The United Arab Emirates boasts some of the world’s most impressive cities, as well as a diverse landscapes of beaches that stretch from the luxurious to the rustic, jagged mountainscapes and huge expanses of hazy desert. Start in Dubai and explore sights such as the Dubai Marina, Al Fahidi Fort and the historic Al Bastakiya quarter and spend an evening in an illustrious skyscraper restaurant with awe-inspiring views out over the city. Next take a Dhow cruise along Dubai Creek, explore a traditional souk or spend the day luxuriating at the Palm Jumeirah boardwalk - the world’s largest manmade island, and don’t miss the Burj Al Arab skyscraper, which is set against the sea and designed to resemble a huge sail billowing in a sea breeze.
History lovers will enjoy a visit to Sharjah which is filled with vibrant souks and antique architecture, while those with an adventurous streak should head into the desert to take a camel safari, a drive over the sand dunes or to spend the night in an authentic Bedouin campsite - complete with a local belly dancer and a barbecue buffer dinner under the incredibly clear desert sky. Next, spend a day exploring Abu Dhabi, visiting the stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the gorgeous seaside Corniche to enjoy the views of the city over the water. Afterwards pay a visit to Al Ain “the Garden City,” to view the 5000 year old archaeological remains at Hill Gardens, before travelling out along the East Coast to explore the mountains of Al Dhaid and the beautiful, unspoiled beaches of the Indian Ocean.
