Dubai & Abu Dhabi Explorer

Welcome to Dubai. On arrival at the international airport, independently transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to settle in and relax.

This morning we discover Dubai, a city that has grown from a modest fishing village on Dubai Creek into a global centre known for its striking skyline and cultural heritage. Our guided tour takes us through the landmarks that highlight the city’s rapid transformation.

We drive across Palm Jumeirah, the world’s largest man-made island, before stopping at Jumeirah Beach for photographs. We continue with stops at the Jumeirah Mosque and Marjan Gallery.

In the heritage quarter of Bastakiya we explore the traditional lanes and visit the 225-year-old Al Fahidi Fort, home to the Dubai Museum. Enroute we stop at the abra station and walk through the Spice and Gold Souks, known for their fragrances and glittering displays.

We pause at Al Ras metro station before continuing to Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world. Later we explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah, designed with winding alleyways and a bazaar-like atmosphere. We then pass by Atlantis and visit Dubai Marina Walk for waterfront views.

In the evening we board a traditional wooden dhow for a relaxed dinner cruise along the creek. The vessel is built in a time-honoured style and provides a comfortable setting to enjoy buffet dining featuring local flavours as the city lights shimmer across the water.

Optional: Burj Khalifa Observation Deck
Available daily. You may choose to visit the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck to enjoy far-reaching views over the city, desert and coastline.

The morning is at leisure. At around 3.30 pm we meet our safari guide and head into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a dune drive. This unforgettable experience takes us over rolling dunes deep into the desert.

From a high dune we watch the sun set across the sands before continuing to our camp, where a traditional Arabian welcome awaits. You can relax on low cushions in Bedouin-style tents, enjoy henna painting, take a short camel ride or try aromatic shisha. A barbecue dinner of grilled meats, salads and Arabic sweets is served, followed by entertainment beneath the night sky.

Dubai - Abu Dhabi. This morning we drive to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates. Set on an island, its name translates to Father of the Gazelle. Our tour provides an excellent introduction to the largest of the emirates.

We begin at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most impressive modern mosques in the world. We then visit Yas Mall on Yas Island before driving through Saadiyat Island, known for its cultural institutions and white-sand beaches. We continue to the Louvre Abu Dhabi for an exterior visit.

Later we explore Heritage Village, which offers insight into traditional desert life, and visit Marjan Gallery to view Islamic art and cultural pieces. We then pass through Emirates Palace for a photo stop. The day concludes with a visit to the dates market to see the range of local dates and sweets.

Important information for mosque visits: Modest, loose-fitting clothing is required. Women must cover their heads, arms and legs, and footwear is removed before entering. Behaviour must remain respectful at all times.

Enjoy your days in Abu Dhabi at leisure or choose an optional activity below.

Falcon Experience
Visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital to learn about these remarkable birds and their significance in Emirati culture. You may also have the opportunity to hold a falcon and visit a free-flight aviary.

Ferrari World
Spend the day at Ferrari World, the first indoor theme park of its kind and home to the world’s fastest roller coaster. Attractions cater to all ages and celebrate the story and spirit of Ferrari.

Full-day Al Ain Tour
Explore the Garden City of Al Ain, known for its mountain backdrop, heritage sites and lush greenery. Highlights include Bronze Age archaeological remains, local museums, the former Royal Palace, Al Jahili Fort, warm springs, the camel market and the oasis with its traditional falaj irrigation channels.

Independently transfer to the international airport for your onward flight