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DAY 1, Friday - Depart for the United Arab Emirates
Depart for Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
DAY 2, Saturday - Arrive in Abu Dhabi
Arrive in Abu Dhabi, the ultra-sophisticated capital of the United Arab Emirates, often called the "Arabian Jewel" and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the new time zone
Overnight: Abu Dhabi
DAY 3, Sunday - Full Day in Abu Dhabi
Today is free to experience the city independently, or join the optional tour of Abu Dhabi. Drive through al Bateen area, also known as the Royal and Presidential District. Stop at the Zayed House for a fascinating sneak peek into the life of the late Sheikh Zayed, "Father of the Nation." Continue to the Emirates Palace for a photo stop. Drive along the city's glamorous Corniche, with blue waters glittering on one side and shimmering skyscrapers lining the other. At the Breakwater, pause to take photos of the city's fabulous skyline. Stop for a photo at the Louvre Abu Dhabi before returning to your hotel. Afternoon is at leisure, or participate in the optional tour to Qasr Al Hosn & Presidential Palace. Begin at iconic Qasr al Hosn, the symbolic birthplace of Abu Dhabi which has existed since the 1760s as a coral and sea stone watchtower. It is the oldest most significant structure of Abu Dhabi, that has served over the centuries, as home to the ruling family, seat of government, and national archive. Qasr al Hosn, is now a museum telling the history of Abu Dhabi. After, continue to the newest presidential palace Qasr Al Watan (palace of the nation). The opulent government palace is a working palace that hosts official state visits and summits. During the visit, gain insight into the Arab heritage and UAE's governing principles that shaped the country's history. Enjoy your evening at leisure
Optional: Half Day Abu Dhabi Tour (AM)
Optional: Half Day Qasr Al Hosn & Presidential Palace Tour (PM)
Optional: Abu Dhabi City Tour & Qasr Al Hosn & Presidential Palace Combo Package
Overnight: Abu Dhabi
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Monday - Travel to Dubai
Spend your morning at leisure. In the afternoon, travel to Dubai, the quintessential land of opulence, wealth and astonishing skyscrapers. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel with free time for individual explorations
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Tuesday - Full Day in Dubai
Spend the day at leisure to further explore this vibrant city on your own. Or, participate in the optional tour to Sharjah, a cultural center of the Emirates, known for its major museums, distinctive landmarks, and elegant mosques. Visit the Islamic Museum, housing over 5000 artifacts from all over the Islamic World and the Heritage Museum depicting Sharjah's rich and diverse heritage. Time to stroll in the unique covered souk and bargain to your heart's content for jewelry, handicrafts, and carpets. 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 surreal surrounding desert. Feel the thrill of "dune bashing" as you spiral up and down the enormous golden dunes. Upon arrival at the Bedouin campsite, you'll be welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee and might have the opportunity to ride a camel. Then, savor a specially prepared barbecue dinner. Later, watch a Tanoura dance show, followed by a captivating belly dance before returning to Dubai*
*For the Half Day Desert Safari with dinner, there will be no belly dancing following the Tanoura dance show and no alcohol will be served during dinner through Ramadan
Optional: Half Day Sharjah Tour (AM)
Optional: Half Day Desert Safari with dinner (PM)
Optional: Sharjah Tour & Desert Safari with Dinner Combo Package
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Wednesday - Full Day in Dubai
Enjoy your morning at leisure in fabulous Dubai, one of the world's most futuristic cities with its dramatic skyline, or perhaps join the optional city tour of Dubai. Begin with a photo stop at Dubai's signature landmark, Burj Al Arab, the celebrated sail-shaped hotel facing the Persian Gulf. Continue with a brief stop at the magnificent Jumeirah mosque. Afterwards, drive to the oldest part of the city. The Bastakiya area is where old wind-towered houses of wealthy merchants can still be seen. While in the area, view the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort, which has survived for two centuries. 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 and allow the mystical aromas of numerous spices tantalize your senses. The jewelry on sale, varies from traditional to the latest designs at amazingly affordable prices. After the Dubai city tour, spend time at leisure or join the optional tour to Burj Khalifa where no building in modern history has aroused so much curiosity and intrigue. Throughout the journey to the top, you are entertained by the multi-media presentation of exotic history of Dubai and the marvel of Burj Khalifa. Admire the breathtaking views from your vantage point on level 124 of the world's tallest building. It's a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed!
Optional: Half Day Dubai Tour (AM)
Optional: Half Day Burj Khalifa Tour (PM)
Optional: Dubai City Tour & Burj Khalifa Combo Package
Overnight: Dubai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Thursday - Depart the United Arab Emirates
Transfer to the Etihad office in Dubai and head to Abu Dhabi airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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