Four Gems Of The Middle East Worth Finding

It’s an unfortunate reality that the idea of the traveling to the Middle East still fills a lot of people with trepidation.

While it’s undeniable that certain regions are unsafe, there are plenty of areas all but untouched by conflict. In particular, these four cities are fast standing out as the gems of the area, with upscale development and tourist attractions to rival and perhaps even surpass some of the best known European destinations.

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Manama

Bahrain might be one of the smallest countries in the Arabian Gulf, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been standing out as of late thanks to the fantastic developments happening in Manama. The city is befitting the capital of one of the richest countries in the continent, thanks to the thriving Bab el-Bahrain Souq which offers traditional crafts of the most lavish kinds from handwoven fabrics to pearl accessories. The Bahrain National Museum is a carefully picked exhibition of the ancient Dilmun civilization that gave birth to the city as well, steeping visitors in a rich and complicated history that spans thousands of years.

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Dubai

Of course, you can’t mention vacations to the Middle East without mentioned Dubai. Besides Singapore, it is hard to think of any destinations that have so quickly risen to become synonymous with luxury, opulence, and fantastic travel experiences. With the opening of world-class hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, it is safe to say that this city has truly arrived at the world stage. The artificial islands like Atlantis are impossible to ignore, too, with the Palm providing dazzling displays of marine-animals and thrilling water parks that will exhilarate the whole family.

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Abu Dhabi

If there is one city that could compete with Dubai as the new darling of the Middle East, then it may very well be Abu Dhabi. The capital of the United Arab Emirates, it has become a hub of all things commerce in the region, with upscale shopping experiences that rival Paris, London, and Tokyo without issue. Perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all sights, however, is the white-marble domes of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s most definitely worth a visit inside to see the lush Persian carpets and imported Faustig chandeliers. Just make sure that you’re respectful when you go inside as it is still a place of a worship, not just a tourist attraction.

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Amman

Despite being statistically the safest country in the region untouched by the conflicts that plague some of its neighbors, Jordan does not get the attention that it deserves. Amman has been going from strength to strength with all the hotels, restaurants, and attractions you would expect of a bustling metropolitan city. One of the single best reasons to visit, however, is that you are only three hours away from Petra, seat of the old Nabataean Kingdom. One of the most complete ancient monuments in the Middle East, it’s an item worthy of any bucket list.

Don’t discount the Middle East when you’re looking at travel destinations. You could be missing out on some of the world’s most luxurious destinations and attractions that you simply cannot find elsewhere.

Vibeke Johannessen

My name is Vibeke. A travel blogger and a photographer from Norway. I am posting about my journey around the world as well as my experiences living in Ecuador.

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