UAE Explorer

Itinerary

4 Nights – Abu Dhabi
3 Nights – Fujairah
3 Nights – Ras Al Khaimah
4 Nights – Dubai (with a day trip to Sharjah from Dubai)
Optional Extension – 2 Night Desert Stay

✈️ UK to Abu Dhabi (4 Nights): Flying into Dubai, your private transfer will collect you for the short 1 ½ hour drive to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. With its stunning skyline, beautiful beaches, and cultural landmarks, the city offers a laid-back, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Start by visiting the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world, with its beautiful mosaics, crystal chandeliers, and vast marble floors.  Another must-see is the Louvre Abu Dhabi which boasts one of the most impressive art collections in the region. The museum’s architecture is equally stunning, with a massive dome that creates an incredible light effect throughout the galleries. For a taste of the city’s natural beauty, head to the Corniche, a lovely waterfront promenade offering picturesque views and a chance to relax at one of the many cafes lining the shore while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. If you’re feeling adventurous, head over to Yas Island, where you can enjoy the rides and experiences at Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld. For a more traditional experience, explore the Heritage Village, which offers a glimpse into the UAE’s past before the oil boom and skyscrapers.

 🚗 Abu Dhabi to Fujairah (3 Nights): After 4 nights in Abu Dhabi, you’ll be driven northeast to Fujairah. Known for its beautiful beaches and backdrop of the Hajar Mountains, Fujairah offers a refreshing contrast to the busy cities of the UAE.  Its coastal location along the Gulf of Oman and crystal-clear waters makes it the perfect spot for snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on pristine beaches including the popular Al Aqar beach. Just off the coast of Al Aqar is Snoopy island, named as such as it looks like the cartoon dog lying on its back. The waters around here are teeming with marine life where you’ll find turtles, reef fish, and sometimes blacktip reef sharks. Snoopy Island’s beaches are equally stunning, with powdery white sand. For a different view of nature, head into Fujairah’s mountain range. Wadi Wurayah is a protected nature reserve in the Hajar Mountains, where you can visit stunning waterfalls and enjoy a variety of flora and fauna. There are plenty of opportunities for walking, hiking, and enjoying the views. In the city itself, there are lots of cultural and historical highlights to discover, including Fujairah Fort, the oldest fort in the UAE, which offers great views over the city and surrounding area. Nearby, the Al-Bidyah Mosque showcases early Islamic architecture and history. The Fujairah Heritage Village allows you to gain an insight into traditional Emirati culture through its live demonstrations and interactive activities.

🚗  Fujairah to Ras Al Khaimah (3 Nights): Next, you’ll be whisked away to Ras Al Khaimah, located in the northernmost emirate of the UAE. While Fujairah offers beachside serenity, Ras Al Khaimah is an exciting mix of outdoor thrills and luxurious resorts. Ras Al Khaimah is home to Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE, which offers various trails for walking and taking in the views.  It is also home to the thrilling Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. Most visitors to Ras Al Khaimah base themselves at one of its luxurious beach resorts, including those on the man-made Al Marjan Island. Home to several high-end hotels, the island offers stunning beachfront views, private beaches, world-class dining, and exceptional service. However, if nature is more your thing, there are also more secluded, desert-based stays such as those in the Al Wadi – a luxury desert resort set in a private nature reserve. This protected area of dunes and wildlife is around 30 minutes inland and offers nature trails, horse riding, falconry, and stargazing in a stunning and peaceful desert setting.  In the city itself, history buffs will enjoy the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum, housed in a former palace, which offers insight into the region’s past through exhibits on Bedouin culture and local artefacts. The Dhayah Fort, perched on a hilltop, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a peek into the Ras Al Khaimah’s history with its 16th-century architecture.

🚗  Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai (4 Nights): No trip to the UAE would be complete without visiting the dazzling Dubai, with its skyscraper skyline, luxury shopping, and exciting attractions. A visit to the towering Burj Khalifa is a must, offering incredible views from its observation decks. Here you’ll also find the Dubai Mall, the perfect place to shop ’til you drop.  There’s also a massive aquarium, ice skating rink and daily water shows at the Dubai Fountain. For something a bit different, head on a Desert Safari, where you can experience dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional Bedouin-style dinner after dark. For thrills and family fun, you can’t beat the Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm. For a more traditional experience, take a boat ride along Dubai Creek, exploring the Gold and Spice Souks. Your visit to Dubai also includes a trip to Sharjah. Just a short drive from Dubai, it makes an ideal day trip to explore the more authentic side of the region. Sharjah is home to a wealth of museums, galleries, and historic landmarks, with highlights including the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, the Sharjah Art Museum, and Al Noor Island with its stunningly beautiful botanical gardens. For a truly traditional experience, wander through Souq Al Arsah, one of the oldest markets in the region, and stroll around the beautiful Al Qasba canal area, which offers pretty views, dining, and entertainment.

🚗 Optional 2-Night Desert Extension:  Before heading home, you could extend your adventure with a 2-night stay at a luxury desert resort.  Just a short drive from Dubai, you will feel like you are worlds away from the city with views of endless sand dunes on your doorstep. Whether you choose to ride camels, get up close with falcons or enjoy dinners under the stars, it’s a great way to enjoy the magic of the desert and soak up the soul of the UAE.

✈️ Dubai to UK: After an unforgettable journey through the UAE, you’ll fly home from Dubai to your chosen UK airport.