Top Gear - Middle East Special Full Episode May 2026
For millions of car enthusiasts and comedy lovers around the world, the name Top Gear evokes images of roaring engines, ludicrous challenges, and three middle-aged men bickering their way across impossible terrain. While the trio’s adventures in Botswana (the "Oliver" episode) and Vietnam (on scooters) are legendary, one special stands out for its perfect blend of danger, beauty, and automotive misery: The Top Gear - Middle East Special.
If you have been searching for the Top Gear - Middle East Special full episode, you are looking for more than just a car show. You are looking for a 75-minute cinematic road trip that stretches from the holy cities of Iraq to the glowing shores of the Jordanian Riviera. Released as part of Series 16 (Season 16), Episode 0 (often aired as a standalone Christmas Special in 2010), this episode represents the pinnacle of the Clarkson, Hammond, and May era.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the episode: where to find it, what makes it a classic, the cars they drove, the major challenges, and why it remains a forbidden fruit on streaming services.
The Top Gear: Middle East Special (Series 16, Episode 2) originally aired on December 26, 2010. In this 76-minute feature, presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May attempt to recreate the journey of the Three Wise Men across the Middle East to Bethlehem. Mission Overview
Objective: Retrace the path of the Three Wise Men from Northern Iraq to a stable in Bethlehem to deliver gifts to a "newborn child".
Starting Point: Erbil International Airport in Iraqi Kurdistan, where they were dropped off via a Russian Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane.
Route: The 1,200-mile (1,900 km) journey took them through Iraqi Kurdistan, southern Turkey, Syria (Aleppo, Palmyra, and Damascus), Jordan, and finally into Israel and the Palestinian territories. The Cars
The presenters were given a budget of £3,500 to purchase a second-hand, two-door convertible sports car, as Israel typically does not allow cars registered in neighboring countries to enter. Jeremy Clarkson: Mazda MX-5. Richard Hammond: Fiat Barchetta. James May: BMW Z3. Key Highlights & Challenges
Hostile Terrain: The team faced the "war zones" of Iraq, the conflict-ridden mountains of Turkey, and the searing heat of the Syrian desert.
Modifications: Along the way, they modified their cars to handle the terrain; notably, Jeremy's Mazda was given a "technicolor" paint job and desert-proofing.
Old Testament NASCAR: In Jordan, they raced their sports cars around a 2,000-year-old chariot circuit in Jerash.
The Ending: Upon arriving at a stable in Bethlehem, they presented gifts of a gold medallion, hotel shampoo (Frankincense), and a Nintendo DSi (Myrrh). They discovered the "baby Jesus" was actually a "Baby Stig". Legacy and Reception
Historical Significance: The episode is one of the few high-definition records of sites like Palmyra before their destruction during the Syrian Civil War, which began shortly after filming.
Critical Acclaim: It is frequently cited as one of the best Top Gear specials. Jeremy Clarkson has described it as the best of their adventures to watch.
Controversy: The episode drew criticism for the trio using niqabs as disguises and for the depiction of a "Baby Stig" as Jesus. Where to Watch The full episode can be found on several platforms:
Where can I rewatch old top gear full episodes? (2002 till 2017)
The Top Gear Middle East Special remains one of the most ambitious and culturally significant episodes in the history of the BBC franchise. Released during Series 16, this feature-length adventure saw the iconic trio—Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May—attempting to follow the path of the Three Wise Men to Bethlehem.
If you are searching for the Top Gear Middle East Special full episode, this guide covers the highlights, the cars, the controversy, and where you can legally stream it today. 🚗 The Premise: A Journey of Biblical Proportions
The episode begins with the presenters being dropped off at an airport in Iraq. Their mission? Travel 1,200 miles through Turkey, Syria, and Jordan to reach the birthplace of Jesus in Israel. True to the show's format, they were restricted by a modest budget and a requirement that their vehicles be open-top two-seater sports cars. The Iconic Cars
The trio chose three vastly different machines for the desert terrain:
Jeremy Clarkson: A Mazda MX-5 (NA). Known for its reliability, Jeremy gave it a custom "desert camo" paint job.
Richard Hammond: A Fiat Barchetta. Despite its front-wheel-drive layout, it proved surprisingly resilient.
James May: A BMW Z3. James focused on luxury and "modest" modifications, though it struggled with mechanical issues. 🌍 Key Locations and Challenges
The Middle East Special is praised for its stunning cinematography, capturing landscapes rarely seen on Western entertainment television at the time.
Northern Iraq: The journey began with the presenters wearing bulletproof vests and helmets, highlighting the real-world tension of the region.
The Syrian Desert: The team crossed into Syria, showcasing the incredible Roman ruins of Palmyra and the bustling streets of Aleppo.
The Sea of Galilee: The episode featured a memorable "water-walking" stunt and a campsite debate over the nature of the "Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh" gifts.
The Arrival: The finale takes place in Bethlehem, where the "manger" contains a surprise that only Top Gear could conceive. ⚠️ The Controversy: The Stig and Safety
The episode was not without its hurdles. During a segment in the desert, James May suffered a serious head injury after being knocked over by a tow rope. He was rushed to a local hospital, providing a rare moment of genuine concern and somberness in an otherwise comedic show.
Additionally, this episode served as a major plot point for the identity of The Stig. After the "White Stig" (Ben Collins) was outed in his autobiography, this special introduced the "Baby Stig" found in the manger, signaling the arrival of a new driver for the following season. 📺 Where to Watch the Full Episode
Due to licensing and copyright, finding the "Top Gear Middle East Special full episode" for free on platforms like YouTube can be difficult, as they are often removed. To watch the high-quality, uncut version, check these official sources: BBC iPlayer: Available for viewers in the UK.
Discovery+: The current home for the Top Gear library in many regions, including the US.
Amazon Prime Video: Available for digital purchase or via the MotorTrend add-on.
DVD/Blu-ray: Many fans prefer the physical "The Great Adventures" box sets for the unedited soundtracks.
The Middle East Special stands as a testament to the chemistry of the original hosts, blending automotive testing with travelogue storytelling and a touch of irreverent humor. It remains a "must-watch" for any petrolhead or fan of adventure television.
If you'd like to dive deeper into this era of the show, I can help you with: A complete list of every Top Gear special in order top gear - middle east special full episode
Details on the modifications made to the MX-5, Barchetta, and Z3 A guide on how to visit the filming locations safely today
Which part of the Top Gear history are you most interested in?
Title:
Top Gear: Middle East Special – A Study of Adventure, Orientalism, and Automotive Entertainment
Introduction
The Top Gear Middle East Special (originally titled "Top Gear: Middle East Special"), first broadcast on BBC Two on December 27, 2010, is the 7th episode of Series 16. In this 75-minute feature, presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May attempt to recreate the journey of the Three Wise Men by driving second-hand cars from Iraq to Bethlehem. The episode is notable for its blend of automotive challenges, cultural encounters, and comedic tension, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most politically sensitive regions.
Plot Summary
The special begins with the trio meeting in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan, each buying a used convertible for under £3,500:
Their mission: follow the “Star of Bethlehem” (represented by a GPS dot) from northern Iraq, through Turkey, Syria, Jordan, and into the West Bank. Challenges include driving through minefields, crossing a dried-up riverbed, enduring extreme heat, and adapting to local customs. The episode culminates in Bethlehem, where they present their cars as “gifts” to a baby in a nativity scene – a typically irreverent Top Gear finale.
Key Themes
Critical Reception
The episode drew 7.5 million viewers and won praise for its ambitious scope. The Guardian called it “a return to form – daft, dangerous, and oddly heartwarming.” However, some Middle Eastern media outlets criticized the depiction of the region as “lawless and primitive.” The BBC defended the episode as “light-hearted entertainment, not a documentary.”
Comparison with Other Specials
Unlike the Vietnam Special (which used motorbikes) or Botswana Special (which emphasized survival), the Middle East Special leans heavily on religious parody and geopolitical humor. It is less physically brutal than the Bolivia Special but more narratively structured than the Africa Special.
Conclusion
The Top Gear Middle East Special remains a fascinating artifact of pre-streaming, pre-“cancel culture” television. It balances irreverence with occasional sincerity, using cars as a lens for human connection across cultural divides. For fans, it is classic Top Gear: three middle-aged men making terrible decisions in wonderful places. For critics, it is a reminder of how Western media often exoticizes the Middle East. Regardless, its rewatchability endures, making it one of the most memorable specials in the show’s 22-season run.
References (Suggested)
The stage was set in the humid chaos of Erbil, Iraq. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May stood around three "sports" cars that had seen better decades, tasked with following the path of the Three Wise Men to Bethlehem.
"I’ve brought a Mazda MX-5," Hammond announced, beaming. "It’s the world's best-selling sports car. It’s reliable, it’s nimble—"
"It’s a hairdresser's car, Hammond," Jeremy interrupted, leaning against his massive, temperamental Fiat Barchetta. "I, meanwhile, have a proper Italian thoroughbred. It’s stylish, it’s soulful, and the heater is currently stuck on 'Incinerate'."
James May simply pointed to his BMW Z3. "I’ve gone for German engineering. It’s sensible, it’s beige, and unlike yours, Jeremy, the door handles haven't fallen off yet."
The journey was a grueling 1,200-mile odyssey through some of the most beautiful and desolate landscapes on Earth. They crossed the mountains of Kurdistan, where Jeremy’s Fiat immediately began to disintegrate, and navigated the sprawling deserts of Syria.
Disaster struck early when James, attempting to scout a route, fell and suffered a concussion. For a brief, terrifying moment, the bickering stopped. But once the doctors cleared him, the mockery resumed with double the intensity. James spent the rest of the trip wearing a helmet decorated with "flowers" (courtesy of Jeremy) to protect his "gentle" head.
The challenges were classic Top Gear absurdity. They had to cross a literal minefield, camouflage their cars for a secret night mission (Jeremy chose a "traditional" look involving a lot of sand and glue), and survive the terrifying traffic of Damascus.
As they reached the Jordan River, the heat was blistering. Hammond’s Mazda was holding together by sheer willpower, while Jeremy’s Fiat was leaking every fluid known to man. They spent their final night in the desert, under a canopy of stars, debating the merits of their battered machines.
"The Fiat is a disaster," Jeremy admitted, pouring water over his smoking engine. "But it has character."
"My Mazda has been hit by a truck and driven through a mountain," Hammond countered, "and it still starts every morning. That’s not just a car; that’s a friend."
On the final leg into Bethlehem, the trio arrived at a stable. Inside, they didn't find gold, frankincense, or myrrh. Instead, they found a small, screaming baby... who looked suspiciously like a miniature version of The Stig, complete with a tiny white racing helmet.
"Well," Jeremy whispered, looking at the "Baby Stig" and then back at their ruined cars. "On that bombshell, it’s time to go." If you'd like to dive deeper into this special, I can: List the specific modifications they made to the cars Detail the exact route they took through the Middle East
Share behind-the-scenes facts about the production challenges
The Top Gear - Middle East Special full episode is not just a car review; it is a time capsule of early 2010s television. It represents the last era where three middle-aged men could drive through a geopolitical hot spot, make fun of every culture involved, and get away with it purely because they were charming.
If you can find the uncut 75-minute version—via DVD or a VPN on BBC iPlayer—clear your evening. Make a cup of tea. And watch three men prove that no matter where you go in the world, a cheap Italian car will always ruin the trip.
Rating: 10/10 (Essential viewing for any fan of Top Gear, The Grand Tour, or automotive chaos).
Search Tip: When looking for the episode online, use the exact phrase "Top Gear Middle East Special 2010 full episode" and filter by "long" (over 60 minutes) on video platforms. Avoid clips labeled "best bits" or "highlights"—they miss the slow, painful breakdowns that make the special a masterpiece.
Top Gear: Middle East Special (Series 16, Episode 2), Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May attempt to recreate the journey of the Three Wise Men across the Middle East to Bethlehem. Episode Overview
: Retrace the 1,200-mile (1,900 km) route of the Three Wise Men using second-hand, two-door convertible sports cars with a budget of £3,500. Starting Point : Erbil International Airport in Iraqi Kurdistan. Destination : A stable in Bethlehem, Palestine. Release Date
: Originally aired as a Christmas special on December 26, 2010, on Presenter Cars
The presenters purchased their cars in Georgia before being flown into Iraq. Jeremy Clarkson Mazda MX-5
, which he eventually painted in a "Technicolour Dreamcoat" style and fitted with "bulletproofing". Richard Hammond Fiat Barchetta Riviera Special , which was later modified to look like a "nomadic tent". (1.9L), camouflaged with inspiration from the Afrika Korps. Route and Key Locations
The journey passed through several countries and significant historical sites:
: Starting in Erbil, the team visited an abandoned amusement park before heading toward the Turkish border. For millions of car enthusiasts and comedy lovers
: They navigated a declared "war zone" in southern Turkey, rushing to reach the safe city of Şanlıurfa before nightfall. : Stops included the ancient cities of : They visited the ruins of Israel & Palestine
: The final leg took them through the Sea of Galilee (Ein Gev) and the Mount of Olives to reach Bethlehem. Ending and "Gifts"
The special concluded with the trio arriving at a nativity scene in Bethlehem to present gifts they found along the way: : A gold-relief medallion. : A bottle of shampoo labeled "Frankincense." : A Nintendo DS (as he could not find myrrh). The Reveal
: Upon peeling back the covers of the manger, they discovered a "Baby Stig". each car faced or where you can stream the episode
"Desert Storm: Top Gear's Middle East Special Full Episode Review"
The popular British motoring show, Top Gear, has taken its unique blend of humor, adventure, and high-octane excitement to the unforgiving landscapes of the Middle East. In this special episode, hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May embark on a thrilling journey across the region, pushing their driving skills and their vehicles to the limit.
The Journey Begins
The episode starts with the trio setting off in three rugged 4x4s - a Land Rover Defender, a Toyota Land Cruiser, and a Mercedes-Benz Unimog - from the Jordanian city of Aqaba, with the ambitious plan to drive to Bahrain, covering over 1,000 miles of varied terrain. The hosts are determined to test their vehicles and themselves in the harsh conditions of the desert.
Dunes, Dirts, and Drama
As they venture into the desert, the hosts face numerous challenges, including treacherous sand dunes, rocky mountain tracks, and scorching temperatures. The Land Rover Defender, driven by Jeremy Clarkson, proves to be a capable companion, but its limitations are soon exposed on the demanding terrain. Richard Hammond, behind the wheel of the Toyota Land Cruiser, demonstrates his driving prowess, navigating the dunes with ease. Meanwhile, James May, in the Mercedes-Benz Unimog, showcases the vehicle's incredible off-road capabilities.
However, the journey is not without its setbacks. The hosts encounter mechanical issues, navigation problems, and the occasional disagreement, all of which add to the drama and humor of the episode.
The Cultural Experience
In addition to the driving challenges, the episode also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. The hosts visit ancient historical sites, interact with local people, and sample traditional cuisine. These moments provide a welcome respite from the intense driving sequences and add depth to the episode.
The Verdict
The Middle East Special is a thrilling and entertaining episode of Top Gear, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie, driving skills, and ability to adapt to challenging situations. The episode is a must-watch for fans of the show and anyone who enjoys adventure, off-road driving, and exploring new cultures.
Episode Highlights
Watch the Full Episode
If you missed the Middle East Special or want to relive the excitement, you can watch the full episode on BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, or purchase it on DVD. Don't miss this unforgettable adventure with Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May as they take Top Gear to the Middle East.
Top Gear: Middle East Special - Episode Details
Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled journey through the Middle East with Top Gear's iconic hosts.
To watch the full episode legally:
Search on Amazon Prime Video (the Top Gear seasons are often included with a Prime membership) or check BBC iPlayer if you’re in the UK. The special is from Series 16, Episode 0 (sometimes listed as a standalone special). You can also buy/rent it from YouTube, Google TV, or Apple TV.
Brief summary of the special (2010):
Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May travel from Erbil, Iraq to Bethlehem via Jordan and Israel. They drive used, cheap convertibles:
The trip includes humor, breakdowns, cultural moments, and a final challenge of crossing the desert to reach the Dead Sea — the lowest road on Earth. It’s famous for the “Jesus” car rental gag and the three wise men–style ending.
Would you like a full scene-by-scene breakdown or the list of challenges from the episode?
Top Gear: Middle East Special (2010) is widely regarded as one of the peak moments of the Clarkson, Hammond, and May era. Following the path of the Three Wise Men in three used convertibles, the trio delivers a 76-minute adventure that blends "puerile" schoolboy humor with a hauntingly beautiful historical record of regions soon to be changed forever. The Premise: One Wise Man, an Idiot, and a Cheat
The challenge was simple yet absurd: buy a used convertible for under £3,500 and drive from Iraqi Kurdistan to Bethlehem. Jeremy Clarkson Mazda MX-5
, which he later decorated with a "Technicolor Dreamcoat" paint job. Richard Hammond Fiat Barchetta Riviera , which he famously modified into a nomadic "moving tent". went with a
, though he went over budget, earning him the title of the "cheat". Highlights: Chaos and Comedy The Landing:
In a signature over-the-top intro, the presenters arrive in an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane that performs a "go-around" before dropping them in Erbil, Iraq. The Burqa Disguise:
After James May suffered a concussion from a tow rope accident in Syria, Clarkson and Hammond famously picked him up from the hospital wearing burqas to "blend in"—a scene that remains a fan favorite for its sheer ridiculousness. The "Genesis" Prank:
To torment Hammond, Clarkson and May rigged his car stereo to play songs by the band
non-stop, showcasing the trio's classic "cruel but funny" chemistry. The Nativity Finale:
Reaching Bethlehem, they presented "gifts": gold-relief for James, hotel shampoo for Richard (as frankincense), and a Nintendo DS for Jeremy (replacing myrrh). The "Baby Jesus" in the manger was revealed to be a A Bittersweet Time Capsule
What makes this episode stand out today is its unintentional status as a historical record. It contains some of the last high-definition footage of the ancient city of
before its destruction by ISIS, and portrays a pre-civil war Syria as a welcoming, vibrant place. This backdrop of peaceful landscapes that were soon ravaged by conflict adds a layer of poignancy that few other specials possess. Critical Verdict Title: Top Gear: Middle East Special – A
The Top Gear Middle East Special (Series 16, Episode 2), originally aired on December 26, 2010, follows Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May as they drive 1,200 miles across the Middle East in used two-door convertibles. The 76-minute episode features the trio retracing the Three Wise Men's journey from Iraq to Bethlehem, navigating challenging terrain, and participating in "Old Testament NASCAR". The special is available for viewing on platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV. Middle East Special - Top Gear (Season 16, Episode 2)
The Top Gear Middle East Special (Series 16, Episode 2) is a 76-minute extended episode that originally aired on December 26, 2010, on BBC Two . Episode Overview
The Mission: Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May attempt to recreate the journey of the Three Wise Men by driving from Erbil International Airport in Iraqi Kurdistan to Bethlehem .
The Route: A 1,200-mile (1,900 km) road trip through southern Turkey, Syria (visiting Aleppo, Palmyra, and Damascus), and Jordan before reaching the Mount of Olives and Bethlehem .
The Vehicles: Each presenter was given a £3,500 budget to buy a second-hand, two-door convertible sports car : Jeremy: Mazda MX-5 Richard: Fiat Barchetta James: BMW Z3 Key Highlights
Border Challenges: The trio faced numerous complications involving border controls and the ongoing "War on Terror" in Iraq .
Gift Selection: Upon arriving at a nativity scene in Bethlehem, the "Three Wise Men" presented their gifts: gold (James), frankincense (Richard), and a Nintendo DS (Jeremy, who couldn't find myrrh) .
The Twist: The baby Jesus in the manger was revealed to be a "Baby Stig" . Where to Watch You can find the full episode on the following platforms:
Streaming: Available on the BBC iPlayer (UK), Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video .
Free Options: Select clips and occasionally full-length segments are available on the official BBC Top Gear website .
Top Gear: Middle East Special (Series 16, Episode 2), Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May retrace the 1,200-mile journey of the Three Wise Men from Iraqi Kurdistan to Bethlehem. The Mission & Rules The trio had to buy a second-hand two-door convertible sports car that could survive the varied terrain of the Middle East. Jeremy Clarkson Mazda MX-5 – painted in a "Technicolour Dreamcoat" style. Richard Hammond Fiat Barchetta Riviera
– modified into a nomadic-style tent and frequently pranked with non-stop – camouflaged in Afrika Korps style (and over budget). Expedition Highlights
The route spanned five countries, featuring a mix of historical landmarks and high-risk zones: Iraq Start:
The episode begins with the team being dropped off at Erbil International Airport via a Russian cargo plane. Syrian Detour: Before the Syrian Civil War, the team filmed in and the ancient city of "Old Testament NASCAR":
, Jordan, they raced their beat-up sports cars around a 2,000-year-old Roman chariot racing circuit. The Sea of Galilee:
Jeremy attempted (and failed) to "walk on water" and claimed several mundane occurrences were miracles he performed. The Final Result Upon arriving at the Mount of Olives , they unanimously declared Richard Hammond’s Fiat Barchetta
the best car for its character and surprising reliability. The journey concluded at a nativity scene in Bethlehem where, instead of the baby Jesus, the "gifts" (including a Nintendo DS ) were presented to a
Originally aired on December 26, 2010, the Top Gear Middle East Special (Series 16, Episode 2) follows presenters as they drive second-hand convertibles 1,200 miles from Iraq to Bethlehem. The 76-minute episode features the trio navigating hazardous routes through Turkey, Syria, and Jordan, ending with a satirical nativity scene. For more details, visit Top Gear Wiki.
"Top Gear — Middle East Special" is a lively, adventurous installment of the long-running motoring-entertainment series that blends humor, car-focused challenges, and scenic travelogue elements into a memorable road-trip episode.
Premise & Structure
Cars & Challenges
Cinematography & Setting
Humor & Presenting
Cultural Sensitivity & Tone
Pacing & Editing
Highlights
Criticisms
Verdict
If you’d like, I can:
(related search suggestions will be prepared)
As they move south into Syria, the tone shifts. The cars begin to fall apart—especially Hammond’s Fiat, which suffers from electrical issues and the desire to set itself on fire. This segment is famous for James May’s breakdown. In a fit of frustration, May physically assaults his BMW with a rock, destroying the windscreen in the process.
It is a perfect piece of television: May, usually the calm voice of reason, losing his mind in the heat, only for Clarkson to point out that he has now made his car "open top" (and technically illegal for the next checkpoint).
Because of music licensing rights (the episode famously uses Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” and Ennio Morricone’s “The Ecstasy of Gold”), the full, unedited version has become slightly difficult to track down. However, here are your best options:
Warning: Avoid unofficial YouTube uploads. They are usually cropped, slowed down to avoid copyright strikes, or missing the last 15 minutes. Support the show legally to ensure more specials get made (currently, the new Top Gear presenters have attempted their own Middle East trip, but nothing matches the 2010 original).
