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The Middle East is a very underrated region of the world. As previously closed-off countries are opening up, travelers are taking notice the Middle East offers some spectacular experiences.

Dubai, of course, is no secret to travelers, but there are many other places in the region worth a trip and are gaining traction with travelers.

One Middle Eastern country is breaking all-time tourism records this year, and we are just now hitting the Summer season!

Jordan saw just shy of 1.5 million visitors during the first quarter of 2023, including approximately 700,000 for one tourist attraction alone. That’s almost a 91% increase from 2022.

Travelers are coming in droves, ready to experience a country with truly unique experiences for those willing to give it a chance.

Here are 5 reasons why tourists are flocking to the amazing country of Jordan:

The Number One Attraction In Jordan

Jordan has seen a 100% increase in tourists to Petra compared to last year, with expectations to have 1.5 million tourists by October.

@magdalenasimona Welcome to the Lost City of Petra….🐫 #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #jordan #petrajordan #visitjordan #visitpetra #jordantourism #travel #traveltiktok #jordantiktok ♬ original sound

Those who have been can easily understand why this is a top attraction. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is synonymous with Jordan, the same with the Eiffel Tower is synonymous with France.

It’s a must-see when booking a trip here as it is as well-preserved as one of the oldest cities in the world can be.

The ancient city can be accessed through a narrow canyon in Al Siq. The site is home to hand-carved cliffside temples and tombs that instantly take you back in time, then bring you back to reality when you can’t resist the urge to post a selfie on the ‘gram.

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@amandamoniquebrown Save for detailed tips on how to visit Petra! It can be hard to find a good quick guide on everything you need to know to visit Petra, so here’s a few tips: 📍 You’ll want to spend at least 1-2 nights in Wadi Musa to visit Petra 🛌 We stayed at Petra Plaza and it was perfect! ⏰ Plan to spend 2 days visiting Petra 💰 Get the JordanPass that includes your visa and 2-day entrance to Petra (you will need to buy it prior to landing in Jordan) 🐪 PS: don’t ride the donkeys or camels at Petra. just don’t do it Follow for Part 11 – snorkeling at Mnemba Island in Zanzibar! #petra #petrajordan #petrajordan🇯🇴 #jordan #budgettravel #bucketlist #sevenwonders #jordantravel #budgettravel #traveltiktok #traveltips #budgettraveltips #budgettraveler #travelmore #travelnow #traveloften #internationaltravel #worldtravel ♬ Cool Kids (our sped up version) – Echosmith

Feel Alive At The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a scenic body of water with extremely high amounts of salt. Unlike a typical beach trip, you can actually see formed salt deposits.

In some locations, you can walk across them, but it is advised to wear shoes as the salt can be rough on the skin.

For those who take a dip in the Sea, it’s best to do it in Jordan rather than the other side in Israel. A popular activity for Jordan tourists is to float on its surface rather than swim.

@trip.hotel Be careful!!! Avoid putting your head in the water 😱 #bucketlist2022 #jordan #saltlake #deadsea #bucketlisttravel #deserttravel #traveltiktok #traveltok #couplegoals ♬ som original – storms

There are some awesome resorts along the sea that travelers love as well. Beautiful, sweeping views of the Sea can be enjoyed from above rather than getting in the water.

A Unique Desert Experience

Like Petra, Wadi Rum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in southern Jordan near Saudi Arabia, this popular desert getaway is a sight to behold.

Some even say it’s out of this world with Mars-like comparisons. This gem in the desert is a perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in peace.

@aureliestoryy 📍Wadi Rum, Jordan #traveltiktok #hotel #travelbucketlist ♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show

There are opportunities to sandboard, rock climb, or book a boujee glamping experience and wake up with your toes in the red sand after a night of stargazing.

Wander The Cultural Capital City

Amman is a large city and capital of Jordan, home to the biggest airport in the country. Some simply pass through to Petra or a resort, but the city itself is a worthy destination on its own.

No, it’s not Dubai full of endless skyscrapers and luxury at every turn. Rather it’s a cultural experience as the heartbeat of Jordan.

@iamandram Have been in Amman? #traveldestinations #visitjordan #traveltiktok #jordan #beautifuldestinations #jordantravel #travel #fyp #amman #ammanjordan ♬ I Love You Always Forever (Edit) – Donna Lewis

Those who do make time for Amman head for one of its most iconic attractions – the Citadel of Amman. It’s also the highest point in the city, which offers breathtaking views of the cityscape.

Amman is also home to the Roman Theater, another commonly visited landmark, as well as a plethora of markets mixed in and around the city.

Religious Sites

Jordan is a majority Muslim country with magnificent mosques open to the public for respectful visitors.

Conversely, going back in history, one site becoming more popular is the baptism site of Jesus Christ.

@lailanassali I got baptised in the River Jordan 🇮🇱💙🕊️ #baptism #christiantiktok #israel #riverjordan #holyspiritfilled #JesusIsLord ♬ original sound – Dailygospelvids

To no surprise, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is believed Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist north of the Dead Sea, where remnants remain of old churches, caves, and pools where baptisms were held.

At first glance, it may look like a no-frills open field. But the historic significance of the site keeps tourists coming after being shut off during the pandemic.

For the ultimate experience, some tours offer the opportunity to be baptized in the Jordan River.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com