The Middle East offers a rich variety of destinations, from futuristic cityscapes to ancient historical sites. For travel in 2025, a few cities stand out for their new attractions, cultural shifts, and unique visitor experiences. Today’s article provides an expert look at the top five cities to consider for your trip next year.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai remains a major global hub, but its constant reinvention is what keeps it on the list for 2025. The city expands beyond its established landmarks, focusing on immersive entertainment and refined luxury experiences.

The city’s newest attractions cater to a wider range of interests. The recently opened Real Madrid World theme park offers a massive destination for sports fans, while the AYA Universe provides a high-tech, artistic journey through interactive exhibits.

You can charter a yacht to see the wonders of Dubai Marina and make memories. These additions show a city diversifying its appeal beyond record-breaking towers and mega-malls. To escape the well-trodden paths of Downtown, spend an afternoon in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Instead of just walking through, book a cultural lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). You get authentic Emirati food and an open Q&A session with a local host, offering genuine insight into the culture.

• Pros: Highly safe, incredible public transportation, and a vast array of dining and entertainment options for every budget. English is spoken almost everywhere.
• Cons: Summer temperatures (May-September) are extreme, making outdoor activities difficult. The cost of living and visiting is high, though many budget options exist if you look for them.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh is a city in rapid transformation. Fueled by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the capital is buzzing with new energy, making it one of the region’s most dynamic places to visit.The scale of development is immense.

The city is preparing for Expo 2030, and new projects, such as King Salman Park and the sports and entertainment city of Qiddiya, are taking shape. Events like Riyadh Season (typically October to March) bring world-class concerts, sports, and festivals. The 2025 season will continue this trend, offering major international performances and events.

As the city modernizes, the Diriyah area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a glimpse into the nation’s past. For a better experience, visit on a weekday evening when the venue is less crowded. Have dinner at one of the upscale restaurants in the Bujairi Terrace, which offers stunning views of the illuminated At-Turaif district.

• Pros: You are witnessing a historic moment of cultural and economic change. The hospitality is warm and welcoming. New tourism infrastructure is excellent.
• Cons: The city is geographically spread out, making ride-sharing services or a rental car necessary. Some social customs remain conservative compared to other regional hubs, and it is essential to be aware of local etiquette.

Doha, Qatar

Following the hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Doha has successfully transitioned into a sophisticated cultural destination with world-class infrastructure. Doha has leveraged its World Cup legacy to its advantage. The city’s efficient metro system makes it easy to navigate.

Its collection of museums, including the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art, is among the best in the region. Qatar Tourism reported a 157% increase in visitors in the year following the tournament, a trend supported by new attractions and a calendar of international events.

Souq Waqif is a must-see, but it is tourist-heavy. For a more local feel, visit the Souq Al Wakra, a quieter seaside version just south of the city. It has a beautiful promenade, fewer crowds, and excellent seafood restaurants where you can watch dhow boats in the harbor.

• Pros: Extremely safe, clean, and easy to get around. The city offers a rich blend of art, culture, and tradition.
• Cons: It is smaller than Dubai or Riyadh, with fewer major attractions. The summer heat can be very intense.

Muscat, Oman

For those who prefer natural beauty and heritage over skyscrapers, Muscat is the ideal choice. Oman has intentionally preserved its traditional character while developing its tourism sector.Muscat serves as the gateway to Oman’s stunning landscapes, from the mountains of Al Jabal Al Akhdar to the deserts of Sharqiya Sands.

In 2025, new luxury properties, such as the Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, offer high-end stays that blend seamlessly with the local aesthetic. The country focuses on sustainable and experiential travel, appealing to visitors who want to hike, dive, or connect with nature.

Instead of taking a generic dhow cruise from the marina, hire a local fisherman at the Muttrah Corniche for a private boat trip around the coastline. You will get a more personal tour, see hidden coves, and have a better chance of spotting dolphins. The cost is often negotiable and provides direct support to the local community.

• Pros: Breathtaking natural scenery and authentic Arabian culture. It is a very safe and welcoming country.
• Cons: Public transportation is limited outside the main city areas, so renting a car is almost essential for exploration. The pace of life is slower, which might not appeal to everyone.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia

AlUla is an open-air museum situated in a stunning desert landscape. It has rapidly emerged as a premier global destination for history, art, and adventure.AlUla is home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Royal Commission for AlUla continues to unveil new experiences. The 2025 calendar features the Ancient Kingdoms Festival (November-December 2025) and the AlUla Arts Festival (January-February 2025), which bring the region’s 7,000 years of history to life through art installations and performances. New hotel openings and archaeological discoveries make it an exciting time to visit.

The main historical sites (Hegra, Dadan, Jabal Ikmah) require timed ticketed entry. Book these slots online well in advance. For a unique photo of Hegra’s famous Tomb of Lihyan son of Kuza (the “Lonely Castle”), go in the late afternoon when the sun lights up its facade and the crowds from morning tours have thinned.

• Pros: A truly unique destination with world-class historical sites and stunning natural beauty. The tourism management is excellent and sustainable.
• Cons: It is a remote and expensive destination. Options for accommodation and dining areof high quality but limited and costly. It requires booking flights and tours well in advance of your travel dates.

Final Words

The primary shift in Middle Eastern tourism is from passive sightseeing to active participation. The most rewarding visits in 2025 will involve engaging directly with these changes. Whether it is speaking with a local about Riyadh’s transformation or taking an eco-tour in Oman, the opportunity is to witness cultures in motion. A wise traveler will arrive with curiosity and a willingness to look beyond the headlines and grand projects to find the human stories shaping these remarkable cities.