20 Places to Visit in The Middle East For A Cultural Holiday Experience

Plan for an extraordinary holiday with the best destination to visit in the Middle East and discover the fascinating parts of the world. The region has one of the most breathtaking places where you can enjoy your vacations and find a diversity of culture and tradition. The destinations here are becoming the most popular holiday spot with new attractions popping up from the hidden streets. The ancient splendor, scenic beauty, and rich culture abound the region so well. In some Middle East areas, people can indulge their love for great shopping and fine dining.  

Top 20 Destinations to Visit in the Middle East

We think it's high time you modified your bucket list; the following are top destinations you can visit in the Middle East for an extraordinary holiday experience. Find time to soak in the surf and sun, sip a cocktail by the pool in a luxury hotel or explore ancient relics.

1. Doha, Qatar

Located on the east coast of the Qatar Peninsula in the Persian Gulf, Doha is Qatar's capital. It offers some of the most beautiful attractions including a wide range of modern shopping malls, stunning contemporary architecture, lofty skyscrapers, ever-changing skyline and artificial islands. Doha has its sense of optimism that attracts people from all around the world. Doha is among the best places to visit in the Middle East with a diverse culture and iconic historical wonders. You can book your flights and celebrate your vacations in the world's most beautiful dessert tourist attraction in Qatar.

Best time to visit: December To February

How to reach: Hamad International Airport is the only international airport in Qatar. Flights are available from many Asian countries and other parts of Europe and Africa. Qatar Airways and other international airlines majorly serve the airport.

Ideal duration: 2 to 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Hamad International Airport

Popular attractions: The Pearl Qatar, National Museum of Qatar, Katara Cultural Village, Museum of Islamic Art, Doha Corniche, Aspire Zone

Things to do: Doha Desert Safari, Explore the Museums, Shopping at Souq Waqif, Water Adventure at Katara Beach

Best places to stay: Four Season Doha, Banana Island Resort, Park Hyatt, Mandarin Oriental, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort

Best shopping markets: Souq Waqif, Falcon Souq, Villaggio Mall, City Center Mall, Doha Flea Market, Omani Souq

2. Dahab, Egypt

Dahab is laid back beach town and is a perfect tourist place in the middle east to enjoy summer vacations. Known as the Diver's Paradise, it offers so much to the travelers, but one can easily stroll this remote destination around on foot or by bicycle. There is a rich history and culture to experience the real beauty of Dahab with the beaches, seas and other historical architecture around. The city offers a perfect time journey with two parts as Masbat and New Dahab city. The new region consists of the sections as Assala in the north, Masbat in the middle, and Mashraba in the south. With cheap Egypt flights , plan a few nights here and create unforgettable vacation memories for life.

Best time to visit: March- April and October November

How to reach: The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is served by many international flights departing from every corner of the world. There are ferries also available from Aqaba in Jordan to Nukeiba port in Dahab.

Ideal duration: 4 to 5 Days

Nearest Airport: Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport

Popular attractions: Blue Hole, Blue Lagoon, Nour Wellbeing Dahab, King Safari Dahab St. Catherine

Things to do: Try Adventure Like Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Horse Back Riding in Saini Desert

Best places to stay: Tirana Dahab Resort, Dahab Plaza Hotel, Dahab Bay Hotel, Casa d'Or Dahab

3. Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Dead Sea and the Mediterranean. The city is one of the best places to visit in Middle East and prominent region for Christians, Jews and Muslims offering you a substantial cultural and religious essence to embrace. The city with a perfect amalgamation of tradition and history has some landmarks and ancient structures that preserve the glorious history. You can explore the historical monuments of the town, and at the same time, you can enjoy the eccentric nightlife, and modernity of the new part of it.

Best time to visit: May to September

How to reach: The Ben Gurion Airport and Queen Alia Airport connect Jerusalem to other international countries and destinations in the Middle East. High speed trains and taxis are operating from the airport to reach the hotels and other places in the city.

Ideal duration: 5 to 6 Days

Nearest Airport: Ben Gurion Airport

Popular attractions: Church of all Nations, Jewish Quarter, Mount of Olives, Tower of David, Dome of the Rock, Western Wall Tunnels, Temple Mount

Things to do: Stroll Around Jerusalem's Old City, Plan a Trip to the Dead Sea, Safari at the Tisch Family Zoological Gardens, Taste Israeli Wine,

Best places to stay: Orient Jerusalem by Isrotel Exclusive Collection, HaShimi Hotel, Paamonim Hotel Jerusalem, Stay Kook Suites.

Best shopping markets: Machane Yehuda Market, Malha Mall, The Old City Bazar, The Farmers Market, Mamilla Mall

Suggested Read: Budget Hotels in Doha, Qatar: Our Favorite Picks For A Pocket-Friendly Accommodation

4. Tel Aviv, Israel

Titled as the "Mediterranean Capital of Cool", Tel Aviv is considered one of the most vibrant cities globally and second largest in Israel. It is a 24-hours city with a very different and captivating pulse as your best attractions in the middle east to spend a holiday. If you are a history lover, then this place has a lot for you. The city is full of UNESCO recognized architecture, that gives a different international outlook to it. From Sandy Mediterranean beaches to world-class nightlife, the city has everything you could ever imagine!

Best time to visit: March - April and Autumn September- November

How to reach: The Ben Gurion Airport is just 15 km away from the city and a primary airport for all international arrivals. The airport is served by more than 70 international airlines daily.

Ideal duration: 1 to 2 days

Nearest Airport: Ben Gurion Airport

Popular attractions: Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Jaffa Old, Tel Aviv Beaches, Citya Carmel Market, Dizengoff Circle & Surrounds

Things to do: Full Day City Tour, Biking in Tel Aviv, Discover attractions in Old Jaffa, Explore the Beaches around, Try Some Street Food.

Best places to stay: Lighthouse Tel Aviv, Isrotel Tower Hotel, Idelson Hotel, Tel Aviv Embassy Hotel, Margosa Hotel Tel Aviv Jaffa, Diaghilev LOFT Live Art Hotel

Best shopping markets: Arzeli Mall, Dizengoff Center, Ramat Aviv Mall, Sheinkin Street

5. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi is one of the most popular tourist places in the middle east for a joyous holiday. The town is affluent in heritage and culture, full of fine restaurants, luxury hotels and outstanding attractions such as Khalifa Park, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Heritage Village, the souks, and many more. You can discover the hidden oasis in the desert and the charm of its beaches along the coast. Abu Dhabi boats of a perfect fusion of culture, tradition and modernity lending you the memorable holiday in the Middle East. Shop the antiques or try out some desert adventure to experience the best holiday.

Best time to visit: November to March

How to reach: Abu Dhabi International Airport is connecting the destination in the Middle east to some famous countries in Asia and other continents. Fifty-two flights are operating from more than 49 destinations like Indian, Dubai and more.

Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport

Popular attractions: Qasr al-Hosn, Heritage Village, Emirates Palace, Emirates Park Zoo, Louvre Museum, Al Ain Palace Museum

Things to do: Yas Beach Mangrove Tour, Kayaking at Saadiyat Public beach, Cultural tour at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, Desert safari

Best places to stay: Southern Sun Hotel Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Gate hotel, Novel Hotel City Center, Grand Continental Flamingo, Golden Tulip Downtown Hotel

Best shopping markets: Gold Souk Abu Dhabi, Souk Al Zafarana, Al Ain Souq, Central Market, Souk Al Bawadi & Souk Al Qaws, Khalifa City A Market

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Dubai: Top Locations For A Memorable Holiday In The City

6. Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is the largest city in the Arab world and the most popular destination in the Middle east. Egypt's beautiful capital tempts travelers with its ideal blend of history, fascinating architecture, and culture and famous archaeological spots. It is one of the biggest cities and the best places to visit the Middle East that is best known for preserving the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can easily tour the city with the cheapest airfares to Cairo and dig into the infinite treasures of the best places to visit in Egypt, beyond Giza's Pyramids. You can also browse the world's most extensive collection of pharaonic antiquities. If you love the city, it will love you back.

Best time to visit: October to April

How to reach: Cairo International Airport and Luxor International Airport are the two major international arriving points in Cairo. Flights to Egypt are operating from Kenya, India, Kuwait and other international destination across the globe.

Ideal duration: 7 to 8 Days

Nearest Airport: Cairo International Airport

Popular attractions: Pyramids of Giza, Old Cairo, Al-Azhar Mosque, The Egyptian Museum, The Citadel, Sultan Hassan Mosque

Things to do: Capture the Panorama from Citadel, Enjoy Sound and Light show at Giza Pyramids, Plan A Trip to Alexandria, Spend a day at Salah El-Din Citadel

Best places to stay: Sofitel El Gezirah, Fairmont Nile City, Novotel Cairo Airport, Kempinski Nile Hotel, Safir hotel Cairo, Grand Nile Tower, Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah

Best shopping markets: Al-Khalili Bazaar, Street Of The Tentmakers, Downtown Cairo, City stars mall, Tiba Outlet Mall

Suggested Read: The Short Guide On Places To Stay In Egypt For A Comfortable Stay

7. Istanbul, Turkey

Book your hotels in Turkey for your vacation and experience many top-drawer attractions at this best tourist place in the Middle East. Istanbul offers a cultural and panoramic wonder to travelers around the world. With one arm reaching out to Europe and other to Asia, Istanbul is the largest city and of the best places to visit in Turkey. The city has a very remarkable history sealed by its strategic location and its astonishing natural beauty. As an imperial capital of 1500 years, the city is rich in architectural monuments that reflect the grandeur past at every turn.

Best time to visit: March to May: September to November

How to reach: Ataturk International Airport is the busiest airport in Istanbul, Turkey that is well connected by the other countries and places to visit in the Middle East. The Air India and Turkish Airlines serve direct connectivity to Istanbul from countries like India.

Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport: Ataturk International Airport

Popular attractions: Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, Basilica Cistern, Hippodrome of Constantinople

Things to do: Explore Old Istanbul City, Book your tour to Basilica Cistern, Admire the Beauty of Gülhane Park, Visit the historical church, St. Antoine, on Istiklal Caddesi

Best places to stay: Pera Palace Hotel, Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet, Romance Istanbul Hotel Boutique Class, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, Robin Hood Hotel

Best shopping markets: Bebek and Arnavutköy, Kanyon Shopping Center, Bağdat Caddesi, Zorlu Center, Galata Tower

Suggested Read: Beaches In Turkey That Surprise Travelers With Their Serenity

8. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Home to Saudi Arabia's best museum, Riyadh is one of the world's wealthiest cities and places to go in the Middle East. The city's name is derived from the plural of the Arabic word 'rawdah', which means meadows or garden. The city has plenty of ultramodern towers defining the skyline of its gleaming architecture. Might be, Saudi has been out of the tourism circuit for a while but still attracts a few travelers. Book your accommodation in the best hotels in Saudi Arabia and discover the attractions that make it a perfect place to spend quality time with your friends and family.

Best time to visit: November to March

How to reach: King Khalid Airport is the primary airport in the city served by international airlines from almost every destination. The airport is at a distance of 35 km, located towards the north of Riyadh.

Ideal duration: 3 to 4 Days

Nearest Airport: King Khalid Airport

Popular attractions: Masmak Fortress, Riyadh Zoo, Antiquities Museum, Kingdom Centre Tower, Al Bujairi Heritage Park, Masmak Citadel

Things to do: Explore Ad Diriyah Old City, Safari at Red Sand Dunes, Discover History at National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Visit King Abdulaziz Racetrack

Best places to stay: Centro Waha hotel, Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, Executives Hotel, Novotel Suites Riyadh Dyar

Best shopping markets: Al Qasr Mall, Othaim Mall, Talla Mall, Thaghr Plaza, Haraj Ibn Qasim, Maison BO-M

Suggested Read: Top Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia For An Exciting Vacation

9. Amadiya, Iraq

Amadiya, the old village in Iraq, dating back to 5,000 years, is among the most beautiful places to visit in the Middle East. Nestled over a flat serene mountain, adorning the history in its stone gates and other ruins, the village is one of the only living grounds that has witnessed the evolution of civilization from the past. Amadiya has lived through the past with Persians and Jews, the Christians and Assyrians. While the remains of history is a significant attraction of this village town, there are hiking trails and mountains to explore and experience some adventure.

Best time to visit: February to April

How to reach: To reach Amadiya, one can board a flight to Mosul International Airport that is 75 km from the Dohuk in Iraq. From Dohuk, one can find public buses and cabs to reach Amadiya.

Ideal duration: 1 day

Nearest Airport: Mosul International Airport

Popular attractions: Bahdinan Gate, The Ruins from the Assyrian, the tomb of Ezekiel, ruins of a synagogue

Things to do: City Tour, Hiking

Best places to stay: There are no hotels in Amadiya, but one can find motels for an overnight stay. It is advised to book a hotel in Dohuk.

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in March in The World to Experience Balmy Weather

10. Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol or Lemesos is indeed the best tourist place in the middle east where you can witness the beauty of beaches and a perfect blending of modernity and history. Laced with the best cafes and restaurants, Limassol is where you can find the refreshing taste of the old town. The seafront beauty and the blissful vibes of coast offer a leisure holiday in the middle east.

Limassol is the second-largest urban region in Cyprus where travelers can find everything from beach adventure to cultural vibes.

Best time to visit: February to June

How to reach: Boarding a flight to Larnaca and Paphos is perhaps the best way to reach Limassol. There are buses and cabs available at the airport for arriving at your desired destination in the city. Buses from cities like Troodos, Larnaca, Pafos and Nicosia to Limassol are operating for tourists.

Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport: Larnaca international airport

Popular attractions: House of the Gladiators, Limassol Medieval Museum, Kolossi Castle, Aphrodite's Rock

Things to do: Visit the Limassol Zoo, Discover the history of Limassol Castle, Spend a day in Fasouri Watermania, Leisure day at Limassol Beach.

Best places to stay: Four Seasons Hotel, Amara - Sea Your Only View, Harmony Bay Hotel, Alasia Boutique Hotel

Best shopping markets: Agiou Andreou Street, Anexartisias Street, My Mall, The Flea Market, Makarios Avenue.

Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in April in The World: To Feel The Bliss Of Vacation & Festivities

11. Petra, Jordan

While Jordan is an offbeat destination, Petra is one of the ancient beauties that is a must-visit tourist place in the Middle East. Petra, apart from being the UNESCO world heritage site, is even one of the seven wonders of the world to discover.

The town exhibits an archaeological marvel with the rustic and variant hues, the ruins from the Byzantine times and more. The sandstone city of Petra has the spectacular beauty of temples and a myriad of chronical grandeurs.

Best time to visit: March to May and September to November

How to reach: One can board a flight to Queen Alia International Airport at Zizya or King Hussein International Airport. There are taxis available from both the international airport to Perta making it easy to reach the city. You can also board buses that are operated by Jordan Express Tourist Transportation Company.

Ideal duration: 2 days

Nearest Airport: Queen Alia International Airport at Zizya or King Hussein International Airport

Popular attractions: The Siq, The Treasury, The Dam, Street of Facades, The Great Temple

Things to do: Explore the Colonnaded Street, Hike to The Best View of Petra, Visit Aaron’s Tomb, Discover the historical sites

Best places to stay: Petra Moon Hotel, Town Season Hotel, Petra Palace Hotel, Petra Marriott Hotel, EDOM Hotel

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in May in The World That True Explorers Should Know About

12. Kuwait City, Kuwait

The biggest city in the country, Kuwait is one of the best places to visit in the Middle East. Adorned with the most scenic coastlines and the elegant tourist places, Kuwait offers travelers the most impressive beauty of architecture. Housing the majority of Kuwait population, the city ranks among the top urbanized countries you can visit. You can discover a plethora of art and history in the museums and other best places to visit in Kuwait. Overlooking the Kuwait Bay on the Persian Gulf, Kuwait City is a hub of cultural and entertainment.

Best time to visit: November to April

How to reach: The Kuwait International Airport is just 15 km from the city, connecting it with every international destination. Cabs and taxis are available for commuting to the city from the airport.

Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days

Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport

Popular attractions: Kuwait Tower, Tareq Sayyed Rajab, Michel Ecochard, Liberation Tower, Grand Mosque, Al Sadu House

Things to do: Visit the Museums, A trip to Green Island, Spend a day in Al Kout Beaches, Plan a trip to Bayan Botanical Garden

Best places to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, The Palms Beach Hotel & Spa, Hilton Garden Inn Kuwait, Safir Fintas Hotel

Suggested Read: Top Airports in Kuwait: A Complete Guide With All The Necessary Information

13. Dubai, UAE

For a fancy Middle East vacation, head to Dubai, one of the best places to visit for an enchanting vacation. A skyline dominated by glistening skyscrapers, extravagant malls and fancy hotels, Dubai offers a lavish holiday vacation to guests. Not just the lavishness but you will also find myriad of landscapes here like stunning beaches and mesmerizing deserts where various thrilling activities can be enjoyed. From shopping of Gold from the famous Deira Souq to admiring exquisite views from the observation deck of Burj Khalifa, there are so many amazing touristy things to do in Dubai.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

How to Reach: Taking a flight is the best way to reach Dubai and alight at the Dubai International airport. You can also avail the bus service from other cities like Sharjah, Abu Dhabi etc.

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport

Popular Attractions: Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, Dubai Fountain, Deira Souq, Dubai Museum, Dubai Mall

Things to Do: Shop from the famous Deira Souq, admire views from Burj Khalifa, know about history at the Dubai Museum

Best Places to Stay: Shangri-la Hotel Dubai, Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai, Taj Dubai, Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights

Suggested Read: Beaches in Dubai: Bask in The Sun Or Indulge In Thrilling Adventures

14. Beirut, Lebanon

In the list of Middle East tourist attractions, Beirut will always make its place as this capital city of Lebanon is culturally diverse and attracts a lot of tourists every year. You will find myriad of culturally rich and historic attractions in Beirut along with enthralling views of the Mediterranean Sea. From the medieval artefacts found at the National Museum of Beirut to traditional souvenirs found at the Beirut Souqs, tourists can enjoy a great time here.

Best Time to Visit: July to September

How to Reach: Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is the main airport in the city, so taking a flight to Beirut is the best way. The main city is located 9 km from the airport which can be easily reached via a taxi.

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 Days

Nearest Airport: Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport

Popular Attractions: Pigeon Rocks, Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, National Museum of Beirut, The American University of Beirut (AUB), Sursock Museum, Baalbek

Things to Do: Know about the history of Beirut at National Museum of Beirut, witness ancient artefacts at American University Of Beirut, marvel at the architecture of Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

Best Places to Stay: Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort, Lancaster Plaza Beirut, The Smallville Hotel, Hotel Albergo, Crowne Plaza Beirut, The Smallville Hotel

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Istanbul, Turkey For The Chariot Races And Egyptian Obelisks

15. Manama, Bahrain

The traditional aesthetics of Bahrain will delight your senses in every way. Manama is one of the best places to visit in Bahrain which is dotted with a beautiful coastline of the Persian Gulf and stunning Islamic architectural delights. The rich heritage and the culturally rich ambience of Manama attracts tourists from all over the world. The museums, public squares, and public buildings everything boasts of stunning Islamic architecture here. Visit Manama and explore its exquisite beauty to make your Middle East vacation worth memorable.

Best Time to Visit: March to May

How to Reach: Bahrain International Airport is the closest airport to Manama, so booking a flight from any of the city is the best and the fastest way to reach Manama since the city has good connectivity throughout the world.

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Bahrain International Airport

Popular Attractions: Bahrain National Museum, Beit Al Quran, Little India, Manama Souq, Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park

Things to Do: Know about the rich history at Bahrain National Museum, shop from the Manama Souq, enjoy water rides at the famous Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park

Best Places to Stay: Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, InterContinental Bahrain, Crowne Plaza Manama

Suggested Read: Top Things to Do in Bahrain That Travelers Can't Afford To Miss

16. Muscat, Oman

One of the best places to visit in Oman, Muscat is the capital city and a culturally rich place to dig into the history and culture of Oman. Giving views of both the sea and the mighty mountains, Muscat also offers myriad of adventurous activities for the entertainment of visitors. Admire the rich heritage of Muscat by visiting its real gems like the museums, forts, and palaces. Stroll through the alluring Mutrah Corniche or get your hands on some fine handicrafts from the Mutrah Souq, Muscat has so many amazing things to offer to tourists that makes their vacation in Middle East worth memorable.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

How to Reach: Muscat International Airport is the main airport in the city which is very well connected to the city. Flights from different cities like Dubai, Beirut, Manama are easily available for Muscat.

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Mutrah Corniche, Sultan’s Palace, Bait Al Zubair, Musandam beaches, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Things to Do: Shop from Mutrah Souq, marvel at the fine architecture of Grand Mosque, stroll through the alluring Mutrah Corniche

Best Places to Stay: Kempinski Hotel Muscat, W Muscat, The Chedi Muscat – a GHM hotel, Fraser Suites Muscat, Grand Hyatt Muscat, JW Mariott Muscat, Sheraton Oman Hotel

Suggested Read: Best Hotels in Oman For A Joyous Stay

17. Isfahan, Iran

One of the best places to visit in the Middle East today, Isfahan in Iran is a paradise when it comes to a vacation. This is a city that is home to some amazing mosques and historical sites. One can find this city to be home to a large community of scholars and intellectuals. In fact, this is a city that has a massive influence in this part of the world and is often compared to Athens and Rome.

One can explore the enchanting mosques here that feature giant domes and large ceilings. Having said that, there's one interesting thing about Isfahan that not many travelers know. As far as the Iranian standards are concerned, this is a city that is surprisingly modern. There are many places to visit in Isfahan while some of the most educated people in Iran live in this city.

Best time to visit - Early April till mid- May

How To Reach - The Isfahan International Airport is located about 30 KM to the northeast of the city center and is a major medium of commuting to the city. One can also opt for a bus ride or a train journey to reach here.

Nearest Airport - Isfahan International Airport

Popular Attractions - Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Jame Mosque of Isfahan, Khaju Bridge, Si-o-se-pol, Isfahan Music Museum, Vank Cathedral, Chehel Sotoun Palace

Things To Do - Wander all the corners of Naqsh-e-Jahan Square, Have a picnic in the square, Walk through time in Jameh Mosque, Visit Majlesi Tomb

Best Places To Stay - Ghasr Monshi Hotel, Viana Hotel, Anar Guesthouse Isfahan, Hasht Behesht Apart. Hotel, Setareh Hotel, Abbasi Hotel, Iravani's Historic House

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Phuket, Thailand For An Enthralling Thai Vacation

18. Damascus, Syria

Established in the second millennium BC, Damascus is probably the oldest city capital in the world and was the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate from 661 to 750. What is interesting to note here is that Damascus carries huge significance in history. Its importance can be understood from the fact that the Umayyad Caliphate was one of the most Caliphates in history and stretched from Iran to Spain at one point.

Besides, its history isn’t the only reason why Damascus is one of the best Middle East vacation spots today. One can visit the amazing locations of the city that not only remind of the history but is also widely famous for a number of other factors. Travelers can explore locations like the Umayyad mosque which is famous for its vast history or roam around this ancient city. In fact, the Umayyad mosque was the Jupiter Temple during the Roman Era and later became a Christian basilica dedicated to John the Baptist. Today, however, it is one of the largest mosques in the world.

Best Time To Visit - March to May & September to November

How To Reach - Travelers can take a flight to the Damascus International Airport which is the main airport in the city. Besides this, there are buses available from the nearby cities here.

Nearest Airport - Damascus International Airport

Popular Attractions - Damascus Umayyad Mosque, Old City, Souq al-Hamidiyyeh, Al Azem Palace (Palace of As'ad, Pasha al-'Azm), The National Museum of Damascus

Things To Do - Watch a performance at the National Opera House, Have a drink on Straight Street, Visit The old Jewish Quarter, Visit The Historical Hejaz Railway Station, Take a Bath at Hammam Nur al-Din is one of the oldest bathhouses in Damascus, Have a look at the Damascene Sword Monument

Best Places To Stay -  Beit El Kroum, Hotel Saint Jean Zahle, Hotel St Jean - Zahle, Grand Hotel Kadri, Hotel Massabki, Delora Hotel and Suites

19. Al Balad, Jeddah

Now here’s a thing, Saudi Arabia is home to some of the finest historical locations in the world and one such example of the same is Al Balad. One of the top places to visit in the Middle East, this is the old side of Jeddah that was established more than 1,300 years ago as the gateway for Muslims on their way to Mecca. Most Muslims arrived by sea at the time from places like Africa.

Today, however, Al Balad is a completely different paradise. This is a place that is filled with amazing facades and is by far the liveliest area in Jeddah. This is, in fact, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful old cities from all Gulf monarchies.

Best Time To Visit - Evenings

How To Reach - Travelers can take a flight to the Jeddah Airport and cover the rest of the journey by bus since Al Balad is located in Jeddah

Nearest Airport - Jeddah Airport

Popular Attractions - Baeshen House, district’s old pilgrimage road, Masjid Shaffie, Saidi Bakery

Things To Do - Explore village majlis, spend time at a quirky cafe, explore the Baeshen House, wander on the district’s old pilgrimage road, check out Bait Nassif

Best Places To Stay - Jeddah Trident Hotel, Holiday Inn Jeddah Al Salam, Grand Al Saha, Elegant Hotel, Staybridge Suites Jeddah Alandalus Mall, Kenanh Jeddah Hotel, Madina Palace Hotel

Suggested Read: Things to Do in Saudi Arabia For An Amusing And Fun-Loving Getaway

20. Golestan, Iran

When it comes to the best Middle East Attractions, Golestan in Iran is another fine place that travelers should visit. Nestled in one of the remotest parts of Iran close to the borders of Turkmenistan, this is a place that features amongst the finest tourist spots in Iran today, and travelers coming here can have a great time meeting the large Turkmen community here.

Although the Golestan Province is one of the least visited provinces in Iran, one can visit this offbeat place and experience the wonders of this place.

Best Time To Visit - April and May in Spring and October in Autumn

How To Reach - The nearest airport to Golestan is Mehrabad International Airport. Travelers can easily book a flight to this airport.

Nearest Airport - Mehrabad International Airport

Popular Attractions - Golestan National Park, Alangdarreh Jungle, Ziarat Village, Kaboudwal Waterfall, Khalid Nabi Cemetery

Best Places To Stay - Gorgan Botanic Palace Hotel, Hotel Jahangardi Naharkhoran, Ziarat Hotel, Turkmenyurt, Naharkhoran, Sasang Roof Residence, Sasang Ecolodge

Spend your holiday in the best places to visit in the Middle East that offers you some fascinating attraction and adventures to try. These destinations are connected with the best air network for an excellent and vivid travel experience. Reserve your hotel and create a bucket list to engage each day of your vacation excitingly. Don't forget to shop and capture the beauty of these holiday destination in the Middle Eastern region.

Places To Visit In The Middle East - FAQs