Middle East

The Middle East


The Middle East is one of the world's most fascinating and diverse regions. The countries here are different, with their own cultures and traditions. Some have rich historical and cultural heritage, while others offer excellent beaches and entertainment.



And with a bit of research and preparation, you can confidently travel to these countries and enjoy their fullness.



Dubai 


Dubai has become a favorite destination for many travelers. The city is home to some of the tallest buildings globally and some of the best shopping centers and restaurants. You can find anything you want here, from luxury goods to designer clothing brands or electronics. 

And it's not just about shopping: Dubai also offers plenty of entertainment options like theme parks, sports events, and live shows. Out of this vastness, it can be complicated to know where to start. So we've rounded up six popular destinations to ensure your trip is memorable from beginning to end.


Dubai Mall


The Dubai Mall is the second world's largest shopping mall and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. You can shop at over 1,200 retail outlets, including Bloomingdale's, Sephora, and Zara.

The mall caters to a wide range of customers, from families with children to young couples and even seniors. Apart from being a shopping mecca, it is also a tourist attraction. Dubai Mall houses many attractions, including an aquarium, ice rink, and movie theater where you can catch the latest Hollywood releases or catch up on some local entertainment.


Burj Khalifa



The height of the Burj Khalifa is 829 m (2717 ft), and it has 163 floors. It is adjacent to the Dubai Mall, one of the tallest and busiest malls worldwide.

The tower contains offices, residential apartments, a hotel, and a shopping mall. The main feature of the skyscraper is its spire, which reaches a height of more than 200m and is made up of more than 30,000 pieces of steel tubing.

As well as being home to the world's highest observatory deck, other attractions inside the building are The Dubai Fountain Show. The fountain show is enhanced by over 6000 lights and 50 projectors that create a spectacular fountain shooting water up to 152 m. There are also exhibitions and galleries on each floor, including an art gallery that displays works from artists worldwide.


Palm Jumeirah


Dubai is not short of excellent and masterful spots to visit. Within it are artificial islands that have become home to some of the best restaurants and resorts.

One such wonder is the Palm Jumeirah, located on Dubai's mainland. This artificial island was created in 2001, and today, it's home to many hotels, resorts, and other tourist attractions. If you're looking for an excellent place for your family vacation, Palm Jumeirah is the best spot.

It is also ideal as a romantic getaway with your spouse, girlfriend, or boyfriend. You will also treat yourself to numerous sea creatures such as dolphins and jellyfish.




Sheikh Zayed Road

Sheikh Zayed Road is one of the most famous and busiest roads in Dubai and the central business district. It is a long street with many skyscrapers so you can find many shops and restaurants there. The road begins near Zabeel Royal Palace and has 14 lanes.

The road connects the seven emirates, and the best way to experience its magnificence is in one of the skyscrapers lining it. Some of these include the Emirates Towers and Dubai World Trade Center.


Qatar 


Qatar is a small country in the Middle East surrounded by Saudi Arabia, the Persian Gulf, and United Arab Emirates. It is known for its deserts, archeological sites, and vibrant culture. Further, It has an exciting mix of desert landscapes, lush oases, coral reefs, and natural landmarks like the Ras Laffan peninsula. 

Here are some places you may want to visit while in the country.


Museum of Islamic Art 


The Museum of Islamic Art is located on an island near one of the traditional dhow harbors. It is one of Qatar's most popular tourist attractions and has been open since 2008. The building was designed by I. M. Pei and is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

The museum houses over 2,000 artifacts from various Islamic periods and cultures, including ceramics, manuscripts, and coins. Highlights include a rare collection of antique carpets from Persia (Iran), India, China, and Central Asia, as well as glassware from Egypt.

The museum is housed in an impressive architectural jewel with a facade made of geometric patterns inlaid with mother-of-pearl tiles. Inside are galleries lined with domes inspired by traditional mosques while incorporating modern elements such as high ceilings and skylights, allowing natural light to filter through the rooms below.





Katara Cultural Village


Katara Cultural Village is a beautiful, small compound located on the Eastern Coast in Doha. It is a great place to visit if you want to learn about Qatari culture and see some of the fantastic art and architecture that the people of Qatar have created.

The village consists of several sections.

Katara Park - This is an area with many different types of trees, plants, and flowers. It also has an artificial lake with boats for rent.

Katara Art Center - This building houses exhibitions of both local and international artists. Some galleries sell local artists' works and books about Qatari culture and history.

Katara Cinema - This is a small movie theater that shows films from around the world (in English with Arabic subtitles). The films are all free, but donations are welcome.

Katara Amphitheater - This amphitheater shows plays and musicals produced by local companies or amateur groups. The performances are always free, but donations are welcome. 



Souq Waqif


Souq Waqif is a traditional market that has existed since the early 20th century. It's located in Doha and is a must-visit in the state heritage site. The souq has some great shopping but also offers a glimpse of Qatari culture. There are plenty of food stalls on-site if you want to grab something to eat while exploring this beautiful market.

You will also find some of the best handicrafts and textiles from all over the world. If you want to shop for souvenirs, this place is perfect for you as there are many shops here selling different kinds of items from other countries like Morocco, Egypt and even India. If you have time, do not miss out on visiting this place, as it will give you a glimpse into life in old Qatar.


Oman


Oman is a country in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, neighboured by Saudi Arabia to the west, Yemen to the South, and the United Arab Emirates to the east. It's also known as the 'Garden of Eden' due to its stunning natural beauty.

It is home to some of the most ancient civilizations in the world, including an important trading center for frankincense and other commodities. Let's find out interesting spots worth visiting in this country.


Muscat


Muscat is Oman's capital and a great place to visit because of its treasure trove of culture and history. It is surrounded by mountains and deserts and has plenty of water activities, museums, and nightlife.

The town is known as Oman's modern business, commerce, and government center. Its many beautiful buildings and structures reflect its rich history and culture. You will also find modern facilities that reflect the city's growing economy.

If you enjoy shopping, then Muscat offers plenty of options for you. There are several malls throughout the city where you can shop for souvenirs or gifts for friends back home, such as gold jewelry.


Musandam beaches



Musandam is a region in Oman that covers the northernmost part of the country. It is known for its beautiful beaches, which are some of the best in the Gulf region. 

Musandam's beaches are mostly deserted and pristine, with little development. However, this doesn't mean that they are not popular with tourists. In fact, many people visit these beaches every year to enjoy their beauty and serenity.

This region's beaches have fantastic views and excellent water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming. If you want to relax without having to worry about your belongings getting stolen or if you simply want to enjoy some solitude at one of these beautiful destinations, then you should consider visiting Musandam's beaches at least once during your stay in Oman.



Jebel Shams


Jebel Shams, also known as the Mountain of Sun, is the highest mountain in the region. Its name originates from the fact that it is the first point to receive the sun's rays in the morning. It is located in the Wahiba Sands desert, a popular tourist destination and a great place to hike. 

The area is also home to several plant species endemic to this region, including palms and succulents. This mountain range is part of the Al Hajar mountain range, which runs along the Arabian Peninsula from Yemen to Oman.




Wahiba Sands


Are you looking for a fun-filled adventure in the Arabian Desert? The Wahiba Sands is the perfect place to explore. This dessert comprises high dunes, rolling sand seas, and shifting sands. The sands are also known as the Sharqiya Sands, an area extending more than 12,000 square kilometers. 

The Wahiba Sands are located about 100 miles from Muscat and are very accessible by car or bus. Once you arrive at the Wahiba Sands, there are many things to do, including camel rides and sandboarding down dunes. You can also walk through the desert on foot or even camp overnight! If you want to experience more than just riding camels, you can also go sand surfing or take off on a 4×4 safari through this vast desert area. 


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