To travel through the Middle East is to start where recorded civilization found its roots. Few places on earth offer such a direct link with the past; an unbroken timeline, that allows the visitor to experience the legacy of illustrious dynasties and empires, and to explore the birthplace of three of the world’s greatest religions. And most extraordinary of all, in the Middle East of the 21st Century, one can meet people whose lives still reflect both ancient traditions and lifestyles unchanged down the ages. Our selection of destinations in the Middle East offers you a unique window on past and an opportunity to gain insight into the present and the future. 

See our holidays in The Middle East
Explore our destinations in The Middle East

Egypt is more than just a destination; it is a treasure trove of antiquities that has no equal. As the origin of one of man’s most glorious civilizations, enter the world of the Pharaohs while cruising down the Nile. The very scale of the Pyramids, the grandeur of the great temples of Karnak and Luxor and the massive monuments at Abu Simbel, give ‘awesome’ a whole new meaning. From exploring markets and mosques in Cairo to enjoying the unparallel diving in the Red Sea or climbing Mt. Sinai, Egypt earns its title as an exceptional country.

It’s hard to imagine how such a small country as Israel has so much history but it does! A trip through Israel is a journey through time. Its archaeological footprints lead to many sacred and holy places - the Dome of the Rock, the Wailing Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. See the imprint left by Romans, Crusaders and Saracens. Marvel at the beauty of Dead Sea and the Negev Desert. Soak up the vibrancy of Tel Aviv and Haifa or just relax in the Red Sea resort of Elat. Israel has it all and more!

The Kingdom of Jordan is bursting with historical wonders. Most famous is the exquisite ‘Rose City’ of Petra, followed closely by Jerash, the world’s best-preserved Roman town. Amman, the capital, boasts ruins starting in Neolithic times and including the grand architecture of the Greeks, Romans and Arab Islamists. Whether visiting its desert wadis, the mosaic city of Masaba or enjoying sun and sand in Aqaba on the Red Sea, Jordan is a cultural and historical delight.

Just waiting to be explored are the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman. Fuelled by ‘Petro Dollar’ wealth, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman are popular with holidaymakers seeking everything from modern resorts to dramatic deserts and ancient cultures. The city-states of Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer an array of glittering hotels, sports activities, exceptional shopping and endless sunshine against a backdrop of stunning desert landscapes.

In Oman, a country of lush oases, stark mountain ranges, golden beaches and soaring sand dunes, discover how the 21st Century blends with its exotic past. From the fascinating capital, Muscat, explore its ancient desert fortresses, mosques, authentic markets and date palm plantations. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the Bedouin during off-road adventures in 4x4 vehicles, meeting these nomadic people in the land where once frankincense was a commodity more precious than gold. This is a part of the Middle East not to be missed!

 

Our destinations in The Middle East