Why Backpack the Middle East?

The Middle East offers a fascinating mix of ancient history, vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and modern cities. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the futuristic skyline of Dubai, and the historic ruins of Petra to the deserts of Wadi Rum, backpackers will find adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

While often overlooked as a backpacker destination, the region has grown more accessible and budget-friendly with expanding hostel options, budget airlines, and improved infrastructure.

Backpacking in the Middle East has become more popular in recent years. Between the awe-inspiring natural beauty, sprawling metropolitan cities, and ancient sites, backpacking in the Middle East checks all the boxes.

Defining the Middle East is a difficult task. Countries in this region are as different from each other as any other country on earth. After all, the region commonly known as the Middle East spans across 3 continents: Europe, Asia, and Africa. Check out our country guides below for details for specific countries. However, there are a few words of general advice for traveling in this region, as well as a few key Apps and websites that will help your trip run smoothly no matter where you wander.

Essential Travel Info for Backpackers (2025)

• Currency: Varies by country (Dirham, Shekel, Riyal, Dinar, etc.)
• Languages: Arabic (primary), English widely spoken in tourist areas
• Visa: Requirements vary widely; check updated info and apply easily online with iVisa
• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather
• Electricity: 220-240V, mostly Type C, D, G, and F plugs
• Internet: Wi-Fi common in hostels and cafes; stay reliably connected with a Holafly eSIM

Budget Travel Tips for the Middle East

• Accommodation: Use Hostelworld to find affordable hostels and guesthouses. Dorm beds often start around $10-$20 per night.
• Food: Eat like a local — street food and small eateries serve delicious and cheap meals such as falafel, shawarma, and mezze.
• Transport: Budget airlines (e.g., Flydubai, Air Arabia) offer cheap intercity flights. Buses and shared taxis are affordable and efficient for regional travel. Use metro and tram systems in cities like Dubai, Doha, and Tel Aviv for cheap urban transport.
• Activities: Many historic sites have affordable entrance fees. Free walking tours are common in major cities.

Suggested Middle East Backpacking Itineraries

7-Day Highlights

• Days 1–2: Amman, Jordan — Visit Petra and the Dead Sea
• Days 3–4: Jerusalem, Israel — Explore the Old City and markets
• Days 5–7: Dubai, UAE — Experience modern architecture and desert adventures

14-Day Cultural Journey

• Days 1–3: Cairo, Egypt — Pyramids, Egyptian Museum
• Days 4–6: Petra & Wadi Rum, Jordan — Ancient ruins and desert camping
• Days 7–9: Jerusalem & Tel Aviv, Israel — Historic sites and vibrant nightlife
• Days 10–12: Muscat, Oman — Coastal forts and beaches
• Days 13–14: Dubai & Abu Dhabi, UAE — Skyscrapers and cultural museums

Expert Tips for Backpacking the Middle East

• Book hostels early via Hostelworld, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Use iVisa to check visa requirements and apply before arrival to save time.
• Stay connected with a Holafly eSIM for easy internet access, maps, and communication.
• Purchase travel insurance with World Nomads to cover medical emergencies and trip changes.
• Dress respectfully: In many Middle Eastern countries, modest clothing is expected, especially for women.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun exposure, especially during summer months.
• Learn basic Arabic greetings — locals appreciate the effort and it can improve interactions.
• Use guided tours from G Adventures to explore off-the-beaten-path locations safely.

Safety Considerations & Backpacking Travel Insurance

Concerns about safety can make some people wary about traveling in the Middle East. However, the reality is that as long as you practice common sense, the region is not different in terms of safety than many other places on earth.

The Middle East is diverse and safety varies by country and region. Stay informed on current travel advisories, avoid demonstrations, and register with your embassy if necessary. Most cities frequented by tourists are well-policed and safe if you take common-sense precautions.

Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings, and to travel with a group, especially at night. While you may encounter societal rules that you are not used to, these rules don’t strictly apply to visitors. Still, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and respectful of the culture.

As for any trip abroad, it is crucial to take out travel insurance. World Nomads is the company recommended by Lonely Planet & Contiki. This can ensure peace of mind in case anything goes wrong, like canceled plans, theft, or injury during your travels.

How to Travel to the Middle East on a Budget

Your flight will make up the majority of your budget for traveling in the middle east. Skyscanner is a great site to use to find the cheapest flights.

Accommodation in the Middle East

CouchSurfing is a great community that connects travellers with local hosts. HostelWorld has the largest inventory of hostels in the world, with millions of reviews from fellow backpackers. And Booking.com has lots of advanced search and filters for finding hostels, hotels, and unique accommodation.

Group Tours in the Middle East

Get your Guide is a popular site to book tours, skip the line tickets for crowded sites, or just to get ideas of common activities in various locations. Viator is another similar activity and tour search website.

And for solo travellers who want to join a small group tour, or for adventure activities which require a guide, G Adventures is highly recommended.

Visas and Passports

Many countries in the Middle East require all foreign visitors to obtain a visa, and oftentimes you may have to do this in advance. Therefore, it’s important to check the travel restrictions and entry requirements for each country that you are hoping to visit. Use iVisa to check visa requirements and apply before arrival to save time.