**NEW DATE** Dubai/Abu Dhabi March 12-18, 2024 - $2,318 pp

DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for the United Arab Emirates
Depart for Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Dubai
Arrive in Dubai, the quintessential land of opulence, wealth and skyscrapers. Balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Dubai

DAY 3, Thursday - Old Dubai Tour
This morning, visit the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort. Continue the tour through the cloth markets and end up at the Abras, where local water taxis will take you across the Creek to the area of spice and gold souks. Walk through the bustling alleys of these souks. Afterward, to the Bastakiya area where old wind-towered houses of wealthy merchants can still be seen. While in the area, you're invited to the important Sheikh Mohammed Centre in the heart of the old Bastakiya area for a specially arranged local Emirati lunch and meeting. Enjoy an open discussion and learn more about Emirati culture and local traditions. Return to the hotel before an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager followed by dinner
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Friday - New Dubai Tour
Begin with a photo stop at Dubai's signature landmark, Burj Al Arab, the celebrated sail-shaped hotel facing the Persian Gulf. Continue to the Jumeirah Palm, a man-made island, which was built in the shape of a palm tree, known for its posh residential buildings, villas, and luxury resorts. Upon entering the island, board the Palm Monorail which will take you to the far end of the palm. Continue on Sheikh Zayed road to visit Burj Khalifa. While at the top, a guide will help answer all your questions from your vantage point on level 124 of the building. Free time for lunch and an afternoon on your own in Dubai Mall
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Dubai
Spend the day at leisure or, participate in the optional tour to Sharjah in the morning, a cultural center of the Emirates. As you begin your tour, you will have the opportunity for a photo stop of the cultural square. Then, visit the Islamic Museum, housing over 5,000 artifacts from all over the Islamic World and the Heritage Museum depicting Sharjah's rich and diverse heritage. Later, return to Dubai. In the afternoon, perhaps join the thrilling optional Desert Safari. Board a 4X4 vehicle in Dubai and head out towards the highest sand dunes of the surrounding desert. Feel the thrill of "dune bashing" as you spiral up and down the dunes. Upon your arrival at the Bedouin campsite, you'll be welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee and will have the option to ride a camel. Then, enjoy a barbecue dinner along with a Belly and Tanoura dance show before returning to Dubai
Optional: Half Day Sharjah Tour (AM)
Optional: Half Day Desert Safari with dinner (PM)
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Sunday - Abu Dhabi Tour
Start off the day with a city tour of the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. Begin at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an iconic symbol of Abu Dhabi. Drive through al Bateen area and stop at the Zayed House for a sneak peek into the life of the late Sheikh Zayed, 'Father of the Nation'. Continue to the Emirates Palace and the Etihad Towers for a photo stop. Drive along the city's Corniche and stop at the Breakwater, to take photos of the skyline. After lunch, admire cultural art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Head back to Dubai via Yas Island, the home of the F1 Circuit and Ferrari World Theme Park. Tonight at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Monday - Depart the United Arab Emirates
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Some flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of Day 7 and will require a transfer on Day 6. Transfers depart the hotel approximately 5 hours prior to flight time
Meals: Breakfast