The Middle East is a region brimming with breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant cultures. From the ultramodern skyscrapers of Dubai to the ancient ruins of Petra, and the marketplaces of Istanbul, traveling through the Middle East offers a unique blend of the old and new. This guide provides essential tips for exploring the region affordably, focusing on cheap flights, budget accommodations, and cost-effective activities across various Middle Eastern countries.
Planning Your Trip to the Middle East
Best Times to Travel: Travel during the shoulder seasons — March to May and September to November — to enjoy moderate weather and lower prices. Avoid the high summer in desert areas due to extreme heat.
Finding Cheap Flights Within the Middle East
Major Airports and Airlines:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB), UAE: A major hub for international flights and headquarters to Emirates and FlyDubai, offering extensive connections throughout the region.
- Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH), Qatar: Another significant hub in the Middle East, home to Qatar Airways.
- Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey: Serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia and offers competitive prices on Turkish Airlines.
Tips for Booking Flights:
- Use ApexFare’s Search Features: To find the best deals, compare flight prices across multiple airlines.
- Set Price Alerts: On ApexFare to stay updated on the lowest fares to your chosen destinations.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Options Across the Region:
- Hostels and Budget Hotels: Increasingly available in major cities like Istanbul, Beirut, and Amman.
- Guesthouses and B&Bs: Offer local hospitality and are often more affordable than hotels.
Dining and Experiencing the Middle East on a Budget
Eating Economically:
- Street Food and Local Eateries: Try local dishes like shawarma, falafel, and kebabs which are delicious and affordable.
- Local Markets: Such as souks where you can sample a variety of foods and snacks at low prices.
Free or Low-Cost Attractions:
- Historical Sites: Many sites, like the mosques in various countries, do not charge entrance fees.
- Nature Reserves and Public Beaches: Often free or have minimal costs associated.
Travel Tips for Each Country
- United Arab Emirates: Explore beyond Dubai; visit Sharjah’s Arts District and Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites.
- Jordan: Beyond Petra, explore free sites like the Amman Citadel and the ancient Roman ruins of Jerash.
- Oman: Enjoy the natural beauty of the Al Hajar Mountains and the beaches along the coast.
- Saudi Arabia: The recently opened tourist sector offers an untouched heritage to explore, from Riyadh to Jeddah.
- Qatar: Take advantage of free entry to many of Doha’s museums and the Corniche’s splendid views.
- Lebanon: Experience Beirut’s vibrant dining scene and visit the free historical sites in Byblos.
- Turkey: Istanbul offers numerous historical sites, with affordable experiences and vibrant bazaars.
Conclusion
Traveling through the Middle East doesn’t have to be expensive. With strategic planning using ApexFare’s tools and embracing local experiences, you can explore this fascinating region without breaking the bank. Whether you’re marveling at ancient wonders or enjoying modern luxuries, the Middle East offers something for every budget-conscious traveler.