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Middle East

Timeless landscapes and enchanting experiences.

Whether you're wandering through the bustling souks of Marrakech, marvelling at the architectural beauty of Dubai, or exploring the ancient ruins of Petra, the Middle East offers a rich tapestry of experiences. From cultural immersions to luxurious getaways, this region will leave you amazed with its blend of tradition and modernity.

Talk to our Middle East travel specialists and let us craft your perfect dream holiday through this region, today!

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.

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

How to enjoy your stopover

A decision that will have to be made if travelling to Europe, Africa, most of South America or most of North America.

ANZAC Day Dawn Service in Gallipoli

Middle East

Post card from Jordan

Famed for its iconic Petra Archaeologic Park - instantly recognisable because of Indiana Jones

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Karen is friendly, knowledgable, asks the right questions and gives great advice. I fully trust her."

Andrea

"Debra has arranged my travel on numerous occasions and always to my satisfaction. I have no hesitation in going back to Debra to ask any questions that I may have."

Marian

"Anna was very knowledgeable and professional. She has a lot of patience and yet always smiling."

Jude

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Our Middle East specialists

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Brenda Taylor

House of Travel Timaru

17 years in the business and I am passionate about every holiday I book! My goal is to keep our clients satisfied and loyal for future services plus giving you the security of booking through an agent. I can help with planning travel, booking transport, accommodations, insurance, tours, cruises, special events.

Some of the destinations I have explored: Hong Kong, Brisbane, Queensland, Tropical Northland Queensland, Melbourne, Sydney, Great Barrier Reef, Alaska multiple state in the USA, Canada, Fiji, Rarotonga, Aitutaki.

Brenda

Linley Pearce

House of Travel The Square

I have travelled to many countries & experienced many forms of travel - plane, train, river boat, coach, helicopter, longtail boat ....... I love to travel to old cities as I love buildings & architecture, food, wine, people watching & taking photos.

Travel constantly challenges me, I especially love interesting flight itineraries. I have over 35 yrs experience in this complex and dynamic industry, I can use my knowledge to work with you to create your journey no matter the destination.

Linley

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

Anna O'Dell-Smith

House of Travel Ferrymead

Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own.

I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again.

Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans.

Anna