The Middle East

Where Time Began

Pyramids rising from golden sands. Cities carved into rose-red cliffs. Minarets glowing at twilight. The Middle East is where civilisation was born — and where it continues to astound.

Iconic Destinations

From the pharaonic grandeur of the Nile Valley to the futuristic skyline of Dubai, each corner of the Middle East tells a different chapter of the human story.

Pyramids of Giza at sunset
Egypt
Pyramids & the Nile
Cruise the world's longest river past 5,000 years of monumental history.
The Treasury at Petra, Jordan
Jordan
Petra & Wadi Rum
Walk through the Siq to the rose-red Treasury and sleep under desert stars.
Dubai skyline with Burj Khalifa
United Arab Emirates
Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Futuristic towers, luxury shopping, and desert adventures on the Arabian Gulf.
Jerusalem Old City skyline
Israel & Palestine
The Holy Land
Sacred to three faiths — Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, and ancient Galilee.
Oman mountain fortress
Oman
Muscat & the Mountains
Arabia's hidden gem — ancient forts, turquoise wadis, and genuine hospitality.

Five Nations, One Journey

Each Middle Eastern country offers a distinct personality — combine two or more for a truly immersive adventure.

Abu Simbel temple Egypt
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Egypt

The cradle of civilisation. Cruise the Nile from Luxor to Aswan, stand before the Great Pyramids, and explore the temples of Abu Simbel and Karnak — monuments that have endured millennia.

✦ Top: Sunset felucca sail on the Nile
Wadi Rum desert Jordan
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Jordan

Walk the narrow Siq to Petra's Treasury, float in the Dead Sea, and camp under stars in Wadi Rum's red desert. Jordan is compact, safe, and endlessly rewarding.

✦ Top: Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum
Dubai Burj Al Arab
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United Arab Emirates

From the Burj Khalifa's dizzying heights to Abu Dhabi's Louvre and Sheikh Zayed Mosque — the UAE blends ancient desert culture with staggering modern ambition.

✦ Top: Desert safari at sunset
Jerusalem Dome of the Rock
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Israel & Palestine

Jerusalem's sacred Old City, the tranquil Sea of Galilee, the ancient fortress of Masada, and the vibrant streets of Tel Aviv — history and modernity intertwined.

✦ Top: Sunrise from the Mount of Olives
Sultan Qaboos Mosque Oman
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Oman

Arabia's best-kept secret. Drive through the dramatic Hajar Mountains, swim in emerald wadis, explore ancient Nizwa, and experience Muscat's peaceful harbour culture.

✦ Top: Drive the Jebel Shams canyon road
Middle East mosque at dawn
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Multi-Country Combos

Combine Egypt + Jordan, Dubai + Oman, or Jordan + the Holy Land for a richer journey. We design seamless multi-country itineraries with flights and transfers included.

✦ Most popular: Egypt & Jordan 12 days

Experiences That Define the Region

The Middle East offers encounters that connect you to the very roots of human culture — ancient, alive, and deeply personal.

Nile cruise at sunset

Nile River Cruise

Sail a traditional dahabiya or luxury steamer from Luxor to Aswan, stopping at temples that have watched the river flow for five thousand years.

Desert stargazing at night

Desert Stargazing

Camp in Wadi Rum or the Wahiba Sands under skies free of light pollution — the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon above silent dunes.

Souk market spices

Souk Exploration

Wander through the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech, Istanbul, or Old Dubai — a sensory overload of spices, textiles, perfumes, and silver.

Hot air balloon over ancient site

Balloon Over Luxor

Rise at dawn to float silently above the Valley of the Kings, the Nile, and Hatshepsut's temple — a perspective few will ever forget.

Dead Sea floating

Float in the Dead Sea

At 430m below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth. Float effortlessly in mineral-rich waters that have drawn visitors since antiquity.

Arabian tea ceremony

Arabic Coffee Ritual

Share cardamom-spiced Arabic coffee (gahwa) with locals — a ritual of hospitality that has defined Bedouin culture for centuries.

A Culinary Crossroads

Middle Eastern cuisine is one of the world's great culinary traditions — generous, aromatic, and rooted in thousands of years of shared tables.

Mezze spread with hummus and falafel

Mezze & Sharing

Hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush — a vibrant spread meant to be shared slowly with friends.

Grilled kebabs and flatbread

Kebabs & Grills

From Egyptian kofta to Omani shuwa — slow-roasted and charcoal-grilled meats are the heart of Middle Eastern feasting.

Arabic sweets and baklava

Sweets & Pastries

Baklava, kunafa, Turkish delight — layers of honey, pistachios, and rose water that finish every meal with sweetness.

When to Visit

Timing matters in the Middle East — summers are scorching in most regions, but the cooler months offer ideal conditions for exploration.

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Peak Season

October — April

The golden months. Comfortable temperatures across Egypt, Jordan, UAE, and Oman. Perfect for sightseeing, desert camps, and outdoor exploration. Book early — this is when the region shines.

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Summer

May — September

Intense heat across the Gulf states and deserts (40°C+). Indoor attractions like Dubai's malls and museums thrive. Significantly lower hotel prices and fewer crowds. Egypt's Mediterranean coast stays pleasant.

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Ramadan & Festivals

Dates Vary Annually

Ramadan offers a unique cultural experience — iftar feasts at sunset are magical. Be aware that restaurant hours and alcohol availability may change. Eid celebrations are vibrant and welcoming.

12-Day Egypt & Jordan

Our most popular Middle East combination — the pharaonic wonders of the Nile paired with Petra's rose-red city and Wadi Rum's silent desert.

Day 1

Arrive in Cairo

Welcome to Egypt. Transfer to your hotel near the Pyramids. Evening orientation dinner with views of the illuminated Sphinx.

Day 2

Pyramids & The Grand Museum

Full day at Giza — the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun's treasures.

Day 3

Fly to Luxor — Nile Cruise Begins

Board your Nile cruise. Afternoon visit to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Sail at sunset.

Day 4

Valley of the Kings

Cross to the West Bank for the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. Continue sailing south.

Day 5

Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

Visit the perfectly preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu and the unusual dual temple at Kom Ombo. Felucca sail at sunset.

Day 6

Aswan & Abu Simbel

Early morning excursion to Abu Simbel's colossal rock temples. Afternoon in Aswan — Philae Temple and the Old Souk.

Day 7

Fly to Amman, Jordan

Cross into Jordan. Explore Amman's Citadel and Roman Theatre. Welcome dinner in the vibrant Rainbow Street neighbourhood.

Day 8

Jerash & the Dead Sea

Morning at the Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash. Afternoon floating in the Dead Sea — the lowest point on Earth.

Day 9

Petra — The Rose City

A full day exploring Petra. Walk the Siq, marvel at the Treasury, climb to the Monastery, and watch the canyon glow at sunset.

Day 10

Wadi Rum Desert

4×4 Jeep safari through Wadi Rum's towering sandstone. Overnight in a luxury Bedouin camp under a blanket of stars.

Day 11

Aqaba — Red Sea

Morning in Wadi Rum. Drive to Aqaba for an afternoon of snorkelling or diving in the crystal-clear Red Sea.

Day 12

Depart Amman

Transfer to Amman for your homeward flight — or extend to Dubai, Oman, or the Holy Land for a deeper journey.

Essential Travel Tips

Practical advice to help you navigate the Middle East respectfully, safely, and with maximum enjoyment.

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Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and religious sites. Lightweight linen and cotton are ideal. Headscarves are required at most mosques.

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Stay Hydrated

Heat is the biggest health risk. Carry water at all times, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

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Visa Requirements

Australian citizens can get visas on arrival for Egypt, Jordan, and Oman. UAE is visa-free for 30 days. Israel requires an eTA. Apply in advance for a smoother entry.

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Cash & Bargaining

Carry local currency and small USD notes for tips. Bargaining is expected in souks — start at 40% of the asking price and enjoy the exchange.

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Photography Etiquette

Always ask permission before photographing people. Many historic sites charge a small camera fee. Drone photography is restricted or banned in most countries.

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Respect Ramadan

If visiting during Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Iftar dinners at sunset are a wonderful cultural experience.

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Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Ensure it covers medical evacuation and adventure activities like desert safaris and diving.

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Power & Connectivity

Plug types vary by country — bring a universal adaptor. 4G coverage is excellent in cities. Buy a local SIM at the airport for affordable data.

Begin Your Middle East Journey

Let our specialists craft a bespoke itinerary across the ancient and modern wonders of the Middle East — tailored to your interests, pace, and travel style.

Start Planning Your Trip