Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia & Bahrain

The discovery of local oil reserves in 1938 transformed the once small coastal settlement of Dammam into a modern metropolis boasting a major seaport and unique attractions. Take a ferry ride to an artificial island and enjoy bike riding or visiting the iconic Khobar Water Tower.

It might be one of the smallest countries in Asia, but Bahrain is packed with things to do. If you're keen to learn about the island nation's past, a visit to the Bahrain National Museum in the capital Manama is essential. Its intriguing exhibits are housed in an equally fascinating postmodern building, which seems to draw the water of the Persian Gulf right up to its windows.

Step off your ship and onto an island oasis. Although it's actually the crest of a salt dome created millions of years ago, Sir Bani Yas has been transformed over the past four decades. Half of the 34 square-mile surface area is now covered by the Arabian Wildlife Park, a nature reserve home to lush vegetation and 13,000 animals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula.

This modern island city reflects the opulence of the seven wealthy United Arab Emirates of which it is capital. Discover duty-free shopping in countless grand malls or stroll along the seafront Corniche. Gaze at the white domes of the vast Sheikh Zayed Mosque or escape into the desert for a Bedouin feast or a ride across the dunes. With a wealth of culture, history and adventure, from the old souks, where you can sip a fragrant Arabic coffee, to the rush of the world's fastest rollercoaster. This 5,000-year-old metropolis is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and atmospheric back streets. Put your bargaining hat on for a friendly faceoff with the merchants at the souk to get deals on handicrafts, artwork, even spices and dried fruit for the cook back home.

This modern island city reflects the opulence of the seven wealthy United Arab Emirates of which it is capital. Discover duty-free shopping in countless grand malls or stroll along the seafront Corniche. Gaze at the white domes of the vast Sheikh Zayed Mosque or escape into the desert for a Bedouin feast or a ride across the dunes. With a wealth of culture, history and adventure, from the old souks, where you can sip a fragrant Arabic coffee, to the rush of the world's fastest rollercoaster. This 5,000-year-old metropolis is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and atmospheric back streets. Put your bargaining hat on for a friendly faceoff with the merchants at the souk to get deals on handicrafts, artwork, even spices and dried fruit for the cook back home.

Experience the blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture in Dubai. Gaze skyward to see the tallest building in the world, the 2,722-feet-high futuristic Burj Khalifa tower, or walk over to the impressive Jumeirah Mosque. Seek out jet-set haunts or stroll through the heart of the old city, Dubai Creek, which is home to the Dubai museum as well as the labyrinth alleyways of gold, spice and textile souks, where bargaining is part of the fun and ritual.

Experience the blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture in Dubai. Gaze skyward to see the tallest building in the world, the 2,722-feet-high futuristic Burj Khalifa tower, or walk over to the impressive Jumeirah Mosque. Seek out jet-set haunts or stroll through the heart of the old city, Dubai Creek, which is home to the Dubai museum as well as the labyrinth alleyways of gold, spice and textile souks, where bargaining is part of the fun and ritual.