Introduction
The deserts that make up much of the Middle East don't lend themselves obviously to wildlife holidays. However, there is a wealth of animal life here, including some unusual and exotic creatures.
In Jordan, the Dana Biosphere Reserve is rugged and starkly beautiful. Wadi Rum is one of the world's most spectacular desert environments and home to the Arabian oryx, which was once extinct in the country but now thrives again here and at Shaumari Wildlife Reserve in the north. Nubian ibex herds can be found amidst the mountains and canyons of Mujib.
The Arabian oryx is probably the best-known of Oman's wild animals. Arabian gazelle also thrive here, whilst Nubian ibex live in the Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve and sand gazelle haunt the fringes of the Empty Quarter. The Arabian tahr, a type of goat-like creature, can be found in the Wadi A'Serin Reserve in northern Oman. In the remote southern mountains look out for the Arabian leopard. Along the coast, look out for turtle breeding sites such as those at Ras Al Jinz.
Go below the water and explore the outstanding snorkel and dive sites in the Red Sea; both Israel and Jordan have significant resorts at Eilat and Aqaba.
These are just some of the options available though. You can also tailor-make your wildlife holiday in the Middle East by adding a city stay, beach holiday or activity and adventure excursion; talk to a destination specialist to see what we can do for you.
