Middle East

The Middle East isn't always the most obvious choice for the career breaker, but it's a region rich in history and culture.

• Where?
• Why?
• How?
• Facts for the career breaker
• Top Middle East tip

Where?

• Turkey
• Iran
• Iraq
• Kuwait
• Syria
• Lebanon
• Jordan
• Israel
• West Bank
• Gaza
• Saudi Arabia
• Bahrain
• United Arab Emirates
• Qatar
• Oman
• Yemen

Some definitions also include Egypt, Cyprus, the Caucasus region and Afghanistan.

The Middle East region is only 'middle East' to us! It lies to the south of Russia, north and east of Africa, and west of central Asia.

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Why?

• Many of the world's religions originated in the Middle East. Even if you're not religious, it's an opportunity to see important sites, beautiful places of worship and - if you're there at the right time - experience religious fesitvals.
• There are adventure tours available through the Middle East which are not only fantastic in terms of helping you make the most of your experience, but can also ensure you travel safely and responsibly.
• If you work for an international company, or have a lot of foreign clients, it's a great chance to improve your language skills. Although Arabic is most widely spoken around the Persian Gulf, a wide range of other languages are also spoken, including English.
• Some Middle Eastern countries, such as the UAE and Jordan, have recently been making efforts to attract travellers, which means an easier, more comfortable trip for you.
• If you want to do more than travel, there are volunteer opportunities in the Middle East, plus you can teach English.

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How?

Parts of the Middle East are on the list of areas the Foreign Office advises against travelling to, although only Lebanon is on the 'all but essential travel to' list. No go areas include parts of Iraq, Iran, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. It also advises against all but essential travel to parts of Yemen.

On the plus side, that does leave you with a lot of the Middle East still to explore. The best way is to go with an organised adventure tour company or, if you're volunteering, through your volunteer organisation. If you want to go it alone, round-the-world tickets stop in Dubai and Cairo.

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Facts for the career breaker

• The Middle East is known as the 'cradle of civilisation' - which means there's a spectacular variety of arts, culture and historical sites to explore.
• Islam is the main religion in this region (although not the only one). Taking care to observe cultural and religious conventions will make sure you have a more fulfilling trip.
• Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to buy alcohol in the Middle East (if you are a foreigner). Getting drunk and stumbling about is not advised though.
• An Israeli stamp in your passport can cause problems in some other Middle Eastern countries. If you hold a UK passport, you can get a spare one - otherwise, you will have to visit Israel last.
• Volunteering opportunities in the Middle East tend to focus on wildlife conservation and community development projects.
• People in the Middle East have a reputation for hospitality. An open mind will get you far!

Top Middle East tip

• Prepare well - not only for a different culture but also for the different climate. Read your guidebook, talk to your volunteer organisation or adventure travel company, and get advice from people who have already been.

Now where?

• Show me a list of companies which go to the Middle East
• Back to Where to go
• I'd like to have a look at What to do
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