The Most Gorgeous Honeymoon Destinations in the Middle East

One of the region’s most glitzy destinations, Dubai has something romantic for any type of newlywed couple. From luxurious hotel resorts like the Burj Al Arab Hotel to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Al Khalifa, most hotels will have special services and complimentary drinks and surprises especially for honeymoons. Dubai also offers rich cultural and historical attractions, with local foods, cultural bazaars, and a truly breathtaking desert landscape to satisfy adventurous souls.

Having long been a regular honeymoon spot, Sharm El Sheikh has not lost its charm at all. A sparkling resort facing the beautiful Red Sea, couples can enjoy a truly relaxing honeymoon on a tropical beach with bars and restaurants at Naama Bay, or dive into the colorful coral reefs at Ras Muhammad National Park. There’s something here for every couple, and Sharm El Sheikh is the perfect getaway for those who just need to relax on the beach after a big wedding.

Another charming honeymoon spot in Egypt, Alexandria is a city on the Mediterranean Sea. Couples flock to its corniche and main boulevard that runs alongside the emerald green coast for unforgettable picture-perfect moments. With beautiful architecture reminiscent of old Italy or France, you’ll get the perfect mix of romantic Mediterranean evening strolls and Egyptian flair.

Tunis has culture, history, sparkling beaches, and adventure, making it one of the best places to enjoy each other’s company. Newlyweds can soak in the sun on the shores of the Lake of Tunis, explore the ancient Roman ruins of the Baths of Antoninus, or discover the delicious foods that make Tunis so popular with travelers across the world. This jewel on the Mediterranean won’t disappoint, and couples with diverse tastes will find something here to enjoy at the crossroads of Europe and North Africa.

Located in Musandam, the very northern part of Oman that opens up into the Persian Gulf, this bay is one of the most strikingly beautiful places in the Arabian Peninsula. The resort too is one of a kind, with couples flocking here for its picturesque white sand beaches and sparkling emerald green waters, swimming excursions with wild dolphins, and breathtaking nature. Zighy Bay will provide the perfect backdrop for the most romantic honeymoon getaway, with many couples flying back for their wedding anniversaries to relive the timeless beauty of this small corner of the world.

Known for its healing powers for both the skin and soul, the bright blue mud and salty waters of the Dead Sea in Jordan is the perfect way to wind down and rejuvenate after a hectic wedding. Couples can choose from a number of romantic resorts with picturesque sea views, and enjoy long relaxing days strolling along the water’s edge or taking a dip (and floating) in the salty lake. This is the perfect place for newlyweds to simply enjoy each other’s company and bask in the quiet glory of the timeless Dead Sea.

Beirut, a dynamic city with both ancient historical monuments and a lively night-scene, is an exciting honeymoon destination for couples who want to travel and not just stay at a resort. The city itself is gorgeous, with cobblestone alleyways, colorful marketplaces, lively bars and restaurants that stay open until the middle of the night, and some of the best food in the Middle East. Head to Byblos Old Harbor or Harissa, which overlooks the sea, for some of the most romantic views of Beirut.

One of the most popular travel destinations of the region, Marrakech is also a well-known honeymoon destination because of its colorful street life and easy access to the grand Sahara Desert. Newlyweds can enjoy excursions or overnight stays in the Sahara Desert for a romantic night out on the bright red sand, and under a canopy of brightly shining stars. Marrakech also has the famous Jemaa El-Fnaa market, ancient museums and historical mosques, and the ever-romantic Place des Ferblantiers.

If Istanbul isn’t bursting with romantic sights and scenes, then we don’t know where is. With its cozy cafes, romantic strolls along the Bosphoros, and numerous vintage hotels catering to couples and newlyweds, Istanbul charms everyone who visits with its irresistible beauty and sparkle. If you’re not still full from the wedding cake, try Istanbul’s famous sweets such as the colorful Turkish Delight, rich Lokumu, syrup-soaked Baklava, or the famous Turkish ice cream for a sweet getaway with your partner.

Being one of the most popular honeymoon destinations within Iran, Isfahan is slowly becoming a hotspot for newlyweds from outside the country as well. With its beautiful nature, romantic gardens, and lively street life, Isfahan will definitely be an unforgettable honeymoon destination. Couples should stop by the aromatic Flower Garden or colorful Jolfa Square for even more excuses to hold hands and bask in the sparkling romantic atmosphere of this city.