Luxury Middle East Holidays

The Middle East is a destination known worldwide for its glittering array of cities. From staggering skyscrapers to centuries-old architecture, discover some of the best Arabian cities on your next holiday.

Dubai

The ultiimate Middle East holiday destination for many, Dubai is one of the world’s most unforgettable cities. A true world of wonders, you can discover thrilling waterparks, fantastical theme parks, sprawling shopping malls and some seriously glamorous bars and restaurants. Atlantis, the Palm even has its own two waterparks for its guests, plus an aquarium! With beachfront resorts, such as The Ritz Carlton, Dubai on Jumeirah Beach, there is plenty of space to relax too. From your lounger, see if you can spot the iconic Burj Al Arab on the skyline – or, head there yourself to see the city sprawled out below.

Abu Dhabi

As the capital of the UAE, you know you will be impressed by the city of Abu Dhabi. Offering plenty by way of luxury with some of the most regal resorts – such as the incredible Emirates Palace - there are so many action-packed things to do, too. Home to the F1’s Yas Marina Circuit Tour and Ferrari World, you can really take your holiday to the Middle East up a gear. Or, head to Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, or one of the many waterparks, to make a splash.

Doha

Qatar’s capital city of Doha is a real highlight of the Middle East. While it also has its fair share of skyscrapers, shopping malls and luxurious hotels, it is also rich in history and culture. Visit the Qatar National Museum to learn more about the city’s past or admire its artwork at the Museum of Islamic Art. Down on the waterfront, there are plenty of shops and attractions to browse, plus you can see traditional dhow boats bobbing in the harbour.

Muscat

Over in Oman, the capital city of Muscat is a great place to visit on your holiday to the Middle East. Here, you can get a real feel for the region’s oldest traditions, where 16th century forts, opulent mosques and modern low-rising buildings all sit side-by-side. Be sure to sample the sweet dates and rosewater coffee while you wander the atmospheric souks.

One of the most striking contrasts of the Middle East is the sprawling metropolises that sit just few miles from swathes of sandy desert.

If you want to experience it for yourself, head to Ras al Khaimah. Less than an hour’s drive from Dubai, it’s the perfect way to combine the city with the desert. Or, head to the rolling dunes of Wahiba Sands in Oman and stay in Desert Nights Camp for an authentic Arabian experience.

Camp in the desert

If you really want to get away from the hustle-and-bustle, a hideaway in the desert should be on your agenda when visiting the Middle East. However, you needn’t think that this requires you to sacrifice on luxury!

Resorts such as the Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah offer the incredible opportunity to stay in your own five-star villa set within the beautiful desert sands surrounding the Al Wadi Nature Reserve.

And yes, it really is as magical as it sounds. Equipped with private pools and fine furnishings, you can relax in total serenity. You can dine out under the stars, either atop of the dunes or around the campfire. In the day, you can head out to spot the wildlife such as sand gazelle or the endangered Arabian Onyx, or visit the falconry to meet the desert’s incredible predatory birds.

Desert Safaris

A desert safari is a must-do for many when on holiday in the Middle East! There are a number of incredible experiences on offer, from trekking across the sands by camel, to an exhilarating day spent dune bashing in a 4X4 or quad bike.

For those who like a cultural holiday, the Middle East has plenty to offer. Away from the thriving modern cities, you'll find ancient traditions and a fascinating history, from the incredible mosques to centuries-old forts.

Bedouin Tribes

The Arabian deserts of the Middle East have played a huge part in the region’s culture. Those who know it best, though, are the Bedouin tribes. With traditions dating back thousands of years, many visitors are intrigued to learn more about their nomadic way of life. In Oman’s Wahabi Sands, travellers are welcome to go and meet the local people and enjoy some mint tea or a traditional meal with them around the fire.

Forts & Castles

If you want to learn more about the history of the Middle East during your visit, then a journey through Oman is essential. Each of the country’s unique forts and castles reveals a different story dating back hundreds of years and showcases the awe-inspiring architecture Oman is known for.

One of the most impressive is Jabreen Castle, with its elaborately painted ceilings to marvel at. Then there is the imposing UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bahla Fort, dating back to the 12th century, and the fascinating Al Hazm castle, among many more.

Souqs & Markets

A visit to a souk while on your Middle East holiday really brings your senses to life! Having been a central part of Arabian life for centuries, these open-air markets were once a place where spices, colourful textiles, gold and exotic foods were traded every day.

Today, the souks are just as alluring. There are plenty to discover across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, whether you want to source yourself some jewellery, perfume, handwoven fabrics, or some fresh produce to sample. Mutrah Souk in Oman is also incredibly popular.

Mosques

As a predominantly Muslim part of the world, you may not be surprised to hear that the Middle East is home to some of the world’s most beautiful mosques – but you may will be astounded when you see them for yourself.

The incredible Sheik Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi is the largest in the United Arab Emirates, as well as being among the biggest in the world. Truly stunning to behold, it features marble domes, jewel-embedded columns, reflective pools and Swarovski chandeliers.

In Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a gem on the Muscat skyline. Its beautiful architecture is admired worldwide, while inside hangs the world’s largest chandelier and biggest prayer carpet.

The Middle East is a great holiday destination for adventure lovers. Head beyond the cities to rural Oman to discover an incredible landscape that is prime for exploring.

Hajar Mountains

For anyone who loves hiking, climbing and all-round exploring, the Hajar Mountains are a must when planning a holiday to the Middle East. Spreading across Oman and into the UAE, it’s the highest mountain range in the Arabian Peninsula. It’s made up of huge canyons, ravines and cliffs, plus is home to wildlife and ancient village remains.

Jebel Shams is the highest peak in the range, offering a spectacular highlight for visitors. From the top, you can look down to the incredible Wadi Ghul, also knows of The Grand Canyon of Arabia. For real adrenaline seekers, you can also try out the world’s longest zipline, which whizzes through the mountains for almost two miles.

The Gulf of Oman

If you stay along the northern coast of Oman – Muscat is a wonderful area – you'll have the beautiful Gulf of Oman right on your doorstep.

Divers have plenty of adventures on offer here, with an array of sea life flurrying in the waters. The Daymaniyat Islands are a particular highlight, offering the world’s densest nesting ground of hawksbill turtles and coral reef gardens. Stay at The Chedi Muscat to be perfectly placed to enjoy it, from where you might spot dolphins breaching in the distance.

Paragliding in Zighy Bay

A bucket list experience for many visitors to the Middle East is the incredible opportunity to paraglide from the top of Zighy Mountain to the beach below. When staying at the luxurious Six Senses Zighy Bay, guests are even offered the unique chance to arrive at the resort by paragliding rather than by car or boat.

Fragrant and exotic, the flavours of the Middle East are sure to make unforgettable memories during your holiday. Rich in spices such as cardamom and cinnamon, food is often based around rice and other grains, incorporating local ingredients such as pistachios, figs, pomegranates, and dates.

Traditional Arabic food

Religion has had a big impact on food in many countries across the Middle East. As pork is not permitted in both Judaism and Islam, the traditional meat in most dishes in lamb. You might order it in the form of a kebab or in a hearty stew. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try the camel meat on offer.

Non-meat eaters will find plenty of delights for their holiday, too. Falafel is a huge staple in Middle Eastern countries, as are aubergines and chickpeas. Stuffed vegetables, tabbouleh and fattoush salad make great vegetarian or vegan dishes, too. You might also find Lebanese Manousheh while in Dubai – a crispy flatbread topped with cheese, herbs and oil which is sure to please anyone.

Note - If you visit during Ramadan, be prepared to see some feasts come sundown!

Meze

Meze style dining is very popular in the Middle East. Ideal for sharing as an appetizer or for a lighter meal, nothing beats digging into a platter of tasty dishes. Served with pita bread, you can enjoy things like hummus, baba ghanoush and stuffed vine leaves among other treats.

Arabic coffee

When you’re in need of a pick-me-up, be sure to try some Arabic coffee during your holiday in the Middle East. Also called ‘qahwa’, this strong, often very sugary coffee, is served black with a thick foam on top. It’s usually poured from an ornate gold or silver pot, giving it a sense of ceremony.

Why not enjoy one with one of the Middle East’s famous sweet pastries on the side?