All-Women Travel Expeditions Take Off In Middle East

For years, the Middle East has been known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes, attracting travelers from all over the world. However, a new trend is rapidly gaining momentum in the region: all-women travel expeditions. As the demand for gender-specific travel experiences grows globally, the Middle East is emerging as an exciting destination for women who want to explore the world on their terms. With a mix of adventure, cultural immersion, and social empowerment, all-women travel expeditions are transforming the way we think about Middle East travel.

This growing movement of women-only travel is setting a new paradigm. Whether you’re a solo female adventurer, part of a women-only group, or simply prefer travel experiences with a focus on women’s safety and cultural connectivity, Middle East travel offers unique opportunities. Destinations like Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Oman are at the forefront of this movement, offering enriching experiences that embrace adventure, culture, and empowerment.

The Rise of All-Women Travel

In recent years, the travel industry has witnessed a significant shift. More and more women are seeking travel experiences that cater specifically to their interests and needs. Whether it’s solo travel, group expeditions, or women-only tours, the desire to explore the world in a safe and supportive environment is on the rise. According to a report by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), the market for women’s adventure travel grew by 20% in 2023 alone. This global movement is now making its mark in the Middle East, with a growing number of travel companies offering exclusive all-women travel expeditions.

The rise of all-women travel expeditions reflects broader societal shifts toward women’s independence, empowerment, and desire for cultural exchange. Women from diverse backgrounds, including professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and retirees, are now embracing the thrill of travel that’s specifically tailored to them. Travel has become more than just a leisure activity—it’s a means of personal growth, networking, and self-discovery.

Why the Middle East Travel

The Middle East offers a unique combination of historical treasures, vibrant cultures, and awe-inspiring landscapes. For many women, traveling to the Middle East provides an opportunity to experience destinations that are both off the beaten path and deeply connected to world history. Countries like Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia are becoming popular choices for women seeking to immerse themselves in the region’s diverse culture while enjoying the security and camaraderie of traveling with other women.

One of the most compelling reasons for the rise of Middle Eastern travel among women is the combination of safety and cultural richness. Historically, safety concerns may have held women back from exploring certain regions, but the growing infrastructure and government initiatives to promote female-friendly tourism are changing that narrative. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to make the country more accessible to international tourists, includes provisions for solo female travelers and all-women tours. This has made the country more open and welcoming to women than ever before.

In Jordan, government-backed tourism campaigns encourage more women to explore its historical and cultural offerings. Egypt has also stepped up efforts to ensure the safety and comfort of female travelers by expanding its women-led tourism networks and providing all-women services in some of its most famous attractions.

Related: California To Target The Middle East Luxury Travelers

Empowering Women Through Travel

The growing popularity of all-women travel expeditions in the Middle East challenges traditional stereotypes about women’s roles and safety in the region. Contrary to common misconceptions, many Middle Eastern countries are safe, welcoming, and culturally rich destinations for female travelers. These expeditions provide an empowering platform for women to explore new horizons, connect with local cultures, and build confidence through shared experiences.

What makes all-women travel expeditions truly powerful is their ability to foster solidarity among women from different walks of life. Traveling in an all-female group can remove the barriers that many women feel when exploring a new country alone. Women can share their experiences, explore freely, and engage more deeply with the local culture, knowing that they are surrounded by a support system of fellow travelers and local female guides. This cultural exchange enriches both the travelers and the communities they visit.

Middle East travel also offers something unique: the chance to engage with local women in the region, many of whom are eager to share their stories, traditions, and hopes for the future. All-women tours often include special interactions with local women’s groups, artisans, and entrepreneurs, providing an enriching cross-cultural experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Travel Destinations for Women

The Middle East is home to some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, and several countries have emerged as particularly appealing to women travelers.

1. Jordan: History and Adventure Jordan’s diverse landscapes and historical significance make it one of the top destinations for all-women travel expeditions. From the ancient city of Petra to the serene waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan offers a wide range of experiences for female adventurers. Women-only tours often include hiking in Wadi Rum, camping under the stars, and floating in the salt-rich waters of the Dead Sea. Local women-owned tour companies, such as Engage Jordan, are helping female travelers explore Jordan’s treasures while promoting cultural exchange.Jordan’s welcoming atmosphere and reputation for safety make it an attractive destination for women travelers. Plus, Jordan’s tourism authorities have made concerted efforts to support women-friendly tours. Whether it’s a culinary tour of Amman’s food markets or an adventure trek through the Dana Biosphere Reserve, women-only trips ensure a balance of adventure, safety, and cultural immersion.
2. Egypt: Cultural Immersion and Ancient Wonders Egypt has long been a favorite for travelers fascinated by ancient history. All-women expeditions in Egypt offer unique experiences like private tours of the Pyramids of Giza, cruises on the Nile River, and visits to the famous Valley of the Kings. In addition to exploring these iconic sites, women’s travel groups have the opportunity to interact with local communities and experience the vibrant markets, crafts, and cuisine of Cairo and Luxor.Women-only travel groups are drawn to Egypt’s rich culture, where they can delve into the stories of Egypt’s queens and pharaohs or immerse themselves in local life by visiting women-owned businesses and cooperatives. Egypt has seen a rise in female-led expeditions, making it easier for women to feel comfortable while exploring one of the world’s most famous destinations.
3. Saudi Arabia: A New Frontier for Women Travelers Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a destination to watch for female travelers. With its recent push to boost tourism, Saudi Arabia offers women the chance to explore its hidden gems, including the stunning Al Ula rock formations and the Red Sea coastline. Female travelers can participate in all-women camping expeditions in the desert, explore UNESCO heritage sites like Diriyah, and engage in cultural experiences that provide a deeper understanding of Saudi traditions and modernity. Travel companies such as Soul Sisters Adventures cater exclusively to women, offering curated expeditions that highlight Saudi Arabia’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage.Saudi Arabia’s government has invested heavily in its tourism infrastructure, particularly in expanding women-only tours. These tours cover everything from desert safaris to city explorations, all designed to ensure a comfortable and respectful environment for women travelers.
4. Oman: Nature and Serenity Oman’s breathtaking natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for women seeking adventure and tranquility. Women-only expeditions in Oman typically include hiking in the Al Hajar Mountains, exploring the Wahiba Sands desert, and visiting the historic forts of Nizwa. Female travelers are also drawn to the coastal town of Sur, where they can experience Oman’s maritime history and the unique art of dhow building.Oman stands out for its well-preserved nature and warm hospitality. All-women travel groups are a great way to explore the country’s pristine coastlines, mountain ranges, and deserts while enjoying the support and camaraderie of fellow travelers.

Key Concerns for Women Travelers

One of the biggest concerns for women traveling to the Middle East is safety. While safety can vary by country, many Middle Eastern nations have established infrastructures to ensure that travelers feel secure throughout their journey. For example, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE are known for their excellent safety records, making them top choices for solo female travelers. The Global Peace Index ranks the UAE as one of the safest countries in the world, and local authorities are committed to maintaining a welcoming environment for international visitors.

In addition to personal safety, comfort is another important consideration for female travelers. Many all-women travel expeditions in the Middle East are designed with these concerns in mind, offering safe accommodations, private transportation, and personalized itineraries that cater to the needs of women travelers. Female tour guides are often employed to ensure that travelers feel at ease and can fully enjoy their experiences without any apprehensions.

Cultural Sensitivity

While the Middle East offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration, travelers need to remain culturally sensitive, especially when visiting more conservative countries. Dressing modestly and respecting local customs are crucial for women traveling in the region. Many travel companies guide what to wear and how to interact with local communities, ensuring that women can enjoy their experience without unintentionally offending cultural norms.

In Egypt, modest clothing is recommended but not strictly enforced for tourists. By adhering to these guidelines, female travelers can enjoy the beauty of the region while respecting its rich traditions and cultural values. This mutual respect opens doors for deeper connections with local communities, making travel not just an exploration of landscapes, but a meaningful exchange of cultures and experiences.

As all-women travel expeditions continue to rise in the Middle East, women from around the world are discovering that the region is not only safe but also welcoming, empowering, and full of life-changing adventures. Whether it’s hiking through ancient deserts, sailing along historic rivers, or immersing in the vibrant cultures of Middle Eastern cities, women travelers have an exciting world waiting to be explored.