As economic realities shift in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, a new travel trend is emerging: the staycation. With soaring costs discouraging long-distance travel, many residents are finding hidden gems and luxurious retreats right in their backyards.

Check out our list of ten great destinations across the MENA region. They offer everything from desert adventures to pristine beaches, perfect for an unforgettable summer break.

Mysk Al Badayer Retreat in Sharjah, UAE

Nestled amidst the captivating dunes of central Sharjah, Al Badayer Retreat offers a unique desert getaway. Inspired by the ancient caravanserai, a roadside inn that dotted the Silk Road, the resort transports guests to a bygone era.

Upon arrival, you can choose between luxurious private tents or traditional accommodations. Couples can enjoy tailor-made dining experiences and private spa treatments, while families will appreciate the sprawling pool and exciting activities. The amphitheater adds a touch of cultural immersion, perfect for evenings under the starlit sky. Al Badayer Retreat also offers guests the chance to experience life as a Silk Road traveler.

Bab Al Shams, UAE

Located just 45 minutes from Dubai’s bustling downtown, Bab Al Shams offers a chance to reconnect with nature. The resort features elegant contemporary rooms and suites with modernist architecture. Each accommodation has a private balcony or terrace, providing guests with stunning desert panoramas or charming views of the resort’s tranquil courtyards.

At Al Hadheerah, guests are offered a variety of international cuisines and open-air dining under the sky. The resort also has tranquil pools for adults and families and a serene spa for relaxation and pampering.

For the adventurous, Bab Al Shams offers hot air balloon rides, thrilling horseback riding, and traditional camel treks.

Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, UAE

Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf offers the ultimate staycation within the sprawling Madinat Jumeirah resort complex.

Spread across charming “summerhouses,” each accommodating just ten units, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf offers privacy within the vibrant Madinat Jumeirah resort complex. A walk through the landscaped gardens leads to a serene two-kilometer private beach. Guests can also explore dining options at over 50 restaurants and bars throughout Madinat Jumeirah, balancing privacy with connectivity.

Inspired by the charm of Old Dubai and infused with rich Arabian traditions, the exclusive summerhouses celebrate Emirati heritage.

Guests can visit Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al Qasr, within the Madinat Jumeirah complex, for a complete wellness retreat. The spa offers personalized treatments for rejuvenation and relaxation, providing a holistic mind-body escape.

Six Senses Southern Dunes, Saudi Arabia

Six Senses Southern Dunes is situated approximately 100 kilometers northeast of the coastal town of Umluj and provides a retreat amidst the dramatic surroundings of the Red Sea.

The resort features 40 villas and a 36-room hotel complex, providing a variety of luxurious accommodations. Guests can relax by the expansive pool, enjoy cuisine at on-site restaurants, or enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding dunes.

The resort includes a 4,000-square-meter spa designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. It features six treatment rooms, a meditation dome, separate salons for men and women, and a biohacking lounge. The spa offers multi-day programs focusing on sleep, detox, weight management, and fitness and mindfulness activities.

The exterior design, created by Foster + Partners, draws inspiration from the region’s Nabataean heritage. Utilizing lightweight materials and minimizing heat-absorbing elements, the architects aimed to make the resort visually striking, environmentally responsible and well-suited to its desert setting.

Al Balad Hospitality, Saudi Arabia

Joukhdar House offers a unique blend of 19th-century charm and contemporary luxury, appealing to travelers seeking a historical experience. 

The property features nine luxurious suites and rooms, each uniquely designed to reflect Jeddah’s Al Balad district’s rich heritage. Guests can immerse themselves in traditional Arabian details and plush furnishings, creating a captivating ambiance steeped in history. Modern amenities complement the historic setting, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Guests at Joukhdar House can unwind in generous lounge areas, which are ideal for reading, entertaining, or simply enjoying the ambiance. The exclusive rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for savoring a cup of aromatic Saudi coffee at sunrise or stargazing under the vast night sky. It provides an unparalleled perspective of Jeddah’s timeless charm.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Nestled in Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes, Wadi Rum, often called “The Valley of the Moon,” provides a captivating escape. It’s been a stand-in for Mars in Hollywood films. RumSky, located here, offers visitors a chance to glimpse the universe’s hidden wonders. Guests can peer into the night sky using modern technology and marvel at stars, planets, and nebulae.

For a unique perspective, hot air balloon rides offer a bird’s-eye view of Wadi Rum’s dramatic landscapes. Alternatively, guests can immerse themselves in tradition by learning to make traditional Arabian kohl eyeliner or embarking on a horseback riding adventure. History enthusiasts can delve into the region’s rich past: the Nabataeans, an ancient nomadic tribe responsible for Petra’s architectural marvels, also left their mark on Wadi Rum. Visitors can explore remnants of temples, water systems, petroglyphs, and ancient trade markers.

Aqaba, Jordan

Nestled on the shores of the Red Sea, Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city. It is set against the dramatic backdrop of the red cliffs of Wadi Rum, providing a unique natural setting. This bustling port city appeals to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Known for its luxurious resorts and hotels, Aqaba offers a haven to unwind after exploring Jordan’s historical treasures. The Red Sea invites visitors to enjoy various water sports, while beaches provide ample opportunities for exploration. Divers can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

The city boasts lively markets and traditional neighborhoods, offering a glimpse into Jordanian culture. Its proximity to landmarks like Wadi Rum and Petra makes it an ideal base for exploring Jordan’s historical wonders.

Heenat Salma Farm, Qatar

Caravane Earth Foundation’s Heenat Salma Farm in Doha is a vibrant hub for sustainability, education, and community. This multifaceted project offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about ethical practices, and contribute to a positive impact.

Visitors can relax in the tranquil setting, savor farm-to-table meals, and participate in various activities. Ethical marketplaces provide opportunities to support sustainable businesses, while artisanal workshops and training sessions empower guests to learn new skills.

Heenat Salma Farm demonstrates the potential of diversifying local agriculture by converting a conventional farm into a permaculture center. It successfully grows arid-adapted vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants, eggs, poultry, and other staples, providing a model for ensuring future food security.

Educational programs, vocational training, and workshops with master artisans at Heenat Salma Farm equip visitors with practical skills. The farm also hosts wellness activities, cultural events, and community gatherings, all aimed at creating a harmonious and enriching experience for guests.

Zulal Wellness Resort, Qatar

Zulal Wellness Resort blends Chiva-Som’s global wellness expertise with authentic Qatari hospitality, creating a unique experience for travelers. Situated on Qatar’s northern coast, the resort welcomes families and adults alike and offers rejuvenation in a tranquil setting.

Zulal Discovery is tailored for families and offers diverse activities for children. Younger ones can enjoy nature-based arts and crafts, while older kids can try kayaking, dance classes, and even personal training. The programs are age-specific, with four activities for children and separate wellness retreats for parents and grandparents.

To further enhance the family experience, Zulal Wellness Resort offers a variety of weekly summer camps throughout June to August. These camps range from creative outlets like music and dance to more active options like Thai boxing and soccer.

The Chedi El Gouna, Egypt

The Chedi El Gouna is celebrated as one of El Gouna’s premier hotels, offering a luxurious and environmentally conscious retreat on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. With 82 sophisticated rooms and suites, the hotel promises a host of curated experiences.

Guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine at its restaurants, relax by tropical pools and beaches, or enjoy fitness and recreational activities. The resort also boasts fully-equipped event venues and a serene spa, ideal for ultimate relaxation.

Located just a 25-kilometer drive from Hurghada and easily accessible with a four-hour flight from major European cities, El Gouna boasts over 40 neighborhoods, 5,000 residential units, and a collection of luxury and 5-star hotels.

El Gouna’s shores offer dedicated kitesurfing stations and schools, making it an ideal destination for enjoying spacious beaches, clear skies, and consistent winds that are perfect for kitesurfing. Parasailing is also a popular activity.

El Gouna comes alive at night with vibrant nightlife and entertainment options, such as pool parties, jazz nights, live performances, concerts, dance festivals, and lively clubs.