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Clothing Although the Middle Eastern region can be as hot as you've never experienced before, you may have to wear more clothes than less. Check this site under the country information to learn about customs and dress for the different countries. Some are more "liberal" (Parts of the UAE, Bahrain, Cyprus) than others (Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran). It is generally good advice for women to cover their bodies at least below the knees and to the elbows. Also, men should not generally travel wearing shorts (unless you are on the beach of course). Usually you won't have to worry too much about how you dress if you are on a structured tour with a bus and a guide but it is safe to be conservative when on your own. At most hotels, resorts, nightclubs, etc. dress is usually not an issue but keep in mind that you are a visitor in another culture, respect goes a long way.
Illegal Activity Illicit drugs are dealt with pretty harshly throughout the Middle East. Persons found with even a small amount can receive stiff punishment and your embassy won't be able to do much. Buying drugs on the street is a very unwise affair as well, anywhere in the world. Tales from Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco of drug dealers turning into muggers or police informants are frequent. Alcohol is not generally permitted in public throughout the region, in most places it is restricted to hotels and resorts. Some countries (Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran) do not permit alcohol at all and attempting to bring in any into the country will bring unwanted negative attention to yourself (although they usually just take it away from you upon arrival).
Talk To People The best advice on where to go and what to do is always always always through other people who have been there. Contact friends of friends who have travelled for the best "off the beaten track" restaurants and sights. Ask around, maybe someone knows someone where you are going, and no-one knows the country better than the locals. You may even get a free place to stay (be sure to return the favor as well). You will find the level of hospitality in the Middle East in general is superb and refreshing.
Have Fun! Last but not least, have a good time. This is your vacation, your time to explore and enjoy new worlds. You won't find a more hospitable region in the world, the Arab tradition is almost based entirely on pleasing guests. The region is also generally open to the curious visitor, and most people have no problem talking to you about themsleves and what they do, and will probably be as interested in you as you are in them. Be careful however, if the person is a shopkeeper or taxi driver, then they are probably just drumming up business. Have a good time, and come back to this site in the future to post your own travel tales and advice!
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