Flight time.
Flying from Auckland to major Middle Eastern destinations is possible with a direct flight to Doha and Dubai with flight times of 17 to 18 hours.
Discover the magic of the Middle East
Picture yourself wandering the vibrant souks of Marrakech, soaking in the futuristic skyline of dazzling Dubai, or stepping into history among the majestic temples of Petra. The Middle East offers a kaleidoscope of unforgettable experiences, blending rich heritage with contemporary charm at every turn.
From spectacular ancient ruins to ultra-modern cities, desert landscapes to luxurious retreats, this region effortlessly blends tradition with innovation. Whether you're craving culture, relaxation, adventure, or flavours you'll never forget, the Middle East promises pinch-me moments around every corner.
Talk to our Middle East travel specialists and let us craft your perfect dream holiday through this region, today!
Best time to go.
For UAE, November to March where temperatures are more pleasant for outdoor activities. For Egypt, October to April, with cooler temperatures making it easier to explore historical sites.
Time difference.
Middle East spans several time zones, but most countries are around 9 to 10 hours behind New Zealand Standard Time (NZST, GMT +12).
Our Middle East travel blogs
Middle East holidays 1
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"Quick to respond, answered any questions asked I had and no pressure to go with what was suggested."
Linda"Very good"
Lindsay"I had a fantastic experience booking my trip to Samoa with Kelly-Ann. She was incredibly helpful and responsive throughout the entire, process, always available to answer my questions and provide guidance. Her knowledge and professionalism made everything so easy, and I really appreciated how smoothly everything came together. I fee completely confident in the booking I've made and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Kell-Ann to anyone planning a trip."
Donelle
Lisa Grunsell
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
With over 30 years in the travel industry, I still get that same excitement when creating holidays for my clients.
My extensive travel knowledge, combined with personal experiences, allows me to
transform your dreams into reality.
Travel has truly been life-changing for me, from the diverse cultures to the
countless continents I’ve explored. I would love to share that joy with you.
I invite you to come and chat with me—I’m here to make booking your holiday as
easy and stress-free as possible.
Lisa
Ellie Gallagher
House of Travel Hobsonville
Working within the Travel industry was always my dream, I'm passionate about experiencing different cultures and immersing ourselves in history; it broadens the mind. I look forward to connecting with you, and being a part of your next adventure.
Ellie
Loris Sowman
House of Travel Mount Maunganui
I recently joined the team at House of Travel Mt Maunganui after relocating from Hamilton, where I’d previously worked with Calder & Lawson House of Travel.
After many years in the travel industry, what makes this job special to me, is having my clients return from their trips to tell me about their adventures and then wanting to rebook another holiday with me - they do say the best way to overcome the post-travel blues is to already be planning your next one, and I couldn’t agree more!
I would love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.
Loris
Chloe McKellar
House of Travel Wellington City
Customer service has always been drilled into me. After begging my way
into a cafe job at 14, I then spent 12 years working in the hospitality
industry supervising restaurants and managing specialty cafes which also
founded my love for all different types of foods.
After spending 3 years in Melbourne, 6 months in South East Asia and a few
years in the UK I finally made the switch to the travel industry where I have
been able to share my love for travel and customer service ever since.
I made it through the dark years of COVID in the industry which has led me to
know to dig that little bit deeper into my clients' travel plans to create that
perfect trip, and ensure we really have the best option for you in terms of
comfort, reliability, and service. As we just don't know what is round the
corner, do we!
I've travelled extensively across Southeast Asia, UK and Europe, spent a lot of
time exploring properties in Fiji (and relaxing by the beach), road tripped in
California and in 2024 I visited South Africa in Feb, Japan, South Korea and
Taipei! I've got many more places on my bucket list to visit, but if I haven't
been, I've got a superb team of people behind me who have and we'll work out
the best trip for you! My ultimate passion when I travel is trying local foods,
and finding the best possible places to have that authentic experience that we
wouldn't be able to have at home. So if that resonates with you, I'd love to
hear from you and let's put together your foodie adventure, together :)
Chloe
Explore The Arabian Gulf with Celestyal
The Arabian Gulf with Celestyal
Set sail with Celestyal Cruises on a mesmerising journey, whether it's a 3-night taster or an immersive 14-night adventure, exploring magnificent mosques, shimmering deserts, and futuristic cities of the Arabian Gulf.
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details for Nov 2025 to Mar 2026
Enjoy ultimate value with Celestyal One fares which include complimentary WiFi, meals and soft drinks throughout the day - amenities that are always included. For beverages from the bar and specialty dining there is CelestyalPay, your dedicated food and drink tab when you're onboard. Plus, when you pre-pay you'll get an extra bonus on Celestyal!
2025 to 2026 sailings
Flights are additional
Fantastic Value
Cruising with
Celestyal Cruises
Departs 22 Nov, 8 Dec 2025, 24 Jan and 6 Feb 2026
ONBOARD 5 SUPER SHIPS
INCLUDES MYSTERY CRUISE
Explore Uniworld 2026 Rivers of the World Cruise
Uniworld 2026 Rivers of the World Cruise
In 2026, Uniworld will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a magnificent 50-night Rivers of the World trip! This luxurious journey, which departs from Brussels, Belgium, and ends in Amman, Jordan, includes some of the most amazing experiences Uniworld have created over the decades.
The Details:
From 16 April to 5 June 2026, you’ll travel from Brussels to Amman over 50 nights, traverse 6 rivers and their tributaries, and experience the popular Mystery Cruise.
The Destinations:
Cross the European continent to arrive in North Africa and the Middle East, visiting 6 different countries along the way.
The Accommodation:
Each of the Super ShipTM vessels Uniworld have selected for this journey is a gorgeously appointed floating boutique hotel, designed to reflect the destinations it sails.
The Inclusions:
Uniworld's usual host of all-inclusive luxury amenities, plus Welcome and Farewell events, a dedicated Travelling Concierge, special surprises along the way and flights between each part of the cruise.*
(*Does not include pre-/post-cruise flights)
*Ask your consultant for full pricing options
50 Nights
Pre-/Post-cruise flights are additional
from
$
72,999
per person share twin Ruby Package
Flights are additional
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Uniworld
Departs 16 Apr 2026
Best. Holidays. Ever!
Start here
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