Introduction
The Middle East is a region of rich history and culture that is overflowing with stunning structures that tell stories dating back thousands of years. From towering skyscrapers to ancient fortresses, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of the Middle East’s architectural wonders. To help you explore these incredible structures, we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 must-see structures in the Middle East.
The Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Standing at 828 meters tall, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai is currently the world’s tallest building. The skyscraper boasts a sleek, modern design and is adorned with thousands of shimmering lights that make it particularly mesmerizing at night.
Giza Pyramid Complex, Egypt
The Giza Pyramid Complex is one of the most famous historic sites in the world. The complex includes the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The complex also includes the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure, and the Great Sphinx of Giza.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a stunning piece of Islamic architecture that spans over 22,000 square meters. The mosque features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, and four minarets that rise up to 107 meters tall. The mosque also boasts one of the largest chandeliers in the world and a breathtaking courtyard that is perfect for sunset photos.
Petra, Jordan
Petra is an ancient city that is carved into the stunning red rock cliffs of Jordan. The city is a marvel of ancient engineering and includes a number of notable structures, such as the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Great Temple. Visitors can explore the city by foot, horseback, or donkey.
Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul
The Dolmabahçe Palace is a beautiful Ottoman palace that spans over 45,000 square meters. The palace features 285 rooms, 43 halls, and a stunning crystal chandelier that weighs a whopping 4.5 tons. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and its sprawling gardens.
Al Khazneh, Jordan
Al Khazneh, also known as the Treasury, is perhaps the most famous structure in Petra. The 2,000-year-old building was carved into the sandstone rock face by the Nabateans, an ancient Arab tribe. Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and columns that make up the Treasury’s façade.
Burj Al Arab, Dubai
The Burj Al Arab is a luxurious, sail-shaped hotel that has become an icon of Dubai’s skyline. The hotel is situated on a manmade island and features 202 luxurious suites, 9 restaurants, and a helipad that has played host to a number of high-profile events.
Alhambra, Spain
The Alhambra is a medieval fortress and palace that is situated in Granada, Spain. The structure was built in the 14th century and includes a number of beautiful buildings, gardens, and courtyards. Visitors can explore the complex and marvel at the intricate tilework and carvings that adorn its walls.
The Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem
The Dome of the Rock is a stunning Islamic shrine that is situated on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. The shrine was completed in the 7th century and features a stunning golden dome that glimmers in the sunlight. Visitors can explore the exterior of the shrine and admire its beautiful mosaics and calligraphy.
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Iran
The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a stunning piece of Safavid architecture that is situated in Isfahan, Iran. The mosque was completed in the 17th century and features a stunning dome that is adorned with intricate tilework and calligraphy. Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior and admire its beautiful stucco and stained glass windows.
Madain Saleh, Saudi Arabia
Madain Saleh is a stunning archeological site that is situated in the desert of Saudi Arabia. The site includes a number of beautiful tombs and monuments that date back thousands of years. Visitors can explore the site and marvel at the ancient engineering that went into creating these impressive structures.
The Great Mosque of Mecca, Saudi Arabia
The Great Mosque of Mecca is a stunning Islamic shrine that is the holiest site in Islam. The mosque features a large central courtyard and can accommodate up to three million worshippers during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Visitors can explore the exterior of the mosque and admire its beautiful minarets and domes.
The Parthenon, Greece
The Parthenon is an ancient temple that is situated on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. The temple was built in the 5th century and is dedicated to the goddess Athena. Visitors can explore the exterior of the temple and admire its beautiful Doric columns and intricate carvings.
The Blue Mosque, Istanbul
The Blue Mosque is a stunning piece of Ottoman architecture that is situated in Istanbul, Turkey. The mosque features six towering minarets and a stunning blue-tiled interior that gives it its name. Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior and admire its beautiful calligraphy and tilework.
Jerash, Jordan
Jerash is an ancient city that is situated in northern Jordan. The city features a number of well-preserved Roman ruins, such as the Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and the Nymphaeum. Visitors can explore the ruins and marvel at the ancient engineering that went into creating these impressive structures.
Burj Khalifa Lake, Dubai
The Burj Khalifa Lake is a stunning manmade lake that is situated at the base of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The lake features a beautiful fountain show that is set to music and is one of the largest and most impressive fountain shows in the world.
The Kaaba, Saudi Arabia
The Kaaba is a stunning Islamic shrine that is situated in the Great Mosque of Mecca. The shrine is said to be the holiest site in Islam and is believed to have been built by the prophet Abraham. Visitors can admire the exterior of the shrine and witness the thousands of pilgrims who come to pray at the site.
Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum that is situated in Agra, India. The mausoleum was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The structure features stunning white marble and beautiful gardens that make it one of the most beautiful structures in the world.
Citadel of Salah Ed-Din, Syria
The Citadel of Salah Ed-Din is a stunning fortress that is situated in Aleppo, Syria. The fortress was built in the 12th century and includes a number of beautiful towers, gates, and courtyards. Visitors can explore the fortress and marvel at the ancient engineering that went into creating this impressive structure.
Conclusion
The Middle East is home to some of the most beautiful and impressive structures in the world. From ancient fortresses to towering skyscrapers, there is no shortage of stunning architecture to explore in this region. Whether you’re interested in ancient history or modern design, the Middle East has something for everyone to appreciate. We hope this list has inspired you to plan your next trip to this incredible region and explore these must-see structures for yourself.
