Experience a slice of legendary Arabic hospitality and get a taste of Africa’s wilderness in these six exceptional weekend getaways in the Middle East and Africa. A long weekend is perfect for exploring the highlights and getting a flavor of these magnificent spots.
As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Neighboring Dubai garners much of the attention, but the UAE’s capital city, Abu Dhabi, offers a well-balanced mix of luxurious modernity and Emirati culture.
The gleaming white Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, and visiting its sprawling grounds tops the list of things to do on a weekend getaway in the Middle East. Take in a view at night: the mosque shimmers in the dark when the lights come on.
At Qasr Al Hosn, a historic landmark, museum, and the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, learn more about the Emirates’ ancient history through artifacts.
Speed lovers are in for a treat at the Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. For some major thrills of your own, board one of the world’s fastest rollercoasters at Ferrari World.
Cape Town, South Africa
Few cities rival Cape Town‘s visual appeal. Wedged between the ocean and Table Mountain, the city is home to vibrant neighborhoods, fascinating history, spectacular nature, lively nightlife, and an exciting culinary scene.
Take a cable car up to the summit of Table Mountain for glorious views of the Atlantic Ocean. At Boulders Beach, named after the huge granitic rock clusters creating inlets along the shore, come face-to-face with hundreds of African penguins.
At the Robben Island Museum, visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for nearly two decades ao learn more about his fight against apartheid.
Whether you prefer hiking, long walks or ocean swims, there’s no scarcity of options for getting active in Cape Town.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia’s largest commercial city and a gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is a worthy spot for a weekend getaway.
Start in the UNESCO Heritage Site of Al Balad. The old neighborhood, home to more than 650 historic buildings built of coral (a distinctive feature of Red Sea Architecture) and with carved wooden facades, was once the heart of the medieval city.
Wander through the stalls of Souq Al Alawi, brimming with spices, fresh dates, and a variety of street foods. Start with mutabaqs: stuffed pancakes that come with a variety of fillings.
Muscat, Oman
Get a feel for Oman‘s incredible hospitality in Muscat. Built along the coast and flanked by the Al Hajar Mountains, this important trading hub retains its traditional essence.
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a stellar example of Islamic architecture, and the main prayer hall is a sight to behold. After paying your respects, stroll through the narrow alleyways of the Mutrah Souq, which are saturated with the scent of frankincense. Later, join the locals and catch your breath at the waterfront promenade hugging the coast.
Nairobi, Kenya
An ideal base for longer excursions into the Kenyan wilderness, Nairobi offers a heady dose of culture, history and wildlife.
Colorful, cacophonous and upbeat, the weekly Masai market is the best place to pick up Masai handicrafts and souvenirs. At Sarabi Rooftop Restaurant at Sankara Nairobi, Autograph Collection hotel, treat yourself to a cocktail and enjoy live music after dark while overlooking the shimmering city skyline.
For a nature experience, visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where orphaned elephants are rescued and rehabilitated. Baby elephants sipping from gigantic bottles is an endearing and unforgettable sight. If you can’t leave without a tear in your heart, you’ll want to donate to adopt an orphan elephant.
Doha, Qatar
With head-turning architecture, mind-bending skyscrapers, and a thriving art scene, Doha offers so much to see on a weekend getaway.
Within the sprawling desert-rose-shaped building housing the National Museum of Qatar, you’ll find a good starting point to get acquainted with Qatar’s history. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art to explore a wide array of art from across the Islamic world spanning thousands of years.
Wander through the lanes of Souq Waqif and stock up on spices and souvenirs. Finally, wind down with a meal in Qanat Quartier, a charming precinct of canals and Venetian-style architecture teeming with restaurants and cafés.
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