Wander along the Spice Trail, explore the Holy Land, and immerse yourself in the vivid sights and sounds.
The Middle East is a stunning tapestry offering endless and life-changing experiences. This area is renowned for its exotic culture, illuminated history, grand architecture and modern technology. From the hustle and bustle of largely populated cities to the peace and tranquility of local villages, delicious food and intriguing cultures. Dubai is the treasured gem of the Middle East boasting an affluence and lavishness. The city woos cruisers from all corners of the globe with a penchant for culture and luxury.
Warm cultures and friendly locals that are iconic for the Middle East make cruise tourists feel welcome in a world away from home. Having endured its fair share of wars, it is right to acknowledge that nowhere else on Earth has such a colourful past as the Middle East, making it a fascinating destination for travellers who have an avid interest in the world, past and present. The treasures of the arid Arabian desert is yet another aspect that must be discovered in this diverse and exciting cruise destination. A Middle Eastern cruise is guaranteed to take you to the greatest hot spots belonging to this area and introduce you to cultures and ways of life that will encourage you to return again and again.
To avoid the extreme summer heat it is best to visit the Middle East between October and April. Remember to bring a light cover up to enter temples, and sacred areas.
The Middle East is a region that lies on two continents: Africa and Eurasia and comprises many countries, here are just some of them:
It has its complicated moments but on the whole, the Middle East is warm, hospitable and full of life. The region is often described as the cradle of civilization as many of the things we know and take for granted today were conceived in the Middle East:
Every city you visit on a cruise to the Middle East is a legend, where the locals will welcome you with open arms, genuinely:
A cruise is the absolute best way to visit this vast region, you will see, learn and explore an incredible amount in just one holiday.
Egypt, Jordan and Israel
Expanding your cultural horizons has never been easier, just book a Middle East cruise with the following countries in the itinerary:
All three boast historic and cultural sites that are a must-see:
Seabourn offers great itineraries that will take you to all of the above and more. You'll also sail along the Suez Canal - the great man-made waterway connecting the Mediterranean to the Red Sea that the Egyptians take great pride in. The experience will be made unforgettable also by the Seabourn signature luxury on board.
Dubai and the Arabian Gulf
Cruising the Arabian Gulf will provide an insight into the modern Middle East, albeit full of culture, tradition and history, this part of the region is totally different from Turkey, Israel and Egypt.
The Arabian Gulf is a mixture of refined luxury and well manifested traditions and culture.
A great number of cruise lines frequent the Arabian Gulf, so the choice is yours:
There is so much to see and experience in the Middle East that you will want to be outside a lot of the time:
Therefore, do consider the months of March to early May for visiting. This shoulder season is beautiful but quite short, the temperatures start rising (in some parts) to very hot around mid-May.
Here are some of the reasons we recommend cruising to the Middle East in autumn: