The Middle East is home to beautiful nature sites and they go beyond the deserts and sand dunes that you might think of. If you’re looking for places in the region to escape the cities and smog, check out these outdoor adventures in the Middle East.
1. Wadi Shab – Oman
Wadi Shab located in northern Oman is an oasis tucked away in sunbaked mountains. The beginning hike through the valley is gorgeous but it’s even more so once you reach the river.
The green and blue water contrasts the mountains around you and are perfect for cooling off in after a long hike in the heat.
There’s also the end goal of a mini waterfall hidden inside a cave, but it can only be reached by swimming through the river because the hiking path eventually fades away.
2. Salalah – Oman
Another one of the best outdoor adventures in the Middle East and Oman, consider heading to Salalah.
Salalah is a city along Oman’s southern coastline and its luscious forests stand in stark contrast to the primarily dry and barren country.
Head here if you’re looking for waterfalls and tropical forests unique to the Middle East.
3. Wadi Rum – Jordan
Wadi Rum desert is a protected UNESCO heritage sight and it’s perfect if you’re looking for outdoor adventures in the Middle East.
Here you’ll find sprawling orange and red sand dunes and such an other-worldly environment that it was chosen as the filming location for The Martian starring Matt Damon.
You’ll have to hire an official guide to enter, but once you’re in Wadi Rum expect to feel a profound sense of isolation that helps you appreciate the breathtaking nature around you.
4. Wadi Al-Bardani – Saudi Arabia
Wadi Al-Bardani is located in the south-west corner of Saudi Arabia. It’s one of the best spots for outdoor adventures in the Middle East because of its rolling green hills, rivers and creeks.
It’s truly an oasis in the desert and makes you forget that you’re in one of the driest regions of the world.
5. Rub’ Al-Khali – The UAE
Finally on this list of places to go for outdoor adventures in the Middle East, head to the Rub’ Al-Khali desert.
This massive desert spans parts of the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia. It’s perfect for those looking for a Middle Eastern desert nature escape and can be explored via off-road vehicles.
Just be sure to go with a guide and bring plenty of water with you. The last thing you want is to get stranded unprepared in this harsh environment.
