Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Middle East Cruises

Enjoy an evening of eating, dancing and shopping on this evening tour of the souks.

Dubai is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, communities and commerce and this is an ideal opportunity to view another side to the city that never sleeps.

Drive past the picturesque creek en route to two of the city’s oldest souks at the twin city of Deira. Travel via an underwater tunnel to visit the aromatic Spice Souk then stroll through to the most popular tourist landmark in Dubai, the Gold Souk.

After the souk visits, continue onto one of the most popular Lebanese restaurants in the city and experience the local flavours with dinner and entertainment. Enjoy the restaurant’s resident band and singer as they perform popular Arabic numbers and the exotic belly dancer whose sinuous moves may send your head spinning.

Note: There is approximately 45 minutes of intermittent walking over mostly flat and paved surfaces. Guests wishing to stay later at the restaurant for late night entertainment are welcome to stay, but will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship. Arabic restaurants allow smoking indoors. During dinner food will be served course by course, family-style with two or more guests sharing a course from a common serving bowl or plate.

An exclusive opportunity to meet the beneficiaries of the Al Ihsan Charity Centre and visit a Palace for dinner with Royalty.

Your scenic drive will take you to the Emirate of Ajman; home of the Al Ihsan Charity Centre. This non-profit organisation is supported by His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz, one of the ruling family members, and here you will witness the good work that is carried out to meet the essential needs of some of the 6,000 orphans and 1,300 single women within UAE.

Continue onto the Sheikh's home, a modern-day Palace, where you will be personally received by His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz and his family. Your host will show you around his home, share trivia about his family and narrate some anecdotes about the local community. Enjoy the exclusivity of discussing one on one with your distinguished, well travelled host, covering subjects pertaining to the UAE, from politics and traditions to the economy and family life.

During dinner there will be the opportunity to experience traditional dishes of this region and discover the legendary Arabic hospitality. During the meal, your host will socialise and mingle, sharing insights between East and West. This exclusive experience should leave you with an immense sense of satisfaction having made new friends among the Emirati community and gaining a better understanding of their beautiful culture.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 17th December 2012 due to minimum numbers having to be confirmed with the Palace. The proceeds of this tour are donated to the Al Ihsan Charity Centre, a non-profit organisation committed to meeting the essential needs of orphans and single women who are uncared for within UAE. Conservative dress code is to be observed and shoulders and knees must be covered.

Experience ‘Atlantis, The Palm’, Dubai’s most spectacular hotel development on Palm Jumeirah.

Located on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, a fully reclaimed island off the coast of Dubai and self-declared as the ‘8th wonder of the world’, Atlantis is truly a destination not to be missed. On arrival at this stunning hotel, begin your unique experience at The Lost Chambers, a labyrinth that will immerse you in an exotic array of sea creatures, mystical antiquities and ancient ruins. Explore 21 fresh water exhibits highlighting sealife from around the globe, as well as the Ambassador Lagoon, containing 65,000 fish and aquatic species in a 3 million gallon chamber; one of the largest in the world.

Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing buffet lunch in Kaleidoscope, one of Atlantis’ luxurious restaurants, offering a selection of food from around the world.

Note: The dress code is ‘casual’ and shorts are not permitted.

View Dubai’s principle attractions from the comfort of your coach; ideal for those who prefer less walking.

The tour commences with a drive along Sheikh Zayed Road to reach the iconic Burj Al Arab, currently the world’s tallest water-based, all-suite hotel. Continue to Jumeirah, the picturesque residential area of Dubai that is home to modern-day palaces as well as the famous Jumeirah Mosque, a superb example of Islamic architecture and one of Dubai’s most photographed monuments.

Enjoy some refreshment at a local restaurant before driving to Al Bastakiya, the old part of Dubai. See the beautifully preserved old merchants’ homes with their ‘Barajeels,’ wind towers that served to cool homes during the hot summers before the advent of electricity and air-conditioning.

Your fascinating journey culminates with a short drive to the twin city of Deira via an underwater tunnel to visit the most famous landmark of Dubai – the Gold Souk.

Note: There is approximately 45 minutes of intermittent walking over flat and mostly paved surfaces. The order of highlights may vary due to the Souk opening times.

A unique opportunity to experience a bird’s-eye-view of Dubai.

This scenic 25-minute helicopter flight provides a unique, bird’s-eye-view of the extensive new developments of Dubai. See highlights such as the iconic Burj Al Arab as well as Palm Jumeirah, one of the three largest man-made islands in the world. You will also have the opportunity to grasp the full symbolism of another astonishing project, a cluster of 300 islands reclaimed along Dubai’s coast, collectively known as ‘The World’ islands.

Fly over Dubai Marina, the world’s largest man-made marina then photograph Burj Khalifa, which at over 2,600 feet tall is presently the tallest structure in the world. Fly over scenic Jumeirah Beach and the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road before making happy landings after a memorable experience.

Note: Seatbelts must be worn at all times when inside the aircraft, there will be a safety briefing prior to take off. There are two seats in the middle of the helicopter so not all guests will have a window seat. This tour will not run in the event of poor visibility and sandstorms. There is an overall weight limit for the helicopter which must not be exceeded for safety reasons, therefore you may be contacted on board to ensure the regulations are met.

Spend an afternoon and a night in the desert soaking up the extraordinary atmosphere under the stars.

Your exciting journey starts across the desert taking in the sights during a thrilling dune drive to stop at a camel farm.

Continue across the desert and watch the beautiful sunset before reaching the campsite where you will have the opportunity to participate in activities such as camel riding, sand boarding and try out a henna design on your hands or feet.

Having worked up an appetite, sit down to a delicious barbeque dinner, followed by a chance to try out a shisha - the famous Arabic water pipe. The evening entertainment includes a belly dancer performing her show around the campfire by starlight. Sleep in the desert beneath the star studded sky in tents enjoying the tranquility of the unusual surroundings.

A light breakfast will be served before your return to the ship.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Guests should bring towels, toiletries, insect repellent and a change of clothes, as well as warmer clothing for evening time. Sleeping bags and mattresses will be provided and tents sleep up to two guests. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Children under 12 may not participate. Optional camp activities include camel riding and sand boarding, both of which require some degree of physical exertion. Sturdy walking shoes or trainers are recommended for those guests choosing to sandboard. After 11.30pm please respect the silence of the desert. The camp offers one shower each for men and women and toilets are functional but basic.

A unique opportunity to visit the newly opened Sharjah Aquarium, Arabian Wildlife Centre and Desert Park.

Visit Sharjah’s newest and most exciting visitor attraction, the newly opened Sharjah Aquarium. This is the Emirates´ first large scale Aquarium where you can take a dramatic underwater journey and explore the amazing marine ecosystems of Sharjah’s east and west coasts. Descend 15 feet below the waves to experience the seabed through the largest underwater walkway in the Middle East. Witness a living coral reef and over 150 species of Gulf fish including sharks, stingrays, lionfish and clownfish.

Continue the tour with a drive to the Sharjah's popular Buhaira Corniche, presenting a postcard perfect view of the artificial lagoon and stopping for a photograph at the exquisite Turkish-style Al Noor Mosque. Drive into the city for photographs at the renovated Al Hisn Fort, former residence of Sharjah’s ruling Al Qasimi family, first built in 1820.

Round off the tour at the Arabian Wildlife Centre and Desert Park to see Arabian animals such as baboons, cheetah and the rare Arabian Leopard in natural surroundings. This museum presents an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of the Arabian Desert.

Note: There is approximately two hours of intermittent walking on this excursion over mostly paved and flat surfaces. Photography is not permitted inside the sites.

A chance to see the essential sights and discover some unique shopping opportunities in the souks.

This tour will take you to Sharjah, the ‘Pearl of the Gulf’, where you will see the King Faisal Mosque, one of the largest in the Emirates. A short drive then brings you to the Heritage Museum area where you visit Bait Al Naboodah, former residence of a prominent pearl trader of yesteryears and an excellent example of old Gulf architecture. The various artifacts and displays will provide a rare glimpse into the life and times of a bygone era.

A short stroll will take you to Al Arsah Souk, a quintessentially Arabic marketplace where you will have time to browse before walking to the nearby Iranian Souk. This is an open-air market with rows of shops selling nuts, spices and saffron imported from Iran by traditional dhows (sailing boats). Sharpen your negotiating technique here, before driving to Souk Al Markazi, a treasure trove of carpets, jewellery, handicrafts and much more and where you can practice your well-honed bargaining skills.

Note: This tour involves approximately 1½ hours of walking over paved ground. Most shops accept US Dollars. Sharjah is a conservative city, so please dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.

Discover one of the largest man-made islands and take tea at one of the most amazing hotels in the world.

This memorable tour starts off with a lavish morning tea at the Burj Al Arab, the tallest water-based, all-suite hotel in the world. Built in the shape of a towering sail, its presence on Dubai’s skyline is now iconic.

Enjoy an exclusive catamaran cruise towards Palm Jumeirah, one of the most enthralling new developments in the Emirates. The project involves the creation of the world’s three largest man- made islands known collectively as ‘The Palm Islands’.

The development has created a virtually self-contained community within the islands, unofficially known as the ‘8th wonder of the world’, its body mass will be visible from the moon. Refreshments will be served onboard the catamaran during the cruise.

Note: Photography and filming is not permitted within the public areas of the hotel and the dress code is ‘elegant casual’ with no shorts, t-shirts, sportswear or open footwear. Guests are required to carry clear passport copies on this tour due to security requirements of the Dubai Coast Guard. In the event of inclement weather the catamaran portion of the tour will be substituted with an alternative itinerary.

For a fabulous, relaxing evening, step aboard a fully fitted Arabian Dhow for a cruise on the Creek with an open bar.

A short drive brings you to the city wharf along the Deira bank of Dubai Creek where a charming Arabian Dhow awaits. As you step aboard the traditionally designed vessel, you are sure to be delighted by the modern and comfortable interior.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere, as soft Arabic music fills the air on deck coupled with the gently lapping waters of the Dubai Creek. Enjoy refreshments of house wine, beer and regular brand spirits, along with a selection of Arabic canapés as you glide past some of Dubai’s inspiring heritage sites, souks, banks and palaces. Sit back, relax and take in the wonderful evening atmosphere onboard the traditional wooden Dhow, whilst taking advantage of the renowned Arabian hospitality.

After the Dhow cruise, you will have time to shop in the most famous landmark of Dubai – the Gold Souk.

Note: There are approximately four steps to board the Dhow and ten steep steps inside the Dhow from the lower deck to upper deck. There is a ten minute walk from the Gold Souk to the coach parking area.

See the amazing sights and structures of Dubai from the top of the world’s tallest building.

Drive along the picturesque Jumeirah area, making a photograph stop at the famed Burj Al Arab, the iconic sail-shaped hotel. Palm Jumeirah is the first in a trilogy of three Palm tree-shaped islands reclaimed off the coast of Dubai, drive onto the ‘trunk’ raod for a closer inspection of its villa encrusted fronds and see the jewel in its crown, Atlantis, The Palm from a distance. Continue along to Dubai Marina and the sky scraping condominiums of Jumeirah Beach Residence and see how the desert land has transformed into a vibrant community in a matter of years.

Continue onto Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s new business district, for a look at some of the stunning architectural marvels. Visit the city’s `Mall of Emirates´ where a refreshment stop is made at Ski Dubai, the region’s only indoor ski dome offering fresh real snow all year round.

Reach the downtown Burj Dubai district for to visit Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enter the complex and board a high-speed lift which ascends to the observation deck at 10 metres per second. As the doors open on level 124, floor-to-ceiling glass walls provide breath-taking 360-degree views of the city, desert and ocean sprawled beneath.

Note: There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour over mostly paved surfaces with some inclines and a motorised walkway.

Let the magic of the desert unfold on a thrilling exploration of the majestic dunes.

Experience the thrill of driving over sand dunes in powerful 4WD vehicles. Enjoy the climb up the dunes and the stomach-churning drop into the valleys, skillfully handled by your very experienced desert safari drivers.

This tour departs in the morning across the desert of Dubai with photographic stops during an exciting dune drive to the first destination, the camel farm. The drive continues across the desert, stopping briefly on a dune to allow you to soak up the serene atmosphere. Reaching a beautifully set-up Arabian Camp, you will have the opportunity to try out camel riding, sand boarding or have a henna design painted on your hands or feet.

After working up an appetite, enjoy a delicious barbecue luncheon then sit back and relax with a Shisha (famous Arabic water pipe).

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. The safari involves off-road driving through rugged country, which adds to the excitement. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under four may not participate and it is a requirement for all guests to wear seat belts at all times. You are advised that the toilet facilities at the campsite are limited and rather basic.

See Dubai’s major sights, both old and new, on this panoramic tour which includes visits to the Dubai Museum and Gold Souk.

Your tour starts with a view of the world-renowned luxury Burj Al Arab Hotel - a fantastic photograph opportunity. Continue to the Jumeirah Mosque, a magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture. This is followed by a drive along Sheikh Zayed Road, which is considered to be the ‘Manhattan’ of Dubai with its high-rise glass buildings. In complete contrast is the Bastakiya area - one of the oldest areas of Dubai, where you will see ancient houses bedecked with wind towers. These towers were designed to provide ventilation in the days before air-conditioning.

Your journey through the Bastakiya area includes a visit to the Dubai Museum, housed in the 18th century Al Fahidi Fort. The Museum features realistic displays, which provide a fascinating glimpse of the historical links of the city with trading and pearl diving.

Finally, board an Abra (water taxi) to cross the creek and visit the aromatic Spice Souk and the extensive Gold Souk. Here you can purchase exquisite gold jewellery at competitive prices.

Note: This tour involves approximately 1½ hours of walking over paved ground. Most shops accept US Dollars and major credit cards. Please be advised that the lighting in the museum is set very low.

A unique opportunity to visit the newly opened maritime museum, Arabian Wildlife Centre and Desert Park.

Visit Sharjah’s newly opened Maritime Museum, the first of its kind in the region, which showcases Sharjah’s pearl diving and Dhow building heritage. Here you will have the opportunity to see life size replicas and learn about the different kinds of traditional wooden boats that were used since centuries for fishing, pearling and trading. A fascinating section pays homage to the pearling trade with displays of genuine Arabian water pearls as well as an assortment of equipment that was used to collect and measure pearls.

Continue the tour with a drive to the Sharjah's popular Buhaira Corniche, presenting a postcard perfect view of the artificial lagoon and stopping for a photograph at the exquisite Turkish-style Al Noor Mosque. Drive into the city for photographs at the renovated Al Hisn Fort, former residence of Sharjah’s ruling Al Qasimi family, first built in 1820.

Round off the tour at the Arabian Wildlife Centre and Desert Park to see Arabian animals such as baboons, cheetah and the rare Arabian Leopard in natural surroundings. This museum presents an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of the Arabian Desert.

Note: There is approximately two hours of intermittent walking on this excursion over mostly paved and flat surfaces. Photography is not permitted inside the Arabian Wildlife Centre and Desert Park.

Experience Dubai by seaplane and see the amazing buildings and highlights from a totally unique angle.

Take a scenic 40 minute seaplane flight for a bird’s eye view of the extensive new developments in the mega-polis of Dubai. See such highlights as the iconic Burj Al Arab as well as Palm Jumeirah, one of the 3 largest man-made islands in the world and self-declared as the '8th wonder of the world'.

Take the opportunity to grasp the full symbolism of another astonishing project, a cluster of islands reclaimed along Dubai’s coast, collectively known as ‘The World’ islands. Fly over Dubai Marina, the world’s largest man-made marina then photograph Burj Khalifa, which at 2600 feet is presently the tallest structure in the world. Fly over scenic Jumeirah Beach and the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road then return to port.

Note: The running of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Seat belts must be kept fastened at all times during the flight. All current cabin baggage rules and restrictions that apply for commercial flights also apply for this tour. Guests are required to carry clear passport copies on this tour due to security requirements of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.