Itinerary (updated 9/15/23)
Sept 26
Depart from the U.S.
Our Dubai & Abu Dhabi adventure begins with transportation from Philadelphia or Lawnside to New York and an overnight direct flight to Dubai.
Sept 27
Arrive in Dubai and Transfer to Abu Dhabi
Our tour begins as we arrive in Dubai. Upon arrival, our Tour Director will meet us at the airport and take us to breakfast at Bandar Rotana. Afterwards, we will transfer to Abu Dhabi and check-in at Le Royal Meridien and enjoy some time at leisure. At 7:00pm, our group will meet for a welcome dinner.
Breakfast, Dinner
Sept 28
Abu Dhabi City Tour
After breakfast, we'll visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which fuses styles from different Muslim civilizations and celebrates cultural diversity. Marvel at the domes, reflective pools, and the world's biggest chandelier and carpet—both of which are handmade. Then we'll set out to discover the city's striking architecture, which reflects distinctly Islamic themes with modern materials; and we'll learn how oil has been central to the development of the UAE. We'll stop at a bustling authentic fish market, and drive along the Corniche waterfront which offers a breathtaking city view. Next, is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an art and civilization museum—the first of its kind in the Arab world—bringing together different cultures to shine a light on humanity's shared stories.
Breakfast
Sept 29
Abu Dhabi at Leisure & Dinner Cruise
Delight in a day of free time. Dive into more of Abu Dhabi, or
relax at our luxurious hotel. This evening, around 7pm we'll enjoy a dhow cruise and festive dinner. This traditional sailing vessel is the perfect way to appreciate the city's beauty under the moonlight. We'll slip silently across the sea overlooking Lulu Island and the Emirates Palace hotel.
Breakfast, Dinner
Excursion - Ferrari World, pickup 11:30am
Sept 30
Abu Dhabi to Dubai (Please wear group t-shirt)
This morning, check out of the hotel around 8:30am to head to Dubai! Today we will have a photo stop at Burj Al Arab Beach - From here we will have a fantastic view over the famous 7-star hotel Burj Al Arab and take pictures of it in the background. Next stop: the sensational Atlantis hotel to navigate the Lost Chambers Aquarium, a labyrinth of elaborately themed chambers with mysterious artifacts and fascinating marine life. Then we will drive to the glitzy Dubai Marina Walk. The Dubai Marina Walk features seven km of pedestrian walkways, which lead to some of Dubai's most popular restaurants and shops. It offers an alfresco lifestyle for those that love the outdoors. Early this evening, check-in at Hyatt Regency Creek Heights and have the evening at leisure.
Breakfast
Oct 1
Dubai Heritage & Modern Dubai City Tour
This day we depart around 9:30am to savor Dubai’s rich blend of old and new. Pass by Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, one of its most picturesque heritage sites. Proceed to Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai’s oldest standing building and home to the Dubai Museum, and witness the city’s intriguing story. Continue the journey by abra (traditional boat or “water taxi”), crossing the Dubai Creek toward the Spice Souk (market), followed by the glittering Gold Souk, to shop for treasures.
After lunch on our own, shift from “Heritage Dubai” to “Modern
Dubai,” integrating traditional souk charm with contemporary skyscrapers. Begin with the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and its incredible “At the Top” observation deck experience. Adjacent, visit one of the world’s largest shopping malls, home to an excellent aquarium that’s designed so you can observe the exotic wonders of aquatic life firsthand. We return to the hotel around 4pm for an evening on your own.
Breakfast
Excursion - Dinner in the Sky, pickup 7:15pm
Oct 2
Desert Safari, Bedouin Campsite & BBQ Dinner
After a morning at leisure, embark on an exciting desert safari around 3pm! Our safari guides will whisk us away in 4-wheel drive vehicles into the golden sand dunes of Arabia. Savor sunset overlooking the desert, and continue on to a Bedouin campsite
for camel riding, henna design, a delicious BBQ buffet, and more.
Breakfast, Dinner
Excursion - Miracle Garden, pickup 8:30am
Oct 3
Dubai at Leisure
A full day of free time in Dubai. Spend it checking out city sights
and activities. Then rejoin the group for a farewell dinner around 7:30pm.
Breakfast, Dinner
Excursion - Jet Cars, pickup 10:00am
Oct 4
Depart Dubai, Arrive in U.S.
Bid farewell to Dubai this morning, as we transfer to the airport
and board our return flight. Our memorable journey concludes
as we touch down in the U.S. and travel back to Lawnside and Philadelphia from JFK airport in New York.
Breakfast
PLEASE NOTE: While every effort is made to adhere to the schedule outlined, all services are subject to change due to local conditions.