Mapping software - Middle-East

It isn’t extremely detailed in the middle east and doesn’t have roads marked, but it’s free and fun to play with: http://earth.google.com/

Ben, have you already seen this one?

http://www.maptech.com/land/index.cfm

They seem to have Iraq, at least.

i am looking for a good route from buckinghamshire to dubai, details to include all countrys en-route and distances, also looking for a good map of dubai that you dont have to pay for,

Hi Martin. Why Dubai? There are better places on earth.
I can most likely help you with most of what you need to know about the place – I’ve lived here for 8 years. There are heaps of free maps around, but if you want a good one, then expect to pay around 10 quid. The two most useful are the Dubai Explorer, which has aerial photos, and another big foldout map, about 1m x 1m which is a bit of a pain, but is the only map which I’ve ever used or needed here. Covers the whole UAE on the back as well.
You seem to be looking for work out here – difficult – boils down to who you know. Sadly, most places will sooner hire an Asian and pay nothing.
As far as getting here – can’t help you with that one, but if I were to do it, I’d take the Europe, Turkey, Lebanon, Saudi route. Maybe less chance of getting killed. Quite honestly I’d fly.
Good luck.
V