Middle East attractions

The Middle East region is located in the western part of the Asian continent. It includes countries such as Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the northern regions of Saudi Arabia, and partially Egypt. For two countries on this list, Israel and Egypt, tourism is a very important sector of the economy.

Israel

One of the most fascinating countries in the world for tourism is Israel. The main place to start your journey is Jerusalem. This city is sacred to three religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. It cannot be judged by the criteria of "beautiful or not." It has a completely different energy. Its history is not about the dates of the construction of palaces and cathedrals; it is the history of humanity, the history of modern civilization, and the history of Christianity.

The Old City of Jerusalem was built in 110 AD by Emperor Hadrian and has not been rebuilt since. At every turn, you can encounter religious shrines. On the Temple Mount are the Islamic holy sites of the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque. At the foot of the mount, Jews pray at the Western Wall, which is part of the outer western wall of Herod`s Temple. Jerusalem is also home to many Christian shrines. The most important of these is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Golgotha.

Jordan

The second most historically attractive country in the Middle East is Jordan, which borders Israel. There are also many places here connected to biblical history, although the main attraction of Jordan is undoubtedly the lost city of Petra. It is located 30 kilometers southeast of the Dead Sea. This place can truly be called a Wonder of the World. It takes a full day to explore all the monuments of this ancient city.

One of the most intriguing places in the Middle East is the Dead Sea. On the Jordanian side, in the northern part of the sea, there is the Suweima resort (with 4 hotels), while on the Israeli side, in the far south, lies the Ein Bokek resort (with 11 hotels). Visiting the Dead Sea is a must. You will never forget the sensation of floating in its waters. The ruins of the Roman city of Jerash, located 50 kilometers north of Jordan`s capital, Amman, are also of great interest.

Egypt

Egypt is partially included in the Middle East region. Its resorts are renowned among beach lovers. Almost every European has likely vacationed at least once in Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada. However, Egypt is not just about beach resorts.

The historical landmarks of ancient civilization have always attracted tourists. The most significant ancient monuments are the Pyramids of Giza, Abu Simbel, and the island of Philae in Aswan, as well as the temples of Luxor—Karnak and Luxor Temples, Ramesseum, Medinet Habu, and the Valley of the Kings.

Lebanon

For lovers of historical mysteries, a visit to the Lebanese temple of Baalbek will be very interesting. It is located in the Bekaa Valley, 80 kilometers northeast of Beirut. While scientists have somewhat figured out the construction techniques of the Pyramids of Giza and the Moai statues on Easter Island (in both cases, stone blocks weighing 60-80 tons were processed and transported), how the 800-ton stone blocks in Baalbek were transported and laid remains a mystery. Even modern construction cranes cannot move such blocks. Near Baalbek, you can visit the Kadisha Valley and see the Cedars of God park.

UAE

The most popular country among tourists is the UAE. Previously, tourism was most actively developed in Dubai, but in recent years, other emirates have also made significant efforts to attract tourists. In the capital, Abu Dhabi, impressive landmarks have been built, while beach tourism is developing in Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman, and other cities.

In Dubai, tourists can visit the world`s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, shop in malls, and watch fountain shows. In Abu Dhabi, there is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the recently opened Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, and several theme parks, including the famous Ferrari World. All cities boast beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels. Almost every city offers jeep tours into the desert.

Other countries in the Persian Gulf are also of interest for beach tourism and shopping. Qatar and Oman have resorts. Saudi Arabia has opened many regions to tourism, offering both natural attractions and modern infrastructure.