EXPLORE THE EMIRATES

After breakfast, you will start your tour of Dubai with a visit of the magnificent twin minaret mosque and the Jumeirah Mosque, a spectacular example of modern Islamic architecture. Pass by the Palastquater “Zabeel” and Skyline at the Dubai Creek and continue towards Bastakiya to see the wind towered houses of old merchants. After a visit of the Dubai Museum that is housed in the 180-year-old Al Fahidi Fort, you will cross the Dubai Creek onboard an “Abra” (water taxi) for a visit of the Spice Souk and Gold Souk. Return to your hotel. This evening, join in a dinner cruise along the historic Dubai Creek on a traditional Arabic “dhow” boat. (B,D)

Power up with breakfast at your hotel and head out towards Abu Dhabi, passing the largest man-made seaport in the world. Stop for photos at the former residence of previous UAE president Sheikh Zayed, and then see the third biggest mosque in the world – the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. The tour continues to the Al Bateen area, home to the palaces of the Royal Family. Enjoy a shopping break in the world-famous Marina Mall before arriving at your hotel. (B)

Today you will head out towards the Eastern Emirates and Al Ain, situated in opulent terrain and dotted with abundant underground water springs. The former seat of the Sheikhs, here you will find a wealth of desert culture in this formerly vital trading center, including an 18th century bazaar, a camel race track, and a livestock market. Visit the Al Ain National Museum and Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum before ascending Jebel Hafeet. At the base of the mountain, soak in the healing hot springs so abundant in this area. Then transfer to your hotel in Al Ain. (B)

Depart from Al Ain and proceed to Fujairah where you will enjoy the balance of your day at leisure to explore this fabulous town. Overnight in Fujairah (B)

After breakfast, head out on a desert drive through Oasis Al Daid to Masafi, stopping at the local “Friday Market” along the way. Your journey continues through the rugged Hajar Mountains and descends to the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman to the picturesque old fishing village of Dibba. Visit the Bidiyah Mosque, the oldest mosque in UAE. Your route takes you along the coastline to Khorr Fakkan. On the way back pass by Fujairah, the only Emirate on the East Coast. Then transfer to your hotel in Sharjah. (B)

After breakfast, start your tour of the Emirate of Sharjah, often called the cultural center of the Middle East. Your visit begins at the monumental culture roundabout before heading off to the Natural History Museum in the desert. Returning to the city, head to the Corniche with its golden Al Majara Souk, and then venture into the heart of the heritage district where the Al Naboodah House and the Al Arsa Souk provide a glimpse of the past. The tour ends at the Central Souk, brimming with a vast selection of carpets, antiques, and curios that will surely satisfy the most discriminating of shoppers. Later this afternoon, experience the sheer thrill of driving up and down the golden yellow sand in 4x4 vehicles. Drive over the high sand dunes before entering the campsite where you can relax in the tranquility of the desert and enjoy an authentic Arabian Barbeque. Transfer back to your hotel in Dubai. (B,D)

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the Dubai Airport for your departure. (B)