Desert climate predominates in the Middle East, so if you are looking for sun and warmth on your holiday, you will be guaranteed to get your dose of this here. However, it is not only sun you can enjoy in the Middle East but also a whole host of fantastic experiences with nature, culture, architecture and much more. In the Middle East you will find everything from camel riding to golf, from shopping to sandy beaches. Check Countryaah website for comprehensive guide to Middle East and all countries within this region.
Depending on where you come from, where you are going, how long you intend to stay and if you belong to any risk group, the recommendations for vaccinations may differ. Here you will find information on what applies to different countries in the Middle East. Remember to be out of time when you are reviewing your vaccinations!
Lebanon
- Capital: Beirut
- Population: 4,467 million (2013)
- Currency: Lebanese pound
- Languages: Arabic and French
- Country code for telephone: +961
Oman
Oman consists largely of desert and has a long coast towards the Arabian Sea in the east and the Gulf of Oman in the northeast. Tourism has grown a lot lately and the country offers everything from sun and swimming to fun and exciting experiences. Oman is a sun-proof destination with many cultural attractions.
Capital: Muscat
Population: 3,632 million (2013)
Currency: Omani Rial
Language: Arabic, a number of smaller languages
Country code for phone: +968
Tourist in Oman
More and more sun-thawing Swedes are discovering this country which has one of the hottest climates in the world. May to September is the hottest time and then the temperature can rise up to 50 degrees. Oman is surrounded by beautiful mountains and fine sandy beaches and offers activities such as scuba diving, hiking, climbing, cave exploration and desert safaris. The most popular destination for Swedes is Shalala, which has a more pleasant climate than other parts of the country. Outside Shalala lies the ruined city of Sumharam with the remains of a castle and other larger buildings.
Vaccination in Oman
If you have recently visited countries in Africa or South America where there is a risk of yellow fever, the authorities require that you show a certificate that you have been vaccinated against the disease. Vaccination against Hepatitis A is recommended for everyone, and if you stay longer than three weeks you should also vaccinate against Hepatitis B and typhoid if you live near the local population and / or eat simpler food outside of tourist areas. You should also review your protection against diphtheria, tetanus and polio that are part of the Swedish child vaccination program.
Qatar
- Capital: Doha
- Population: 2,169 million (2013)
- Currency: Qatari Rial
- Language: Arabic, English
- Country code for phone: +974
Qatar consists of a 160 km long peninsula that stands out in the Persian Gulf off the east coast of the Arabian Peninsula. For many, the country is just a place where you stop when you are going on to other countries, but if you stay there is a lot to do and discover.
Tourist in Qatar
Qatar is a country that has become rich in oil and natural gas, which has made some of its inhabitants work. Instead, there are a whole host of guest workers. As a tourist, you have several luxury hotels to choose from. You can also play world-class golf, sunbathe and swim or why not take a bike ride in the desert landscape. There are also beautiful parks, museums, shopping centers and local markets to visit.
Vaccination in Qatar
The authorities require a certificate showing that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever if you have recently visited a country in Africa or South America where there is a risk of the disease. Vaccination against Hepatitis A is recommended for all travelers, and against Hepatitis B you should stay for more than three weeks. If you live with the local population for more than six months, it is recommended that you vaccinate yourself against tuberculosis. It is a good idea to review your protection against diphtheria, tetanus and polio that are part of the Swedish child vaccination program.
United Arab Emirates
- Capital: Abu Dhabi
- Population: 1,332 million (2013)
- Currency: Bahraini Dinar
- Language: Arabic
- Country Code for Phone: +973
The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates. All emirates consist of a city with the same name as the emirate. Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate and also the name of the country’s capital, and by far the largest city is Dubai which has become a popular tourist destination for many.
Tourist in United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates has a tropical climate with rainy and dry periods, but the rainfall is small and it is rain-free from April to November. During the summer months the temperature is often above 40 degrees, but it is more comfortable during spring, autumn and winter. The country’s largest city Dubai has been investing consciously for years to make tourism a long-term and sustainable source of income, and thus there is also much to see and experience focusing on water, sun and swimming, entertainment, shopping, fishing, sports and excursions. The huge Wild Wadi water park has water slides which are among the highest and longest in the world, and there are also several golf courses of very high international standard in and around Dubai.
Vaccination in the United Arab Emirates
If you are going to the United Arab Emirates, you should review your previous protection against diphtheria, tetanus and polio that is part of the Swedish child vaccination program and make sure you are still protected. If you have not completed the entire program, you may need to supplement your protection. If you stay longer than three weeks, vaccination against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. is recommended.