The Middle East is a huge swathe of land that connects the continents of Africa, Europe and Asia – and is often overlooked as a holiday destination. This is because, on face-value, it is defined by the deserts of Egypt and the towering structure of Dubai. But the Middle East can be so much more, including “a great opportunity for a family beach holiday beyond the Continental norm”!
Let’s look at a few of the best beach destinations in the Middle East, all of which have family-friendly aspects that make bringing the whole household a breeze. If you’re looking for the best way to get something new out of your next getaway, read on!
Al Marjan, UAE
The United Arab Emirates, or UAE for short, is part of the Arabian Peninsula, splitting the waters it looks over into the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman respectively. It is best-known for Dubai – the new popular luxury destination for younger holidaymakers, and a hugely wealthy international city. But there’s more to the UAE than Dubai, even if those riches help things along a little…
For instance, just past the next city over on that north-western coast, you’ll find a quartet of artificial islands, which collectively constitute Al Marjan island. What better morning could be had than waking up in the Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, eating breakfast with the best sea view going, and embarking on a full day of beach-lounging with kids and hubby in tow?
Fujairah, UAE
On the other side of the UAE, facing out into the Gulf of Oman, you’ll find Fujairah – the capital city of the Fujairah Emirate, and a much calmer affair than the other cities which garner so much international attention. Here, you’ll find lush sands and lush-er green-blue seas to paddle in. All of this, too, overlooked by the incredible mountainous landscape that hovers behind. A truly picturesque place to park up with family in tow!
Muscat, Oman
Next-door to the UAE lies the Sultanate of Oman, of which Muscat is the capital. Muscat is a city with serious history, thanks to its pivotal role in international trade from as early as the dawn of the first Millennium. This worldly history is worn very much on its sleeve, with 1500s forts from the era of Portuguese maritime supremacy to modern mosques and beyond. Oman also has a number of incredible beaches to bathe on, including the cove-alicious and not-too-distant Qantab Beach.
Antalya, Turkey
Turkey isn’t as overlooked a holiday destination as other countries listed here, but it is overlooked as a Middle Eastern country, so ingratiated as it is in other continental cultures; indeed, some of Turkey is distinctly European! But Middle Eastern it is, as is Antalya – a resort city on the south coast that offers some of the most beautiful beach views going.
