Middle East

Safety in the Middle East varies from country to country. Countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Jordan are known as safe and tourist-friendly destinations. In other parts of the region, such as Israel and Lebanon, the situation is currently unstable and travel is discouraged. It is therefore essential to always consult the latest travel advice before departure. In general, the tourist areas in countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Oman are well developed and safe to visit.

The cost of traveling in the Middle East varies greatly from country to country. Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are known for their luxury and higher prices, especially in cities like Dubai and Doha. At the same time, there are also affordable destinations like Jordan and Lebanon, where you can enjoy cultural and natural attractions for less. On an average budget, you can travel in the Middle East for around €50 to €150 per day, depending on your travel style.

As for means of payment, credit cards are widely used in major cities and tourist areas, especially for hotels, restaurants and shops. However, cash is often necessary in smaller towns and remote areas. ATMs are usually available in cities, but it is useful to always have some local currency on you for smaller expenses and transport. Also check whether your debit or credit card is accepted in the country you are visiting.

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Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended when traveling to the Middle East. Medical costs can be high in some countries, especially the Gulf States. In addition, travel insurance provides coverage for unforeseen expenses such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, and medical assistance. It is also wise to ensure that your insurance covers adventure activities, such as desert safaris or diving, which are popular in the region.

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Many tour operators offer trips to the Middle East, such as tours to countries such as Jordan and Oman. For adventurous travellers, there are also specialist providers who organise desert trips, cultural tours and treks in the region. Tour operators offer a wide range of options, from luxury holidays in the Gulf States to adventure tours.

In most Middle Eastern countries, it is not recommended to drink tap water, except in some developed countries such as the United Arab Emirates. It is generally recommended to buy bottled water to avoid health problems. Many hotels and restaurants in tourist areas offer bottled water. It is always wise to follow local advice and, if in doubt, opt for bottled water.

The Middle East has a variety of cultural and religious dress codes, depending on the country and region. In many countries, both men and women are expected to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites such as mosques. For women, this often means wearing covering clothing such as long skirts, trousers, and a scarf to cover the head. In more liberal cities such as Dubai or Beirut, dress codes may be more relaxed, but respect for local traditions is always advisable, especially in less touristy areas.

The best time to visit the Middle East is during the cooler months, from October to April. During this time, temperatures are more pleasant, especially in countries with desert climates such as Jordan, Oman and the United Arab Emirates, where summers can be extremely hot. Spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring ancient ruins, hiking in national parks and visiting markets. Winter is mild, with cooler temperatures, perfect for exploring cities and desert areas.

In many parts of the Middle East, you can get by with English, especially in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Israel, where English is widely spoken. In tourist areas, hotels and restaurants, you can communicate in English in most countries. In some countries, it is useful to learn some basic Arabic phrases, especially if you are travelling outside of the major cities. But generally, English is sufficient for tourists.

Yes, in most Middle Eastern countries you will need a universal adapter, as the sockets and voltages vary. Countries such as the UAE and Qatar often use type G, while other countries such as Jordan and Israel may have other types of plugs, such as type C or D. It is useful to bring a universal adapter so that you can charge your devices without any problems.

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Flying is the most common way to travel between countries in the Middle East, especially for longer distances. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways offer numerous connections between major cities in the region. For shorter distances, there are sometimes bus or ferry connections, especially between neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Israel or Egypt. It is important to check visa requirements and border crossings in advance, as rules and conditions vary from country to country.

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