|
DAY 1: ARRIVE DUBAI Upon arrival in Dubai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to begin your independent exploration of the city. The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 when seven sovereign sheikdoms came together after the withdrawal of the British from the area. The emirates that today comprise the UAE are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Dubai is the best known of the emirates, and it is truly a glittering monument to modernity and commerce. However, its ancient roots can still be located among the skyscrapers and busy highways; townspeople and Bedouins still shop in the winding lanes of the souks and ride traditional dhows on the Creek, as the main river is known, as they have been doing for centuries. Dubai is a shopper's paradise and a dream for lovers of the sun and sand, but it is also a fascinating cultural study in how a resource-rich region has managed to meld ancient tradition with the spoils of oil to form an entirely unique city. DAY 2: DUBAI After breakfast, depart on a private half-day tour of the city. See the Jumeirah Mosque and modern palaces, and then stop in Bastakiya to see the wind-towered homes favored by wealthy merchants long ago. Also visit the 150-year-old Al Fahidi Fort. Cross the river by abra (water taxi) and then visit the bustling gold and spice souks, evidence of the city's long history as a merchant capital. In fact, only a century ago Dubai was a village of Bedouin traders and pearl divers. (B) DAY 3: SHARJAH EXCURSION Enjoy breakfast and then depart on a private cultural walking tour of neighboring Sharjah, the third largest of the seven emirates. Though once considered the lesser attraction to glittering Dubai, Sharjah is increasingly recognized for its wonderful architecture and preserved cultural heritage. This morning tour begins with a photo opportunity at Mohammed Al Qassimi Mosque. From there, stroll along the Creek to see the dhows piled with wares. A stop at the Iranian Market is followed by a visit to the Creative Art's House and then a stop at the Old Souk. Here you can buy spices, nuts, dates, and other typical fare, as well as perfume and traditional garments. Return to the hotel after the tour concludes. (B) DAY 4: DUBAI Today is at leisure until the later afternoon, when you will be picked up for a group dinner in the dunes. Safari guides will take you in a 4WD vehicle into the heart of the desert. Watch the sunset and then proceed to the camp, where comfortable cushions and Bedu tents are waiting. Feast on traditional delicacies like grilled meats and Arab sweets and, if you wish, take a short camel ride or have your hands painted with henna. Throughout it all, a belly dancer sways to the lilting Arabic music. Return to your hotel at the conclusion of the dinner. (B,D) DAY 5: ABU DHABI DAY TRIP This half-day tour visits Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and its financial heart. Less than a century ago, Abu Dhabi was a small fishing and pearling village; now it is a temple to business that is crowded with shiny skyscrapers and modern buildings. A trip to Abu Dhabi helps guests understand the contrasts between old and new that exist in the United Arab Emirates, and the economic importance of this city to the entire region. A two-hour drive past coastal desert scenery and the largest man-made port (Jebel Ali) delivers you to Abu Dhabi. First visit the Heritage Village and explore the ancient Al Husn Fort, which has been renovated but retains evidence of its history. Visit the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation and then the old dhow yard and Batinah Habour. Return to your hotel to spend the afternoon at leisure. (B) DAY 6: AL AIN EXCURSION Today features a private camel caravan tour to Al Ain, an oasis on the caravan trail that has been used as a resting place for traders and travelers for hundreds of years. The road out of Dubai offers spectacular desert scenery; after a brief drive, stop at the archeological digs at Hili, which date back 5,000 years. In the oasis town of Buraimi, explore the ancient irrigation system and visit the small souk. Next, visit the Al Ain museum and the Palace Museum, which was the residence of the current ruler from 1927 to the mid-1970s. After absorbing informative displays and portraits that give better understanding of the royal family, Finally, visit a traditional camel market before returning to Dubai. (B) DAY 7: DEPART DUBAI After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. |