For many who choose to live in Qatar or elsewhere in the Persian Gulf region (Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, etc.), it is not only the country in which one resides which is appealing when one is looking at one’s vacation options.
Instead, many are attracted by the countries’ geographic proximity to other interesting locations. Consider Qatar -- situated below the Fertile Crescent, across the desert from Egypt, and separated by the Gulf from Persia, Qatar is truly only a stone's throw away from the wonders of the ancient world. The same can be said for its neighboring countries, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Having travelled extensively throughout the ancient world, I can truly attest to the pull of these timeless sites. Whether it be a crumbling, ivy-covered Roman amphitheater or an abandoned city, forgotten in the swirling sands of time, the sights of the ancient world never fail to awe those who come into contact with them.
The following is a list of just some of the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which should not be missed if you are going to be living in the Gulf Region:
Persepolis, Iran
Located in southwestern Iran, to the east across the Persian Gulf from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, the ancient City of Persepolis was once the ceremonial capital city of the ancient Persian Empire (550-330BCE). At its height, Persepolis controlled lands spanning three continents, which contained 20% of the world's population.
Petra, Jordan
Described by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812 as the "rose-red city half as old as time," Petra has always been a fascination to Westerners. The ancient Nabataean city is famous for being elaborately carved right out of the surrounding mountains, accessible only by a long, narrow stone passageway. The site is located in Jordan, it's about a two-hour flight from the capital of Jordan, Amman, to Doha, Qatar, or Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Movie buffs may also be familiar with Petra, from the third Indiana Jones film.) Also see Al-Hijr, below.
Al-Hijr, Saudi Arabia
Found in northwestern Saudi Arabia, Al-Hijr, more commonly known as Medain Saleh ("Cities of Saleh"), is one of the largest remaining sites from the Nabataean civilization. The site is home to over a hundred beautifully decorated tombs and is best seen at sunset. Also see Petra, above.
Palmyra, Syria
Palmyra was an important stop along the ancient caravan route. The ruins of the city contain remarkably well-preserved funerary busts of its inhabitants. Syria's capital, Damascus, is about a 2.5 to three-hour flight from Doha or about 2.5 hours from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is probably one of the most interesting cities in the world. Located on the banks of the Bosphorus, the city had major influence in shaping the world we know today and has played witness to the rise and fall of almost every major empire in history. Flights from Doha, Qatar, or Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Istanbul take about three hours.
The Pyramids at Gaza, Egypt
A symbol of Ancient Egypt, the Pyramids at Giza continue to stimulate the imaginations of romantics, skeptics and adventurers. Located just outside the Egyptian capital at Cairo, the pyramids are mandatory for anyone visiting the Middle East. Flights from Doha to Cairo take about 3.5 hours, and from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Cairo take about three hours.
Thebes, Egypt
Thebes was an influential and city of Ancient Egypt. The ruins of the city attest to the architectural greatness of its inhabitants. This ancient city is located in Southern Egypt. Flights from Doha to Cairo take about 3.5 hours, and from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Cairo take about three hours.
Crac des Chevaliers and Qal’at at Salah El-Din, Syria
These two old Crusader castles saw intense action during the Crusades and changed hands many times. Today, the castles are a pleasure to visit. Syria's capital, Damascus, is about a 2.5 to three-hour flight from Doha or about 2.5 hours from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Baalbek, Lebanon
Located in Lebanon, Baalbek is home to some of the best-preserved Roman architecture in the world. Visiting this site gives you the impression of stepping back in time. Flights from Doha to Beirut, take about 3.25 hours, and flights from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Beirut take about 2.5 hours.
Ouadi Qadisha (the Holy Valley) and the Cedar Forests of God, Lebanon
Ouadi Qadisha served as a refuge for early Christians who were forced to flee into the hills. The surrounding cedar forests are composed of the oldest trees in the world. Flights from Doha to Beirut, take about 3.25 hours, and flights from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Beirut take about 2.5 hours.
Enjoy your holiday planning!
