Middle East
Think the Middle East is all deserts and dusty ruins? Think again. This wildly diverse region is packed with ancient cities, epic landscapes, buzzing markets, turquoise coastlines and some seriously good food. From Jordan's desert valleys to Oman's rugged mountains and Egypt's legendary temples, there's a whole lot to discover.
The Big Backpacking Guides
Backpacking the Middle East Routes
Editor's PickDubai Itinerary • MUST READ!
A Little Bit About This 3-Day Dubai Itinerary Dubai is known for being a sparkling skyscraper city in the desert, but it’s…
Editor's PickSaudi Arabia Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS)
Why Visit Saudi Arabia? Visit Saudi Arabia for its history, culture, and nature. These are my three go-to words whenever I am…
Editor's PickIstanbul Travel Guide – Visit Cheaply
How Much Does Visiting Istanbul Cost? By Western standards, Istanbul is a pretty budget-friendly place. Accommodation in Istanbul is about half of…
Editor's PickDubai vs. Qatar: The Ultimate Decision
Dubai vs. Qatar Although similar in many ways, there are some intrinsic differences between Dubai and Qatar. The differences range from the…
Editor's PickThe BEST Istanbul Itinerary in Existence (UPDATED)
A Little bit About this 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary Heading for a little Backpack through Turkey? Want to take down the immensely historic…
Editor's Pick14 BEST Places to Visit in Oman • TOP DESTINATIONS
When is the Best Time to Visit Oman? While not strictly a country of four seasons, there is some diversity in Oman’s…
Handpicked Things to See and Do
11 Amazing Day Trips in Istanbul 
27 BEST Places to Visit in Dubai 
22 Beautiful Places in Turkey 
21 BEST Things To Do in Oman (ACTIVITIES GUIDE) 
16 Best Places to Visit in Israel (ATTRACTION GUIDE) 
8 BEST Places to Visit in Cairo 
Diving in Eilat Guide: The Best Scuba Sites! 
21 EPIC Things To Do in Tehran – Activities, Itineraries & Day Trips Know Before You Go
The no-BS planning guides, prep tips, and field-tested picks we use on the road.
Book It
Hostel
The one we actually use to lock in dorm beds across the Middle East
Hotels
Treat yourself to your own room once in a while.
eSim
Data the second you land – no SIM hunt at the airport.
Travel Insurance
The cover we trust on every trip – built for backpackers, actually affordable.
Tours
Even on a budget, some experiences are worth paying for.
Transport
Book your trains, planes, buses and ferries across the Middle East.
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Middle East FAQs
Is the Middle East safe for backpackers?
The Middle East is generally safe to travel around, but conditions vary considerably between countries and can change quickly. Always check the latest travel advice before you go, particularly for destinations affected by regional tensions, and follow local guidance while you're there.
What should I wear when travelling around the Middle East?
Dress codes vary between countries, but dressing modestly is generally the safest approach. Loose-fitting clothes that cover your shoulders and knees are a good choice, particularly when visiting mosques, religious sites or more conservative areas. Beach resorts and tourist areas tend to be more relaxed.
Can you travel overland around the Middle East?
Yes, although it's not as straightforward as backpacking around Southeast Asia or Europe. Buses, trains and shared taxis connect many destinations, while some borders are closed or difficult to cross depending on current conditions. Planning your route around the countries you want to visit is essential.
Do I need to visit the Middle East during Ramadan?
You don't have to, but travelling during Ramadan can be a wonderful cultural experience. You'll need to be more mindful of local customs, as eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours may be restricted in some countries. Opening hours and nightlife can also change, so check what to expect before you travel.