Top 10 Cities in the Middle East to Visit on Vacation

The Middle East was once an unexplored land for tourists. Countries primarily traded oil with the region, and that was it.

However, with the turn of the new millennium, the Middle East has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Great cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Riyadh, Jerusalem, and Doha have emerged as top tourist destinations.

Therefore, if you're looking for a unique vacation, you should visit the Middle East. There are many wonderful places here that you shouldn't miss. Here are 10 of them.

The Top Ten

  1. Dubai, U.A.E.

    Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the 18th century as a small fishing village, the city grew rapidly in the early 21st century into a cosmopolitan metropolis focused on tourism and hospitality. Dubai is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations... read more

    Possibly the greatest city in the world, Dubai is a dream destination for all international travelers. From logic-defying architectural marvels to unforgettable experiences, you can find it all in Dubai.

    Try to come here during DSF for a magnificent shopping experience. The must-see places in Dubai are Burj Khalifa, Palm Islands, Gold Souk, Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, Dubai Fountain, and Dubai Marina. You can also take a short tour of the nearby city, Abu Dhabi, and check out the wonderful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Yas Island.

    In Dubai, you are guaranteed to have the best vacation of your life.

  2. Cairo, Egypt

    Cairo is the capital and largest city of Egypt. Located along the Nile River, it is a major center of culture, history, and commerce in the Arab world. Cairo is home to the Egyptian Museum and is near the famous Pyramids of Giza.

    Thanks to the Arab Spring, Cairo is now at peace and is ripe to be explored by travelers. The main city, Cairo, retains the old-world charm with its traditional markets, old-style restaurants, warm people, and mismatching architecture. But it is also a fast-developing city, capable of bestowing luxurious experiences on tourists.

    Explore the city on your own for an adventurous experience, but don't forget to visit the pyramids. They are a prime feature of Cairo.

  3. Istanbul, Turkey

    Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is the most populous city in Turkey and serves as the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. The city straddles the Bosphorus Strait, placing it in both Europe and Asia.... read more

    Istanbul is the only place in the world where you can experience the cultures of three continents. Istanbul lies between Europe and Asia and has a strong Middle Eastern population, making it one of the most awesome places to visit.

    From massive malls to localized markets, you get the best of both worlds in Istanbul. One of the biggest attractions of Istanbul is the cuisine. Turkish cuisine has a huge following around the world, and every tourist who comes here must indulge in a few Turkish delights.

  4. Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.

    Abu Dhabi is the capital and the second most populous city of the United Arab Emirates. It is also the capital of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the largest of the UAE's seven emirates. Abu Dhabi is an important political, cultural, and economic center in the country.

    Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world in terms of tourism. It has world-class hotels, amazing attractions, luxurious lifestyles, and shopping havens.

    Abu Dhabi attractions like Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit, Corniche, Heritage Village, and Emirates Palace are famous the world over. Just take any of the Abu Dhabi sightseeing tours, and you will get to see these awesome places.

    Abu Dhabi is one of the best cities in the Middle East and definitely worth a visit.

  5. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

    Though a strict Islamic nation, Saudi Arabia is now a growing tourist destination as well. They are reducing their dependency on oil and focusing on tourism. The capital, Riyadh, is the financial and tourism capital as well.

    Tourists can get luxurious stays and enjoy attractions like King Abdulaziz Historical Fort, Riyadh Zoo, King Abdullah Park, Al Khaimah Theme Park, and Namar Dam Lake. It is the perfect place to enjoy the best of what Saudi Arabia has to offer.

  6. Tel Aviv, Israel

    Tourism to Israel is on the rise. The country is at peace and has set out the red carpet for all international travelers. Jerusalem is the place for a historical and religious experience, but if you want a more modern, international experience, Tel Aviv is the place to be.

    The metro city has an enviable nightlife and stunning beaches. It also has attractions like Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Ramat Gan Safari, Azrieli Center, Luna Park, and Bialik House.

  7. Jerusalem, Israel

    Jerusalem is a city in the Middle East, located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and holds religious significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Jerusalem serves as the capital of Israel, although this... read more

  8. Manama, Bahrain

    Manama has been an important trade stop in the Middle East for centuries. This has resulted in the city becoming rich in history, trade, and culture. Therefore, if you are planning on holidaying here, do check out the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, Bahrain National Museum, King Fahd Causeway, Amwaj Islands, Adhari Theme Park, and Water Garden. It will be one of your best vacations.

  9. Doha, Qatar

    Doha is the financial and actual capital of Qatar. This awesome city has now become a global city, attracting tourists from all over the world. It can easily rival the popularity of Dubai.

    Doha has ultra-luxurious hotels, beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring shopping malls, souks, desert adventures, and world-famous golf courses. The attractions you should visit here are the Museum of Islamic Art, The Pearl, Al Wajbah Fort, Doha Corniche, Aspire Park, and the Doha Zoo.

  10. Beirut, Lebanon

    Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon. It is located on a peninsula along the Mediterranean Sea and serves as the country's main port. With a history that dates back over 5,000 years, Beirut is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities.

    History, culture, and traditions - Beirut is the place for experiencing a unique holiday. The city has recovered from the ravages of war and is ready to welcome the world with its unique hospitality.

    You can explore many ancient architectural monuments and religious and cultural destinations. However, if you want something different, Beirut also has nightlife destinations, beaches, clubs, fine-dining restaurants, and luxury hotels.

    Beirut is growing, and now is the right time to explore it.

    11. The Newcomers
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    Aleppo, Syria

  12. ?

    Damascus, Syria

    Damascus is the capital of the Syrian Arab Republic. It is also currently the most populous city in Syria. This change occurred after the population of Aleppo significantly declined due to the Battle of Aleppo during the Syrian Civil War.

    13. The Contenders

  13. Muscat, Oman

  14. Tehran, Iran

    Tehran is the capital city of Iran and lies at the base of the Alborz mountain range in the northern part of the country. It serves as the political, cultural, and economic heart of Iran. The city blends modern architecture with historical landmarks, offering a unique urban landscape... read more

  15. Amman, Jordan

  16. Antalya, Turkey

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