Dubai, Desert Oasis & Beach

Our Highlights:

• Exploring the ever changing Dubai
• Landscaped gardens of the Hilton Al Ain
• Optional Mussandam excursion

Combine the exciting, ever-changing, ever more futuristic Dubai with up-and-coming Ras Al Khaimah, and a lush desert oasis of Al Ain, offering a slower, more traditional pace of life. In each place, we include excursions or recommend activities to show you a variety of aspects of the countries.

Dubai

Dubai is sophisticated, cosmopolitan and exciting. The shopping is dazzling, whether literally so, in the Gold Soukh, or simply in terms of the sheer range and choice in the many shopping malls around the city. Yet not all of the old traditions have been swept away in the drive for the new: try crossing the creek in an 'abra', a small local water taxi, and wander through the old part of the town.

Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah, the most northerly Emirate of the UAE, has some 40 miles of coastline on the Arabian Gulf and is an up-and-coming town, with a relaxed atmosphere. During your stay, there will be a short introductory tour of Ras Al Khaimah including the charming museum, souq area and a shopping mall: a great place for ‘people watching’.

Al Ain

Dating back 2000 years, the garden city of Al Ain is a true oasis in the midst of town and desert. Here you will find a fascinating camel market, as well as an oasis of palm trees, kept green and fresh by an ancient irrigation system. We recommend a visit to the camel market, where camels are traded in traditional style; the hot springs; and the country’s highest peak, Jebel Hafeet Mountain, rising to over 4000 feet, with panoramic views over Al Ain, the desert and Oman beyond.

Oman

You may wish to take the opportunity to visit the sultanate of Oman and the stunning landscapes and fjords of the Mussandam Peninsula. Spend a full day aboard a traditional dhow (transfer from Ras Al Khaimah to Oman is by road) with time at anchor for swimming and snorkelling. There is a good chance of seeing dolphins – spinner, common and humpback are found here. Prices from £95

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