The Middle East has a lot to offer travelers, but many of these destinations don’t get the attention they deserve. That’s why it’s important to travel off the beaten path.
A great way to find these places is by asking locals and ex-pats for suggestions. They may know about hidden gems that aren’t in the guidebooks or travel blogs.
Esfahan
Esfahan, one of Iran’s most popular tourist destinations, is a city that has something to offer every visitor. It’s home to a kaleidoscope of people, languages, religions, and customs.
The Safavid dynasty, which ruled from 1598 to 1722, made the city a hub for international trade and diplomacy. They did this by putting an emphasis on religious tolerance and state capitalism. They established Shiite Islam as the state religion, promoted Sufism, and rerouted the Silk Road so that Isfahan became a key trading hub.
But as much as it was a cultural hub, Isfahan was also a place of repression. In the 1228 Mongol invasion, many residents were killed. And two generations later, in 1387, the Central Asian conqueror Tamerlane avenged a revolt by slaughtering 70,000 Iranians.
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is a stunning desert valley filled with sand dunes and towering mountains. Its otherworldly beauty is a result of the wind and weather carving out imposing jebels from the surrounding sandstone.
Filmmakers love to use it for its dramatic scenery. This red-rock wilderness has been used as a backdrop for many movies, including The Martian, Star Wars, and Transformers.
You can spend a day exploring Wadi Rum by Jeep, camel, or on foot. However, it’s best to add another day or two so that you can see all of the area’s highlights.
A must-see is the Abu Khashaba canyon, which features both red and yellow sand, as well as sculpted shapes that look like artwork. You can also climb to the top of Burdah Rock Bridge, which is the tallest natural arch in Wadi Rum and boasts panoramic views over the area.
Qadisha Valley
Located in northern Lebanon, Qadisha Valley is a stunning place to visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to mountain wilderness, ancient monasteries, and the picturesque village of Bcharre.
The region is a popular spot for hiking and skiing, with several sections of the Lebanese Mountain Trail passing through. Late spring, summer, and early autumn are the best times to explore this area, but if you’re planning a winter trip, be sure to pack plenty of warm clothing and sturdy footwear.
One of the best things about this area is the group of isolated monasteries carved into the rocks of the mountains. These monasteries—all but a few of which can be accessed on foot—are unique and provide insight into the earliest days of Maronite eremitism. The most significant of these is Deir Qannoubin Monastery, followed by Deir Mar Elisha Monastery, and Deir Mar Antonius Qozhaya Monastery.
Saudi Arabia
Despite being known for its harsh desert landscapes and oppressive heat, Saudi Arabia offers many hidden gems that are worth exploring. From historic villages and UNESCO World Heritage sites to stunning beaches and lush mountains, the country is an incredible destination for travelers who want to experience something off the beaten path.
Among the hidden gems in the country is Al Balad, a historical district that’s famous for its souqs and architecture. It’s a great place to spend the day, as you can explore all the different areas of the district and learn about the country’s history in a fun and educational way.
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia, which is on the UNESCO list, is one of the must-see places in the country. There, you can see a prehistoric mastodon and rock carvings, among other things. It’s also a good place to learn about Saudi culture, as you can see replicas of the buildings from old Jeddah and get a feel for how Saudis lived hundreds of years ago.