Travel Guides: All Countries, Middle East.
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| | | A region of stark contrasts |  | What countries are there?
Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, Israel and Lebanon.
Why go on holiday there?
It's a region of stark contrasts – combining ancient ruins and ultra-modern cityscapes, searing desert heat and refreshingly cool coasts plus Arabic hospitality and Bedouin traditions. There are tons of activities to keep everyone entertained. The region's also an ideal winter sun, short break or multi-centre destination.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary across the region. Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its superb luxury hotels. A five-night stay costs around £750. Similarly, the price of a nine-day tour of Syria starts from £700. A week in Jordan will set you back £350.
When should I go?
Summer brings oppressive heat and humidity to the Middle East, especially in the interior, where temperatures can shoot up to 40C/104F. It's best to visit Syria and Jordan during the autumn and spring when it feels pleasantly warm. Consider going to Dubai between November and April. Heavy rains in December and January can make getting around difficult.
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| | | The must-see spots | | What can I see?
Petra in Jordan is a must-see for any visitor. Carved out of sandstone cliffs and set in a deep canyon, this ancient city includes a huge amphitheatre and treasury. The capital city Amman is also a bustling, charming place with Roman ruins, a citadel and a forum to explore. Syria's main tourist sights include the imposing Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers and Damascus, which claims to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. For an interesting snapshot of history, archaeology, seafaring, weaponry and music in Dubai, visit the museum housed in Al-Fahaidi Fort. Take a boat trip on an abra or motorised taxi to enjoy all-around views of the city's towering skyline.
If I want to relax?
Aqaba on Jordan's Red Sea coast is a year-round beach resort renowned for diving, water-skiing, snorkelling and boating. Dubai also has some fabulous beaches but watch out for occasionally rough seas. In Syria, visiting a hammam or Turkish bathhouse is a memorable way to unwind, though it's often limited to men. Some places offer foreigners mixed facilities – for a premium price.
I'd like to visit the desert.
Dubai's endless sand dunes make a popular excursion for day-trippers seeking 4WD adventures and sand skiing. For a taste of desert life in Jordan, Wadi Rum — former haunt of Lawrence of Arabia — features dramatic rock formations. You can even spend the night with a Bedouin family. Syria's Palmyra desert oasis is considered to boast the most stunning Roman ruins in the Middle East. Visit them early in the morning or at sunset for the best photos minus the crowds.
What's there to do at night?
The Middle East is the wrong place for a holiday if you're a die-hard party-goer. Most evening entertainment in Jordan and Dubai tends to be concentrated in the hotels. The clubs in the Syrian cities of Damascus and Aleppo can be sleazy. Better to while away your evening in a coffee house, instead.
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| | | Food and shopping | | Will children like it?
Family-friendly facilities are good. Dubai has Magic Planet with 10-pin bowling and various electronic games, Wonderland water park, Encounter Zone amusement rides and a zoo. Jordan's Rainbow Street centre in Amman offers roller-skating, dodgems and bowling alleys and of course, floating in the Dead Sea is a real winner among kids.
What's the food like?
Dubai lacks its own distinctive cuisine and has mainly borrowed flavours from Lebanon or Iran. A favourite local drink is tea –with ginger and mint varieties. In Syria and Jordan, meals consist of numerous small dishes such as falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), shwarma (barbecued lamb or chicken) and fuul (fava beans, garlic and lemon mix). For a Bedouin speciality, sample mensaf (a whole lamb on a bed of rice and pine nuts). Remember, pork is unavailable in Arabic and kosher restaurants for religious reasons.
What can I buy?
Shopaholics will love the souqs found throughout the region. Look out for Bedouin carpets, pottery, spices, gold and silver jewellery, crafts, nargilehs or hookah pipes. Bargaining is acceptable. Dubai's duty-free status is a major draw – with designer labels available at much cheaper prices than in the UK. Gold prices in Dubai are among the lowest in the world.
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| | Available rental properties in Middle East |
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