From Alexander the Great and the Roman Empire to Genghis Khan and the 19th Century colonial powers, the countries of the Middle East have been indelibly marked by conquerors and invaders, yet their own ancient civilisations have contributed in equal measure to the fascinating and fabled heritage of the Middle East as we know it today. Yet with a long and distinguished character, vistas that stir the soul and an enduring sense of timelessness, such decadence is matched pound for pound with cultural integrity.
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MIDDLE EAST
COUNTRIES
United Arab Emirates
The variety on offer in Dubai and Abu Dhabi ensures their popularity for a hit of reliable heat. There are five-star hotels where the service is well-nigh perfect and beaches are impeccably raked, waterparks and camel races, wadi bashing and golf. With super-malls carrying every label that has ever graced Bond Street, the diversions on offer mean nobody gets bored. MORE
Iran
The Iranians' warmth and skilful storytelling evokes a compulsion to learn more about their history and culture. Expect your journey to take you from kaleidoscopic Persian architecture, through the rambling pathways of UNESCO gardens to the maze of alleys and shops in mud-brick communities and all without the crowds. MORE
