Person standing on a sunlit sand dune seen through the circular opening of a tent.

Middle East

Wander the bustling souks, take in the golden deserts, and cities where history and modern life will captivate you in enchanting ways. 

The Middle East is alive with contrasts and surprises, where the scent of spices drifts through city streets, the sun casts gold over endless deserts, and every turn reveals a new story you never saw coming.

A flat visual of the world map

From sun-drenched deserts and ancient ruins to futuristic skylines and vibrant markets, the Middle East is somewhere extremely unique. One moment you’re sipping spiced tea under a carved archway, the next you’re wandering through alleyways where centuries of culture whisper from the walls.

Sunlight shining through ancient Egyptian temple pillars carved with hieroglyphics and figures, with a person walking in the distance.
Sunlit corridor with terracotta walls, arched windows, potted plants, wooden furniture, and hanging lanterns.
Cozy blue courtyard decorated with numerous potted plants, rustic wooden furniture, and traditional clay pots.
Front view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with its large white domes and reflective marble courtyard.
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul at sunset with a pink and purple sky and the cityscape in the background.

Must-see in the  Middle East

From tucked-away cafés and local food spots to secret courtyards and artisan workshops, we’ll guide you to the places that let you feel the pulse, not just glimpse it.

22.3372° N
31.6258° E
Abu Simbel Temples, Egypt

Among the most famous of all ancient Egyptian monuments. Carved into the sandstone cliffs over 3000 years ago the main entrance has 4 statues over 60ft tall.

25.1972° N
55.2744° E
Barj Kalifa, Dubai

The world's tallest structure at 829.8m. Visit for Luxury stays, fine dining, wellness treatments, shopping and of course the views.

38.6587° N
34.8532° E
Cappadocia, Turkey

Famous for its valleys, cave hotels, underground cities and unique rock formations. Take it all in with a hot air balloon rides at sunrise

30.3285° N
35.4444° E
Petra, Jordan

A famous archaeological and World Heritage site dating to around 300 B.C. Accessed via a narrow canyon it contains tombs and temples carved into pink sandstone cliffs

29.5926° N
52.5836° E
Shiraz, Iran

City of poets, literature, and flowers.Visit the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque for its famous multicolored stain-glass windows.

We know the Middle East

We take the time to understand how you like to travel, then create a journey using our insider knowledge, trusted contacts, and local insights.

flight tickets icon
We’ll handle your flights (intimately)

It’s not just about a flight to get you from A to B. It’s about the tiny details that make the world of difference to you, travelling there and travelling home. 

sun lounger icon
We’ll find your perfect stay

You tell us what you like, and we’ll match it with our handpicked accommodations. 

compass icon
We’ll make it happen, your way

Yes we’ve done personalised trips before (too many to count, in fact), but we want to know how you like to travel and build a trip that resonates with you. 

Frequently asked questions about the Middle East

Get your questions answered with our most FAQs, but if there’s something we haven’t covered, please get in touch.

What is the appropriate dress code for tourists visiting the Middle East?
Modesty is key across the region, especially outside major tourist zones. Both men and women should generally wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees in public spaces, markets, and especially religious sites.
When is the best time of year to visit the Middle East?
The best time is generally during the cooler seasons (April–May and October–November) or the main winter season (December–March).  The summer season sees temperatures getting very hot.
Is haggling common in the Middle East?
Yes, it is expected in souqs (markets) for clothing, souvenirs, and rugs. Start at about 50% of the asking price and settle around 60–75%. Always be polite, smile, and be ready to walk away.
Is the tap water safe to drink in the Middle East?
It is safest to assume it is not, except in highly developed cities known for advanced desalination (like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and parts of Saudi Arabia). Even where the water is safe at the source, older plumbing can be an issue. Always drink bottled water and be cautious of ice in drinks
What are the key rules when visiting mosques or religious sites?
Always remove your shoes before entering. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs. Men should wear long pants. Photography is generally allowed but be respectful.
Diamond-shaped stamp with the text 'HLZ KIRIKIRI NZ' and asterisk symbols on each side.
Travel Collective's

Middle Eastern specialists

It's your adventure, backed by our intel

We’ve wandered through souks in Marrakech, admired desert sunsets in Oman, explored ancient temples in Jordan, and savoured street food in Beirut. With firsthand experience and local connections, we know the guides, routes, and stays that turn a trip into something unforgettable.

Aerial view of the ancient rock-cut Treasury at Petra, Jordan, surrounded by steep sandstone cliffs and tourists below.A person wearing a traditional headscarf leads a camel through rippled sand dunes in a desert.Numerous colorful hot air balloons floating over a rocky, mountainous landscape under a partly cloudy sky.
Circular travel company stamp with stylized M and W letters in the center and text around the edge reading Travel Collective Est. 2025.
The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt with a caravan of camels and riders crossing the sandy desert in the foreground under a cloudy sky.

The Middle East is calling

Ready to explore deserts, cities, and coastlines that stir the senses at every turn? Let’s help you discover them.