The United Arab Emirates (UAE), in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, extends along part of the Gulf of Oman and the southern coast of the Persian Gulf. From glittering first-world cities to rich cultural history and breathtaking nature, the UAE provides something for every type of traveller. Chic, fast-paced Dubai provides every modern (and futuristic) comfort; Abu Dhabi is a capital of culture with its galleries, museums and traditional food; and Ajman and Fujairah offer incredible swimming, diving and watersports in their clear, warm waters. The country boasts many world records: the world’s fastest roller coaster, the tower with the greatest lean, and the largest cluster of 21st-century cultural buildings. The green Mangrove National Park, sprawling orange Dubai desert, and dramatic cliff faces of the Snoopy Islands plunging into turquoise water are only a few of the spectacular natural wonders of this abundant country.
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The capital of the Emirate of Dubai, the city of Dubai is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, and is synonymous with size and pushing the limits – first, largest, tallest. Aside from this, the attraction of the metropolis is a dreamy world of sites and unheard-of luxuries; shopping centres, nightlife, and cutting-edge hotels. Famous constructions include Burj Khalifa, The Palm, Burj Al Arab, The World Island. Although Dubai strictly safeguards its traditional practices, it allows space for other religions to breathe, a rare quality amongst the conservative Arab world. The combination of all this means Dubai has emerged as a cosmopolitan mega power, a global city, and travel, business, and cultural hub of the Middle East.
While this Arab kingdom in Western Asia typically conjures up images of vast sprawling deserts, it is, in fact, a remarkably diverse destination offering ancient churches and castles, spectacular mountain scenery, and stunning beaches, as well as some famously friendly local inhabitants. Itinerary highlights include: the incredible Dead Sea; the 2000-year-old ‘lost city’ of Petra; and the famous Lawrence of Arabia trail, which takes visitors from the ruins of his fort at Azraq to the picturesque deserts of Wadi Rum. While Jordan’s long and fascinating history provides travellers with a host of intriguing historical and biblical sites, the country is certainly not stuck in the past. With its slew of modern luxury hotels, trendy restaurants and lively bars, the city serves as a great base to explore the many ancient sites. For a captivating destination full of natural, historical and cultural wonders, look no further than the enchanting nation of Jordan.
Spread across seven hills, Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a sprawling modern metropolis. While many travellers to the Middle East overlook Amman in favour of more celebrated destinations such as Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Petra; those discerning enough to add Amman to their itinerary will enjoy the treasure trove of hidden surprises this modern capital city has to offer. The city features a bustling maze of busy streets and is divided into two distinct areas. The first is Western Amman, with its lush residential suburbs, elegant restaurants, stylish bars, and state-of-the-art shopping malls. This modern sophistication stands in sharp and intriguing contrast to the laid-back Eastern Amman, boasting a more traditional, earthy side. Spend your days visiting an array of attractions such as Amman's Roman Amphitheatre the fascinating Jordan Museum or the countless luxurious cafes.
Set on the northern banks of the Dead Sea in Jordan, the town of Swemeh (or Sweimeh) offers its visitors a holiday paradise of luxury resorts, hotels and spas. Sunbathe on soft sandy beaches, indulge in massages and body treatments, or learn (or take part in) an array of outdoor sports. Activities on offer include hot air ballooning, skydiving, microliter trips, and floating in the salty water. The water’s high level of salt makes floating on one’s back much easier (but watch out- normal swimming is difficult). Attractions nearby include the historic Mount Nebo; the ‘City of Mosaics’; the sacred ‘Lot’s Cave’, and the ‘Baptism Site’ where it is believed Jesus was baptised; the Dead Sea Museum; the wonderful series of hot springs and waterfalls at Hammamat Ma'in; and the Mujib Reserve, home to incredible birdlife and the spectacular Jordan Grand Canyon and waterfall.
Wadi Musa means ‘Valley of Moses’ in Arabic and it is believed it is here that Moses struck water from rock at Ain Nusa (Moses’ Spring). It is a modern town in western Jordan that acts as a gateway to one of the country’s most spellbinding and awe-inspiring archaeological attractions - the ancient city of Petra. Circa 1 BC, a Bedouin tribe called the Nabateans carved a series of vast, elaborate palaces, temples, tombs and shrines into the area’s red-pink sandstone cliffs. The ‘Rose City’s’ decorative façades - complete with stately columns and intricate sculptures - reflect the exceptional engineering and architectural wisdom of the era.
