composed of many different countries which, more often than not, have nothing to do with each other’s issues.

The Middle East is one of the most troubled regions in the world, nobody is denying that, plus there are some areas – just a few, in my opinion – which can be extremely dangerous.

Based on my travel experience in the Middle East, in this post, I wanted to tell you where in the Middle East is safe to travel , which includes a thorough analysis and country breakdown.

In this Middle East safety guide, you will find:

Table of Contents

• The reasons why the Middle East is safe
• Where in the Middle East is safe
• Extremely safe countries
• Safe countries
• Relatively safe countries
• Dangerous countries
• Solo female travel in the Middle East
• More Information

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Is the Middle East safe? 4 reasons to believe it isn’t a dangerous place to travel to

The middle east is huge.

The Middle East is an enormous territory almost as big as Europe and composed of 15 countries, 16 if you count Turkey as well.

These countries are:

Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen

From a cultural point of view, they have little to do with each other. Of course, they share many similarities but comparing, let’s say, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Lebanon , is like comparing Belarus , Germany and Spain.

Iranians are not Arabs but they are Persians and practice Shia Islam.

The United Arab Emirates is a very rich Arab nation. On the one hand, they practice a very conservative branch of Sunni Islam and, on the other, their laws are very tolerant towards foreigners.

And Lebanon is the most culturally diverse country you can never think of, in which around 40% of the population are Christian, from many different branches and backgrounds.

And then of course you have Israel, Palestine, Yemen and a large etcetera.

Each country is a completely different world, so you can’t put them all in the same bucket.

There are actual borders

The Middle East isn’t like a Schengen zone, in which all Arabs and non-Arabs cross from one to another freely, but they have secured borders, many of which people are not even allowed to cross.

What I want to say is that, if there was a war or any conflict in a specific country, it doesn’t mean that the neighboring countries are unsafe as well.

For example, according to the World Economic Forum , Oman is the 4th safest country in the world. Yet, it shares a border with Yemen that is completely open to both foreigners and locals.

The media tells you only one part of the story

You already know that but, just to remind you that the media only shows you one side of the story which, unfortunately, tends to be the ugliest side.

Just remember that countries are big pieces of territory and, whenever they show you an image of a partially destroyed city like Aleppo , it doesn’t mean that the rest of the cities are unsafe as well.

I mean, did you know that the city of Damascus almost remained untouched in the current Civil War?

What if the only thing you knew about the USA was the 9/11 attacks?

Many Middle Eastern countries are safer than yours

Hopefully, the above reasons were quite obvious to many of you, but I have always had a hard time trying to convince my friends about this one.

For some reason, crime in the Middle East is barely existent.

You may find some little petty crime in a few capitals like Amman (Jordan) and Cairo (Egypt) but that’s because they are the most touristic capitals in the region and, in any case, it’s nothing particularly disturbing.

War and terrorism-wise, some parts of the Middle East are f***ed up, for sure, but outside those few areas, life is definitely safer than in your home country, and the locals have developed such a strong sense of community that it makes traveling super pleasant, as you don’t need to worry about anything.

Which countries in the Middle East are safe to visit?

Please note that the following country breakdown is a mere opinion, based on all my years of travel in the Middle East.

It may differ from your own and, if it does, I will be happy to answer your concerns in the comments section.

1 – Extremely safe countries in the Middle East to travel to

The safest countries in the Middle East to go right now are the Gulf Monarchies in the Arabian Peninsula.

All of them are incredibly rich (except for Saudi Arabia ), two of them having the highest GDP per capita in the world.

Oddly enough, the local population in all of them barely reaches 50%, the rest being all immigrants, mostly coming from South Asia ( Pakistan , India and Bangladesh), but there is also a large Western expat community.

The Gulf Monarchies are definitely safer than any other Western country.

The smallest of all, Bahrain is a tiny island connected to Saudi Arabia by a bridge and infamous for having the most permissive rules towards alcohol and prostitution, the reason why its many bars tend to be filled with Saudis who come over for the weekend to enjoy some freedom.

In my opinion, there is nothing of interest in Bahrain other than eating out and clubbing but still, if you want to party legally until 6am in the morning, this is one of the safest countries in the Middle East to do so.

I already mentioned in the previous section that Oman is, according to the WEF, the 4th safest country in the world and in the Global Terrorism Index, compiled by the Institute of Economics and Peace, Oman is ranked as 0 , meaning that the impact of terrorism is non-existent (USA is ranked as 5.4).

Moreover, despite the country’s obvious modernization, Oman is the only country that has been able to keep its most traditional essence, making travel here an even better and more authentic experience, in which the local Omanis will continuously bless you with their hospitality.

Furthermore, something worth mentioning about Oman is that, unlike other Arab countries, they have always strived to have good relationships with all Middle Eastern countries, including Israel and Iran, plus they stayed out of the Yemeni conflict.

Learn more: Is Oman safe? Travel in Oman, everything you need to know

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Home to one of the most international cities in the world, Dubai, the UAE is an extremely developed country whose impeccable safety is hailed by absolutely each and every expat living there.

Let’s not forget, however, that the UAE is heavily involved in the Yemeni war, helping Saudi Arabia with the airstrikes, but then, your main concern should be ethical, rather than worrying about the country’s safety.

Learn more: Dubai 7-day itinerary Off the beaten track places in the UAE

Officially the country with the highest GDP per capita in the world , Qatar is a powerful Arab country whose state model follows the same line as the UAE.

Due to its close ties with Iran, Qatar went through a diplomatic crisis with its best friends from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who decided to temporarily boycott them, but that never affected the security situation and in any case, that boycott stopped probably due to the beginning of the World Cup in 2022, since everyone in the region wanted to benefit from it.

I personally consider that there isn’t much to do in this tiny country, but it’s one of the safest countries in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia doesn’t come without its own issues.

There is no political freedom and their laws are strictly based on Sharia, the Islamic law, whose main criticism in the West is that its rules bring women down to second-class citizens.

Unfortunately, because of those facts, foreigners assume Saudi is inhabited by dangerous fanatics who would completely stone a woman to death just because she is a blonde foreigner, and I have actually heard a woman saying that.

After coming back from Saudi Arabia, I was heavily criticized by many readers who were questioning my ethical principles, and there was this specific woman who told me:

I don’t want to travel to Saudi Arabia because I don’t want to be stoned to death.

If you actually believe this, you clearly have no idea about anything. Saudi Arabia is, along with the other Gulf Monarchies, one of the safest countries in the Middle East.

I backpacked and hitchhiked around the country for over 2 weeks and had a real blast, not only because the country is filled with stunning natural sites but also because the people were amazingly kind, hospitable and helpful.

In my opinion, Saudi is the most misunderstood country on Earth, even more than Iran.

Learn more: Tips for traveling to Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia 2-week itinerary Is ethical to travel in Saudi Arabia?

I haven’t been to Kuwait, but this is another business hub, similar to Qatar and the UAE, so the country is absolutely safe.

2 – ”Just safe” countries in the Middle East to go

Personally, I consider that some of the following countries are extremely safe to travel to as well, but I am putting them in the ‘’just safe section’’ because, while there isn’t any terrorist thread and stuff like that, they are politically unstable, especially Iran and Lebanon.

Unlike what many people in the West think, especially in the USA, Iran is an extremely safe Middle Eastern country.

On the one hand, violent crime is extremely rare and, on the other, there is no terrorism, especially because Iranians are Shia Muslims, the worst enemy of ISIS and other terrorist organizations alike.

I don’t know a single person who hasn’t had a great time in Iran , not only because the country has enormous touristic potential but also because, along with the Omanis, Iranians are the most hospitable and kind-hearted people in the region.

However, because of the current protests and all the issues with the USA, who have flooded them with endless, annoying sanctions, traveling here comes with its own particular challenges, logistically speaking.

Learn more: Is Iran safe? Iran, 1-month itinerary Iran travel tips

Lebanon is another often misunderstood country, for the following reasons.

First of all, it is located right at the heart of the turmoil, nestled between Syria and Israel and the truth is that a tiny northwestern region of Lebanon has suffered in the past from a small Syrian war spillover, but you weren’t able to go there anyways, even if you wanted to.

Second of all, people still associate Lebanon with war and yes, a bloody Civil War happened here, but it ended in 1991!

And third, while there have been some critical terrorist attacks, those bombs have always targeted Shia-populated districts – far away from any touristic area – plus there haven’t been more attacks than in other European countries.

Nevertheless, the political and financial situation in Lebanon is today highly unstable and protests are now being spurred by the massive port explosion that worsened the situation even more.

Learn more: Is Lebanon safe? Lebanon, 2-week itinerary Beirut travel guide

After Egypt, Jordan is the most touristic country in the Middle East , home to mass tourism sites such as Petra, Jerash and the Dead Sea.

A very safe and politically stable country that even managed to escape from the 2011 Arab Spring .

Nevertheless, since this is a very touristic country, some petty crime exists – just regular pickpocketing – plus some women have claimed being verbally harassed by local men.

The situation in Egypt is very complicated and difficult to explain.

On the one hand, this is one of the most touristic countries in the world but, unfortunately, it has recently suffered from terrorism and, unlike in Lebanon, some of those attacks have targeted tourists.

As a result, tourism in Egypt has massively decreased to the extent that there is a tangible crisis, visible when you see a shit load of businesses closed and some internationally famous sites are empty.

Nevertheless, while I do believe that those attacks were a major concern, the situation has drastically improved, but do avoid the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula.

Learn more: Egypt travel guide Egypt off the beaten track

Israel & Palestine

The conflict between Israel and Palestine is real, but the situation has dramatically improved and today, the West Bank, home to some really important Christian sites and cities, such as Bethlehem, is very safe for travel, so is Israel.

In the last years, all the Palestinian-Israeli issues you have been hearing in the media have mainly happened in the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian region that is geographically separated from the West Bank.

The Gaza Strip can be dangerous but you can’t go there as a tourist anyways.

Learn more: Palestine, 2-week itinerary Gaza travel guide

3 – Relatively safe countries in the Middle East to travel to

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More than a relatively safe country, Iraq is divided into 2 regions: one which is extremely safe, and one which is OK safe.

The extremely safe region is Iraqi Kurdistan, and the one which is OK is actual Arab Iraq, Baghdad and stuff.

Iraqi Kurdistan is a completely different world: they aren’t Arabs but Kurds, control their own borders and are pro-American and pro-Israel, which is why they stayed out of the conflict that made Arab Iraq into a failed state.

I have been to Kurdistan twice, hitchhiked all around the country and it’s a real, very safe paradise, one of the safest regions outside of the Gulf Monarchies.

Arab Iraq, nevertheless, is not as bad as you may think.

In fact, after Pope Francis visited it in March 2021, the authorities introduced a visa on arrival, available for up to 35 nationalities.

This can only mean that the security situation in Iraq has drastically improved.

From Mosul to Baghdad and Karbala, I have been traveling independently all over Iraq, and everything is pretty chilled, but do pay some extra attention.

Learn more: Is Iraq safe? Welcome to Kurdistan A guide to travel in Iraq Kurdistan Visiting Mosul after the liberation Federal Iraq travel guide Solo female travel in Iraq

4 – Dangerous, or less safe, countries in the Middle East

These two countries are dangerous but I am also calling them less safe countries because either the situation has improved – in Syria – or there are specific regions that managed to stay out of the conflict – in Yemen.

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You already know the situation in Syria. There’s been a Civil War since 2011 that caused hundreds of thousands of dead and displaced people, making it one of the most dangerous countries on Earth.

Nevertheless, you also need to know that, today, the war is almost over and there are some Government-controlled areas, especially in the Western part of the country , which are now relatively safe for travel and, when I say relatively I mean that they are currently safe but the situation can change overnight.

I traveled in Syria multiple times, visiting Aleppo, Homs and Damascus.

The security measures were insane, but I didn’t experience any bad situation; on the contrary, all the Syrians I met were great and helpful.

Learn more: How safe is Syria for tourists? Syria travel guide Visiting Aleppo after the war

Most Yemen is unsafe, today suffering from a proxy war between Saudi and Iran, an actual war zone where airstrikes are common, and where the local branch of Al Qaeda used to control a significant part of the country.

The situation, however is improving and today, there are two regions – the island of Socotra and Hadramaut – that somehow, are staying away from this horrible drama.

Furthermore, now that both Iran and Saudi Arabia recovered diplomatic relationships, the situation in Yemen might even improve further.

Learn more: Yemen travel guide

Is the Middle East safe for solo female travelers?

I am completely aware that traveling in the Middle East as a woman is a different experience than as a man but, unfortunately, I can’t really speak for them.

What I would like to highlight, however, is that the different Middle Eastern issues the media talks about have little to do with a woman’s experience, but are more about being traditional, conservative Muslim countries, where the locals don’t know how to behave with Western women, or just women in general.

Because this is such an important topic, I decided to create a solo female travel section where solo women adventurers share their experiences:

• Solo female travel in Lebanon
• Solo female travel in Jordan
• Solo female travel in Iraq
• Solo female travel in Oman
• Solo female travel in Saudi Arabia
• Solo female travel in Iran

If you want to write a guest post for Against the Compass , please send me your pitch ideas at joan(at)againstthecompass.com

More information for traveling safely in Middle East

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Other guides to the Middle East

• Places to Visit in Middle East

Check more safety guides

• Is Afghanistan Safe?
• Is Iran Safe?
• Is Iraq Safe?
• Is Lebanon Safe?
• Is Mali Safe?
• Is Mauritania Safe?
• Is Oman Safe?
• Is Pakistan Safe?
• Is Sudan Safe?
• Is Syria Safe?
• Is Tunisia Safe?

I will be traveling to Saudi Arabia as a solo, female traveler in a few months — your articles and blog posts convinced me that I needed to see this country for myself! 🙂 I am really looking forward to it. So, thank you for sharing all of your travel content and your experiences. Much appreciated!

Why is it that you do not have a desire to visit Kuwait? Thanks!

sorry you are right, I do want to go there because I met recently some lovely Kuwaiti people and can’t wait to visit them

By the way, I wasn’t passing any judgment. Just wondering if there was a reason to avoid it. Thanks!

I’m going to travel in Iraqi Kurdistan. I’ve seen you say they is extremely safe, but a quite expert friend said me to pay attention and sand me this link https://iraq.liveuamap.com/ about last days events. I’ve planned to pass the border by land from Turkey. Do you think i can do it?

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Blinken postpones planned middle east trip over ‘uncertainty’ in region: report.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is reportedly postponing a high-stakes trip to the Middle East amid “uncertainty” as Iran considers launching an attack against Israel. 

Blinken, 62, had been slated to travel to the region Tuesday ahead of talks planned for later this week in which Qatar, Egypt and the United States will present a plan to implement a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. 

The Biden administration official “delayed his trip to the Middle East and won’t travel to the region tonight as planned due to the uncertainty about the situation,” Axios reported on Tuesday, citing multiple sources. 

In response to a request for comment, the State Department referred The Post to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel’s remarks during Tuesday’s press briefing, in which he indicated that he didn’t “have any travel for Secretary Blinken to preview at the moment.” 

“What I can say is that as it relates to the Middle East region, the Secretary is laser-ly focused and engaged on the region through calls with his counterparts, through calls with other leaders,” Patel added.

“He has been working the phones for the past number of weeks, continuing to echo the same message, which is we are close to getting this ceasefire deal across the finish line, and it is vital for the release of the remaining hostages, including American citizens.”

The region has been on high alert for over a week, with Israel expecting a retaliatory strike from Iran and its proxies related to the recent assassinations of Hamas’ top leader in Tehran, Ismail Haniyeh , and Hezbollah senior commander Fuad Shukr , who was killed in an Israeli airstrike. 

Iranian-backed terror group Hezbollah is reportedly expected to hit Israel in the coming days.

Meanwhile, Israeli and US officials also believe Iran is increasingly likely to launch an attack this week, ahead of Thursday’s cease-fire and hostage negotiations.

The Iranian regime has been taking “significant preparatory steps in its missile and drone units” which mirror its actions before an April attack on Israel, Israeli and US officials told Axios .

A senior Biden administration official told reporters last week that if Iran were to attack the Jewish state it would dash “any hope” of getting the cease-fire and hostage release deal done. 

On Tuesday, Hamas fired two long-range missiles at Tel Aviv in its first attack on the Israeli city in months. No casualties were reported. 

The terror group has said it will not participate in Thursday’s talks unless Israel agrees to a permanent end to the war in Gaza.

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Italian strike group makes historic stop on Guam as US carrier rushes to Middle East

The Italian carrier ITS Cavour sails alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln somewhere in the Pacific Ocean, Aug. 9, 2024. (Valerie Morrison/U.S. Navy)

Two Italian warships pulled into Guam’s Apra Harbor on Sunday, the Italian navy’s inaugural visit to the island, just days after its first-ever drill with the U.S. Navy in the region.

Italy’s strike group, composed of the carrier ITS Cavour and frigate ITS Alpino, stopped by the U.S. territory as they transit from Darwin, Australia, to Japan later this month, Cavour spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Rosario Naimo said by email Monday.

The ships and their crews — approximately 1,200 sailors — are at Naval Base Guam and scheduled to leave for Japan on Wednesday, he wrote. They’re slated to arrive at Yokosuka Naval Base on Aug. 22.

“While on this beautiful island, crew members of both ships will have the opportunity to rest and participate in local tours, getting ready for the next ride to Japan,” Naimo said, adding that the sailors are under no restrictions.

The Italian ships arrived two days after drilling with the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group in the Pacific Ocean in what the U.S. Navy described as a “Multi-Large Deck Event,” according to a Saturday news release from the Abraham Lincoln.

The two strike groups, totaling more than 7,500 sailors and Marines, practiced joint communications, air warfare training and cross-deck flight operations.

“This was a great opportunity to operate with our close NATO Ally, Italy, in the Indo-Pacific,” Rear Adm. Adan Cruz, commander of Carrier Strike Group 3, said in the release. “Our efforts are critical in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region.”

U.S. and Italian navy aircraft fly in formation over the Pacific Ocean, Aug. 9, 2024. C (Valerie Morrison/U.S. Navy)

The U.S. and its allies continued to see the Indo-Pacific region as a high priority, with their main concerns being Chinese aggression in the South China Sea and North Korean missile launches.

The exercise was a first for the Italian and U.S. navies in the Indo-Pacific, but the two often train elsewhere in the world. The Cavour recently joined the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower for a drill in the Red Sea, Naimo said.

The Abraham Lincoln strike group, which completed its own four-day stop on Guam and nearby Saipan on Thursday, is en route to the Middle East to relieve the USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group.

U.S. carriers have routinely operated in the Red Sea over the past year, where they aim to defend commercial shipping vessels and allied warships from near-daily drone and missile attacks by Houthi militants acting against Israel in retaliation for the Israel-Hamas war.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Sunday told Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant that he’s ordered the Abraham Lincoln Strike Group to “accelerate its transit” to the Middle East, according to a Defense Department statement that day. It said Austin also sent the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Georgia to the region.

Austin ordered the strike group and other guided-missile warships to U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command theaters on Aug. 2, along with promises to “increase our readiness to deploy land-based ballistic missile defense,” the Defense Department said in a news release that day.

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British and French foreign ministers to visit Middle East to urge de-escalation

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Thai king endorses Paetongtarn Shinawatra as prime minister

Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed as prime minister by Thailand's king on Sunday, two days after parliament elected her, paving the way for her to form a cabinet in the coming weeks.

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US deploys submarine, accelerates carrier strike group to Middle East

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered a guided-missile submarine to the Middle East and is telling the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to sail more quickly to the area, the Defense Department said Sunday.

The moves come as the U.S. and other allies push for Israel and Hamas to achieve a cease-fire agreement that could help calm soaring tensions in the region following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut.

US Navy jets sent to base in Middle East to bolster Israel defense

Around a dozen f/a-18 super hornets were sent to an undisclosed location to help defend israel from possible attacks by iran and its proxies..

Officials have been on the lookout for retaliatory strikes by both Iran and Hezbollah for the killings, and the U.S. has been beefing up its presence in the region.

Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, said in a statement that Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant earlier in the day, and reiterated America's commitment “to take every possible step to defend Israel and noted the strengthening of U.S. military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions.”

The Lincoln, which has been in the Asia Pacific, had already been ordered to the region to replace the Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier strike group, which is scheduled to begin heading home from the Middle East. Last week, Austin said the Lincoln would arrive in the U.S. Central Command area by the end of the month.

US to boost military presence in Middle East amid growing tensions

The u.s. defense department will move a fighter jet squadron to the middle east and maintain an aircraft carrier in the region..

It wasn't clear Sunday what his latest order means, or how much more quickly the Lincoln will steam to the Middle East. The carrier has F-35 fighter jets aboard, along with the F/A-18 fighter aircraft that are also on carriers.

Ryder also did not say how quickly the Georgia guided-missile submarine would get to the region.

He said Austin and Gallant also discussed Israel's military operations in Gaza and the importance of mitigating civilian harm.

The call comes a day after an Israeli airstrike hit a school-turned-shelter in Gaza early Saturday, killing at least 80 people and wounding nearly 50 others, Palestinian health authorities said, in one of the deadliest attacks of the 10-month Israel-Hamas war .

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Middle East Tours & Holidays

The Middle East is living, breathing proof of an old maxim: you don’t know, until you go. 

Forget the headlines and the hyperbole; this is the cradle of civilisations, an ancient land emerging as a modern power, with the money, culture and panache to back it up. Ride camels with Bedouin tribespeople across the dunes of the Sahara, haggle for gold in the souqs of downtown Amman, marvel at the Blue Mosque on a Turkey trip , cruise the Nile beneath the white sail of a felucca or float forever in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. Wherever you go, three things will follow: the faint scent of cloves and camel, the echoing call to prayer and the smiles of people that call this place home. 

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Is US preparing for Israel-Iran war by deploying more ships to Middle East?

As the region anticipates what an Iranian response to Israeli assassinations will be, US moves forces to the region.

The United States has deployed a naval strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean amidst increased tensions following Israel’s killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut and the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The killings took place within hours of each other on July 30 and 31, with Haniyeh’s death also blamed on Israel, although it has not officially claimed responsibility.

Keep reading

‘part of me is missing’: how israel’s war on gaza tears spouses apart, western leaders urge restraint amid expected iran response towards israel, us orders submarine to middle east, carrier strike group to sail faster.

The deployment follows a call on Sunday between US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant in anticipation of an Iranian counterstrike.

In a statement released by the Pentagon afterwards, Austin “reiterated the United States’ commitment to take every possible step to defend Israel and noted the strengthening of US military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions”.

What are the stakes?

Observers are concerned that any retaliation to the two assassinations, from either Iran or its ally Hezbollah, could spark a wider regional war and potentially draw in the US in support of its ally Israel.

The deployment of the strike force comes at a time when critics of the US administration are calling upon it to use its influence to impose a ceasefire , the US news channel CNBC reported. US President Joe Biden has also criticised the conduct of the war on Gaza, characterising Israel’s operations in the enclave as “over the top” in February, and repeatedly saying that “too many” civilians had been killed. However, that has not led to any forceful attempts to get Israel to stop its assault on Gaza, such as a ban on arms sales, or other sanctions.

Many countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan and a number of Western states, have urged their citizens to evacuate Lebanon, fearing that the country could be heavily attacked by Israel if the latter is hit by direct strikes. Simultaneously, a number of airlines have suspended flights to Israel, Jordan and Lebanon.

What is the US hoping to achieve by deploying the naval task force to the region?

According to Gordon Gray, a professor and former US ambassador, “the announcement of the deployment of the carrier strike group is intended to deter Iran rather than to escalate the situation”.

Biden ordered a similar deployment to the eastern Mediterranean in October of last year, when one of the largest aircraft carriers in the world, the USS Gerald R Ford, steamed to the region, where it was joined by vessels and spy planes from the United Kingdom. At the time, US officials framed the deployment as a bid to deter Hezbollah and Iran from “taking advantage” of Israel’s war on Gaza, then in its early stages. Israel has now killed almost 40,000 Palestinians in the war.

Omar Rahman, a fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, said that he believes the “US is clearly signaling to Iran that [it] will be part of any fight ahead, likely to deter Iran from a significant retaliation against Israel”.

Which vessels has the US deployed?

The strike group, led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its squadron of F-35C fighter jets, was already heading towards the region, where it was scheduled to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier. Austin has now ordered it to increase its speed. Additionally, the USS Georgia, a nuclear-powered submarine carrying guided missiles that was already present within the Mediterranean, has been deployed to the area.

Is this an escalation?

HA Hellyer of the Royal United Service Institute (RUSI) believes that the show of force is intended to limit the chances of escalation, without the US having to confront the behaviour of its ally Israel and its war on Gaza.

However, restricting the odds of any escalation while also taking a hands-off approach to the actions of the Israeli government is likely to be challenging, not least when dealing with a state that has proven itself “incredibly reckless”, Hellyer noted.

“A lack of accountability ensures impunity, and [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu has broken pretty much every rhetorical red line that Biden has set down, and will keep doing so, until he thinks there will be real consequences,” he said.

Middle East Crisis Palestinian Authority Leader’s Visit Highlights Turkey’s Unique Role in Gaza Conflict

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Abbas meets with Erdogan at the start of a 2-day visit.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has called Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel a “bloodsucking vampire” because of his approach to the war in Gaza. He declared a day of mourning when the Hamas political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in an apparent Israeli assassination . And he has praised Hamas, which many Western countries consider a terrorist group, as an “ organization of liberation .”

Yet Turkey officially supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, seemingly contradicting Hamas’s goal of wiping Israel off the map.

It is into this complex mix that President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority stepped on Wednesday, meeting in private with Mr. Erdogan in the Turkish capital, Ankara. He is also expected to address Turkey’s Parliament on Thursday.

Since the start of the war in Gaza, Turkey has staked out a position that Turkish officials and analysts say is driven by support for the Palestinians, anger at the war’s high civilian toll and domestic politics. Turkey recognizes Israel diplomatically, unlike many other Muslim-majority states, and wants to play a role in ending the Gaza war, while its leaders simultaneously stand up for Hamas, a group dedicated to Israel’s destruction.

Sympathy for the Palestinians is widespread in Turkey’s otherwise polarized society. Many Turks are genuinely horrified by the vast destruction and civilian deaths, so politicians across the spectrum have more to gain from criticizing Israel than from speaking about its security concerns.

Officials in and close to Mr. Erdogan’s ruling Justice and Development Party also have personal relationships with Hamas leaders that go back many years. Mr. Erdogan knew Mr. Haniyeh personally. His foreign minister and former intelligence chief, Hakan Fidan, met Mr. Haniyeh often and sometimes passed messages to him from the United States, Jeffry L. Flake, the departing U.S. ambassador to Turkey, told reporters this week.

Last week, during a news conference with his counterpart from Montenegro, Mr. Fidan set aside his normally staid style to lash out at Israel.

“The perpetrators of the massacre in Gaza shouldn’t remain without punishment,” he said. “Those murderers should be held accountable sooner or later at international courts.”

He also criticized countries that send military aid to Israel. He didn’t name them, but the United States is by far the biggest supplier of weapons to Israel.

“It is pretty clear who is escalating the tension,” he said. “Stop the habit of sending the bill to the wrong place. The road to peace and calm in the Middle East comes through reining in the craziness of Israel.”

It was not immediately clear whether Mr. Abbas’s invitation to Ankara was part of a specific Turkish policy proposal. Mr. Abbas heads the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and seeks a two-state solution with Israel. United States officials have suggested that the authority — a fierce rival of Hamas — could help govern Gaza after the war, an idea Mr. Netanyahu has rejected.

Complicating the picture, Mr. Erdogan told members of his party last week that before Mr. Haniyeh’s assassination, Turkey had been planning to invite him to address the Parliament too.

Despite the harsh rhetoric, Turkey has not cut diplomatic ties with Israel, although they have been scaled back and Turkey has announced the suspension of trade.

Turkey has also proposed that it serve as a “guarantor” of a Gaza cease-fire with Hamas in an arrangement under which the United States would secure Israel’s compliance. But that proposal has not gained traction.

Mr. Flake said that despite Mr. Haniyeh’s death, Turkey and the United States still shared the same goal.

“You can imagine that it has been difficult, but we’re both, our two countries, seeking the same thing: a cease-fire that will lead to some kind of enduring peace,” he said.

But the anti-Israel and pro-Hamas statements by Turkey’s leaders have made it hard for Turkey to play a central role in cease-fire negotiations as Qatar and Egypt have, Mr. Flake said.

“In terms of playing a mediating role, the rhetoric makes it very difficult,” he said.

— Ben Hubbard and Safak Timur reporting from Istanbul

Key Developments

Israel approves a new settlement site in the West Bank, and other news.

Israeli planning authorities on Wednesday formally signed off on Nahal Heletz, a new Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank, one of several set to be authorized in the coming months. In June, Bezalel Smotrich, a powerful far-right member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition and settler leader, pushed for measures that would expand settlements , which much of the international community views as illegal, in exchange for agreeing to release hundreds of millions in frozen Palestinian revenues. Mr. Smotrich has said Israel ought to rule the West Bank indefinitely without granting its Palestinian residents equal rights . He also opposes a cease-fire with Hamas in Gaza, and last week the White House sharply rebuked him for making what it called “ridiculous charges” against a U.S.-brokered proposal.

Israeli forces have conducted 40 attacks in Gaza over the last 24 hours, hitting infrastructure and militants “who posed a threat” to Israeli troops, the military said on Wednesday. Gaza’s Ministry of Health said that 36 people had been killed and 54 others were wounded over the same time period, bringing the death toll since Oct. 7 close to 40,000 people. The Health Ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Israel’s military said last month that it had killed or apprehended 14,000 combatants in the enclave since the war’s start, but it did not say how it had arrived at that number, or how it had distinguished combatants from civilians. Critics of the war contend that Israel is too quick to identify any man killed as a fighter.

Diplomats called for a cease-fire at an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday focused on an Israeli airstrike on Saturday that hit a school compound in northern Gaza where more than 2,000 displaced Palestinians had sought shelter. The Gaza Civil Defense emergency service said more than 90 people were killed in the strike at Al-Tabaeen school in Gaza City. Diplomats, who also called for a hostage release, said the war must stop to end human suffering and to prevent a wider war. “Ten months since the start of the war, the threat of further regional escalation is more palpable, and chilling, than ever,” said the U.N.’s top political chief, Rosemary DiCarlo.

Iran sharply criticized three European leaders who had called for restraint in the crisis with Israel, saying Tehran reserved the right to defend its sovereignty. Nasser Kanaani, a spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, said in a statement on Tuesday that they had ignored Israeli “crimes and terrorism” against Palestinians and in the Middle East. On Monday, the leaders of Britain, France and Germany had urged Iran and its allies not to retaliate for the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran because it could disrupt efforts to reach a cease-fire in Gaza.

Because of an editing error, an earlier version of the headline with this article misstated the location of a new Israeli settlement. It is in the West Bank, not in Gaza.

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A top U.S. official visits Lebanon in a bid to avert a war between Hezbollah and Israel.

Amos Hochstein, one of President Biden’s most trusted national security advisers, met with Lebanese officials in Beirut on Wednesday and called for a cease-fire deal in Gaza that he said would enable a diplomatic resolution between Israel and the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah and “prevent an outbreak of a wider war.”

The Biden administration has been working to tamp down regional tensions and avert a war between Israel and Hezbollah. Mr. Hochstein, who has become the de facto U.S. envoy in the quest to end the conflict along the Lebanon-Israel border , is one of a number of administration officials who have fanned out across the Middle East this week in a bid to nail down a cease-fire deal for the war in Gaza and stave off an attack by Iran and its proxies against Israel.

Cease-fire talks are set to take place in Doha, Qatar, on Thursday and are expected to include top intelligence officials from Egypt, Israel and the United States, as well as the Qatari prime minister. The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel said in a statement on Wednesday that he had approved the departure of the delegation to Doha and its mandate to negotiate.

Hezbollah, Iran’s most powerful regional proxy, has repeatedly said that only an end to Israel’s war in Gaza will lead it to cease its cross-border attacks. And on Wednesday, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that Iran would not bow to international pressure from its enemies, state news media reported. Mr. Khamenei said the goal of the pressure was to make Iran retreat but that “tactical withdrawal, whether military or political, economic or propaganda, will bring the wrath of God.”

Mr. Hochstein met with Lebanon’s speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, an influential Hezbollah ally who passes messages back and forth between U.S. officials and the militant group. Afterward, he told reporters, “We continue to believe that a diplomatic resolution is achievable because we continue to believe that no one truly wants a full-scale war between Lebanon and Israel.” Mr. Hochstein warned, however, that there was “no more time to waste and no more valid excuses from any party for any further delay.”

Mr. Hochstein was on his fifth trip to Lebanon since the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza more than 10 months ago, when Hezbollah began firing rockets into northern Israel in solidarity with Hamas. Since then, the fighting along the Lebanese-Israeli border has killed over a hundred civilians, displaced more than 160,000 people in both countries and threatened to expand into an all-out war.

The killings last month of top Hezbollah and Hamas leaders have intensified fears of a wider regional conflagration, with the region on edge awaiting the expected retaliation against Israel from Iran and Hezbollah.

“We have to take advantage of this window for diplomatic action and diplomatic solutions,” Mr. Hochstein said in Beirut on Wednesday. “That time is now.”

Mr. Hochstein’s sense of urgency was echoed by the British, German and United States ambassadors to Israel, who on Wednesday met with relatives of hostages taken in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel to call for a cease-fire deal and the return of about 115 captives, dead and alive, believed to be in Gaza. They said that a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas could stave off a wider conflict.

A deal would create “a pathway” for stability in the region, said Jack Lew, the American ambassador to Israel. Steffen Seibert, Germany’s ambassador, added that a deal could “start changing the reality of war into a new reality of peace, of new beginnings.”

Farnaz Fassihi and Ephrat Livni contributed reporting.

An earlier version of this article misspelled the surname of the German ambassador to Israel. He is Steffen Seibert, not Selbert.

— Euan Ward reporting from Beirut, Lebanon

Israel draws global condemnation after a cabinet minister’s proclamations at a holy site.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right national security minister, led a group of his supporters in prayer on Tuesday at a holy site in Jerusalem that is revered by both Jews and Muslims, violating a historical political arrangement and drawing condemnation in Israel and from around the globe.

Mr. Ben-Gvir was seen in videos online singing songs at the holy site, the Temple Mount, where two ancient Jewish temples were located. The site is known to Muslims as the Aqsa Mosque compound and the place from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. The longstanding agreement governing the site is that Jews may visit but not pray there, and much of the international community does not recognize Israel’s claim to East Jerusalem, where the site stands. “Our policy is to allow prayer,” Mr. Ben-Gvir said in a video he posted.

The purpose of the visit was also political. In the video, Mr. Ben-Gvir added that Israel must win the war in Gaza rather than attend meetings in Egypt and Qatar — a reference to the upcoming cease-fire negotiations set to take place on Thursday. “This is the message: We can defeat Hamas and bring it to its knees,” he said.

Mr. Ben-Gvir and a crowd estimated at about 2,000 inflamed tensions with leaders across the world and in Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel assailed Mr. Ben-Gvir on Tuesday, in the latest sign of friction between members of the country’s fragile governing coalition.

“It is the government and the prime minister who determine policy on the Temple Mount,” Mr. Netanyahu’s office said in a statement, noting that there was no “individual policy” for any minister and that Mr. Ben-Gvir’s decision represented “a deviation from the status quo.”

The actions were taken around the world as a provocation, particularly given that diplomats have been scrambling to calm tensions in the Middle East and hoping that a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas would prevent a further escalation of the conflict following the assassinations last month of a Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and a Hamas leader in Iran. Israel has claimed responsibility for the death in Lebanon and is widely believed to have been behind the one in Iran. Both Iran and Hezbollah have vowed to retaliate.

In a briefing with reporters on Tuesday, Vedant Patel, a deputy spokesman for the State Department, called Mr. Ben-Gvir’s actions “unacceptable” and noted that the move “detracts” from efforts to reach a cease-fire agreement “at a vital time.”

Qatar, which has been among the nations mediating the negotiations between Israel and Hamas, condemned the prayers at the holy site as an attack “on millions of Muslims around the world.” It warned in a statement from its Foreign Ministry on Tuesday that the move could negatively affect the cease-fire talks .

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry also issued a statement condemning Mr. Ben-Gvir’s decision . It called the move “a provocation to the feelings of Muslims around the world, especially in light of the continuing war and acts of violence against defenseless Palestinians.”

Josep Borrell Fontelles, the European Union’s high commissioner for foreign affairs, also issued a statement “strongly” criticizing “the provocations” by Mr. Ben-Gvir. And France’s Foreign Ministry decried Mr. Ben-Gvir’s defiance of a “longstanding ban on Jewish prayer at the Al-Aqsa mosque,” urging Israel to respect the status quo. “This new provocation is unacceptable,” the French ministry said.

For years, the Israeli government has quietly allowed Jews to pray at the site, but in the videos from the scene on Tuesday, dozens of Jewish visitors are seen fully prostrating themselves in prayer. Some religious officials inside Israel expressed alarm at the flagrant violation.

Moshe Gafni, chair of the religious party United Torah Judaism, said Mr. Ben-Gvir was damaging the Jewish people and defying the dictates of generations of Israel’s chief rabbis. Michael Malchieli, Israel’s religious affairs minister and a member of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party, said Mr. Ben-Gvir’s actions were an “unnecessary and irresponsible provocation against the nations of the world.”

Mr. Ben-Gvir, a settler whose government responsibilities include oversight of the police, has not been circumspect about his expansionist aims or his opposition to a Palestinian state. He strongly opposes a cease-fire with Hamas, and his decision to lead a group to the sensitive site for prayers just as negotiations were set to resume underscored disagreements within Israel over the wisdom of striking a deal and halting the war in Gaza.

There are about 115 hostages — dead and living — believed to still be held in Gaza. Relatives of the hostages on Tuesday accused Mr. Ben-Gvir of repeatedly trying to thwart a cease-fire deal, saying the minister was endangering the chances of bringing their captive family members home.

— Ephrat Livni

No breakthrough emerges, but the talks are expected to continue on Friday.

Mediators and Israeli negotiators met into the night on Thursday in Qatar, trying to find a formula for a cease-fire in Gaza even as the Middle East braced for an anticipated retaliation against Israel by Iran and its allies that could ignite a broader armed conflict.

The Biden administration and its allies had called for the meeting last week, seeing a Gaza cease-fire agreement as the best hope to avert or curb the expected Iranian-led reprisals for the recent assassinations of Ismail Haniyeh , the political leader of Hamas, and Fuad Shukr , a top Hezbollah military commander.

Officials from the United States, Qatar and Egypt met with an Israeli delegation in hopes of finding a way to bridge the significant differences between the two sides remaining after months of on-again-off-again talks. Hamas leaders, accusing the Israeli government of negotiating in bad faith, had said they would not participate, though Qatari officials were expected to bring them any new proposals from the Israeli side.

There was no immediate breakthrough on Thursday, but no breakdown in the talks either. An Israeli official briefed on the negotiations said that the Israeli delegation would remain overnight in Doha, Qatar’s capital, and that the talks were expected to continue on Friday in an attempt to bring the sides closer.

A White House national security spokesman, John F. Kirby, called the talks a “promising start” and said the United States also expected them to go on for a second day.

A Hamas political official, Hussam Badran, put out a statement restating the group’s long-held positions that any agreement must include a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a permanent cease-fire.

International pressure has been rising for months for some kind of deal to end the suffering in Gaza and allow for the release of hostages. The Gazan Health Ministry reported on Thursday that the Palestinian death toll in the war had surpassed 40,000. The ministry’s figures do not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Israel’s military spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said on Thursday that Israeli forces had killed more than 17,000 combatants.

But prospects for a breakthrough still appear remote, leaving the Middle East facing a precarious moment. The United States has sent stealth fighter jets, a carrier group and a guided-missile submarine to the region in anticipation of an Iranian-led attack.

The issues still unresolved include who will control the Gazan side of the enclave’s border with Egypt and how Israel can prevent armed Hamas fighters from returning to northern Gaza, which has been largely depopulated during the war.

Hamas officials have said Mr. Netanyahu’s government is not genuinely interested in reaching a cease-fire, pointing to the assassination of Mr. Haniyeh in Tehran and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s toughened stands on several points . “Hamas believes the Israeli occupation is trying to buy time with more negotiations,” said Ibrahim al-Madhoun, an Istanbul-based analyst close to Hamas.

In Israel, Mr. Netanyahu’s far-right coalition allies continue to insist that Israel rule Gaza indefinitely and have already denounced the latest Israeli proposal as tantamount to surrender. If Mr. Netanyahu moves ahead with the deal, his governing coalition could splinter, potentially ending his political career .

Mr. Netanyahu himself has equivocated, saying he supports the three-stage proposal even as he promises the Israeli public an “absolute victory” over Hamas. Relatives of hostages held in Gaza have argued that the prime minister has prioritized his hold on power over signing a deal to free their loved ones.

Yaron Blum, a former Israeli security official who previously led the country’s effort to bring home hostages, said that even if the current talks were successful, they would be just the start of a protracted process of hashing out the details of a deal. But if the talks go poorly, the region could descend into a wider confrontation, he said.

“If everyone doesn’t work in the coming days until white smoke comes out, I don’t see it coming together going forward,” said Mr. Blum. “But there’s still a chance now, because every side realizes that they need to advance.”

Mr. Kirby said the American delegation was led by the C.I.A. director, William J. Burns, and President Biden’s Middle East envoy, Brett McGurk. Israel’s delegation is being led by the head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea. The other principals in the talks are the head of Egyptian intelligence, Abbas Kamel, and Qatari prime minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani.

The stakes at the talks are particularly high for the families of the remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza. Over 40 of the 115 hostages are now presumed dead, according to the Israeli authorities.

“Every second there are hostages held in captivity is a severe risk to their lives,” said Jon Polin, the father of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, 23, one of eight Israeli-American hostages. Three of them have been declared dead by the Israeli authorities.

In Gaza, most of the enclave’s more than two million people have been displaced, many repeatedly, and are living in tents or temporary lodgings. Finding enough food and safe drinking water is often a daily struggle, and swaths of the coastal enclave have been reduced to rubble.

Anas al-Tayeb, who lives in Jabaliya, just outside of Gaza City, said many there rejoiced in July, the last time mediators said cease-fire talks were progressing. But just a few days later, the Israeli military again stormed neighborhoods in Gaza City.

Mr. al-Tayeb said Israel and Hamas were both responsible for the failure to reach a deal. He wondered why Hamas had declined to accept any of the previous Israeli cease-fire proposals, which have broadly adhered to the three-stage framework.

“Those same conditions were offered before in previous rounds of negotiations,” said Mr. al-Tayeb. “So why didn’t they take it then?”

Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Hersh’s mother, said she believed it was time for everyone to agree to a “true compromise.”

“Not everyone is going to agree,” she said. “But everyone has interests and everyone gets a little bit of the interests they’re looking for. Let’s make that happen and move forward.”

— Aaron Boxerman and Adam Rasgon reporting from Jerusalem

Here is a timeline of Gaza cease-fire talks.

Israel’s war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip has lasted more than 10 months, with only one weeklong pause in fighting, in late November. That temporary cease-fire led to the return of 50 Israeli hostages captured during the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners — and raised hopes among mediators and the international community that another deal would follow.

Those hopes were dashed repeatedly over many months of unsuccessful efforts by mediators. In the interim, tensions in the Middle East have risen, particularly in recent weeks after the assassinations of a Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and a Hamas leader in Iran, prompting vows from Iran and Hezbollah to retaliate against Israel.

World leaders eager to avert a wider full-scale war believe that an agreement between Israel and Hamas could prevent an escalation. Still, even the most vocal champions of a cease-fire admit that closing a deal will be tough. President Biden on Tuesday told reporters he was “not giving up” on an agreement but that it was “getting harder” to remain optimistic.

On Thursday, negotiators are meeting in Doha, Qatar, to try to reach an agreement. Here’s a timeline of recent talks:

May: President Biden calls for an end to the war.

Declaring Hamas no longer capable of carrying out a major terrorist attack on Israel, Mr. Biden on May 31 pressed for hostilities in Gaza to end and endorsed a new cease-fire plan that he said Israel had offered to win the release of hostages.

“It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin,” Mr. Biden said that day. Calling it “a decisive moment,” Mr. Biden put the onus on Hamas to reach an agreement, saying, “Israel has made their proposal. Hamas says it wants a cease-fire. This deal is an opportunity to prove whether they really mean it.”

June: U.N. Security Council passes a cease-fire resolution.

The United Nations Security Council on June 10 adopted a cease-fire plan backed by the United States, with 14 nations in favor and Russia abstaining. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the American ambassador to the United Nations, said that the United States would work to make sure that Israel agreed to the deal and that Qatar and Egypt would work to bring Hamas to the negotiating table.

The resolution followed the same framework that Mr. Biden had endorsed, outlining a three-phase plan that would begin with an immediate cease-fire, the release of all living hostages in exchange for Palestinians being held in Israeli prisons, the return of displaced Gazans to their homes and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The second phase called for a permanent cease-fire with the agreement of both parties, and the third phase consisted of a multiyear reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of the remains of deceased hostages.

July: Talks in Cairo, Doha and Rome.

When American negotiators met in Doha for talks with Egyptian, Qatari and Israeli officials in early July, some American officials were hopeful that progress was being made. Their optimism persisted when talks continued July 12 in Cairo.

The discussions included two contentious issues: whether Israel would agree to end the war, withdraw from Gaza and respect a permanent cease-fire; and whether Hamas would agree to give up control of the enclave. Both Israel and Hamas were wary about whether the other side was ready to make concessions.

On July 28, negotiators reconvened in Rome . The meeting came as Israel fired on southern Lebanon, responding to a rocket strike from Hezbollah the previous day that killed 12 children in the village of Majdal Shams in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights.

Even as fears intensified that a regional war could escalate, negotiators remained stuck over a few key issues, particularly the extent to which Israeli forces would remain in Gaza during a truce and the length of any halt to the fighting. Hamas wanted a permanent truce, while Israel sought the option to resume fighting.

As the month ended, the crisis in the Middle East deepened. Hezbollah confirmed that one of its senior commanders, Fuad Shukr, was killed in an Israeli strike on a suburb of Beirut, the Lebanese capital, and Hamas accused Israel of killing its political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, while he was in Tehran for the inauguration of Iran’s new president. Iranian officials and Hamas would say later that Israel was responsible for the assassination, an assessment also reached by several U.S. officials, but Israel has not acknowledged involvement.

John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, said on July 31 that it was “too soon to know” what impact the developments might have on negotiations but noted that the United States was still in contact with Egypt and Qatar.

August: A ‘final’ proposal.

President Biden and the leaders of Egypt and Qatar on Aug. 8 said that they were prepared to present a “final” cease-fire proposal and called on Israel and Hamas to return to the negotiating table. In a joint statement , they declared that “the time has come” and insisted that the negotiators meet again on Thursday.

“There is no further time to waste nor excuses from any party for further delay,” they said, adding, “As mediators, if necessary, we are prepared to present a final bridging proposal that resolves the remaining implementation issues in a manner that meets the expectations of all parties.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel agreed to the meeting, though it was not clear if he would agree to a deal.

According to documents reviewed by The New York Times , Israel relayed a list of new stipulations in late July to American, Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Mr. Netanyahu’s office on Tuesday rejected that characterization , saying he sought only to clarify ambiguities. His office accused Hamas of demanding numerous changes .

Hamas’s willingness to compromise is unclear. The group requested its own extensive revisions throughout negotiations and ceded some smaller points in July. On Tuesday a Hamas official said the group would not participate in the new round of negotiations.

Hamas’s absence does not signal that the talks will be fruitless . Its leaders have not met directly with Israeli officials during the war, relying instead on Qatar and Egypt to relay proposals. Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, told reporters in a briefing on Tuesday that Qatar had assured the United States that Hamas would be represented at the meetings.

The talks are likely to include top intelligence officials from Egypt, Israel and the United States, as well as the Qatari prime minister. Mr. Netanyahu’s office said in a statement on Wednesday that he had approved the departure of the Israeli delegation to Doha and its mandate to negotiate.

A new Israeli settlement in the West Bank will encroach on a World Heritage Site, activists say.

A new Israeli settlement planned for construction in the occupied West Bank will encroach on Palestinian land recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, Israeli peace activists say.

Much of the international community views Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal, and many were established illegally under Israeli law, but tolerated by the government.

Bezalel Smotrich, the far-right finance minister and a settler himself, gave preliminary approval to the new settlement, Nahal Heletz, in June, and the country’s planning authorities signed off on it on Wednesday.

But the area designated for the settlement was much bigger than what was shown in a plan the government published in July, according to an Israeli advocacy group, Peace Now, which closely tracks settlements. The new plan claims over 150 acres rather than the 30 acres announced previously, and all of it is on UNESCO-designated territory, the group said.

Mr. Smotrich, who is part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition, has pushed for measures that would expand Israeli settlements in the West Bank in exchange for the release of funds withheld from the Palestinian Authority, which partly administers the territory.

Peace Now accused Mr. Smotrich of disregarding the UNESCO Convention in a statement on Wednesday. Israel is a party to the World Heritage Convention, though it left UNESCO in 2019, accusing the multilateral organization of trying to minimize Jewish ties to the land of Israel. It also objected to the organization’s acceptance of Palestine as a member state in 2011.

Peace Now said that the Israeli authorities were accelerating new claims over West Bank land in an effort to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Tor Wennesland, the United Nations’ special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, said in June that signs of expedited settlement expansion — and the retroactive legalization of West Bank outposts initially established in violation of Israeli law — undermine prospects for a two-state solution.

That is one of Mr. Smotrich’s stated goals. In a post on social media on Wednesday about the newly approved settlement, he said he would continue to fight what he called “the dangerous idea” of establishing a Palestinian state.

The territory being claimed for the Nahal Heletz settlement is adjacent to the West Bank village of Battir and encroaches on its surrounding area, which UNESCO has designated a World Heritage site because of its terraced farming, irrigation system and architecture, according to the agency’s website.

The World Heritage Convention is the most widely accepted international conservation treaty. There are nine World Heritage sites in Israel.

“UNESCO is closely following the state of conservation of the World Heritage property,” the UNESCO World Heritage Center said in a statement in response to a query about the planned new settlement.

Last month, the governing body of the organization took note “with concern of the reports of ongoing illegal constructions, settlements and other developments within the property and its buffer zone” and asked “all parties to avoid any action that would cause damage to the property.”

Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, responding to a question about the new West Bank settlement plans at a news briefing on Thursday, said the United States “certainly” opposed the advancement of settlements in the West Bank. “The Israeli government’s settlement program — we find that to be inconsistent with international law,” he said.

In July, the International Court of Justice issued a nonbinding opinion declaring that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and its settlements there, violated international law. The court called for Israel’s presence in the territories to end “as rapidly as possible” and said that Israel was obligated to provide full reparations for the damage it had caused. Mr. Netanyahu dismissed the opinion as “ absurd ” in posts on social media , saying: “The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land.

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