Top 10 favourite cities in Africa and the Middle East of 2024

Exploring Africa and the Middle East in 2024 offers a journey through a rich history, culture, and natural beauty mosaic.

From ancient ruins to modern marvels, these regions boast diverse landscapes that range from sprawling deserts and lush savannas to pristine beaches and bustling metropolises.

Each destination offers unique experiences, from immersive cultural encounters and world-renowned cuisine to thrilling adventure activities and serene retreats.

As you plan your travels this mid-2024, these regions promise unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of their vibrant heritage and contemporary allure.

According to Travel + Leisure Readers’ “World’s Best Awards” survey, T+L asks readers to share their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more.

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Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey, casting more than 700,000 votes across over 8,700 properties.

Cities were rated specifically on sights/landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value.

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Here are the top 10 favourite cities in Africa and the Middle East in 2024

Marrakesh, Morocco – reader score: 89.17

Marrakesh tops the list with its vibrant souks, palaces, and historic medina. Visitors are enchanted by the Jardin Majorelle and the pulsating Djemaa el-Fna square, where snake charmers and storytellers entertain crowds.

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Cape Town, South Africa – reader score: 88.87

Cape Town blends natural beauty with urban sophistication. Table Mountain offers panoramic views, while the V&A Waterfront buzzes with restaurants and shops. Nearby, the Cape Winelands beckon with their vineyards and historic towns.

Jerusalem, Israel – reader score: 87.25

Jerusalem’s ancient history and religious significance draw visitors worldwide. The Old City’s Western Wall, Dome of the Rock, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre are landmarks that encapsulate millennia of cultural and religious heritage.

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Dubai, United Arab Emirates – reader score: 86.14

Dubai continues to awe with its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, and world-class entertainment. From the iconic Burj Khalifa to the Palm Jumeirah’s luxury resorts and the traditional souks of Deira, Dubai offers a blend of old and new.

Kigali, Rwanda – reader score: 85.93

Kigali, known for its cleanliness and progressive urban planning, offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s resilience and cultural revival. The Kigali Genocide Memorial and vibrant local markets highlight its complex history and promising future.

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Fez, Morocco – reader score: 84.37

Fez is a labyrinth of medieval alleyways, mosques, and ancient madrasas. The UNESCO-listed Fez el-Bali medina preserves centuries-old traditions, while the tanneries and artisan workshops showcase Morocco’s craftsmanship.

Essaouira, Morocco – reader score: 83.97

Essaouira charms with its seaside ramparts, blue-shuttered houses, and bohemian atmosphere. The windswept beaches attract surfers and kiteboarders, while the medina’s art galleries and seafood restaurants offer a relaxed vibe.

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Tel Aviv, Israel – reader score: 82.46

Tel Aviv dazzles with its Mediterranean beaches, Bauhaus architecture, and vibrant nightlife. The city’s cultural scene, from contemporary art at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art to the bustling markets of Carmel and Jaffa, reflects its dynamic spirit.

Luxor, Egypt – reader score: 82.04

Luxor, the “world’s greatest open-air museum,” boasts the temples of Karnak and Luxor on the east bank of the Nile, and the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens on the west bank. Its archaeological richness and ancient monuments captivate history enthusiasts.

Cairo, Egypt – reader score: 81.40

Cairo blends the old and new along the Nile River. The Giza Pyramids and Sphinx are enduring symbols of Egypt’s pharaonic past, while Islamic Cairo’s mosques and bustling bazaars reveal the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.