The Middle East is a popular travel destination, but observing certain etiquette is important. This part of the world is rich in history, culture, and beautiful places.
It is home to some of the world’s most important historic sites, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the Roman ruins of Jerash.
It is also the birthplace of three Abrahamic religions, making it a great place to learn about religious traditions.
How To Travel Through The Middle East With Fun And Ease
If you’re traveling to new countries, your trip will surely be exciting. However, there are certain things that you must keep in mind before making the plan.
Given below are some great tips that will help you make your Middle-East travel diaries more memorable and smooth—
1. Solve The Cash And Currency Issues
US dollars and euros are accepted in the Middle East, but buying cash and checking the exchange rate before traveling is important. Some countries have restrictions on importing and exporting certain currencies.
So it’s important to research this beforehand. Find out whether US dollars are widely accepted where you plan to visit.
Here are some steps that can ensure efficient money management during the trip:
- Keep your exchange rates up to date.
- Have plenty of cash to use for tips from your guide.
- Bring a travel credit card with no fees for international transactions.
- Inform your bank about your travel plans.
- Ask your bank to set an alert when foreign trade.
These steps will help ensure smooth access to money abroad. Additionally, it is recommended that you inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid problems accessing your money abroad.
2. Decide Your Mode Of Transportation
Traveling in the Middle East by private jet is an experience of luxury, comfort, and convenience.
The region is home to some of the world’s most famous travel destinations and runways, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Istanbul, and Al Wajh airport.
Most nations have effective public transit networks connecting their largest cities. The most popular mode of transportation is the bus, while shared taxis and tourist buses are also available.
If you have little time, renting a car may be the best option for traveling around the Middle East.
Traveling by cruise ship is also possible in some places, especially along the River Nile, where a cruise is among the greatest experiences.
Also, some cruises travel the Mediterranean waterways, calling at locations in North Africa and Western Asia.
3. Follow The Dress Codes
Preliminary dress planning is essential when traveling to the Middle East, as dress codes and customs vary. Lightweight, breathable fabrics help combat the heat in many Middle Eastern countries.
Entry into the mosque is strictly enforced, with women required to wear hats that cover their ankles and wrists, and men must wear short-sleeved shirts to cover their tattoos.
Both men and women must wear additional scarves as needed, and regulations in Egypt, Israel, and Abu Dhabi are less stringent than in Oman.
It is best to dress modestly in the Middle East to respect local customs. Women should avoid wearing shorts, crop tops, and singlets as they look like they are walking in underwear.
Outside hotel pools, it’s best to cover your arms and legs with light material to avoid trouble and excessive staring.
4. Follow The Local Etiquette
Avoid bargaining and disputing with the vendors when visiting souks and markets in the Middle East.
In the West, losing your temper in public is still frowned upon, but in countries like Dubai, having a public breakdown might land you in jail.
When visiting religious locations, women and men are required to cover their heads, take off their shoes, and show respect for those worshipping.
It is usual to shake hands for a lengthy period and say “Asalamu Alaykum” while extending a greeting. Women must first extend their hands before men would shake them.
Bring a gesture of thanks; the people of the Middle East are kind and giving. Use your right hand to eat, and wash your hands before eating.
When complementing décor, use caution because many people will feel obligated to give you the thing.
5. Know The Best Time To Travel
As the Middle East is renowned for its intense heat, it’s crucial to schedule your travels during the winter.
The greatest times to go are during the year’s cooler months, from October to March when temperatures often hover around 20 degrees Celsius. July and August are the warmest months, with late summer being particularly humid.
Wintertime temperatures in the United Arab Emirates and its neighboring nations range from 50 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 14 degrees Celsius).
Traveling to more northern nations like Iran and Turkey in the spring or autumn is advisable. While Iran’s summer is sweltering hot, Turkey’s is bustling.
Consider important religious occasions, like Ramadan, before traveling to the Middle East.
These occasions may impact your ability to travel and may even affect where you can go.
