The Middle East is a transcontinental region that spans Western Asia and parts of North Africa. It is a large and varied area, and a visit here is less a single destination than a journey across many countries, landscapes and peoples.
What the region is known for
- Strategic location: the region sits where Asia, Africa and Europe meet, which has shaped its trade routes and its history for a very long time.
- Oil reserves: large deposits of oil are a defining feature of its economy and of its modern cities.
- Ancient civilizations: some of the earliest settled societies developed here, and their remains are part of many places a traveller can visit.
Planning a visit
Because the Middle East covers so many countries, it helps to choose one or two areas rather than attempt the whole region at once. Each country has its own entry rules, customs and seasons, so it is worth checking current information for the specific places on your route before you go. Travel in the region often combines historic sites with modern city life, and the contrast between the two is part of what makes a trip memorable.
If you are drawn to ancient history, strategic crossroads and the meeting of several cultures, the Middle East offers a great deal to explore. Take time to focus on the countries that interest you most, and let the wider region be the backdrop to your journey.
