Work Travel Volunteer

Somewhat forgotten about, given the violent and volatile status many of the countries are in, travel in the Middle East can still be enjoyed and if you want to get away from mass tourism,there is no better place to come.

The Middle East covers the countries of Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Israel and the Palestinian Territories and the countries of the Arabian Peninsula.

For a religious submersion, the Middle East is the lake you want to choose. Judaism, Christianity and Islamic religions all began here and still remain strong today.

An ancient world in the present, think Lawrence of Arabia, Raiders of the Lost Ark territory or Romancing the Stone. Wadi Rum in Jordan, the great pyramids of Egypt, the Red Sea, Mt Sinai, the region has a rich historical heritage.

Unfortunately work and volunteer opportunities in the Middle East are pretty rare, unless you work in Dubai through a sponsorship or transfer abroad. There may be archaeological digs or kibbutz work available. but these too are pretty hard to find.

Highlights of the Middle East

• Wadi Rum, Jordan
• Damascus, Syria
• The Red Sea Coast, Egypt
• Petra, Jordan
• Ubari Sand Sea, Libya
• The Pyramids, Egypt

• Conservative dress in Islamic regions
• Over-friendly locals (especially if women are not dressed appropriately!)
• A distinct lack of pork on the menu
• Sand and dust and heat

As with all areas, we recommend you do some research prior to travelling anywhere. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) give up to date information on the status of all countries. Visit the FCO for information on the safety issues that are current to this region.