The Middle East is blessed with fascinating beauty such as gorgeous mountains, warm waters, and an incredible history and culture that is vying for attention all through the year. Travelers all across the globe are unearthing several secret destinations in the Middle East that can easily make it to the list of the most beautiful places in the world. From the tallest structure in the world to the lush mountaintops to the gorgeous temples and tombs to the amazing Dead Sea, the Middle East is home to everything that matches the taste across a diverse set of people. These destinations will surely leave you with cherished and lifelong memories once you visit these fabulous destinations. We have listed the top seven attractions in the Middle East that deserves your attention and a visit at least once before you die.
- The Dead Sea, Jordan
One of the lowest points on the surface of the earth, this is a fabulous natural phenomenon that is placed between the borders of Jordan and Israel. This 75 kilometers long and 10-kilometer wide saltwater lake is blessed with 33% mineral content, making it more than 6 times saltier than a normal ocean. The high salt content makes it impossible for a swim or dip, you can only adorn the beauty, one of the reasons why is termed as the Dead Sea. The shores are full of white salt crystals. No species of underwater fishes or sea life can survive in the water. There have also been rumors of the curative and therapeutic powers of the sea salts. A perfect place to pamper yourself or try out diverse spa treatments.
- The Giza pyramid complex, Egypt
The official last surviving Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this is easily one of the most prominent landmarks of the world. Travelers and visitors are in awe seeing the tombs of the mighty Pharaohs that are defended by the enigmatic Sphinx. No matter how many times you visit this place, the architecture, and the beauty of the place has continued to stun travelers and archaeologists all over the globe. The dead ruins of the various kingdoms are a wonderful sight to explore as it still carries the aura and the charm of the previous generations. One of the stunning landmarks of the Middle East that should definitely not be missed.
Get more details here
- Burj Khalifa, Dubai
The landmark of Dubai standing tall at 829.8 meters above sea level. Holds the record for being the tallest freestanding structure in the world and one of the high points of interest in Dubai among both the locals and the tourists alike. The observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj is a different world and a must-visit place in the city. The staggering views of the city skyline are simply gorgeous and mind-blowing. To add to the excitement factor of the tourists, there is a multimedia presentation on Dubai and the mighty Burj. Post sunset is a photographer’s dream as the Dubai city lights up giving rise to an amazing view. We would recommend you to purchase your entry ticket well in advance to avoid any last minute hassles. At the tip of the building are beautiful lush green gardens that are designed with winding walkways to attraction people’s attention. There are plenty of entertainment activities to indulge in the neighborhood of the Burj that is sure to keep you engaged throughout the day.
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Created in Macedonian marble, this stunning mosque is the landmark of Abu Dhabi. One of the most popular attractions in the city opened in 2007, the mosque features a combo of several Ottoman, Mameluke, and Fatimid design elements celebrating the essence of Islamic architecture. There is extensive use of glasswork, intricate carvings, and mosaic tiling is done both in the interiors and the exteriors. The grand mosque is dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan and has an internal capacity to hold 40,000 devotees at one time. One of the few mosques that permit non-Muslims as well inside the mosque. There are several guided tours conducted for the tourists and visitors.
Get more about tourism in Abu Dhabi here
- The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Istanbul
One of the architectural marvels featuring in the capital city of Istanbul in Turkey. This beautiful mosque is also popularly known as the Blue Mosque. Built between the years 1609 and 1616 initially with six minarets and then gifted with the seven minarets. Several thousands of Iznik tiles decorate and give a spatial effect to the interiors of this Ottoman architecture blended with neoclassical European styles. The gardens sandwiched between the Aya Sofya and the Blue Mosque is a wonderful way to explore the fascinating cultural heritage highlights of Turkey.
- Wadi Rum, Jordan
Historic riverbeds, vibrant colored sands, and stunning rock formations constitute the incredible landscape of the Wadi Rum. Placed in South Jordan, the place is blessed with virgin beauty that has been formed by geological formation, evolution, and erosion from millions of years. The ancient semi-nomadic Bedouins reside in the area with their cattle and help in preserving a lifestyle and culture that is popular in Arabic countries for centuries. A ride on a 4×4 rough terrain vehicle is a wonderful way to explore the stunning desert landscape, the mesmerizing sunset, coupled with a traditional Jordanian meal and plenty of entertainment activities at a desert camp under the moonlit sky.
- Dolmabahce Palace, Turkey
You will have to control the imperial pleasure you would witness seeing this neoclassical palace constructed in 1854. The interiors are as appealing as the exteriors. The highlights are the ceremonial suites, the apartments of the crown prince, and the National Palaces Painting Museum. Home to six sultans from 1856 to 1924, this also houses the largest Bohemian crystal chandelier in the world that was gifted by Queen Victoria. The late Sultan Abdul Mecit I shifted his lavish palace to the shores of Bosphorus and gave the responsibility to two genius architects Garabed Balyan and Nikogos to build this masterpiece.
Why To Travel 