The Middle East is often called “the cradle of civilization” and one of the reasons is their advanced architecture. Even now you can find there some historic temples and mosques that are so old that it’s almost impossible to tell just how old they are. This region is also known for innovative modern construction. Dubai in the United Arab Emirates has been a showplace for innovative and very creative buildings. The Burj Khalifa amazed the world with some of the highest buildings. Let’s explore some of the most inspirational cities and learn more about the architecture of the Middle East.
Jeddah
Jeddah is a Saudi Arabian port city located on the Red Sea. It is a modern commercial hub also known as a gateway for pilgrimages to the Islamic holy cities Mecca and Medina. Walking down the Jeddah you can see many resort hotels, beaches, and outdoor sculptures. There is a tower called the Jeddah tower, formerly known as the Kingdom tower. It is the most impressive building, but unfortunately, it is not finished yet. Because of the location of Jeddah, people from all over the world relocate here, and for a good reason. If you are also thinking about moving here, you will be able to easily find assistance in the area to settle in. Just contact local movers to help you out.
Abu Dhabi
This city is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. People often mix Dubai and Abu Dhabi because they sound similar. However, these two cities are completely different and nothing alike. Abu Dhabi is located off the mainland on an island in the Persian or Arabian Gulf. They are known for oil exports. If you take a good look, you will see some of the most spectacular skyline’s modern towers and shopping metacenters such as Abu Dhabi and Marina malls. The most impressive building there is of course The Louvre Abu Dhabi. It is an art and civilization museum and it will take your breath away. It is made from almost 8,000 metal stars formed in a geometric pattern allowing shards of sunlight to enter and casting shimmering rays throughout the interior.
Doha
Doha is the most populous city in Qatar. It is also the capital city of Qatar. You can find some of the most impressive buildings here. Doha Tower, Aspire Tower, Qatar National Convention Center, and Al Zubara Fort are just some of them. Barzan Towers that date back from the 18th century is a very popular attraction and people love to take pictures there.
But Doha is more than just a city full of tourist attractions. It is also a great place to live and raise a family. This city can offer you so many job opportunities. Also, you can find great and friendly local movers there to help you with relocation like fourwinds-ksa.com.
Muscat
Oman’s capital city lies along the northern coast. They are known for their style of architecture that blends modern and traditional styles. Also, they are quite famous for their superb seafood. That’s only logical since they are a port city after all. Located on the Gulf of Oman, this city serves as a port and commercial center. This is also a great city for settling in with your family.
Agra
This city is on the beautiful Yamuna river. Even if you never heard of Agra, you heard about the historical monument there – the most impressive architectural piece there is – the Taj Mahal. This monument is the perfect mix of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. Actually, it is a tomb, or it was built like one for MumatzMaha after she died during childbirth by her husband emperor Shah Jahan. This marvelous white mausoleum was built between 1631 and 1648. Considering the size of it and the time when it was built – it’s pretty impressive. It is often described as one of the world’s wonders.
The most impressive buildings in the Middle East
Of course, the first on the list is going to be Burj Khalifa. This is because it is currently the tallest building in the whole world. Over 2.722 feet tall building. Can you imagine standing next to it?
Next on the list must be the Princess Tower in Dubai. You can go as high as the 97th floor there and see panoramic views of the Marina, the Palm Jumeirah, and the rest of the city as well. This floor is for multipurpose, being used to hold some recreational and business events, but mostly as a tourist attraction.
Abraj Al-Bait Towers is a government-owned complex of seven huge hotels in a form of skyscrapers in Mecca in Saudi Arabia. So, if you are looking for the most impressive way to go on the holiday, check them out.
Old architecture of the Middle East
We talked a lot about their new architecture. For a reason, of course. As you can see some of the tallest and most impressive buildings can be found in the Middle East but the ones, we mentioned are fairly new. They have a lot of old towers and historic sights to offer. Mostly as a tourist attraction.
Many of their most iconic examples of architecture are actually religious. Like mosques, tombs, palaces, etc. Taj Mahal is the perfect example. This ivory-white marble mausoleum was built in the early 17th century. It’s located in the city called Agra as stated above.
In Iraq, you can find traces of the Sumerian culture and their culture. Although they were Mesopotamia back then and not Iraq. This civilization dates to 3500 BC. But since they used a lot of wood back then, not many traces of that culture have left.
Living in one of the Middle Eastern cities
To live in a place where the culture is so old and yet the architecture is so modern is amazing. You can have the most iconic pictures on your Instagram and have great adventures exploring all those historic sights. But make note this is an Islamic part of the world. No matter what city you choose, you need to adjust to their rules. They are a bit different from the rules and laws in the USA for example.
For instance, in the USA drinking alcohol is perfectly normal and common if you are over the age of 21. In any Islamic city, it is strictly forbidden. Restrain from talking and discussing religions. Another great example is fashion. Almost everywhere in the world, it is perfectly fine during hot months for women to be in shorts or miniskirts. Also, for men to be in shorts, but here it is very frowned upon. So, if you are planning to relocate here and enjoy the architecture of the Middle East and its beauty in person, do some research about the country you choose and its rules. Only this way will you be able to fit in easily. Even if something is not forbidden by the law, there is no need to offend them just because you forgot to google a bit before the road.