Oman

Travellers from all across Oman, the Gulf and much further afield flock to Salalah during the Khareef season to witness this transformation, but did you know just how stunning this region is during the rest of the year? The unique draw of the monsoon rains doesn’t just bring stunningly verdant vistas – they also bring huge numbers of tourists and higher prices at hotels and attractions. Visiting at other times of the year can ensure a more sedate holiday as well as being kinder to your budget, but never fear, there’s still plenty to do and see in this gorgeous coastal city. Here’s some ideas for a truly unforgettable trip to Salalah at any time of year!

The culinary traditions of the Middle East are much incredibly varied, particularly as we head south, across the rugged mountains and vast deserts of the Arabian Peninsula towards the Sultanate of Oman. Here’s a recipe for Omani Qabooli Rice with Lamb Shanks to wow your dinner party guests, courtesy of Dine with Dina.

Trying to get your head around the conflict in Yemen? You’re not the only one. This is a definitive overview of the conflict to date, starting with its roots in the Arab Spring movement in 2011 and continuing over ten years to 2021. We cover the main events, key players, the role of regional powers and the UN’s attempts thus far to reach a political settlement. Buckle up – here we go!

The Middle East has been heavily stereotyped and romanticised over the years. Stories of conflict, violence and religious extremism have bombarded the western media in recent decades, shaping a narrow view of the Middle East and its people. The following list contains 8 incredible places that shatter the traditional stereotypes and showcase the remarkable diversity of the Middle East.