The falcon is the national bird and symbol of the United Arab Emirates and a cherished part Emirati culture. Falcons are a large part of Emirati ancestral livelihoods and are important to their survival in the desert. This strong cultural connection is why we incorporate ethical falconry in our desert safaris when viewing the Falcon exhibit in Dubai or getting close to these majestic birds. In this article, we outline some aspects of the well-being of our falcons and answer all the most frequent
middle east (33)
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Covering around 35 acres, this carefully planned ceremonial complex is a powerful symbol of ancient Persian civilization,. It´s located in Fars Province in the south, at the foot of the Kuh-e Rahmat (“Mountain of Mercy”) a one-hour drive from Shiraz and roughly ten to 12 hours from Tehran, depending on traffic and road conditions (there are also regular 90-minute flights between Tehran and Shiraz).
Founded around 518 BCE by Darius I, Persepolis served as the ceremonial he
Perched on a cluster of rolling hills, this small country´s capital (pop. 4 million) is a city of contrasts — ancient and modern, relaxed yet electric, a place where Roman ruins meet rooftop lounges and where the call to prayer drifts over art galleries, cafés, and sun-warmed stone. Often overshadowed by Jordan’s showstoppers like Petra and Wadi Rum, "the White Pigeon" quietly reveals itself to those who linger: a city rich in hospitality, heritage, and surprising sophistication.
One of
The “City of Sheikhs” is of course famed worldwide for its glitz, glamour, and (often over-the-top) luxury, and this goes as much for its lodgings as anywhere else - with exhibit A being the "seven-star" Burj Al Arab Jumeirah (where room rates start north of US$1,000 a night). But bargain seekers do have a suprising menu of options, and without having to resorts to fleabags or hostels. Here are five three-star properties which provide a modicum of luxury at very accessible
Dubai is home to some of the most stunning beachfront dining experiences, where breathtaking views meet world-class cuisine. If you're looking to indulge in a meal by the shore, these five restaurants offer the perfect blend of ambiance, flavors, and luxury.
Beachcombers Dubai: Enjoy a Luxurious Meal by Dubai’s Shore
Nestled along Jumeirah Beach, Beachcombers offers a fusion of Asian flavors with a breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf. This family-friendly restaurant provides a buffet-style d
Amanderson2
This a hidden gem in the kingdom´s northwestern corner (pop. 594,000) offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, Tabūk is a perfect getaway for travelers seeking something off the beaten path. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a serene escape, Tabūk has something for everyone. From ancient castles and dramatic valleys to pristine beaches and vibrant markets, this region promises
This magnificent gem nestled in the heart of the bustling city, is a realm of luminance, artistry, and boundless creativity. Tucked away in Zabeel Park, this remarkable attraction is a testament to Dubai's knack for turning dreams into reality. As I stepped into this magical world, I found myself transported into a realm of wonder, where imagination knows no boundaries. In this blog post, join me as I explore the captivating attractions that Dubai Garden Glow has to offer, and discover why secu
Palestine´s West Bank - a territory of just under 2,200 square miles with a population of 4.2 million, wedged betwen Israel and Jordan - has long been a trove of history and culture enjoyed by millions of visitors in recent decades, especially those attracted to biblical history (mostly but far from exclusively Christians from around the world). But beginning in the fall of 2023, Israel responded to the brutal murders and kidnappings of more than a thousand of its citizens by Gaza´s
Dan
Significantly bigger than California and more than twice the size of the United Kingdom and this wedge of a country of 24 million on the Arabian Sea and running along the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula is troubled, to say the least – one of the world´s poorest countries and embroiled in a bitter, brutal civil war that makes it off limits to tourism for the moment. But it´s still well worth showcasing some of the wealth of historical, cultural, and natural riches Yemen has to off
The female security guard discreetly slips me through a side door and gestures for me to sit at the table in the corner. The Arabic music is pulsating and the room is reverberating with the nervous energy of 400 women. Suddenly, the lights dim and everyone turns to watch. A bride, dressed in a Western-style long white wedding gown with matching trailing veil has a death grip on her bouquet of roses as she takes very slow measured steps down the center aisle towards the “Bride’s Love Seat.” Her
Whether you are a backpacker or an independent traveler to Iran, booking a hotel is one of the things you must do! Booking your hotel in Iran online makes you sure about your accommodation during your trip. Hence, reading about different accommodations and making a selection is one of the must-do things before your arrival. You can book it through an Iranian travel agency, some Iranian websites, directly from a hotel, at the airport, or online. However, online Iran hotel booking is different. D
This hidden gem in the northwestern corner of Saudi Arabia, is a destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, Tabūk is a perfect getaway for travelers seeking something off the beaten path. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a serene escape, Tabūk has something for everyone. From ancient castles and dramatic valleys to pristine beaches and vibrant markets, this region promises an
In the United Arab Emirates Islam is of course the main religion, but Dubai especially is a world city, with many non-Muslim residents, and has embraced the more secular trappings of the Yuletide season making them a vibrant part of Dubai in December. Here are 15 excellent examples:
Christmas Grottos
Revolve around kids visiting Santa and his elves, these colorful grottos can be found in places including Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai Mall, Expo City, Media City, and Ski Dubai.
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This oil-rich little emirate (pop. just under nine million) on the Persian Gulf was last big in the news as the object of invasion by Sadam Hussein´s Iraq just next door. And though its far less touristed than most of its Gulf neighbors, Kuwait does offer a nice selection of travel experiences both traditional and modern, as well as cultural and outdoorsy; many – but far from all – are to be found in the capital, Kuwait City (pop. 3.4 million). Here are its top eight musts:
venuestock
Recently we started service to this dyamic city – in the northeast Arabnian Peninsula astride a bay off the Persian Gulf and with a population of some 665,000 – where which will have you marveling at its modernity. Considered since 2014 one of the world´s top seven urban wonders, its core is dominated by glass skyscrapers, interspersed with green spaces and renovated historical buildings dating back to its founding in 1820.
Back then it was a humble town of fisherfolk and pearl mercha
The Middle East, a region often portrayed through the lens of its rich history and complex geopolitics, holds within its bounds a world of natural beauty that transcends the confines of imagination. This land, where civilization itself took root, is a testament to the enduring allure of nature’s artistry. Its deserts, vast and unyielding, give way to pockets of lush oases, creating a contrast so stark yet so harmonious. This exploration into the Middle East's natural wonders invites travelers to
In southern Jordan, just under three hours from capital Amman, one of the most recognisable ancient sites in the MIddle East - and indeed, the world - was rediscovered by archaeologists in 1812. But it dates back to at least the 2nd century BCE and probably earlier, settled by an ancient Bedouin Arab tribe called the Nabataeans, who spoke Aramaic rather than Arabic and grew into a wealthy, powerful kingdom which at its height - and until it was absorbed by the Roman Empire in the
This narrow strip of land along the Mediterranean coast between Israel and Egypt is tiny – just 141 square miles/365 sq. kilometers (about the size of Las Vegas or the British city of Sheffield) – and with a population of nearly 2.1 million, making it one of the world´s most densely packed territories.
And Gaza has of course massively been in the news since October 7 because of the tragic and horrific reasons with which by now we´re all too familiar. And when it comes to spots
