The Middle East offers a mix of ancient culture, luxury travel, desert scenery and modern cities unlike anywhere else in the world. From the futuristic skylines of Dubai and Doha to the ancient wonders of Egypt and Jordan, there’s a huge variety of travel experiences across the region.
It’s a destination that works well for both stopovers and longer itineraries, whether you’re interested in history, food, shopping, luxury resorts, desert adventures or guided touring through some of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
Flight time
Flying from Auckland to major Middle Eastern destinations like Dubai and Doha takes approximately 17 to 18 hours on direct flights.
Best time to go
For destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the most comfortable travel months are generally November to March. Egypt and Jordan are best visited between October and April when temperatures are cooler for sightseeing.
Time difference
Most Middle Eastern destinations are around 9 to 10 hours behind New Zealand Standard Time, depending on the country and time of year.
The Middle East offers a huge range of travel experiences, from luxury city stays and beach resorts through to ancient history, desert adventures and guided multi-country tours.
You can focus on one destination like Dubai or Egypt, or combine multiple countries into one itinerary — for example Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or Egypt and Jordan. It’s also a popular stopover region for travellers heading to Europe, with excellent airlines, luxury accommodation and plenty of opportunities to extend your trip.
Home to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates combines luxury hotels, shopping, desert experiences, beaches and modern city attractions with iconic architecture and world-class dining.
Known for Petra, desert scenery and the Dead Sea, Jordan offers a mix of history, adventure travel and unique landscapes unlike anywhere else in the Middle East region.
Famous for the Pyramids, Nile River cruises and ancient temples, Egypt combines incredible history with bustling cities, desert landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences throughout the country.