5 Bucket List Destinations of 5 Middle Eastern Countries

Gary Greer 7/1/2020

Arab Culture

1) Burj Khalifa – Dubai

Since the Burj Khalifa hotel’s completion in 2009, this 163-story, 829.8 meters tall building has been a modern-day example of mankind’s incredible achievements. The Burj Khalifa cost $1.5 billion US to build. For 11 years it has remained the world’s tallest building. Here is where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Dubai cityscape and beyond, dine on the gastronomical delights in the highest restaurant in the world, or get relax in first-class spas.

2) Petra – Jordan

Petra, Jordan is a national treasure located in the southern part of the Hashemite Kingdom. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, it was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World In 2007. The site attracts visitors from all over the world. Once inhabited by Nabataean Arabs 2000 years ago, it is thought to be the heart of their civilization.

It was fondly called the Rose-Red city due to the colour of the rocks. The ancient art and architecture of the its millennia-old monastery, along with the carved facade of the Petra Treasury (or al-khazneh) still stand as a testament to Petra, Jordan’s history, as truly glorious and wonderful as it is.

3) Giza – Egypt

Perhaps when one thinks about traveling to the Middle East, nothing is more iconic than the pyramids of Giza. As equally important is the Great Sphinx of Giza. Striking even from a distance, you’ll marvel at how these vast, great pyramids seem to rise out of the desert. From its temples, statues, tombs to mysterious Sphinx, there is a lot to discover and reflect on at Giza Necropolis as you wonder how these grand structures were made with incredibly heavy stones so many years ago.

4) Al Aqsa Mosque – Palestine

The heart of Palestinian Jerusalem is, without a doubt, Al Aqsa and the Dome of the Rock. It is the third holiest site in Islam. Muslims believe that Muhammad came here from the Great Mosque of Mecca during the Night Journey. The mosque was built on top of the Temple Mount, known today as the Al Aqsa Compound. Nothing seems more serene as it does when the beautiful sound of the muezzin making the call to prayer rings out and echoes around compound. Indeed, around the city and Al Aqsa’s inside is filled with both pilgrims and regulars who come to prayer together.

By the way, while you’re here, Jerusalem is a great place to try Palestinian cuisine. Your taste buds will be excited as you sample everything. You must try the hummus and falafel, as well as the delicious shawarma and the mouth-watering local sweet, kunafa. Try some of the restaurants just outside the Damascus gate that always impress with their quality of food and service.

5) Wadi Bani Khalid – Oman

For those who love outdoor luxury, Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman is definitely a bucket list destination. You can enjoy a blissfully relaxing afternoon at this stunning desert oasis. The pools of emerald green water are irresistible and refreshing, especially in the hotter summer months. Add the surrounding beauty of age-old mountains, sparkling springs, and vibrant date palms and you’ve got Wadi Bani Khalid. It is truly a great place to spend a relaxing day.

From the luxurious tower of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa to the historic sites of Petra, Jordan and Giza, Egypt, to the relaxing waters of Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman, the Middle East is an area filled with both ancient ruins and modern convenience. An adventure through the Arabic speaking countries of Middle East will truly give you a more authentic picture of the culture and people of the Arab world.

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1) Burj Khalifa – Dubai

2) Petra – Jordan

3) Giza – Egypt

4) Al Aqsa Mosque – Palestine

5) Wadi Bani Khalid – Oman

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