The Middle East is one of the hidden gems of world tourism, and while almost every continent has its own major tourist resorts, the Middle East is only just starting to open up to visitors. Religion plays an important role in the life of many people in the region, and this is why some tourists are cautious about traveling to the area, particularly after scandals relating to the draconian laws of some countries with regards to drink, drugs and even physical contact.

However, the region is also home to some of the most amazing sights in the world, and this is why countries such as the UAE and Jordan are finding a balance between their religious beliefs and opening up to tourism.

 

Religious Sites That Are Off Limits

 

It is worth noting that there are certain religious sites across the Middle East that are off limits to Christians, and in some cases off limits to all tourists. One of the most important examples of this is in Saudi Arabia, where the important religious sites of Mecca and Medina are both only open to Muslims, although during the period of the Hajj, the traffic and swell of Muslims in the area makes transport on the roads around the city particularly difficult too. There are also religious sites in Israel's West Bank which are off limits, with the ancient Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem one of the sites that is currently in this disputed region.

 

Respecting Religious Sites that Are Open To Visitors

 

The culture in the Middle East is generally quite a conservative one, and while the climate in many countries may leave you wanting to wear as little as possible to keep cool, this is certainly disrespectful, and may even lead to conflict with the locals.

When it comes to visiting religious sites, the respectful thing to do is to cover up and wear long sleeves and legs. Women visiting such sites should also look to cover up their hair.

 

Banned Activities To Avoid For Your Trip

 

There are many countries in the Middle East that can be quite difficult places to visit, and for women looking to visit Saudi Arabia, it is true that over recent years women have only been given permits when accompanied by male relatives. The drinking of alcohol is also restricted in many countries, with Saudi Arabia having a complete ban, and countries including Yemen, Qatar and the UAE only offering limited availability for non-Muslims, although some cities like Dubai with a large ex pat population does tend to be a little more open. For those who do meet a new partner while traveling solo, it is also important to note that many Middle Eastern countries do have strict rules about kissing and lewd behavior.

 

Another aspect worth mentioning as well is that women are banned from driving in Saudi Arabia, which can be a major hindrance when it comes to getting around. Even for the solo traveler who has found a male friend to visit Saudi Arabia with, sharing the driving duties as you travel is certainly not permissible.

 

Female Contact With Men In The Middle East

 

While female solo travel in the region is not completely impossible, it is important to have a good idea of what to expect when visiting the area, and female travelers are prone to attracting attention from men in the region. Those who are traveling alone are generally advised to travel in organized groups where possible, and to use female tour guides who will help to deter any unwanted attention. It is also worth noting that eye contact with men, or even smiling at a man in the region can give the wrong signals to local people which can lead to an unwanted response.