UAE – Enjoy the opulence of Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The cities are a contrast between traditional Middle Eastern life and modern consumerism. More from: Lonely Planet | Frommer’s
Bahrain – A relatively liberal and modern Gulf state, Bahrain is less than an hour away by plane. Shopping, dining and cocktails lure travelers here. More from: Lonely Planet
Oman – One of the more traditional countries in the region, Oman offers tourists a blend of seaside resorts and Arabic traditions. More from: Lonely Planet

Egypt – Ancient wonders draw travelers to Egypt, where they marvel at the pyramids, the Sphinx, the Nile, Luxor and bustling Cairo. More from: Lonely Planet | Fodor’s | Frommer’s
Jordan – Between Arabia and the Mediterranean Sea, Jordan is full of historic and Biblical sites. Tourists also visit for the Dead Sea spas and Red Sea scuba diving. More from: Lonely Planet | Frommer’s
Turkey – Known for its hospitality, Turkey is part European and part Middle Eastern. Byzantine mosaics, Turkish baths, whirling dervishes and sandy Mediterranean beaches are just a few of the highlights. More from: Lonely Planet | Fodor’s | Frommer’s

India – A trip to India is a full sensory experience and will appeal to the daring traveler. The birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism, India’s sights include the Taj Mahal, the Ganges and the Himalayas.  More from: Lonely Planet | Fodor’s | Frommer’s
Thailand – The most visited country in southeast Asia, Thailand offers both tranquil villages and the bustling city of Bangkok. More from: Lonely Planet | Fodor’s | Frommer’s

Cyprus – Sun worshippers flock to the Mediterranean beaches of Cyprus, where you get the best of both Greece and Turkey. More from: Lonely Planet
Maldives – Enjoy paradise at the resorts of the Maldives, tropical islands with pristine white beaches and turquoise water, located south of India. More from: Lonely Planet