DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for the United Arab Emirates
Depart for Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Dubai
Arrive in Dubai, the quintessential land of opulence, wealth and astonishing skyscrapers that stand alongside traditional mosques. Balance of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the city and your new time zone
Overnight: Dubai
DAY 3, Thursday - Old Dubai Tour
A fabulous day discovering Dubai, one of the world's most futuristic cities with its dramatic skyline, once a tranquil port of Bedouin traders and pearl divers. Begin with a visit the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort, which has survived for two centuries. Continue the tour through the cloth markets and end up at the Abras, where local water taxis will take you across the Creek to the area of spice and gold souks. Walk through the bustling alleys of these souks and allow the mystical aromas of numerous spices tantalize your senses. The jewelry on sale, mostly in gold with astounding quality, varies from traditional to the latest designs. Afterward, on to the Bastakiya area where old wind-towered houses of wealthy merchants can still be seen. While in the area, you're invited to the important Sheikh Mohammed Centre in the heart of the old Bastakiya area for a specially arranged local Emirati lunch and meeting. Enjoy an open discussion and learn more about Emirati culture and local traditions. Return to the hotel with free time before an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers, followed by a Welcome Dinner
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4, Friday - New Dubai Tour
Begin with a photo stop at Dubai's signature landmark, Burj Al Arab, the celebrated sail-shaped hotel facing the Persian Gulf. Continue to the Jumeirah Palm, a man-made island, which was built in the shape of a palm tree, known for its posh residential buildings, villas, and luxury resorts. Upon entering the island, board the Palm Monorail which will take you to the far end of the palm. Marvel at the stunning views of the island as you ride high above the ground. Continue on Sheikh Zayed road to visit the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa. While at the top, a guide will help answer all your questions from your vantage point on level 124 of the building. Free time for lunch in Dubai Mall
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Dubai
Today is at leisure for further exploration of this vibrant city. Or, participate in the optional tour to Sharjah in the morning, a cultural center of the Emirates, known for its major museums, distinctive landmarks, and elegant mosques. As you begin your tour, you will have the opportunity for a photo stop of the cultural square. Then, visit the Islamic Museum, housing over 5,000 artifacts from all over the Islamic World and the Heritage Museum depicting Sharjah's rich and diverse heritage. In the afternoon, perhaps join the optional Desert Safari this afternoon. Board a 4X4 vehicle in Dubai and head out towards the highest sand dunes of the surreal surrounding desert. Feel the thrill of "dune bashing" as you spiral up and down the enormous golden dunes. Upon your arrival to the Bedouin campsite, you'll be welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee and will have the option to ride a camel, followed by a specially prepared barbecue dinner. Later, enjoy a Tanoura dance show, followed by a captivating belly dancing show before returning to Dubai
Optional: Half Day Sharjah Tour (AM)
Optional: Half Day Desert Safari with dinner (PM)
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Sunday - Abu Dhabi Tour
Start off the day with a city tour of the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, also known as the Arabian Jewel. Begin at the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an iconic symbol of Abu Dhabi. Drive through al Bateen area, also known as the Royal and Presidential District. Stop at the Zayed House for a fascinating sneak peek into the life of the late Sheikh Zayed, 'Father of the Nation'. Continue to the Emirates Palace and the Etihad Towers for a photo stop. Continue along the city's glamorous Corniche, with blue waters glittering on one side and shimmering skyscrapers lining the other. At the Breakwater, pause to take photos of the city's fabulous skyline. After lunch, admire cultural art at the Arab World's first universal museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Head back to Dubai via Yas Island, the home of the F1 Circuit and Ferrari World Theme Park, to join a Farewell Dinner with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Monday - Dubai Souks and Marina Tour
Spend the morning at leisure, on your last day in Dubai. This afternoon, visit the Al Shindagha Museum and learn more about the story of the Creek and what it took to grow the trading business. Visit the Perfume House within the museum complex that addresses the history and culture of perfume making. Learn how these fragrances are created, using regional ingredients such as musk, rose, myrtle flowers and saffron. Then, embark on a walking tour to one of the trendiest places in Dubai, the Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence. The tour concludes at the Madinat souk with time at leisure to explore the treasures among the lantern lit corridors. There will be time for dinner on your own before returning to the hotel to pick up your luggage and transfer to the airport for your late night departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Tuesday - Depart the United Arab Emirates