The Middle East is one of the best tourist places to visit if you are charmed by ancient marvels, modern architecture, and lovely landscapes. It broadly consists of 18 countries like Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman and many more. We bet the charm and splendor of these diverse places along with colorful communities and culture will linger on forever.
Top 12 Amazing Places To Visit In the Middle East
Come, let’s explore the top 12 Middle East destinations that promise to create some beautiful memories.
1. Dubai, UAE
Dubai captivates you with its ultra-modern skyline and splendid attractions. A visit to the world’s tallest building the Burj Khalifa, leaves you spellbound! Equally amazing is the artificial archipelago, Palm Jumeirah.
You will find high-end shopping malls, the Dubai Creek, and the iconic Dubai Fountain here. The adventurous desert safari is exciting too! So, if you want to dine and entertain in luxury, visit Dubai. It is the most famous travel destination in the Middle East.
Best Time To Visit: November- March
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport
Best Places To Visit:
- Burj Al Arab
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Creek
- Dubai Fountain
- Dubai Museum
2. Jerusalem, Israel
Jerusalem in Israel is a very sacred place for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It is a city with a great historical and religious past. Visit the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock, that reignite the faith in you.
Jerusalem is flocked by tourists who are fascinated by the grand marketplaces and the old city. A trip to the Dead Sea is sure to relax you. So is the splendor of the Tisch Family Zoological Gardens. You be surprised that the city has amazing nightlife and is a world-class host, too!
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Nearest Airport: Ben Gurion Airport
Best Places to Visit:
- Church of all Nations
- Jewish Quarter
- Mount of Olives
- Tower of David
- Dome of the Rock
3. Muscat, Oman
Muscat, Oman’s historic capital offers a diverse blend of modern buildings and traditional architecture. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House are well-known marvels. The National Museum of the Sultanate of Oman opened in 1986. It contains some great exhibits reflecting the history and archaeology of the country.
The Mutrah Fort, a 400-year-old edifice impresses tourists with its colorful splendour. You will also marvel at the city’s coastline. It is dotted with some scenic beaches that mesmerize you. If shopping is something that interests you, visit the Muscat City Centre and you won’t be disappointed!
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport
Best Places to Visit:
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Mutrah Corniche
- The Royal Opera House
- Wadi Bani Khalid
- Mutrah Fort
- Yiti Beach
4. Beirut, Lebanon
Beirut is Lebanon’s capital city and one of the best tourist places in the Middle East. It is known as the Paris of the Middle East A must-visit is Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael which resonate with raw energy. They offer varied experiences from art galleries to cool cafes.
The National Museum of Beirut is a witness to the country’s proud history. If you are looking to go towards the seaside, the Mediterranean Sea will charm you. Explore some local food at the Beirut Souq. And yes, don’t forget to shop for the best souvenirs here!
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Nearest Airport: Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport
Best Places to Visit:
- Pigeon Rocks
- Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
- National Museum of Beirut
- The American University of Beirut (AUB)
- Baalbek
5. Doha, Qatar
Doha is the capital of Qatar and an ultra-modern city with striking architectural wonders. Plan a trip to the Museum of Islamic Art that introduces you to the proud cultural heritage. Visit the Souq Waqif, a traditional market that amazes you with its colourful ambience.
If you want to witness some impressive urban planning the Pearl-Qatar, an artificial island is sure to leave you spellbound! The sky-high towers are striking and lure tourists no end. No doubt it is the best place to travel to the Middle East for its poise.
Best Time to Visit: December-February
Nearest Airport: Hamad International Airport
Best Places to Visit:
- Katara Cultural Village
- Qatar National Museum
- Museum of Islamic Art
- Souq Waqif
- Doha Corniche
6. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, the capital city of Turkey lies between Asia and Europe. It is the city of minarets. It represents the unique blend of past and the present. Thus, one of the best places to visit in the Middle East.
Don’t miss the Ottoman ruins of the past like the Sultans’ palaces, and great mosques that stand side by side with modern architecture. The city is renowned for its shopping markets. We bet the markets will mesmerize you even if shopping doesn’t attract you.
Best Time to Visit: March To May- September To November
Nearest Airport: Istanbul International Airport
Best Attractions To Visit:
- Hagia Sophia
- Basilica Cistern
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
- Topkapi Palace
- Ölüdeniz
7. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is steeped in the culture and history of yesteryears. The capital of Egypt, it is a top Middle East Holiday destination. Known as the city of thousand minarets it is situated on the Nile River.
Try to explore the world-famous Pyramids of Giza and the ancient Egyptian Museum to discover its unique past. You will be shocked with awe at the mummies and artifacts in the museums.
Best Time to Visit: December to February- March- April
Nearest Airport: Cairo International Airport
Best Places To Visit:
- The Giza pyramids
- The Sphinx
- Cairo Citadel
- The Egyptian Museum
- Cairo Tower
8. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia is a top-rated Middle East Tourist attraction. The modern high towers brilliantly showcase how a small tribal region has transformed into a top-notch city. It’s magnificent shopping arcades amaze you!
This is one of the best places to visit in the Middle East as it has a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary life. Riyadh has some authentic places offering traditional local fare. There are modern restaurants and cafes too. And yes, if hiking interests you, they have hiking trails too!
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Nearest Airport: King Khalid International Airport
Best Attractions to Visit:
- Masmak fort
- King Abdul Aziz Historical Center
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia
- Royal Saudi Air Force Museum
- Murabba Palace
9. Manama, Bahrain
Manama is a major tourist attraction in Bahrain. You will love to laze around the seashore or swim in blue waters. Stroll around to shop for handicrafts or go out for some amazing shopping and dining experience. Try yachting, and watch the scenic sunrise and Manama will delight you!
Plan a trip to the Bahrain World Trade Center, a well-known financial hub. There are some popular restaurants and hotels like the Oryx Rotana Hotel Bahrain here. So, try some delicious food and you are good to go!
Best Time To Visit: December To March
Nearest Airport: Bahrain International Airport
Best Places To Visit:
- Bahrain National Museum
- Manama Souq
- Bahrain National Theater
- Beit Al Quran
- Sheik Isa Bin Ali House
- Al Fatih Mosque
10. Amman, Jordan
Amman in Jordan is a city that perfectly harmonizes the blend of old and new. It is the best Middle East holiday destination as it has so much to offer. You can plan to visit the Roman Amphitheater, Jordan Museum, and Jabal Amman for amazing art galleries.
The historic ruins of Amman Citadel are a perfect tourist spot if history interests you. The nightlife in Amman is also exciting. There are music concerts by renowned artists that are most entertaining.
Best Time To Visit: September To November
Nearest Airport: Queen Alia International Airport
Best Places To Visit:
- The Citadel
- Royal Automobile Museum
- Roman Amphitheater
- Al Balad – Downtown Amman
- The Jordan Museum
11. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Jeddah in Saudi Arabia is well-known for its classical wonders. It is a commercial hub also. It has a religious fervour as it is a gateway to the Islamic cities of Mecca and Medina.
Explore the mesmerizing classical architecture, and spend some quiet moments at cafés. You can also find the best Arabian souvenirs in the old Souq. Don’t forget to enjoy the mouth-watering Arabian cuisines!
Best Time to Visit -November through early March
Nearest Airport – Jeddah Airport
Best Places to Visit:
- Jeddah Waterfront, Corniche.
- Al Rahma Mosque.
- Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum.
- Khuzam Palace.
- King Fahd’s Fountain
12. Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv is located in Israel and is a scenic place full of life. The place has a natural charm that delights you. Do not miss the exciting leisure activities that will captivate you. The Sun-kissed beaches delight you with their natural beauty.
The local museums showcase the grand historic past. Stroll around and you will find some great stuff at the local markets. It has cool cafes and nightlife too! Tel Aviv has everything to be included in the list of best places to visit in Middle East.
Best Time to Visit: March to April and September to November
Nearest Airport: Tel Aviv
Best Places to Visit:
- Hilton Beach
- Rothschild Boulevard
- Tel Aviv Museum of Art
- Yarkon Park
- Carmel Market.
Conclusion
The Middle East leaves you wanting for more with its historic sites, ancient ruins, modern urbane spaces and glitzy shopping malls. So, plan a visit now make some memorable moments together!
