A New Zealander was preparing to skipper a yacht in an international race when the boat was seized by Iranian authorities in territorial waters.

Dubai's main stock exchange dropped more than 7 per cent yesterday.

Jill Worrall finds a peaceful haven in Iran's Alborz Mountains.

Jill Worrall finds stark contrasts in central Iran's mountain region.

Jill Worrall laments the closure of a popular teahouse where visitors once recited the words of mystical poet Hafez.

The King of Jordan's sister has appealed to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to stop the slaughter of conscious animals for halal meat in Australia.

Jill Worrall visits the roadside inns which once housed camel caravans travelling the silk road.