What do you envision when you hear the Arab world? Maybe it’s Dubai’s sparkling skyscrapers, Egypt’s pyramids from centuries ago, or Marrakech’s bustling souks. And while these may be breathtakingly beautiful, there’s an entirely different side of this part of the world that people tend to overlook.

Scattered across the Arab world are places so unique, so untouched, and so full of stories, they feel like secrets waiting to be discovered. These aren’t your typical tourist destinations. These are the hidden gems, places that locals cherish and only a few lucky travelers stumble upon.

Ready to find out what you’ve been missing?

Why the Arab World Is More Than Just Deserts and Skyscrapers

Now that we’ve dispelled the myth, let’s get moving to the travel destinations. The Arab world is not all sand dunes and skyscrapers. It’s a huge chunk of land from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arabian Gulf, full of mountains, forests, rivers, ruins, colorful coastal towns, and serene oases.

It’s an area where history whispers along crumbling stone walls, where cultures mingle across centuries, and where the warmth of Arab hospitality is as balmy as the weather.

Let’s lift the lid on the best-kept secrets of this enchanted region.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia

The Lost City in the Rocks

AlUla could be Saudi Arabia’s best-kept secret. Picture yourself strolling through narrow canyons and coming across ancient tombs etched into gigantic red cliffs. It’s Petra in Jordan, but not so loud, and more enigmatic.

Here lies the ancient city of Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tombs are more than 2,000 years old, constructed by the Nabataeans, the same people who created Petra. The variation? Much fewer tourists.

Why go?

• Breathtaking rock formations such as Elephant Rock
• Stargazing in the desert
• Interactive art installations and outdoor concerts

Travel Tip: Go between October and March for mild weather and festivals.

Matmata, Tunisia

Live Like a Caveman (But Comfortably)

Matmata resembles a film set from a sci-fi movie, and it is. It was the setting of a Star Wars movie. So, why is it special? Houses are dug into the ground. Literally.

These subterranean troglodyte homes are constructed to be cool in hot summers and warm in winter. But aside from the novelty, Matmata is a glimpse into a timeless way of life that’s still very much real.

Why go?

• Sleep in a cave hotel
• Experience Berber hospitality
• Take camels or 4x4s across nearby desert landscapes

Travel Tip: Don’t leave without witnessing the local music and dance routines, they are deeply symbolic of Berber culture.

Musandam Peninsula, Oman

Norway of Arabia

You’ve most likely never heard of Musandam, but when you look at a photo, you’ll never forget it. Situated at the tip of Oman in the north, Musandam is home to breathtaking fjord-like cliffs dropping into water so crystal-clear you can see fish swimming.

Why go?

• Take a traditional dhow boat cruise
• Snorkel or dive among dolphins
• Wash over dramatic cliffs at sunset

Travel Tip: Musandam is just a few hours’ drive from Dubai, the ideal weekend getaway from the city.

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Where Time Slows Down

A world away from Cairo’s din and masses around the pyramids is Siwa, a peaceful oasis of date palms and spring water. It’s a land where customs still thrive, where natives use their own Berber language, and where salt lakes glimmer in sunlight.

Why go?

• Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool
• Explore the ancient Temple of the Oracle
• Unwind in Wi-Fi-less eco–lodges (by design)

Travel Tip: Siwa is isolated, so traveling there is time-consuming. But the tranquil atmosphere and untamed beauty are worth every minute.

Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman

An Oasis of Blue in the Desert

Picture scaling over parched, golden boulders and then discovering turquoise lakes of water cascading between palm groves. That’s Wadi Bani Khalid.

This natural oasis is Omani locals’ go-to for a weekend plunge. It’s not only stunning, it’s like stumbling upon a hidden secret. The crystal–clear water is ideal for swimming, and the scenery is peaceful enough to make you forget all about the rest of the world.

Why go?

• Swim in natural pools
• Hike through nearby caves
• Have a picnic with a view

Travel Tip: Go in the early morning to escape the heat and appreciate the quiet before the tour buses start pouring in.

As-Salt, Jordan

Jordan’s Forgotten Town of Harmony

As-Salt used to be the capital of Jordan many years ago, before Amman. Today, it’s a serene hilltop town with yellow limestone houses, cobblestone alleyways, and friendly residents.

It was recently awarded UNESCO status for the model of religious and cultural coexistence. Muslims and Christians have coexisted here for centuries.

Why go?

• Walk the Harmony Trail
  
• Discover Ottoman architecture
• Drink Arabic coffee with locals

Travel Tip: Combine with nearby Dead Sea or Jerash for a great day tour from Amman.

Farasan Islands, Saudi Arabia

Tropical Oasis in the Red Sea

Yes, Saudi Arabia has tropical islands, and they’re breathtaking. Off the coast of the Red Sea, the Farasan Islands feature white sandy shores, coral reefs, and even the occasional Arabian gazelle.

Unlike most other beach resorts, Farasan remains free from mass tourism. It’s where you go to really switch off.

Why go?

• Dive or snorkel over vibrant reefs
• See dolphins and unusual birds
• Relax on peaceful, unspoiled beaches

Travel Tip: You’ll take a ferry from Jazan city. It’s complimentary—but reserve early on holidays.

Final Thoughts: Why These Places Matter

The Arab world is usually presented through a narrow prism. We read of luxury or war, sand or petroleum, but rarely of places like As-Salt or Siwa, where people live uncomplicated, significant lives amid beauty and history.

Travel is not merely about checking off famous places. It’s about stories, feelings, and experiences that linger long after you get back.

Next time you’re scheduling a trip, consider the following:

What if the magic lies in the off-the-radar destinations?

Key Takeaways (TL;DR):

• AlUla, Saudi Arabia: Historic tombs and breathtaking desert art
• Matmata, Tunisia: Subterranean cave houses and Berber heritage
  
• Musandam, Oman: Breathtaking cliffs and serene cruises
• Siwa Oasis, Egypt: Salt lakes and ancient temples
• Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman: Natural pools in the desert
• As-Salt, Jordan: Harmony and heritage in a hillside town
• Farasan Islands, Saudi Arabia: Pristine beaches and coral reefs