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 adrenaline-charged tempo of this 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. We start 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, varies from the traditional to the latest designs at amazingly affordable prices. Afterward, to Bastakia 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 for free afternoon 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. The next station will be close to Atlantis hotel for a photo stop before you continue via Sheikh Zayed road to the world’s tallest tower Burj Khalifa. Here, 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 before returning to your hotel. Tonight, a very special evening with a chance to see the skyline of Dubai from the Creek. Dhows have been the traditional ships used in the UAE for many centuries and tonight you have the chance to board one of these vessels and enjoy a sumptuous buffet while you quietly cruise by the landmarks of this city
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5, Saturday – Full Day in Dubai
Morning and afternoon 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. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the city or join the thrilling 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. Then, enjoy a barbecue dinner, specially prepared. Later, enjoy a Tanoura dance show, then watch as a captivating belly dancer enchants you with her swirling dances 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 City 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
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Monday – Dubai Souks and Marina Tour
Enjoy a morning at leisure on your last day in Dubai. Hotel check out is at noon and you will be able to store your luggage at the hotel before the beginning of today’s sightseeing. This afternoon enjoy a tour of Dubai Souks and famous Marina. Test your bargaining skills while walking around one of the oldest and most populated areas in Dubai, the Souk al Kabeer. Afterwards you will tour the historic Sheikh Al Maktoum House. Then, enjoy a walking tour of 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