In The Spotlight
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Petra: the ancient city carved out of red sandstone rocks in Jordan. Stunning architecture in dramatic natural setting, combining Hellenistic elements with traditional Nabataean rock-hewn tombs and temples. Rich history spanning from prehistoric times to 12th century, and then disappearing from people's memory until it was rediscovered in the 19th century. UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
Locations in the video: The Obelisk Tomb (0:01), The Siq (0:0), The Treasury (Al Khazneh, 1:41), Street of Facades (2:22), The Theater (2:51), Central Area (4:30), Frescoes from the Byzantine Church (5:02), Qasr al-Bint (5:26), Trail to the Monastery (5:44), The Monastery (Ad-Deir, 6:07), The Royal Tombs (8:03), Urn Tomb(8:26), again the Street of Facades - Estern side (8:44), High Place of Sacrifice Trail (9:50), Garden Triclinium (11:17), High Place of Sacrifice (12:00), High point view over the Treasury (12:26), Al Khubtha Trail 12:52), Umm al-Biyara Trail (14:23), Water cicterns on top of Umm al-Biyara (15:47), around the Crusader Castle at el-Habis (16:30), Little Petra (18:54).
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Dubai is an amazing place, and I highly recommend that you go one time in your life. But it’s a giant mega city in the middle east, so where do you start? I’ll show you around everything that’s cool in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab, the Dubai Mail, SkiDubai, Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, the Dubai Frame, the Mall of the Emirates, the beaches, Dubai Creek, the Souks and much more!
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Dubai's Evolution of Megaprojects & Dubai's Future Megaprojects. In this video, we go over Dubai's Transformation & Its Future Megaprojects. For more Dubai Megaprojects content be sure to subscribe to Top Luxury. Thanks for watching this video: Dubai’s Transformation & Its Future
0:00 Intro
1:23 Burj Al Arab
2:13 Palm Jumeirah
2:59 Dubai Metro
3:38 Burj Khalifa
4:28 Al Maktoum International Airport
5:16 Dubai Frame
6:24 The Eye
7:06 One Zabeel
7:50 Meydan District One
8:32 Dubai Creek Harbour
The city of superlatives, Dubai is grand, opulent and extravagant, to say the least! Striking a perfect balance with its modern lifestyle and ancient Arabian culture, this emirate has the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Creek, the Palm Islands and an array of other attractions to entice its visitors. Offering a dazzling nightlife, it has some splendid hookah lounges, pubs, and restaurants.
If you are visiting Dubai for the first time, you will be mesmerized by the tall towers, beautiful beaches, and wonderful malls, in addition to the city’s rich culture and traditions. But that’s not all, we bet there’s probably a lot of stunning places you don’t know about in Dubai. So, before you plan your next visit, check out the top 28 places you need to see in Dubai.
Apart from being one of the world’s most popular business and commerce hubs, the United Arab Emirates is one of the most prominent leisure destinations. Not only does the UAE feature breathtakingly attractive natural landscapes, but it also has all the top-notch resorts, shopping centres, and eateries – with a blend of the traditional and the modern.
Not to mention, it is very simple in terms of accessibility – with its national airports welcoming millions of tourists daily, with visas for over 30 countries available on arrival.
The UAE has experienced a cultural transformation over the past decade, with its two main cities blossoming into magnificent international metropoles. Now holding a skyline of stunning hotels, choosing somewhere to stay can be a little daunting in United Arab Emirates. Discover the best hotels in Dubai that stand out for their design, architecture, dining and culture.
There is a reason that the name Egypt has always conjured up romantic and mystical images in the minds of people from all around the globe. As one of the birthplaces of civilization, with a proud history and traditions spanning thousands of years into the past, Egypt is one of those rare locations around the world where you can transport yourself from the modern world to the ancient one with just a quick bus or cab ride.
While Cairo has all of the trappings of any modern global city, venturing out into the deserts and fertile plains of the Nile River valley can suddenly feel like you’ve stepped through a portal to the time of pharoahs, nomads, and early explorers.
Whether you want to experience history and natural beauty, enjoy some luxury and rest at a pristine Red Sea resort, or sip coffee in cafes in Alexandria just as others have done for thousands of years before you, there is no end to the amazing attractions in Egypt.
Amongst oceans of time and sand, the ancient treasures of Egypt still stand regal. Relics of bygone eras give off a sense of mysticism and majesty amongst the modern day, pillars of former prestige and sacred tombs that feel as old as the Earth itself sit side-by-side with modern metropolises. As critical as the current-day may be to the enchantment of a location, much of a trip’s magic lies in what’s already been written in the history books. Few locales can match the claim to your imagination as well as ancient Egypt. Pharaohs and mummies feel larger than life and ever-present around every corner.
For that reason, diving into Egypt’s storied history during a visit is an absolute must. But, with an overabundance of timeless cultural treasure, picking where to visit and what to see can be an adventure in itself. Whether you’re hoping to captivate your young ones with history brought to life, or feel like you yourself are an adventurous tomb-scouring archeologist, here are three quintessential treasures of Egypt you and your family simply can’t miss.
Egypt is one of the most fascinating places in the world. With a profoundly rich history, this is a bucket-list destination for so many. Known as Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus, the legendary Pyramids of Giza are the only remnants of the ancient Seven Wonders of the World and are, today, among the most famous and oldest attractions in the world. A highly skilled group of mathematicians, masons, surveyors and stonecutters were behind the design and construction of the pyramids, which were built to protect the mummies of the pharaohs and the treasures they took with them to the afterlife. Tick off this ancient wonder from your bucket list with our range of day tours and excursions, ready to book online in an instant.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has long been shrouded in intrigue and mystery being closed to all but religious tourists for years. But with tourist visas now available, intrepid travellers can finally explore this enigmatic country full of interesting cultural and historical sites. Here are the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
Mecca is the holiest place in the Islamic religion because it's the hometown of Islam's Prophet Muhammad and the place where he states that Allah revealed their holy book, the Koran, to him. Mecca has been the most important religious site for Muslims for 1,400 years. It's the destination of Muslim pilgrims from all over the world during the annual pilgrimage known as Hajj. Today, no non-Muslims are permitted to enter Mecca.
As the world's 13th largest country by area, it is no surprise that Saudia Arabia is also one of the most populous countries in the world. The city of Riyadh is the country's largest, boasting a population of over 4 million, which contributes heavily to the total population. In addition to Riyadh, there are three additional cities that have populations exceeding one million. There are also 19 cities that have over 100,000 residents, and an additional 44 that each surpass the 10,000 person milestone. These cities are spread across Saudi Arabia's 13 different regions. Each region also has a capital and governorates, which are further divided into sub-governorates. There are a total of 118 governorates in this country.
The Persian Empire was a series of historical empires that ruled over the Iranian plateau (Irān - "Land of the Aryans") and beyond. Generally, the earliest entity considered a part of the Persian Empire is Persia's Achaemenid dynasty (648–330 BC), a united Aryan kingdom that originated in the region now known as Pars province of Iran and was formed under Cyrus the Great. Successive states in Iran prior to March, 1935 are collectively called the Persian Empire by Western historians.
No matter how distant and rare your favorites are, Iran is a country vast enough to surprise you in every turn, especially when it comes to nature and national parks. With its 4-season climate and awe inspiring landscapes, is among the most suitable destinations for travelers who seek enjoying the coldness of snow on a mountain peak alongside the sunny beaches in the warm islands on a single journey. In other words, you will be pleased with experiencing different natural attractions in Iran just by taking a short domestic trip.
Famous for its magnificent architecture and warm hospitality of the locals, Iran is known to be one of the friendliest countries. The country speaks of ancient civilisations and glorious days of the past. With lovely gardens and thriving bazaars, it is one of those countries in the Middle East that should be on every traveler’s list.
Istanbul is a city that wears its cultures and history well, blending them into an exciting city that has much to offer travelers from around the world. Founded during Neolithic times, Istanbul today is a modern city that remains true to its historic heritage through its mosques, basilicas and cathedrals, and ancient bazaars.
Sitting pretty between the continents of Asia and Europe, Turkey boasts of some truly magnificent shopping options that will make any shopaholic get into a frenzy. Shopping in Turkey is great, with open-air markets, covered Turkish bazaars and chic boutiques everywhere. Turkish carpets and ceramics are world famous but the list doesn't by no means stops there!
Bargaining (or haggling) is sometimes part of the experience. Do it right, and it can be a pleasant—and profitable—social experience.
Whether it’s stunning beaches and bays that you are after or ancient historical sites and marvelous mosques, Turkey’s cities will never disappoint. Delicious cuisine and a friendly and welcoming population await you, and Turkey’s rich cultural heritage makes for an intoxicating experience that will surely live long in the memory.
When you think of Iraq you may well think of smoky battlefields, cruise missiles, and charging tanks. Years of conflict have besieged this country, and while Iraq continues to struggle with political strife, there is much to see here other than just the scars of war. This country is one that is covered in natural beauty, such as the winding waterways of the mighty Tigris and Euphrates rivers. It is often known as the Cradle of Civilization and this is a reference to its ancient Mesopotamian cities that are famed for their innovations in science, writing, literature, medicine, theology and law.
The Republic of Iraq forms part of the Western Asia group of countries. Iraq borders five other countries, including Turkey, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria. With a total land area of 437,072 square kilometers, Iraq is the world’s 58th largest country. The country has several important cities which have defined both the history and the existence of the country. Some of these cities, such as Karbala, Najaf, and Baghdad, are frequented by Muslims from all over the world because of their status as holy cities. Most of the cities in Iraq are political, administrative, financial, and commercial centers. The biggest cities in Iraq are looked at below.
Iraq should be one of the planet's most alluring travel destinations. It boasts fascinating ancient sites of Mesopotamia, Sumer and Assyria, including Babylon and the great Ziggurat of Ur; the 'Venice of the East', Basra; diverse ethnic groups including Kurds and Marsh Arabs; and of course the city that forms the focus of tales from the 1,001 Nights: Baghdad.
For anyone interested in history, Israel is one of the most fascinating places in the world. Home to some of the world's most famous religious tourist attractions, Israel is often thought of purely as a pilgrimage destination. Not only because of the sheer number of historical sites but that they are all within relatively close proximity to each other. After all, this is where some of the main events for those of the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths is said to have happened.
Israel is one of the most dynamic countries of the Middle East, located along the Mediterranean Sea. This holy land has attracted many visitors since biblical times for its historical and religious sites, sandy beaches, eco and adventure tourism, and year-round travel weather. Right from the Dead Sea to the beautiful beaches of Eilat on the Red Sea, and Mediterranean cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa, Israel never fails to excite and surprise its guests. The world-famous Old City in Jerusalem and churches of Bethlehem are a must-see for every visitor coming to Israel.
Israel is a country which, despite it’s small geographic size, has made immense scientific and technological contributions. It is much more than the desert that characterizes it, or the Middle Eastern cultural assumptions usually associated with the country. Check out our list of surprising facts you might not know about Israel.
Middle East In The Spotlight
The MENA region commands abundant human and natural resources, accounts for a large share of world petroleum production and exports, and enjoys on average a reasonable standard of living. Within this general characterization, countries vary substantially in resources, economic and geographical size, population, and standards of living. At the same time, intra-regional interaction is weak, being restricted principally to labor flows, with limited trade in goods and services.
MENA covers a surface of over 15 million square kilometers and contains some 6 percent of the world's population, about the same as the population of the European Union (EU). The three smallest countries (Bahrain, Djibouti, and Qatar) each have a population of about half a million inhabitants. By contrast, the two largest countries (Egypt and the Islamic Republic of Iran) comprise about 60 million inhabitants each. Together with Algeria, Morocco, and Sudan, these five most populated countries account for about 70 percent of the region's population. About half the population lives in cities.
The Taliban were founded in southern Afghanistan by Mullah Mohammad Omar, a member of the Pashtun tribe who became a mujahedeen commander that helped push the Soviets out of the country in 1989. In 1994, Mullah Omar formed the group in Kandahar with about 50 followers who rose up to challenge the instability, corruption and crime that consumed Afghanistan during the post-Soviet-era civil war.
The Taliban, whose name means “students”—a reference to the founding members having studied under Mullah Omar—quickly captured Kandahar and seized the capital, Kabul, in 1996 as Afghans grew disenchanted with the country’s insecurity. The Taliban swiftly imposed strict Islamic rules that banned television and music, barred girls from going to school and forced women to wear head-to-toe coverings called burqas. The Taliban provided bin Laden with sanctuary while he planned the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Are you looking for the best Middle East country to visit in 2021? Middle East cities can give you the most unforgettable adventure of your life. Most of the Middle East cities are rich in history and different cultures that you will be amazed to explore. Here are some of the best places and cities in the Middle East that you should start planning to visit soon.
What’s the best-ranked Arab university? King Abdulaziz University comes atop the 2021 QS and THE Rankings. It was established in 1967 as a private university in the Hijazi Red Sea city of Jeddah. In 1974, it was converted into a public one. Interestingly, students there receive free education and housing.
The university has a comprehensive learning program across faculties, including the arts and humanities, science and technology, and medicine. It also offers some unique courses such as marine science, meteorology and astronomy.
Syria is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with a rich artistic and cultural heritage. From its ancient roots to its recent political instability and the Syrian Civil War, the country has a complex and, at times, tumultuous history.
Jordan is one of those countries that speaks to the imagination of a lot of people, yet it still slips underneath the radar a lot of times. And it truly is a shame cause Jordan is home to some of the most beautiful places in the entire world.
From the red sand dunes in Wadi Rum to the hand carved facades of Petra and the ancient ruins of Jerash. Jordan is a country that will surprise you on the most positive note every step of the way.
And this list is perfect to keep with you when you’re planning your trip. Easy to read, enough information to help you plan an itinerary but you won’t drown in all of the information!
What are the best places to visit in Lebanon? If you’re planning a trip to Lebanon, where should you go? Lebanon is a fantastic little country with so much to see!
The good news is that Lebanon is a compact country. So compact that it’s possible to base in Beirut the whole time and take day trips all over the country. That’s what I did on my trip — and it made it so easy to travel all over Lebanon while coming back to the same bed every night. My name is Kate and in This article I'll share with you about my experiences on travelling to Lebanon.
A country nestled on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula and boasting of its incredible attractions, Oman is a land that promises nothing but the sheer joy of a holiday. From historical forts and mesmerizing desert landscapes to the finest of beaches and scenic mountain ranges, one can find numerous places to visit in Oman that not only surprise but also inspire the tourists.
Also known as the Sultanate of Oman, the country is one of the top picks of travelers coming from around the world today, and rightly so. Its capital Muscat very much contributes to the charm of the country and highly popular amongst travelers coming for a holiday here.
Kuwait City is the national capital of Kuwait country. It is the political, economical and cultural center of the country as well. Tourism in Kuwait largely comes from other GCC countries owing to easy visa and transport convenience. Though, tourists from Europe, Asia and Americas can also be frequently seen here. You will see that the best places to visit in Kuwait are quite similar to those in other advanced GCC cities like Dubai, Beirut, Doha and Abu Dhabi. You will find great similarities in the types of Kuwait tourist attractions and those found in these cities. Kuwait attractions are a little short on historical marvels as you would find in European cities. But, that does not mean that the region lacks rich history. There are several archaeological sites, historical buildings and interesting museums to explore during Kuwait sightseeing. But, the city is primarily associated with modern marvels of architecture such as the Kuwait towers. These are among top Kuwait tourist places. These modern structures are most well known landmarks of the city as well as the nation.
Qatar is one of the world's richest countries by GDP per capita, based on a recent study by Forbes. With its high-income economy and booming natural oil and gas and reserves, the country is expected to continue its steady growth in the coming years.
This fast-developing nation in the Middle East has also become a lucrative hub for expatriates. People flock from all over the world to look for jobs in Qatar. Thanks to its availability of tax-free jobs, fair employment policies, and excellent work packages.
one of the best thing about travel is the food that comes with it, and Bahrain is no exception. A visit to this Gulf island country opens the doors to culinary adventures that extend way beyond the traditional dishes of the region, although there’s ample opportunity to sample those too. From acclaimed regional names to celebrity chef’s these are the best restaurants in Bahrain.
Yemen is one of the most important countries of middle east in Arabian peninsula that has interesting cultural history. It was a very prosperous trading place reference of which is found in Bible as Sheba. Later it had Jewish and Christianity influences. Islamic influence came much later on but spread very rapidly during 7th century AD. Yemen has interesting elements of ancient world. Besides it has some unique natural wonders too. Yemen was a very popular place for tourism until 2011 when the country faced political turmoil. Now things are improving. Tourism is on a slow rise again in that part of the world. Sanaa, the most important city of the country has some excellent hotels for travelers to stay.