Travelers who visited Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, and Oman in January 2026 found empty tourist sites, friendly locals, and surprisingly accessible travel—just weeks before current regional events changed the landscape.
An Irish traveler completed a multi-country solo trip across the Arabian Peninsula and shared detailed observations on r/travel, highlighting what tourism looked like during the region's quietest season.
Kuwait: The Underestimated Destination
Kuwait carries a reputation for being "boring," but the January visitor found it "surprisingly enjoyable." The Kuwait Towers provided excellent city views, while Al Jahra Fort and the stunning Grand Mosque offered cultural immersion.
The hospitality stood out. Hotels arranged free airport taxis and allowed early check-in for morning arrivals. Airport food and drink prices matched normal rates—a rarity globally.
Tourist presence: virtually zero. The traveler didn't encounter a single other tourist.
Bahrain: Clean, Modern, Relaxed
The airport impressed with cleanliness and free WiFi—the only country on the trip requiring paid mobile data under the traveler's plan. The old Fort, accessible via public transport, served as the highlight. The museum's "cool layout" and relaxed overall atmosphere made Bahrain the second favorite destination.
Sunsets from central provided photo opportunities, and the minimal tourist presence created intimate experiences.
