We lived in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for about 5 years.
Now, we welcome YOU to the Middle East!
Click the name of the country you are most interested in or read all the Middle East related stories below.
Dubai has recently eased up visa rules for Indian citizens! If you hold a US green card or valid US visa you can visit Dubai for up to 14 days without any additional paperwork. This facility has now also been extended to Indian citizens who hold a residence permit in … more »
On a fine day back in 2011 I thought my life was coming to an end. That was the day when I almost shat myself to death in Doha’s airport. Back then, we were living in Dubai and had decided to take a small trip to Indonesia. On our last … more »
When I decided to cycle alone across Iran I was not an experienced cyclist. I still am not. I’m not particularly fit, I struggle to go up hills, and I’m known for my appalling sense of direction. I suck at fixing punctures. But I’m also very stubborn, and find it … more »
I remember my first time at the airport in Dubai. I was roaming around the duty free shops, some of which happen to display the largest amount of luxury goods I have ever seen in any airport. Jewelry, high-end designer clothes, sports cars for lucky draws and, in the middle … more »
Last year we visited Jordan, a spectacular country with rugged mountains, expansive deserts, and of course, the ancient city of Petra. This was in November 2015 and when we decided to go there, several people asked us: Oh, but you’re going to Jordan? Isn’t it dangerous there? A pretty good … more »
Ever since we started traveling full-time I don’t have the same feeling I used to have before: What?! It’s already December? The year went by FLYING!…” Now, I fly! Being in various places and occupying your time with different activities, time dilation becomes your best friend. Still, it somehow … more »
UPDATE 2018 Jordan now offers visa on arrival to all Indian citizens. The period of stay usually granted is 30 days. You may be asked to show a return ticket so it is good to have one on hand. Below is the story of how I got a 14 … more »
The Berlin wall separated East and West Berlin and restricted the movements of citizens for decades. The coming down of this wall was a historic event that people still remember today. But in Israel, new walls are coming up. The barrier has many effects on Palestinians including reduced freedoms, reduction … more »
The weather in the UAE normally keeps you confined within your comfortably air conditioned existence. However, when the summer heat dies down (which happens by November), it’s always great to head out and explore! There are several areas around the UAE which have beautiful scenery and amazing landscapes. One weekend … more »
Back in 2011 we took an exciting and rather terrifying road trip through Oman. On a day when we would drive 800kms, one of our tires blew out in the middle of the night. After the police came (it took about 2 hours) and aided us with a recovery vehicle … more »