Business and Pleasure Travel Guides - Middle East City Guides

Travel Notes - Directory

Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi by Ryan Miglinczy on Unsplash.

Travel Notes: Destinations: City Guides - City Guides For Visitors to the Middle East.

City Guides Short URL: https://tnot.es/City

Visiting The Middle East

The Middle East is a region of immense historical, cultural, and natural diversity, and its cities attract millions of visitors each year for both business and tourism. Share on Facebook

Travel For Business and Pleasure

The Middle East has evolved into a vibrant destination that caters to both business travellers and leisure tourists, offering a unique blend of ancient history, modern luxury, and warm hospitality.

Travel Websites Reviewed.

Add a Business - Add a Location - Add a Lodging - Add Travel Content - Add URL - Travel Services.

Blending Ancient History With Modern Marvels

The Middle East offers a compelling combination of business opportunities and leisure experiences, making it an exciting destination for travellers who appreciate both cultural richness and modern amenities.

Whether you’re closing deals or exploring ancient medinas, the region’s warmth and diversity will leave a lasting impression.

Business Travel in the Middle East

The region has seen significant economic growth, making it a booming hub for business travel, especially in cities like Dubai and Riyadh.

Many Arab states have developed infrastructure and services tailored to international business needs.

Business culture in the Middle East can be quite different from Western norms.

For example, punctuality is valued from visitors, but local counterparts may arrive late, reflecting a more relaxed approach to time.

It’s best to be patient and respectful of these cultural differences.

Modern business hotels and facilities, such as those in Dubai’s Business Bay, offer high-energy atmospheres with attentive service and stylish design, ideal for networking and meetings.

Convenient airport proximity and amenities make cities like Dubai especially attractive for business travellers who may also want to enjoy leisure activities during their stay.

Leisure Travel Highlights

The Middle East is no longer just for oil executives or religious pilgrims; it now attracts travellers drawn by its rich history, luxury accommodations, desert adventures, and growing art scenes.

Visitors can explore diverse experiences, from the bustling markets of Doha to serene oases in Oman, all marked by legendary Middle Eastern hospitality and warmth.

Popular destinations include Riyadh, which welcomes both tourists and business visitors with a warm atmosphere and cultural richness.

Leisure travellers can enjoy unique cultural experiences such as partaking in hookah (flavoured tobacco smoking), which is a traditional social custom, though alcohol remains less embedded in the culture compared to Western countries.

The region offers a variety of activities, including diving in the Red Sea near Jordan, luxury resorts with private beaches in Dubai, and vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.

Tips for a Successful Visit

Be prepared for a mix of ultra-modern cities and traditional cultural sites.

Embrace the hospitality and social customs, such as accepting invitations to share tea or hookah.

Plan for some flexibility in scheduling meetings or activities due to the different pace of time.

Respect local customs and dress codes, which can vary widely across the region.

A

Abha - (Saudi Arabia).

Abu Dhabi - (United Arab Emirates):
The capital, famous for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island.

Acre (Akko) - (Israel).

Ajman - (United Arab Emirates).

Al Ain - (United Arab Emirates):
Known for its oases, forts, and archaeological sites.

Al Bahah - (Saudi Arabia).

Al Buraimi - (Oman).

Al Hofuf - (Saudi Arabia).

Al Jubail - (Saudi Arabia).

Al Khafji - (Saudi Arabia).

Al Khor - (Qatar).

Al Qassim - (Saudi Arabia).

Al Rayyan - (Qatar).

AlUla - (Saudi Arabia):
Home to the UNESCO site of Hegra (Mada'in Salih) spectacular Nabataean rock-cut tombs, similar to Petra but less crowded, set in dramatic desert landscapes.

dramatic desert landscapes.

Al Wakrah - (Qatar).

Amman - (Jordan):
The capital, a blend of ancient and modern, and a base for exploring the country.

Aqaba - (Jordan):
Red Sea resort city, known for diving and water sports.

B

Baalbek - (Lebanon):
Home to some of the largest and best-preserved Roman temple ruins, including the Temple of Bacchus and Temple of Jupiter.

Baghdad - (Iraq).

Bahla - (Oman).

Batroun - (Lebanon).

Beirut - (Lebanon):
The capital, known for its vibrant nightlife, history, and Mediterranean charm.

Bethlehem - (West Bank):
The acclaimed birthplace of Jesus.

Buraidah - (Saudi Arabia).

Byblos - (Lebanon):
One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, with Phoenician ruins, Crusader castles, and a charming harbour.

D

Dammam - (Saudi Arabia).

Doha - (Qatar):
The capital, known for the futuristic skyline and cultural landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art, set on an artificial island, and the traditional Souq Waqif market with its lively atmosphere.

Dubai - (United Arab Emirates):
The region’s tourism powerhouse, known for the Burj Khalifa, luxury shopping, beaches, and vibrant nightlife is the most visited city in the Middle East.

Dukhan - (Qatar).

E

Eilat - (Israel).

Erbil - (Iraq):
The capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, known for its rich history and cultural experiences.

F

Fahaheel - (Kuwait).

Fujairah - (United Arab Emirates).

G

Galilee - (Israel).

H

Haifa - (Israel):
Famous for the Bahá'í Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hail - (Saudi Arabia).

Hawalli - (Kuwait).

Hebron - (West Bank).

Hormuz Island - (Iran):
Known as Iran’s 'Rainbow Island' due to its vibrant, colourful landscapes and unique natural beauty. It offers a blend of stunning natural wonders, including red soil and beaches, which create a surreal environment perfect for adventure and ecotourism like camping by the sea. The island has a distinct cultural vibe where locals use the red soil in cooking, and transportation is mainly by tuk-tuks and motorbikes, adding to its charm. Visitors appreciate the island’s freer social atmosphere compared to mainland Iran, with lively music and a relaxed dress code, making it a special and welcoming place for travellers seeking something different. The best time to visit is during autumn and winter when the weather is most pleasant.

I

Ibri - (Oman).

Irbid - (Jordan).

Isa Town - (Bahrain).

Isfahan - (Iran):
Isfahan is renowned for its stunning Persian architecture, historic bridges, and beautiful mosques. The city’s rich history and vibrant bazaars offer travellers a deep dive into Iran’s heritage and traditional crafts. Its picturesque squares and gardens provide a serene atmosphere for exploration and relaxation.

J

Jahra - (Kuwait).

Jazan - (Saudi Arabia).

Jeddah - (Saudi Arabia):
The gateway to Mecca, with the UNESCO-listed Al Balad old town featuring coral stone buildings and vibrant souqs. The King Fahd Fountain is the tallest of its kind in the world.

Jerash - (Jordan):
Renowned for its Roman ruins.

Jerusalem - (Israel):
A city of immense religious significance, with sites like the Western Wall and Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Jounieh - (Lebanon).

K

Khasab - (Oman).

Khobar - (Saudi Arabia).

Khor Fakkan - (United Arab Emirates).

Kuwait City - (Kuwait):
The capital, with the Kuwait Towers, offering panoramic views, alongside the Grand Mosque and vibrant cultural centres.

M

Ma'an - (Jordan).

Madaba - (Jordan).

Manama - (Bahrain):
The capital, famous for the Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a mix of modern and traditional markets.

Mecca (Makkah) - (Saudi Arabia):
The holiest city in Islam, drawing millions of pilgrims to the Kaaba annually.

Medina (Madinah) - (Saudi Arabia):
Second holiest city in Islam, with the Prophet's Mosque.

Mesaieed - (Qatar).

Muharraq - (Bahrain).

Musandam Peninsula - (Oman):
Known as the 'Norway of Arabia' for its fjord-like inlets and dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea.

Muscat - (Oman):
The capital, known for the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with exquisite Islamic architecture and a massive Persian carpet. The Mutrah Souq offers a traditional shopping experience.

N

Nablus - (West Bank).

Najran - (Saudi Arabia).

Nazareth - (Israel).

Nizwa - (Oman):
Famous for its fort and traditional souq.

P

Palmyra - (Syria):
Ancient ruins that are a testament to the region’s historical significance.

Petra - (Jordan):
The 'Rose City', a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

R

Ramallah - (West Bank).

Ras Al Khaimah - (United Arab Emirates):
Offers natural beauty with the Jebel Jais mountain, the highest peak in the UAE, perfect for hiking and zip-lining.

Riffa - (Bahrain).

Riyadh - (Saudi Arabia):
The capital, a centre for business, culture, and events is a modern city with historic sites like the Masmak Fortress and the National Museum showcasing Saudi heritage.

S

Sakaka - (Saudi Arabia).

Salalah - (Oman):
Famous for its unique Khareef monsoon season, turning the desert into lush greenery, a rare phenomenon in the Arabian Peninsula.

Salmiya - (Kuwait).

Salt - (Jordan).

Sanaa - (Yemen).

Sharjah - (United Arab Emirates):
Known as the cultural capital of the UAE, with numerous museums and heritage areas showcasing Islamic art and history.

Shiraz - (Iran):
Renowned for its gardens, poetry, and Persian architecture.

Sidon - (Lebanon).

Sitra - (Bahrain).

Sohar - (Oman).

Sur - (Oman).

T

Tabuk - (Saudi Arabia).

Taif - (Saudi Arabia).

Tehran - (Iran):
The capital city is a bustling metropolis that combines modernity with tradition. It offers numerous museums, parks, and historical sites such as the Golestan Palace. Tehran is a gateway to experiencing contemporary Iranian culture, cuisine, and urban life, making it an essential stop for travellers interested in the country's dynamic present alongside its rich past.

Tel Aviv - (Israel):
Known for its beaches, nightlife, and Bauhaus architecture.

Tripoli - (Lebanon).

Tyre - (Lebanon).

U

Umm Al Quwain - (United Arab Emirates).

W

Wadi Rum - (Jordan):
Famous for its desert landscapes and adventure tourism.

Y

Yanbu - (Saudi Arabia).

Z

Zahle - (Lebanon).

Zarqa - (Jordan).

More City Travel Guides

European City Guides.

Cities in Africa - Cities in America - Cities in Asia - Cities in Australasia - Cities in Latin America - European Destinations - Middle East.

More From Travel Notes

Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel

Africa - Asia - Caribbean - Europe - Middle East - North America - Oceania - South America.

The Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel helps visitors plan their trip with country and city travel guides, local tourist information, reviewed web sites, and inspiring travel content.