The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts offers a refreshing counterpoint to Amman’s ancient ruins. It showcases contemporary works from across the Islamic world in two airy buildings that flank a sculpture-dotted park. Founded in 1980 under royal patronage, its collection spans 2,000 pieces: from provocative Palestinian installations to delicate Sudanese weavings. Be sure to check the rotating exhibitions in Building 1. Building 2 anchors the experience. Start at the ground-floor, then work your way up through bold Jordanian abstracts before rewarding yourself at the top-floor café. Its terrace overlooks Jabal al-Luweibdeh’s artsy rooftops, perfect for reflecting over mint tea after browsing the art library’s curated books. Free from crowds (and mercifully air-conditioned), it’s where Amman’s creative pulse feels most immediate.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a magnificent white structure and an iconic landmark that beautifully blends architectural influences from around the world, including Moroccan, Italian, Chinese, and Emirati styles. Named after Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's founding president, the mosque features over 1,000 columns and 80 domes adorned with marble and semi-precious stones. Its vast courtyards and reflective lakes add to its serene beauty, while the four grand minarets at each corner stand as symbols of Islamic tradition. The mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub that welcomes visitors from all faiths to marvel at its breathtaking artistry and spiritual tranquillity.

The Zayed National Museum is one of the most meaningful places in Abu Dhabi to explore the story of the nation and the wider region. Named in honour of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum brings together culture, heritage, history and the principles he championed. You will be taken on a journey through time, beginning nearly 300,000 years ago in the stone-tool era, before moving through a series of galleries featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions. If you like to plan ahead, the museum website provides all the information you need before your visit. Facilities include a cloakroom, free Wi-Fi, ATMs and restrooms. When it comes to dining, the museum features a restaurant and three cafés set within Al Masar Garden. Before leaving, you can stop by Al Nagwa, the museum’s boutique, which offers jewellery and a selection of high-quality gifts.

The first Jews arrived in Curaçao in the 1650s and established what is the oldest synagogue in the Americas today. The synagogue, or Snoa as it is often called, has existed in its current state since the 1730s and is a defining element of the townscape of modern-day Willemstad. The interior of the synagogue is no less spectacular thanks to its traditional sand floor, azure glass windows and mahogany furniture, among other elaborate details.