Flights to the Middle East

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Best student & youth fares right now to the Middle East

Check out the live prices below (updated daily!) for our current best deals on flights from the US to the Middle East. You never know when you might stumble upon a great fare.

Student flights from the USA to Middle East

The Middle East is a place in the news all too often for the wrong reasons, and while there are some parts that are off limits, much of the region is perfectly safe to visit—and we recommend you do! From the archaeological wonders of Petra and the Dome of the Rock, to the amazingly futuristic skyscrapers of Dubai and Doha, the Middle East is a destination full of unforgettable contrasts and culture.

Top countries for American travelers include Jordan, Israel, United Arab Emirates (that’s where you’ll find Dubai!), Lebanon and Uzbekistan: all are tolerant and welcoming. Keep in mind that the region in general is quite conservative with certain attitudes, so do your research before you go.

Search using the box above to find deals and discounts on flights to the Middle East, and make sure you sign up as a member for the most exclusive fares!

map of middle east showing major airports

What are the main Middle Eastern airport hubs?

The Middle East boasts a few major hubs, with the most prominent being that of Dubai International Airport. It’s the busiest airport in the world in terms of international passengers—almost 100 million wander through its enormous terminals every year—and also where Emirates is based, which is a major airline connecting the US and the Middle East.

Other big airport hubs in the region include Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan, Beirut-Rafic International Airport in Lebanon, and Hamad International Airport in Doha.

How to fly from the USA to the Middle East

The US is pretty well-connected with the Middle East. Despite the long flights, it’s possible to fly there nonstop from a number of US hubs, including New York, Boston, Chicago and LA. Depending on where you’d like to fly into will determine if you’ll need to make a connection or if you can take a direct flight. Istanbul, Tel Aviv, Dubai and Doha are some of the most popular cities to fly into.

Some of our most popular airlines for direct (and connecting) flights to the Middle East are Qatar Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines, although there are more options if you’re connecting.

When is the best time to fly to the Middle East?

It’s always hot in the Middle East—it is largely desert, after all—but some times of year are certainly more pleasant than others. The best time to visit is fall and spring, when temperatures hover fairly reliably around the 77° mark, and during the latter, wild flowers bloom in mountainous areas. We recommend you avoid the height of summer if you can. It’s pretty difficult to do anything outside then because it’s so fiercely hot (think 100°+).

When is the cheapest time to book a flight from the US to the Middle East?

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Prices based on bookings made 60-91 days prior to departure.

Why do American students love visiting the Middle East?

While there aren’t as many international study placements available yet for American students in the Middle East, there are plenty more reasons to visit a place outside of studying, right? Vacations, for one. American students love visiting the Middle East for the rich history and culture, the incredible food and the wide range of adventures and experiences that can't be had anywhere else.

Middle Eastern universities and campuses

Check with your school to see what study abroad programs in the Middle East are available to you. While not as well-known yet, it's becoming a more popular place to study or work abroad. Some of the more prestigious and well-known universities in the Middle East include the Jordan University of Science and Technology, the United Arab Emirates University and King Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia.

Middle Eastern lifestyle and culture

Middle Eastern culture is quite conservative, so be sure to do research on things like dress code and the like in the specific countries you plan on visiting. Some places are more traditional in their attitudes than others. Saudia Arabia, for example, is far stricter than somewhere like Lebanon when it comes to alcohol consumption. Anywhere you go, you should be mindful to dress conservatively when visiting temples or holy sites.

Exploring the Middle East on a student budget

The Middle East has plenty to be seen and experienced on a shoestring student budget. As is always the case, there is plenty you can do for free, like wandering around amazing cities like Dubai and Tel Aviv. And you’ll be able to find hostels, cheap food and plenty to do on a budget in most Middle Eastern cities. Individual major attractions usually have student discounts, so make the most of that!

Frequently asked questions about flying from the USA to the Middle East

Is the Middle East safe to visit?

What's the weather like in the Middle East?

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