Middle East Escapes Await
Uncover a World of Ancient Wonders and Dazzling Modernity!
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The Middle East is a treasure chest of history, culture, and adventure, just waiting to be explored!
Welcome to a region where timeless traditions and bold innovation exist side by side, creating a travel experience unlike any other. The Middle East is a captivating blend of the ancient and the avant-garde, a place where you can wander through millennia-old ruins in the morning and dine atop a glistening skyscraper by night. From the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert to the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea, this is a destination that will ignite your senses and challenge your perceptions. It’s a land of legendary hospitality, where a warm welcome and a cup of fragrant mint tea are never far away.
So, dust off your sense of adventure and get ready for a journey that will take you from the pages of history books to the forefront of modern luxury. This guide is your key to unlocking the mesmerising wonders of the Middle East. Let Youngs Travel lead you on an unforgettable expedition into a world of enchanting tales, breathtaking landscapes, and memories you’ll treasure forever.
Your Holiday Snapshot: The Middle East at a Glance
Dreaming of a Middle Eastern escape? Here’s a handy overview of everything you need to know before you embark on your Arabian adventure. We’ve done the homework to make your travel planning as smooth as silk.
Flight Time
Flight time from the UK: Direct flights to destinations like Dubai and Doha take approximately 7 hours. Flights to Jordan and Egypt are shorter, around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
All Currencies
UAE: UAE Dirham (AED)
Jordan: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Oman: Omani Rial (OMR)
Egypt: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Timezone
UAE & Oman: GMT +4 hours
Jordan & Egypt: GMT +3 hours
Visa Requirements
UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi): You can get a visitor visa on arrival, free of charge, for stays of up to 30 days.
Jordan: You'll need to buy a visa on arrival, or you can purchase a "Jordan Pass" online before you travel, which includes the visa fee and entry to many top sites.
Oman: UK passport holders can enter Oman for up to 14 days without a visa. For longer stays, an e-visa is required.
Egypt: You can get a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa beforehand.
Transportation Options
UAE: Modern, clean, and efficient metro systems in Dubai, supplemented by plentiful and affordable taxis and ride-sharing apps.
Jordan: Hiring a private driver is a popular and convenient way to see the main sights. Taxis are common in cities like Amman.
Oman: Renting a 4x4 is ideal for exploring the diverse terrain, from mountains to deserts.
Egypt: A combination of domestic flights, Nile river cruises, and pre-booked road transport is the most efficient way to travel between major sites like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.
Average Weather
The best time to visit the Middle East is during the cooler months, from October to April. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (May to September) can be extremely hot, especially in the Gulf states.
Arabian Nights & Dazzling Heights: Four Unmissable Middle Eastern Hotspots
Dubai is a city that has to be seen to be believed. A playground of architectural marvels and world-class entertainment, it’s a place where ‘impossible’ is just a word. Ascend the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, for jaw-dropping views; shop 'til you drop in the enormous Dubai Mall; and witness the spectacular dancing fountains. From indoor ski slopes to man-made islands shaped like palm trees, Dubai offers a dazzling glimpse into the future and a holiday packed with non-stop excitement.
Petra, Jordan: Walk in the Footsteps of History
Step back in time and prepare to be awestruck by the ancient city of Petra. Famously carved into the rose-red desert cliffs, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Nabatean engineering. Your journey begins with a walk through the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge that opens up to reveal the breathtaking facade of the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Spend your days exploring royal tombs, colonnaded streets, and monasteries for an archaeological adventure that will stay with you forever.
Giza, Egypt: Stand in Awe of Ancient Giants
No trip to the Middle East is complete without gazing upon the last surviving wonder of the ancient world. The Great Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx have captivated travellers for millennia. Standing at the foot of these colossal structures is a truly humbling experience, connecting you to over 4,500 years of human history. Delve into the nearby Egyptian Museum in Cairo to see the treasures of Tutankhamun and complete your journey through the land of the Pharaohs.
Muscat & The Mountains, Oman: Discover Arabia's Authentic Soul
For a taste of old-world Arabia blended with spectacular natural beauty, Oman is the perfect destination. Start in the capital, Muscat, with its elegant Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and bustling Mutrah Souk, before heading for the hills. The dramatic Al Hajar Mountains offer incredible scenery, with deep canyons (wadis) perfect for a refreshing swim, ancient forts perched on hilltops, and traditional villages to explore. It’s an authentic and adventurous escape from the everyday.
Your Middle East Masterclass: Top Tips for a Perfect Trip
Dress for Respect and Comfort
While the Middle East is modern, it’s also a region where tradition is valued. When visiting religious sites, both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Women will often be required to cover their hair (a light scarf is perfect for this). In cities and resorts, normal holiday wear is fine, but packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of cotton or linen is wise for both staying cool and being respectful of local culture.
Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe
The Middle Eastern sun is powerful, even in the cooler months. Drink plenty of bottled water throughout the day to stay hydrated. A high-factor sunscreen, a good pair of sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are non-negotiable essentials for your packing list. Plan your sightseeing for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
Embrace the Art of Haggling
A trip to a traditional souk or bazaar is a feast for the senses, and a little friendly bartering is all part of the fun! Whether you're eyeing up spices, lanterns, or hand-woven carpets, remember to keep it light-hearted and polite. The first price you're given is rarely the final one, so go on, give it a go – you might just bag yourself a beautiful bargain.
Learn a Little of the Lingo
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Arabic phrases will be greatly appreciated by the locals and will enrich your travel experience. Simple greetings like 'As-salamu alaykum' (hello) and expressions of thanks like 'Shukran' (thank you) will be met with warm smiles and can open the door to more authentic interactions.
Your Arabian Adventure Awaits!
From Ancient Sands to Modern Marvels, the Middle East is Calling Your Name!
The Middle East is a land of incredible contrasts, where epic history and futuristic ambition dance in the desert sun. It's a place that tells a story at every turn, from the hieroglyphs on a temple wall to the call to prayer echoing over a bustling city. You can find adventure in the vast emptiness of the desert, luxury in the heart of a metropolis, and tranquility in the turquoise waters of the sea. It’s a journey that will broaden your horizons and fill your photo albums with incredible sights.
One moment you could be haggling for spices in a centuries-old market, the next you could be sipping cocktails with a skyline of glittering towers before you. This is the magic of the Middle East. So, are you ready to write your own Arabian tale? Contact the travel experts at Youngs Travel today, and let's start planning a journey that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
