10-Nights Oman & the Emirates: The Sands of Time - Marco Polo Journeys from $11,995
Abercrombie & Kent
OFFER ID 1504783
Oman & the Emirates: The Sands of Time
Celebrate the rich tapestry of history, culture and innovation that lies at the cornerstones of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, two nations boasting both ultra-modern metropolises and timeless traditions that take you on a journey back in time.
10 nights from $11,995 per person
Itinerary Details
Abercrombie & Kent: Oman & the Emirates: The Sands of Time
Day 1 Muscat, Oman
Arrive in Muscat, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.
Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Meals:
Day 2 Muscat
Begin your exploration of Muscat at the Grand Mosque, a contemporary architectural marvel showcasing an enduring tradition of regional artistry and craftsmanship. Explore the basic tenets of Islam with a local scholar in the mosque’s main prayer room, a vast space adorned with intricate chandeliers and handwoven carpets. Continue your exploration of Muscat’s fascinating fusion of old and new at the Royal Opera House Muscat. Constructed by the same team responsible for the Grand Mosque, it embodies a similar synergy of contemporary construction and time-honored tradition. Afterward, visit the National Museum. Housed in the heart of Old Muscat, it features artifacts depicting Oman’s cultural and historical heritage. Stop at the Al Alam Palace before lunch, and then return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure, followed by a welcome dinner.
Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 Muscat
Continue to discover the splendors of Muscat, starting in the historic port city’s Muttrah Souk, a traditional Omani market filled with frankincense, silver handicrafts and gold jewelry. Next, head to the local market with a chef who assists you in selecting ingredients for your interactive Chef ’s Table experience. Learn about Omani dishes and share your lunch with local students, on this A&K-exclusive experience. After leisure time at your hotel, Ride Like a Local on a sunset dhow (traditional fishing boat) cruise exploring the city’s port and coast beyond, taking in an iconic seascape traversed by sailors for centuries. Pause in a scenic cove for a photo opportunity set against a spectacular backdrop.
Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 Wahiba Sands
Follow the coast to Sur, passing through the village of Quriyat and seeing Bimah Sinkhole. Continue to Wadi Tiwi, with its deep, narrow gorges carved from towering seaside cliffs. Stop at a dhow factory before proceeding to the undulating red and white dunes of Wahiba Sands, noting the villages that cling to the slopes of the rugged mountainside en route. Upon reaching camp, set out to discover the boundless dunes by 4x4 vehicle, and then continue into the desert sunset, riding camelback, to enjoy a Scenic Sundowner. Tonight’s barbecue dinner, accompanied by a local oud (lute) player, is set beneath the desert stars.
Desert Nights Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 Jabal Al Akhdar
This morning, visit Wadi Bani Khalid, distinguished by the caves scattered around its corners. Continue exploring the region with a visit to Jabrin Castle, the finest surviving example of Oman’s 17th-century fortresses. This former bastion of astrology, medicine and Islamic law showcases elegantly painted ceilings, intricate woodcarvings and other period details. After lunch, continue through the Al Hajar mountain range. Perched some 6,600 feet above sea level, your vantage on a ridge of Jabal Al Akhdar (the Green Mountain) affords commanding views of the rugged canyons below. Check in to your accommodations, a melding of traditional Omani construction techniques, local stones and contemporary architecture.
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 Jabal Al Akhdar
This morning, enjoy a short walk around the villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib and Al Ain, overlooking a spectacular landscape of dramatic peaks, gorges, and wadis and where rose water is distilled in the homes of the villagers. After lunch, the balance of the afternoon is at leisure.
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 Jabal Al Akhdar/Abu Dhabi, UAE
Visit the 17th-century trading enclave of Nizwa, passing through the city’s arched gateway to explore its iconic fort, bustling souk, fascinating silversmith shops and deeply rooted Islamic traditions. After lunch, travel overland to Muscat and fly to Abu Dhabi, where you check in to your luxury accommodations on Saadiyat Island.
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 Abu Dhabi
One of the wealthiest and most modern city-states in the world, Abu Dhabi is renowned for its stunning cityscapes, modern developments, and contributions to contemporary art and culture. Begin your exploration of the city at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and Museum, gaining insight into this fascinating bird of prey and its integral role in the Emirati’s heritage. This afternoon, visit Qasr al Watan, a working presidential palace that has hosted world leaders for official visits.
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 Dubai
After breakfast, visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, widely renowned as Abu Dhabi’s crowning jewel. The mosque accommodates the world’s largest Persian carpet, seven crystal chandeliers and some 41,000 worshipers. Take in the majesty of this vast architectural marvel, gaining a deeper understanding of the mosque’s vital role in local culture and Islamic traditions. Next, drive to Dubai, taking in sights of this stunning city along the way. Pause to enjoy lunch and interact with an interesting local resident, providing you further insight into Emirati culture. Then, continue exploring Old Dubai, strolling the aromatic spice market and making your way to the modern Deira Gold Souk, a market specializing in some of the world’s purest gold. Check in to your hotel, where the evening is at leisure.
Palace Downtown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10 Dubai
Today, explore New Dubai and its iconic skyscrapers. Begin at Burj al Arab, a striking architectural marvel evoking the sail of a dhow. Next, visit the world’s tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, an engineering masterwork measuring a staggering 2,716 feet high (2,722 feet if you count the antennae). Topping out in late 2008, this neofuturistic wonder bested both the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower and Taipei 101 by considerable margins. Soaring over the cityscape, your vantage point affords breathtaking views. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Later this evening, gather for a farewell dinner with your fellow guests.
Palace Downtown
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 Dubai
Transfer to the airport and board your homebound flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Excursions
The Highlights of Dubai - Full day tour
The Highlights of Dubai - Full day tour
Witness all of Dubai's bucket list attractions on one tour
Experience the best of the best of what Dubai has to offer! Embark on this awe-inspiring Dubai city tour, taking you to the most historic landmarks from Dubai’s past and the world-famous attractions of modern Dubai. The Highlights of Dubai tour is an
ideal way to experience the best of Dubai’s past, present and future!
Inclusions
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
- Knowledgeable tour guide
- Photo stop at Jumeirah Mosque
- Drive by the Union House Flag
- Photo stops at Museum of the Future, Zabeel Palace and the Dubai Frame
- Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Take an abra ride across the creek
- Visit the Gold and Spice Souqs
- Stop at Souk Madinat (lunch will be paid for directly by the guests)
- Palm Monorail ticket
- Ticket to The View along with beverage
- Photo stop at Ain Dubai
- Visit the Dubai Mall
- Ticket to At the Top, Burj Khalifa
Amendments / Cancellations policy: For a full refund cancel 72 hours in advance.
Except for tours with The View, partial refunds (dependant on attractions refund policy).
No-shows and late cancellations are non-refundable. Amendments to services provided
by our company cannot be accepted within 24 hours prior to the scheduled service time.
If an amendment is made, it must be confirmed with an Arabian Adventures agent,
otherwise the service may be delivered as originally reserved
Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above, Children are 3-11.99 years, Infants 0-35 months
Languages: Chinese, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, Italian, Arabic, French, German, Spanish, English (all subject to availability)
Good To Know
Inclusive of all entry fees + beverages
Lunch stop along the tour can be provisioned at guests own expense
Currently only available as an exclusive tour
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00am. The tour takes about 10-12 hours
We advise to wear comfortable shoes and all guests must adhere to the local dress code requirements (modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered)
We also recommend wearing sunblock, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the summer months
Taste of Dubai
Embark on a culinary journey in Dubai
If you’re looking to take your taste buds on an adventure around the globe, Dubai is the perfect destination for you. Join our Taste of Dubai tour, to learn about traditional Arabic dishes and the importance gastronomy holds in the Emirati culture. Get ready to add some flavour to your visit!
Inclusions
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
- Knowledgeable tour guide
- Enjoy a lemon-mint drink at XVA Café at XVA Gallery
- Try delicious starters at Bayt Al Wakeel restaurant
- Indulge in a camel burger at Local House Restaurant
- Enjoy Arabic Coffee and local sweets at Arabian Teahouse
- Explore Old Dubai
Amendments / Cancellations policy: For a full refund cancel 72 hours in advance. No-shows and late cancellations are non-refundable. Amendments to services provided by
our company cannot be accepted within 24 hours prior to the scheduled service time. If an amendment is made, it must be confirmed with an Arabian Adventures agent,
otherwise the service may be delivered as originally reserved
Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above, Children are 3-11.99 years, Infants 0-35 months
Languages: English & Spanish
Good to Know
Tour is inclusive of food and beverages. Any additional items not mentioned can be provisioned at guests own expense.
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 4:30pm
The duration of the tour is 4 hours
We advise to wear comfortable shoes and all guests must adhere to the local dress code requirements (modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered)
We also recommend wearing sunblock, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the summer months
The tour runs seven days a week
Dubai - Private Desert Safari Experience - 6 hours or more
Dubai - Private Desert Safari Experience - 6 hours or more
Get ready to experience the desert like never before. Leave the buzzing city behind as you’re whisked off to the beautiful and peaceful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, ready to deliver the best of what the dunes have to offer. Enjoy a thrilling dune drive, spotting local wildlife along the way, snap unbeatable photos at sunset, find your
balance on a camel or a sandboard and have your hands decorated in Henna to help the memories last longer.
As you reach the magical campsite, you’re in for an evening full of awe-inspiring local entertainment and a delicious barbeque dinner under the stars, accompanied by your preferred package of adult beverages. Sit back, relax and indulge in delectable foods and mesmerising performances.
Inclusions
- Pick-up and drop-off in a shared/private vehicle in a 4 wheel drive (Land cruiser or similar)
- Dune drive
- Sunset stop
- Modern Bedouin-style camp
- Enjoy a variety of entertainment: Camel ride, sandboarding, henna hand painting,
- Arabian Adventures Fire and Dance Show
- BBQ dinner
- Unlimited soft drinks
- Option to add an adult beverage packages ( House or Premium beverages)
Sharing means: Transfers to the camp will be shared with other guests. Table seating
is shared
Private means: Transfers to the camp will be private. Table seating is shared
Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above and Children are 5 -11.99 years
To book children 2-4.99 years or under 135cm, please book Evening Desert Safari
Private Vehicle and enter details on infants
Language: English (other languages can be arranged at an additional cost)
Departures: Daily and available all year round
Duration: Late afternoon until early evening ( estimated departure at 3pm with estimated return at 9pm)
Good To Know
- Souvenirs and photos are available for purchase at the campsite
- Restrooms are available at the campsite
- Shisha is included in the Premium package. Shisha is available for purchase on the Soft and House package (AED 50) per shisha at the venue
- Modest dress and comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- A portion of your fee goes towards supporting local conservation
- Entertainment may vary during Ramadan and other religious holidays and adult beverages will be served only after sunset.
- Beverage package: Soft drinks beverages are available on site with the option to purchase selected drinks on site House Packages include standard house wines and beer. Premium packages includes premium wines and beers and selected spirits. All packages include unlimited soft drinks and water
- Arabian Adventures reserves the right to cease service of alcohol to guests who display obvious signs of intoxication
- Please note there is a fuel surcharge for Desert Safaris that take place in Dubai, where the guest pick up is from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al-Khaimah and Fujairah. The surcharge is AED 100 per person
- For pregnant ladies or people with pre-existing medical conditions (including heart ailments neck or back problems) participation is not recommend
- Please contact our team for special needs and arrangements
Excursions
Private Abu Dhabi City Tour - Fully day 10 - 12 hours
Private Abu Dhabi City Tour - Fully day 10 - 12 hours
Get ready to explore the rich culture and world-renowned landmarks of Abu Dhabi during this full-day city tour of the incredible capital of the UAE. This is your chance to
learn about the fascinating heritage of the country as well as experience all the iconic sights that make Abu Dhabi the cultural hub we know today.
Inclusions
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
- Knowledgeable tour guide
- Drive through Yas Island
- Ticket to Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Scenic Abu Dhabi Corniche drive
- Admission to Emirates Palace and gold dust coffee
- Entry to Observation at Conrad at Etihad Towers with light snack (F&B is limited to one piece of cake (selection of the day) and tea or coffee
- Admission to Qasr Al Watan
- Picturesque drive in Al Bateen
- Visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above, Children are 3-11.99 years, Infants 0-35
- Good to Know
- Inclusive of all entry fees + food and beverages
- Additional snacks along the tour can be provisioned at guests own expense
- Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00am, but no later than 9am. The duration of the tour is about 12 hours
- We advise to wear comfortable shoes and all guests must adhere to the local dress code requirements (modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered). We also recommend wearing sunblock, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the summer
- months
- Observe the mosque's dress code (details found on the website)
- The tour runs every day except on Mondays and public holidays
Vacation Details
* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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