Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Countries at a Glance
The term 'Arabian Peninsula' is such a cohesive one you could be forgiven for
thinking that all the countries it comprises are alike. There are similarities
between each country - the hot, arid desert, Bedouin roots, Islamic customs and
the Arabic language - but the differences are just as pronounced. Head to the Un-
ited Arab Emirates (UAE) and Gulf states to experience the quintessential mod-
ern Arabian city with cutting-edge museums, marble-clad malls selling the latest
international fashions, avant-garde restaurants and landscaped resorts boasting
every conceivable luxury. In marked contrast, Oman, Yemen and Saudi Arabia
offer a glimpse of the old Arabia with characterful souqs, forts and ancient ar-
chaeological sites. At Arabia's desolate core, the Empty Quarter straddles Saudi,
Oman and the UAE, giving opportunity for desert nights in organised camps in
unparalleled landscapes.
Bahrain
A Land of Burials
Riddling and honeycombing a surprisingly large proportion of the island, the enigmatic
burial mounds at A'Ali and the tombs at Sar date back to the ancient Dilmun era and under-
line Bahrain's trading inheritance.
