The Middle East completely rewired my brain. Standing at the edge of Petra’s Siq at sunrise, watching that first golden light hit the Treasury’s facade, I actually teared up. After traveling to over 50 countries, I thought I’d seen it all—but this region humbled me in the best possible way.
Let me show you the most beautiful places in the Middle East that left me speechless. From floating in the Dead Sea while watching the sun set over Jerusalem’s ancient walls to wandering through the mind-bending sand dunes of Oman’s Empty Quarter, these landscapes defy imagination. Here are 12 places that prove the Middle East isn’t just about ancient history and bustling bazaars—it’s home to some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth.
Must-See Attractions in the Middle East
Looking for the coolest things to do in the Middle East? Explore the ancient city of Petra, Jordan, marvel at the historic charm of Amadiya, Iraq, and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Wadi Rum, Jordan. Float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of The Dead Sea and experience the fairy-tale rock formations of Cappadocia, Turkey. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural wonders, here are the top attractions to visit in the Middle East.
1. Petra, Jordan
Petra hits different when you see it in person. I thought I was ready for it after seeing countless photos, but walking through that narrow Siq canyon and getting that first glimpse of the Treasury carved into rose-red rock literally gave me chills. The whole site is way bigger than most people realize, and you honestly need at least two days to do it justice.
Here’s the deal on tickets: One-day passes cost 50 JD (about $70) if you’re staying overnight in Jordan, but they hit you with 90 JD if you’re just doing a day trip from Israel or elsewhere. The two-day ticket at 55 JD is honestly the sweet spot because you can take your time and not feel rushed. Petra by Night got a major upgrade in 2025, now featuring the world’s largest weekly projection mapping show on the Treasury facade for 30 JD. It runs Sunday through Thursday and is pretty spectacular, though some folks think it’s touristy.
The site’s open 6 AM to 6 PM (until 4 PM in winter), and if you want my advice, get there right when it opens. The early morning light on that red sandstone is incredible, plus you’ll avoid the worst crowds. Don’t skip the hike up to the Monastery – yeah, it’s 800 steps, but the views are worth every sweaty step. Pro tip: bring way more water than you think you need, and wear decent hiking shoes because those ancient steps can be brutal on your feet.
2. Amadiya, Iraq
Look, I’ll be straight with you about Amadiya – this isn’t your typical tourist destination right now. The 3,000-year-old Kurdish city perched on a mountain plateau is absolutely stunning and feels like a secret that few travelers know about. Walking the ancient walls and seeing those incredible 360-degree views of the Kurdish mountains below was one of those “holy crap” moments that remind you why you travel.
The reality check: Most Western governments currently advise against travel to Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. However, I’ve talked to several recent travelers who say Iraqi Kurdistan is actually quite safe for tourists, especially compared to other parts of Iraq. The locals are incredibly welcoming, and you can get a 30-day visa on arrival at Erbil Airport if you’re from most Western countries.
If you do decide to go, you’ll probably fly into Erbil and drive about 4 hours north. The town itself sits dramatically on this flat-topped mountain, and you can walk the entire perimeter in about an hour. The Mosul Gate is the most impressive entrance, and there’s a 400-year-old synagogue that’s pretty remarkable. Honestly, the best part is just wandering the narrow streets, drinking tea with locals, and feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Just make sure you do your homework on current conditions and maybe connect with a reputable local guide.
3. Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum is where you go when Instagram just isn’t cutting it anymore. This protected desert wilderness looks so much like Mars that Hollywood literally films sci-fi movies here, but no camera can capture how quiet and massive it actually feels. The landscape changes throughout the day as the light shifts from golden to deep red, and at night, the lack of light pollution creates some of the most insane stargazing I’ve ever experienced.
Desert camps here range from basic Bedouin tents to luxury “bubble” accommodations with AC and private bathrooms. Most people do the overnight experience, and honestly, you should too because watching the sunset paint those sandstone cliffs while your Bedouin guide makes tea over an open fire is peak travel magic. Day tours cost around 30-50 JD depending on length, but the full overnight experience with meals runs about 80-120 JD per person.
I recommend booking with family-run operations like Wild Wadi Rum Tours or Wadi Rum Nomads rather than the big resort camps. These smaller outfits take you deeper into the protected area where it’s dead quiet and you won’t see another soul. The jeep tours hit all the classics like Lawrence’s Spring and the natural rock bridges, but the camel rides at sunset are where the real magic happens. Fair warning: bring layers because desert nights get surprisingly cold, even in summer.
4. The Dead Sea
Floating in the Dead Sea is one of those experiences that sounds gimmicky until you actually do it, then you’re like “okay, this is actually incredible.” The water is so dense with salt and minerals that your body just bobs on the surface without any effort. It’s completely surreal and surprisingly relaxing once you get used to the stinging sensation if you have any cuts.
Here’s how the economics work: Day passes to luxury resorts like the Kempinski or Mövenpick cost 40-50 JD and include pools, showers, and mud bath access. Amman Beach is the main public option at 20 JD, but honestly, the facilities aren’t great. If you’re on a serious budget, there are free spots along the shoreline, but you’ll need a car and should be comfortable with pretty basic conditions.
The mud bath ritual is surprisingly specific – you float for 10 minutes, slather yourself with the black mud, bake in the sun for 15-20 minutes until it cracks, then rinse off in the sea. Your skin actually does feel incredibly soft afterward, so the whole “therapeutic benefits” thing isn’t just marketing. Pro tip: don’t shave before you go (seriously, the salt water will make you regret every life choice), and bring old swimwear because the minerals can fade colors. The Ma’in Hot Springs are about 20 minutes away and make a nice add-on if you’ve got time.
5. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the kind of place that makes you stop talking mid-sentence and just stare. The white marble structure with its 82 domes and four minarets looks like something from a dream, especially when the evening lighting kicks in. I’ve been to a lot of impressive religious buildings, but this one hits differently because of the sheer scale and craftsmanship.
Entry is completely free, but you need to book a time slot in advance through their website. Opening hours are 9 AM to 10 PM (Saturday-Thursday) and 4:30 PM to 10 PM on Fridays. The free guided tours are actually excellent and take about 45 minutes, explaining everything from the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet to the crystal chandeliers that weigh literal tons.
The dress code is strictly enforced – full coverage for everyone, and women need headscarves. If you show up improperly dressed, you’ll have to buy an abaya and headscarf at the entrance for about 45 AED ($12). Honestly, many women buy them anyway because they make for incredible photos against that white marble backdrop. The mosque is about 20 minutes from central Abu Dhabi by taxi, or you can take buses #24 or #94 for 2 AED. The sunset timing is magical, but early morning right when it opens also offers fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
6. Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is social media famous for a reason, but those hot air balloon photos don’t capture how otherworldly it actually feels to float over those “fairy chimney” rock formations. The whole region looks like a Dr. Seuss book come to life, with these bizarre stone towers and valleys carved from volcanic tuff over millions of years.
Hot air balloon rides cost around 220 EUR ($240) per person for standard flights as of 2025, and honestly, it’s worth every penny. You’ll get picked up around 5 AM, watch the balloons inflate, then spend about an hour drifting over the landscape as the sun comes up. Companies like Voyager Balloons and Royal Balloon have solid safety records and experienced pilots. The flight season runs year-round, but spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best weather and fewer cancellations.
Beyond balloons, staying in a cave hotel is pretty much mandatory. These aren’t rough camping situations – many are seriously luxurious with heated floors and incredible valley views. Göreme is the main tourist base with easy walking access to the Open Air Museum and viewpoints. The underground cities like Derinkuyu are mind-blowing if you’re not claustrophobic – these hand-carved tunnels once housed 20,000 people and their animals. I’d plan at least 3 days to see the highlights without rushing, and honestly, this is one place where joining organized tours makes sense because the history is so complex.
7. Byblos, Lebanon
Byblos is where you can walk the same streets that Phoenician traders used 7,000 years ago, then grab a seafood lunch overlooking the Mediterranean. This UNESCO World Heritage coastal town somehow manages to feel both ancient and alive, which is pretty rare in archaeological sites. The harbor with its traditional fishing boats creates this perfect postcard scene, especially at sunset.
The old town is compact enough to explore in a morning, starting with the Crusader Castle that offers killer views over the sea. The ancient souks are great for browsing without aggressive salespeople, and you can actually find quality handcrafted jewelry and local specialties. What I love about Byblos is how it layers different civilizations – you’ll see Phoenician ruins next to Roman columns next to medieval walls.
For lunch, the waterfront restaurants serve incredibly fresh fish that was caught that morning – the whole grilled fish with Lebanese sides is outstanding. The town is about 40km north of Beirut, making it an easy day trip, but honestly, staying overnight lets you enjoy the evening atmosphere when the harbor lights reflect off the water. Security-wise, this part of Lebanon feels very safe and welcoming to tourists, though you should obviously check current conditions before traveling. The Byblos Sur Mer hotel right on the harbor is gorgeous if you want to splurge.
8. Muscat, Oman
Muscat is what Dubai might have been if it had grown up gracefully instead of trying to break world records. This sophisticated capital perfectly blends traditional Arabian architecture with modern luxury, all set against dramatic mountains that plunge into turquoise waters. It’s seriously underrated compared to its flashier Gulf neighbors.
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is absolutely stunning – massive prayer halls, intricate tilework, and that famous handwoven carpet. Unlike many religious sites, they offer free tours for non-Muslims and provide proper clothing if needed. The Mutrah Souq is one of the region’s best traditional markets – covered alleys filled with frankincense, silver, and textiles without the aggressive hustling you get elsewhere.
Mutrah Corniche is perfect for evening walks as the sun sets behind the mountains, and the dhow boats in the harbor create this timeless scene. For beaches, head to Qantab or Al Bustan for swimming in incredibly clear water. The city is immaculately clean and safe, with excellent infrastructure and friendly locals who speak great English. Hotels like Al Bustan Palace offer luxury resort experiences, while the old quarter has charming boutique properties. October through March offers perfect weather – warm days, cool evenings, and virtually no rain.
9. Jerusalem, Israel
Jerusalem will mess with your head in the best possible way. Walking through the Old City, you’re constantly shifting between different worlds – the Jewish Quarter with its ancient stones, the Muslim Quarter’s bustling markets, the Christian Quarter’s pilgrimage sites, and the Armenian Quarter’s quiet courtyards. The layers of history are so intense it’s almost overwhelming.
The Western Wall provides this profound connection to thousands of years of prayer and tradition, while the golden Dome of the Rock dominates the skyline from the Temple Mount. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is an incredible mixture of different Christian denominations all sharing this sacred space. Even if you’re not religious, the spiritual energy is palpable.
For a break from the intensity, Mahane Yehuda Market shows modern Israeli life – incredible food stalls during the day, trendy bars at night, and locals just living their lives. The market’s tahini ice cream and fresh halloumi are legendary. Security is visible but not oppressive, and most areas tourists visit are very safe. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather for walking those ancient stones. Hotels near the Old City like the Mamilla Hotel put you right in the middle of everything, though expect to pay premium prices.
10. Luxor, Egypt
Standing in front of Karnak Temple‘s massive columns or walking through the Valley of the Kings makes you feel wonderfully insignificant next to 3,000+ years of history. Luxor is essentially the world’s greatest open-air museum, where practically every direction you look reveals temples, tombs, or monuments that would be major attractions anywhere else in the world.
The hot air balloon rides at sunrise are spectacular – floating over the Nile as it reflects the morning light while ancient temples stretch out below you is genuinely magical. Rides cost about 40-60 USD depending on the company and basket size. Luxor Temple is stunning when lit up at night with fewer crowds, creating this mystical atmosphere that daylight visits can’t match.
Valley of the Kings ticket combinations vary, but budget about 20-30 USD for entry plus individual tomb fees. Tutankhamun’s tomb costs extra but honestly isn’t the most impressive – Ramesses VI or Seti I offer better preserved paintings and deeper burial chambers. The West Bank sites (Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon) take a full day, while the East Bank (Karnak, Luxor Temple) needs another day minimum.
November through March offers perfect weather for tomb exploring, though expect higher prices and crowds. The Sofitel Winter Palace maintains that old-world colonial charm where Agatha Christie wrote “Death on the Nile,” while budget options cluster around the train station and offer decent value.
11. Dubai, UAE
Dubai is completely bonkers in the best way possible – a city where you can ski indoors, shop in malls with indoor rainforests, then sandboard desert dunes all in the same day. The Burj Khalifa observation deck is touristy as hell but genuinely impressive, especially at sunset when the city sprawls out in every direction. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dubai Mall is less shopping center, more alternate universe – the aquarium, ice rink, and VR Park could entertain you for days. But honestly, escape to Al Fahidi District for a taste of old Dubai with traditional wind towers and narrow alleys that show what this place looked like before oil money arrived. The contrast is pretty wild.
Desert safaris are mandatory Dubai experiences – the dune bashing is like a roller coaster through sand, and watching sunset from the desert while enjoying traditional Bedouin hospitality hits different after all that urban intensity. Most tours include camel rides, henna painting, and surprisingly good barbecue dinners under the stars.
The Spice Souk and Gold Souk in Deira maintain that authentic Middle Eastern market atmosphere, though haggling is expected. Dubai Marina offers more relaxed waterfront dining and walking, while Jumeirah Beach provides white sand and crystal-clear water. October through April offers perfect weather, though expect premium prices during peak season. The Burj Al Arab is iconic but stupidly expensive – plenty of excellent hotels offer luxury without the insane price tags.
- Read next: Picture-Perfect Places in Dubai
12. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is the only city where you can literally stand in both Europe and Asia in the same day, and somehow that geographic uniqueness perfectly captures its cultural identity too. The Hagia Sophia exemplifies this beautifully – 1,500 years of history as both cathedral and mosque, with Byzantine mosaics and Islamic calligraphy coexisting in this incredible architectural mashup.
The Blue Mosque with its six minarets sits just across the square, creating this stunning skyline of domes and spires. Getting lost in the Grand Bazaar feels like time travel – 4,000 shops in a labyrinth that’s been operating for centuries. The vendors are skilled negotiators, but it’s all part of the experience.
Taking a ferry across the Bosphorus offers the best city views and costs almost nothing. The Asian side feels more local and less touristy, with excellent restaurants and cafés along the waterfront. Istiklal Street buzzes with energy day and night – street food, live music, and crowds of locals mixed with tourists.
Turkish baths (hamams) are a must-do cultural experience, though fair warning that the scrubbing is vigorous and you’ll emerge feeling like a newborn baby. The traditional breakfast spreads are legendary – fresh bread, cheeses, olives, honey, and that incredibly strong Turkish coffee. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer perfect walking weather, though summer can be brutally hot and humid. The Four Seasons Sultanahmet puts you right in the historic center, while Beyoğlu offers more nightlife and contemporary vibes.
