Explore the Middle East
Middle East Travel Guide
Ancient sites, markets, mountain roads and food worth lingering over. Explore the region through its country guides, cultures and landscapes, with current official advice alongside any future travel plans.
By Rob Wheatley · Traveller and Viking Program Director
Check current travel advice
The U.S. State Department’s worldwide caution advises Americans outside the Middle East to reconsider travel to and through the region. Read your own government’s guidance for every destination and transit point before making commitments.
U.S. worldwide caution ↗ · Country advisories ↗ · UK travel advice ↗
Explore the country guides
Start with the history, food or landscapes that interest you. These guides offer context and future ideas; a guide’s presence does not mean travel is currently advised.
Jordan
Jordan has archaeological sites and varied landscapes. However, review the current advisory before planning travel.
Explore Jordan
United Arab Emirates
For example, the UAE combines modern cities with cultural attractions. However, check current security advice before considering a visit.
Explore the UAE
Oman
Oman also has mountains, coast and historic towns. First, check the latest official advice.
Explore Oman
Israel
Israel has historic and modern cultural sites. However, current official travel advice is essential.
Explore Israel
Türkiye (Turkey)
Türkiye has varied landscapes and cultural traditions. For details, see the country guide and official advice.
Explore Türkiye
Egypt
Egypt is known for its ancient sites and lively cities. Before planning, check the latest travel advice.
Explore Egypt
Lebanon
Lebanon is also known for its food culture and history. Currently, however, the U.S. advises against all travel there.
Explore Lebanon
Qatar
For another perspective, Qatar offers museums, markets and modern architecture. Nevertheless, check current advice before planning a stopover.
Explore QatarExplore three more country guides
Bahrain
Museums, historic sites and island city life. Read current official advice before considering travel.
Explore Bahrain →Kuwait
City architecture, museums and Gulf heritage. Read current official advice before considering travel.
Explore Kuwait →Saudi Arabia
Historic towns, desert landscapes and varied regional traditions. Read current official advice before considering travel.
Explore Saudi Arabia →Learn about the places behind the trip
Explore travel styles, local routines and cultural context. Use these visual guides as an introduction, then check the details for each destination.
Planning truths (no drama)
- Local customs vary. Therefore, research the destination you are interested in.
- Cities can also introduce you to local history and culture.
- Respect local customs. For example, check expectations at religious sites.
- Timing matters. In addition to weather, weekends and holidays can affect opening hours.
Independence + ease
- For a future trip, one country can offer more time to explore.
- For future travel, research accommodation when conditions permit.
- Consider local guides. Depending on the destination, they may help with remote areas or historic sites.
- My rule: choose fewer stops so you have more time in each place.
My advice: when conditions permit, leave space to learn about each place. That way, you can enjoy the details instead of rushing between stops.
Follow your interests
Explore history, food, living traditions and landscapes through the guides below.
History & ancient worlds
For example, explore the region’s ancient sites and the stories behind them.
Food & local life
Alternatively, start with markets, street food and family cafés.
Culture & faith
In addition, learn about living traditions and sacred spaces.
Landscapes & desert calm
For a different perspective, discover mountains, coastlines and desert landscapes.
For a future journey, when conditions permit
These are ways to shape a trip, subject to official advice and local conditions. Start small and check every connection before making plans.
When conditions permit, begin with a manageable route and allow time to understand local customs. That way, you can explore without rushing from place to place.
One anchor city + day trips
Keep logistics calm
For example, a city base can provide time to learn about a destination. Then, if conditions permit, consider nearby day trips.
One-country classic loop
Structure without stress
Alternatively, focus on one country and choose a few places that interest you. This can leave more time for each stop.
Modern hub + cultural depth add-on
Soft landing
For a longer future trip, you might combine a city with another cultural destination. However, check advice for every leg.
Hybrid trip (independent + guided moments)
Best of both worlds
Depending on conditions, you might explore a city independently. For remote areas or historic sites, a local guide can add context.
Not sure where to start yet?
Explore the resources below to learn more. Before planning travel, check official advice for each destination.
Join the conversation
What interests you most about the Middle East? Share a question or a memory below. If you know the region, you can also offer a cultural insight for other readers.