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The Arabian Peninsula is a place of stunning contrasts. A place where golden deserts meet futuristic cities, and ancient ruins stand beside architectural marvels. Whether you're exploring Saudi Arabia’s ancient tombs, Dubai’s world-famous skyline, or Oman’s breathtaking canyons, this region offers an unforgettable mix of history, adventure, and luxury.
Good news for Filipino travelers! Many destinations offer streamlined visa-on-arrival or eVisa options for shorter stays, making it easier than ever to visit. Ready to explore the Middle East? Here’s your ultimate guide to six must-visit countries in the Arabian Peninsula.
Saudi Arabia: Ancient Tombs and Stunning Desert Landscapes
Saudi Arabia is home to some of the most breathtaking sites in the Middle East, offering a perfect mix of history, natural wonders, and vast desert landscapes. One of its most famous historical sites is Hegra (Madain Salih), a UNESCO-listed ancient city with over 100 intricately carved rock tombs.
Nearby, the otherworldly Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil) stands as a massive sandstone formation, shaped by centuries of wind and erosion. As the sun sets, the rock takes on a golden-red glow, making it a picture-perfect spot. For those craving adventure, the Edge of the World offers one of Saudi Arabia’s most dramatic landscapes—a towering cliff with jaw-dropping panoramic views that stretch endlessly across the desert.
But no trip to Saudi Arabia’s desert heartland is complete without experiencing its majestic sand dunes. In places like the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali), the world’s largest continuous sand desert, travelers can go dune bashing in a 4x4 sandboard down golden slopes, or ride camels across vast, untouched landscapes.
For a truly unforgettable experience, stay at Habitas Al-Ula, a sustainable luxury resort nestled in the desert. Or, if you’re on a budget, Shaden Resort offers a cozy Bedouin-inspired escape.
Getting there: Direct flights from Manila to Riyadh or Jeddah, then a domestic flight to Al-Ula
Visa requirements: Apply online for an e-visa.
United Arab Emirates: Skyscrapers, Luxury, and Desert Adventures
Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE are two of the most exciting cities in the world. Start your trip at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, then wander through the Dubai Mall, home to an indoor ice rink, an aquarium, and over 1,200 shops. After dark, head to the Dubai Fountain for a mesmerizing water show.
Abu Dhabi is equally breathtaking with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most beautiful Islamic landmarks in the world—and the adrenaline-pumping Ferrari World, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster. Navigate the city, stream your travel vlogs, and share your best moments instantly with GoRoam UAE for ₱1,000, giving you 8 GB of data valid for 30 days.
For accommodations, stay at Armani Hotel Dubai for a five-star experience or Rove Downtown for a stylish yet affordable stay.
Getting there: Direct flights from Manila to Dubai or Abu Dhabi
Visas: Filipinos must apply for a visa online.
Oman: A Hidden Gem of Culture and Natural Wonders
Oman is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the Middle East’s natural beauty and rich traditions. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, famous for its chandelier made of Swarovski crystals and the second-largest Persian carpet in the world.
If you love adventure, take a day trip to Wadi Shab, where you can hike through canyons, swim in turquoise pools, and even discover a hidden waterfall.
For a luxurious stay, check into The Chedi Muscat, a beachfront oasis. If you’re on a budget, Tulip Inn Downtown Muscat is a great option.
Getting there: Flights from Manila to Muscat via Dubai or Qatar
Visa: Apply online for an e-visa.
Qatar: A Modern Metropolis with a Touch of Tradition
Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world, and its capital, Doha, is a blend of ultra-modern skyscrapers and deep-rooted culture. Start at The Pearl-Qatar, a luxurious man-made island filled with high-end restaurants and designer shops, then visit the Katara Cultural Village to experience art, theater, and local heritage.
If you love exploring traditional markets, Souq Waqif is the place to go—it’s full of spices, textiles, and even falcon shops. Worried about losing connection while exploring Qatar? Stay online with Roam Surf 399, which gives you all-day data valid for 3 days at ₱399.
Stay at The St. Regis Doha for a five-star beachfront experience, or book Centro Capital Doha for a stylish yet affordable stay.
Getting there: Direct flights from Manila to Doha
Visa: Filipinos need to apply online for an e-visa.
Kuwait: A Blend of Old and New
Kuwait is an intriguing mix of history and contemporary culture. Visit Failaka Island, where you can explore archaeological ruins dating back to the Mesopotamian era. Back in the city, start with a visit to the iconic Kuwait Towers, a trio of futuristic-looking water towers that offer panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf. For an even deeper dive into Kuwaiti history, the Tareq Rajab Museum showcases rare Islamic manuscripts, antique jewelry, and traditional Bedouin artifacts.
If you’re looking for a taste of local culture, Souq Al-Mubarakiya is the place to be. This centuries-old marketplace is a sensory delight, packed with fragrant spices, shimmering gold jewelry, intricate perfumes, and traditional Kuwaiti sweets like date-filled maamoul. It’s also a great spot to sample Machboos, Kuwait’s national dish, made of spiced rice and tender meat, often served with a tangy dried lemon for extra flavor.
For accommodations, check into the Marina Hotel Kuwait for a beachfront stay or Ibis Sharq for a budget-friendly option.
Getting there: Direct flights from Manila to Kuwait City
Visa: Filipinos need to apply online.
Bahrain: A Small Island Rich in History
Bahrain may be the smallest country in the Arabian Peninsula, but it has a big story to tell. History buffs will love Bahrain Fort, a 4,000-year-old archaeological site overlooking the sea. Another must-see is the Tree of Life, a mysterious tree that has survived in the middle of the desert for over 400 years.
For shopping and food, head to Manama Souq, a bustling marketplace where you’ll find everything from handcrafted pearls and traditional textiles to aromatic spices and delicious Bahraini sweets like Halwa.
Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain for a luxury getaway or Wyndham Grand Manama for a budget-friendly option.
Getting there: Direct flights from Manila to Bahrain (via layovers)
Visa: Filipinos can get a visa on arrival.
Explore the Arabian Peninsula
Traveling to the Arabian Peninsula is an unforgettable experience, but staying connected while abroad can be a challenge. Make your trip smoother by activating Globe’s roaming services, so you can keep your number active, navigate unfamiliar streets, and stay in touch without worrying about high roaming fees.
Whether you're exploring Dubai’s towering skyline, discovering Saudi Arabia’s ancient wonders, or hiking through Oman’s scenic wadis, Globe’s GoRoam UAE, GoRoam Saudi Arabia, and Roam All Net 99 offer affordable and reliable connectivity to keep you online wherever you go.
So, where will your next adventure take you?
