New regions unlocked: Check into Marriott hotels across the world
Destination guides written for Marriott Hotels worldwide
UAE
Destination overview
With its beguiling beaches, rich culture and dazzling array of unforgettable experiences, the UAE certainly packs a punch for a small country located in the Persian Gulf. UAE offers visitors a mystical melting pot of ultra-luxurious hotels, awe inspiring architecture and the promise of memories that will last a lifetime. Ignite your senses at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island where the whole family will be wowed by white knuckle theme park rides, Formula 1 racing track, high end shopping and spectacular dining experiences. In Dubai, discerning guests can relax in luxury at Jumeirah’s Mina Seyahi, enjoy the sophisticated seclusion of Al Hamra Beach and watch stars fill the sky as they dine under the magical moonlight of the Al Wadi Desert.
Key events
With year-round events designed to delight, visitors can experience the extraordinary in the UEA. Dubai is best-known for the Dubai World Cup, one of the world’s wealthiest horse races that takes place in March boasting prize money of $12 million. Lovers of speed can make a date with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, taking place every November. Thrill seekers descend on the 5.281km Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island to watch world-class F1 stars compete at this iconic complex that offers unparalleled leisure and hospitality amenities.
Getting there
Dubai International Airport is the world’s busiest airport for international passengers. There are 260 airports with direct flights to Dubai from 99 countries. It connects more than 240 destinations across six continents on over 100 airlines. Abu Dhabi has more than 50 airlines flying to and from some 102 destinations in over 56 countries.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Destination overview
As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) opens its doors to tourism, discerning travellers can discover extraordinary travel experiences to delight the senses and inspire the imagination. Boasting six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vast deserts calling to the adventurous traveller, 2,000km of coastline hugging the magical playground of the coral-lined Red Sea, world-class luxury hotels and intriguing cultural traditions, KSA embodies the essence of off-the-beaten path travel. Let your imagination run wild in the captivating capital of Riyadh where old meets new and travel dreams come true. From the exuberant Souq Al Zal and magnificent Masmak Fortress to the mouth-watering gastronomy and luxury shopping, let your senses be awakened by new experiences. Coastal Jeddah offers the ultimate playground for visitors craving unforgettable sea adventures. Those in search of glistening coral stone houses can step back in time and lose themselves in the magical ancient streets of Old Jeddah.
Key events
KSA’s sporting events don’t get much bigger than The Saudi Cup, a thrilling two-day horse racing event held in February at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh. Over 20,000 fans gather to watch riders compete for the top spot. For a more culturally captivating experience, Riyadh Season is an annual lifestyle festival that takes place in November. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of the region and be thrilled by exquisite food, mesmerising musical performances and fast-paced sporting events.
Getting there
There are 135 airports globally with direct flights to Jeddah from 57 different countries. Passengers can fly direct with Saudia to over 90 destinations across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and North America. New national airline, Riyadh Air, will serve more than 100 destinations around the world by 2030.
Türkiye
Destination overview
Escape to Türkiye and you’ll find awe-inspiring towns and cities, pristine beaches that glisten against a backdrop of the turquoise Aegean, sensory food adventures and a rich, welcoming culture filled with exhilarating colours, sights and sounds. Culture vultures can lose themselves in the fascinating history of Ankara, the country’s charming capital. Explore the atmospheric Ulus district to uncover narrow, winding streets that hide intriguing antiques, Turkish tapestries and exotic gastronomic delights. The laid-back beach resorts of Bodrum and Cesme promise luxurious getaways waiting to be relished. Boasting modern luxury and first-class hospitality, Türkiye’s coastline will invigorate your senses and warm your soul. In Istanbul, cultures clash to offer visitors a delightfully vibrant, utterly captivating escape. Straddling two continents, visitors can go in search of Roman remains, opulent Ottoman castles, mosques and palaces.
Key events
Probably the most famous event in Türkiye is the Cappadocia Balloon Festival, usually taking place in July and August. Hundreds of brightly coloured hot air balloons take to the skies to delight and dazzle visitors in this truly one-of-a-kind event. Watch balloons dance through the sky at this beguiling festival – an everlasting memory to be cherished forever. Every April Istanbul comes alive with tulips at the Istanbul Tulip Festival. In the Ottoman Empire, the tulip became a symbol of nobility and the Turks introduced the flower to Europe in the 16th century. Awaken your senses at this enchanting event.
Getting there
Türkiye has 35 airports with international links; Istanbul Airport is the largest one. There are 301 airports with direct flights to Istanbul from 112 countries. National carrier Turkish Airlines serves 239 international destinations and 47 domestic destinations in 121 countries.
Kingdom of Bahrain
Destination overview
The tiny island nation of Bahrain is packed with cultural curiosities that transport inquisitive visitors on an uplifting voyage of discovery. Surrounded by the dazzling waters of the Arabian Gulf, this archipelago offers iconic architecture, luxury shopping quarters, buzzy harbour complex, myriad dining experiences, arts and entertainment. Probably best known for its priceless pearls, visitors can dive into crystal-clear waters and take a pearl diving expedition to marvel at Bahrain’s underwater paradise. In the lively capital of Manama, bask in the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bahrain National Museum, National Theatre, Al Fateh Grand Mosque and Bahrain Fort explore the rich history of the area, offering fresh perspectives entwined with ultra-modern moments. Or immerse yourself in bustling bazaars to haggle for Persian carpets and feast on local specialties in Shawarma Alley. Shopping at the Gold Souq is a charming experience.
Key events
Every year in March Bahrain hosts Formula 1’s Bahrain Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit. Fans descend to watch the world’s best racing drivers compete for pole position. At the same venue, the Bahrain Drag Racing Championship is an equally exhilarating event. Starting in December, contestants compete from across the region, fighting it out for much-coveted trophies.
Getting there
Bahrain International Airport is the largest airport in Bahrain, offering connections to 56 destinations worldwide with direct flights to Bahrain from 28 different countries. Plans are in the pipeline to increase connectivity to 70 destinations.
Cairo
Destination overview
Every corner of the globe delivers a unique tale; the tale of Cairo is a truly spectacular one. The majestic Pyramids of Giza rise out of the Sahara Desert offering the promise of discovering mystical stories that have unfolded here for millennia. One of the Ancient Wonders of the World, these iconic structures were built to house the tombs of Egyptian Pharaohs. Go back in time as you explore the mesmerising complex just 20-minutes outside Cairo. Of course, no trip to Cairo would be complete without a sunset cruise in a felucca on the River Nile. Watch in wonder as the light fades and dusk falls across the beating heart of the city, conjuring up life-changing memories that will stay with you forever. Then it’s time to experience the hustle and bustle of Khan al Khalili Market, a bazaar dating back to the 14th century. Lose yourself in its winding streets and the sights, sounds and smells of this ancient wonder. Save some time to visit the enchanting medieval mosques, Midan at-Tahrir and the city’s historic citadel.
Key events
Cairo International Film Festival is an annual celebration of short films, the oldest running film event in the Arab world and Africa. Actors, directors and celebrities from 52 different countries gather in November to celebrate the film world. Wafaa El-Nil or the Nile Flooding Festival, celebrates the Nile and its life-giving floods. In August, cultural events take place across the city to honour the power and majesty of the world’s longest river.
Getting there
Cairo International Airport is the largest airport in Egypt. There are 55 airlines operating direct flights to Cairo. In total, there are 121 airports with direct flights to Egypt’s capital, arriving from 60 countries across the region.
Amman
Destination overview
A gracious city with a unique charm, Amman is a modern, cosmopolitan destination bursting with Middle Eastern flair. While the capital of Jordan may not have as many historically impressive sights as its neighbours, there’s certainly plenty to see here. The culturally curious will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the city at the Amman Citadel. This is the best place to truly appreciate the breath-taking beauty of the sand-coloured houses that tumble down the hills of the bowl-shaped centre. In this city of hills, you’ll feel on top of the world. Sitting at the heart of the old town is the Grand Husseini Mosque built with striking pink-and-white stone. From here, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets and lively markets that promise visitors a taste of the real Amman. Feast on local specialities in tiny alleyways and uncover pots of gold at the Gold Souq. Amman is a glorious melting pot of new and old, where modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels collide with ancient traditions and civilisations.
Key events
In August, the Amman International Film Festival showcases achievements in film from all over the world, with a focus on Arab cinema. Or get your culture fix at the Jerash Festival (July-August), held in the ancient Roman city of Jerash, just a 45-minute drive from Amman. Promising art, culture and musical performances, it embodies the essence of this fascinating region.
Getting there
With 41 airlines flying to Amman, visitors can fly from 77 airports on direct flights to Amman from 35 countries. Passengers can easily reach Amman with daily non-stop flights from 13 major hubs including Cairo (EgyptAir), Doha (Qatar Airways) and Istanbul (Turkish Airlines).
Aqaba
Destination overview
Relax in the epitome of urban luxury at the laid-back Red Sea resort of Aqaba. The sun always shines in Jordan’s only beach resort where travellers are taken on an unforgettable journey. Kick back in style with long hot days spent on pristine beaches and balmy nights spent by the magical shores of the much-revered Red Sea. This superb resort is steeped in 6,000 years of history, blending authentic Jordanian hospitality with the tastes and expectations of the refined global traveller. When you’re not immersing yourself in this decadent beach retreat mastering the art of rest and play, linger over dinner and go on a culinary journey across the mystical lands of ancient Arabia. Seek out the ruins of Mamluk Castle, nestled in the shade of glorious palm trees, dive the world-renowned coral reefs of the Red Sea, visit the remarkable Sharif al-Hussein bin Ali Mosque or venture further afield to uncover the country’s majestic Golden Triangle, home to ethereal Petra and the astonishing wilderness of Wadi Rum.
Key events
Every year in February, the Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival celebrates the fascinating cultures and traditions of the local Bedouin people. Visitors can soak up the unique atmosphere and buy handmade crafts that have been created with love by local craftsmen, designed to honour and preserve the captivating traditions of the Bedouins.
Getting there
Aqaba is the second largest airport in Jordan. Passengers can fly direct from 21 airports around the world, spread across 18 cities in 14 countries.
Talek, Kenya
Destination overview
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Kenya’s Maasai Mara Game Reserve and the enthralling town of Talek. Located at one of the five gates into the Maasai Mara, you can’t begin to imagine the wonders that await you. With never-ending vistas that feel like something out of a dream, marvel in this enduring African wilderness that will nourish your soul and feed your lust for pure, unbridled adventure. Dine on world-class gastronomy under a canopy of a thousand twinkling stars. Absorb yourself in local traditions at Talek Open Market offering a rare and extraordinary glimpse into this wonderfully vibrant culture. But, naturally, it’s the Big Five that visitors come in search of in this thrilling landscape that is said to be home to 25% of what is left of Kenya’s precious wildlife. Witnessing these majestic animals up close in their natural habitat is something that should be on every discerning traveller’s bucket list.
Key events
As the area is so remote, there are no organised events as such. However, one of nature’s most spectacular free events is the Wildebeest Migration into the Maasai Mara, which typically starts in July and ends in late September. Over a million wildebeest leave Tanzania’s Serengeti and head northwards into Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve. A truly life-changing spectacle.
Getting there
Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the closest airport to Talek, offering direct flights. Currently there are 57 airports around the world that have direct flights to Nairobi, spread across 56 cities in 37 countries. Then it’s around an hour’s flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the airstrips of the Maasai Mara.
Mauritius
Destination overview
If paradise had a name, it would probably be called Mauritius. This Indian Ocean idyll has quietly been wowing well-heeled visitors for years, lured by its lush green rainforests, azure waters and bright white sandy beaches. Why not take a journey of discovery to this delightful destination? Whether you’re looking for unbeatable nature, unique eco adventures, world-class gastronomy, luxury hotels, spectacular hikes on the island’s iconic mountain, Le Morne, or out-of-this-world snorkelling experiences, the charms of this captivatingly beautiful tropical island are hard to ignore. Serene properties and exquisite luxury resorts hug the pristine beachfront, designed to awaken the senses and melt away the winter blues. For a taste of the real Mauritius, head to the south of the island. If you’re looking for nightlife, entertainment and more tourist-centred activities, explore the north. Mauritius isn’t just a place on a map, but an opulent escape waiting to be relished all year round.
Key events
Golf lovers can enjoy ‘golf’s most beautiful week’ when the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open comes to the island every December. Similarly, the Indian Ocean Island Games (August-September) is a multi-sport tournament where athletes from islands of the Indian Ocean compete in different sporting events. Taking place every four years, the games alternate between Mauritius, Seychelles, Comoros, Madagascar, Mayotte, Réunion and the Maldives.
Getting there
Mauritius is served by the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International airport. Currently there are 27 airports around the world that offer direct flights to Mauritius, spread across 26 cities in 20 countries.
Seychelles
Destination overview
The Seychelles is the ultimate beach escape for in-the-know travellers. It combines ultra-luxurious hotels, awe-inspiring landscapes and a cluster of 115 truly unforgettable islands scattered across the Indian Ocean like precious jewels. This dream destination off the east coast of Kenya is isolated, other-worldly and seriously spellbinding. Crystal clear waters lap against palm-shrouded islets, majestic coconut groves sway in the warm breeze and the smell of indulgent Creole cuisine fills the air. In Victoria, the capital on Mahé, visitors are treated to perfectly manicured botanical gardens, art galleries, bustling open-air markets and enchanting museums. It’s hard to beat the wild beauty of the North Island. At just 1.3 miles long and 18 miles away from the mainland, you’ll feel like a castaway on your own private island. And if that’s not enough to tempt you, you’ll be captivated by the abundance of marine life as you snorkel the vibrant coral reefs, witness giant tortoises roaming wild in their natural habit and hopefully spot the island’s famed black parrot.
Key events
October’s Festival Kreol is an unmissable annual event that celebrates the enchanting cultural tapestry of the Seychelles. Dive into this rich and diverse celebration to discover the nation’s traditions that centre around the vibrant Creole culture. Seychelles Fashion Week in November brings together fashion lovers from across the region to celebrate the creativity of designers and rising stars.
Getting there
Seychelles International Airport is the main airport of the Seychelles, located on Mahoe, close to the capital, Victoria. There are 10 airlines that currently fly to the Seychelles with the airport operating 14 scheduled daily flights with connections to Europe, the Middle East, Africa and regional routes.