Day 01: Arrive Muscat (OMAN)

Ahlaan wa Sahlaan! We are welcomed at Muscat Airport with traditional Middle Eastern hospitality. Our Arab Sheikdoms journey begins in Oman, a hidden heritage gem that is one of the least known of all the sheikhdoms. Founded 900 years ago, Oman’s historical influences stretched as far as East Africa, where it colonized Zanzibar, in 1698. Famous for its spices, Oman is also the original home of frankincense. The Magi, who went to Bethlehem in search of baby Jesus, also carried frankincense as a gift.

Our destination today, Muscat, is set between the blue Arabian Ocean and the brown pleated Western Al Hajar Mountains. Oman’s capital is a unique blend of medieval and modern, and the balance of our day is free to start exploring. Our accommodation for the evening is a delightful blend of modern comfort and Middle Eastern charm, conveniently close to both the airport and key attractions.Oman has a population of nearly 4.7 million and is ranked as the 124th (out of 195 countries) most-populous country in the world. We have a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and get the first taste to the delicious Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.

Overnight: Park Inn By Radisson, Muscat (2 nights) (D)

Day 02: Muscat

Embarking on our Muscat exploration, we  visit the Grand Sultan Qaboos Mosque, a modern architectural marvel crafted over six and a half years with 300,000 tons of sandstone. The mosque stands as a testament to Oman's grandeur.

As we drive through Muscat, marvel at a blend of old and new buildings adorned with touches of Islamic architecture. The panoramic corniche in Old Muscat unveils the Al Aalam Palace, the late Sultan Qaboos's official residence, flanked by the twin Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Our journey includes a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum, offering an extensive collection detailing Oman's rich history and culture.

Explore Oman's Royal Opera House before wandering through the enchanting Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest markets. Traverse its narrow-covered alleys, absorbing the aromas of spices, coffee, ancient remedies, captivating perfumes, and, of course, frankincense. Remainder of the day is free. Evening, we visit a local family at their home and enjoy homemade dinner with an opportunity to interact with the family (Please note this activity is only available for groups of 5 or more. Otherwise, a welcome dinner at a local restaurant will be provided). (B, D)

Day 03: Muscat/Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve (Drive)

With stunning views of the Arabian Sea and rocky cliffs, we take a thrilling drive to Sur. Here, we visit Bimah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater with blue green water, before continuing to sandy Fins Beach.  At the desert valley of Wadi Shab, we see fresh water cascading from the mountain tops to meet the briny sea water, creating environmental diversity unique to this wadi. We stop by Qalhat to see one of the oldest seaports in Oman, before finishing in Sur, where dhows (traditional sailboats) throughout history set sail to India and other countries. However, the climax of the day is when we visit the turtle reserve at Ras al-Jinz, housing one of the largest nesting areas for green turtles in the Indian Ocean. Some 30,000 turtles nest on the beaches of Ras al-Jinz. The turtle viewing is in a protected area and is a timed affair. It opens at 9 PM and continues to the morning, when gates close at 4 AM. Nature willing, we’lll be amazed at how the babies dig their way out of the sand like little flowers and then crawl into the ocean! Though turtle watching is a year-round activity, please note it is nature dependent.

Overnight: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve  (1 night) (B, D)

Day 04: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve/Wahiba Sands (Drive)

Dress up for the desert which takes through the rugged, untouched shores of central Oman’s east coast. Savour breathtaking sceneries of the desert hinterland, pass quaint fishing villages, and watch migratory birds. Turning inland, we explore some of the less-explored towns like Jalan Bani Bu Hassan and Jalan Bani Bu Ali. Each boasts a unique narrative of watch towers, old fortified houses, forts and historical walls. A particular highlight of Jalan Bani Bu Hassan is an outside viewing of a 200-year-old mosque, with 52 domes and intricate door carvings that Oman is well known for. Drive to the picturesque Wadi Bani Khalid, offering beautiful mountain formations and landscapes where farmers have cultivated the land using water streams for irrigation.

The beauty of the deserts is to witness the coexistence of desert and village economies. Here, we experience the warm hospitality  a Bedouin house with Omani "kahwa" (coffee) and dates. Heading south from the Eastern Hajjar Mountains to the Arabian Sea, witness the majestic Wahiba Sands—a vast sand sea with dunes reaching 150 meters, offering an ideal setting for both romantic and adventurous spirits. Our desert camp is located within the breathtaking golden sands. A thrilling ride over the dunes is enjoyed here before we are amazed by the spectacular sunset, and a traditional dinner.

Overnight: Sama Al Wasil Camp, Wahiba Sands (1 night) (B, D)

Day 05: Wahiba Sands/Ibra/Nizwa (Drive)

Start your day as an early bird with a unique opportunity to explore the dunes on foot, witnessing the mesmerizing, shifting colors of the desert. After breakfast, bid farewell to the desert and head north to Ibra, renowned for its fine horses and horsemen. On the far side lies Al Mansfah village, boasting magnificent mudbrick mansions owned by prosperous merchants in the 19th century.

Continue your journey to the highlight of Oman—Nizwa, a city with over 500 forts, castles, and towers. Nizwa was once the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries and the birthplace of Islam in the country. Explore Nizwa Souq, renowned for its silver jewelry displays. On Fridays, a popular cattle auction takes place, making for a unique experience! Move on to Jabreen, a 17th-century castle featuring dungeons, passages, and finely decorated ceilings.

Our day concludes at Bahla Fort*, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bahla owes its richness to the Banu Nebhan tribe, dominant in the area from the 12th to 15th centuries. This immense fort with unbaked brick walls and stone foundations is a remarkable example of fortifications in this region. It is also an example of the Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman*, of which there are some 3,000 still in use. These irrigation systems use gravity to channel water from underground sources, and originate from AD 500. Evening, enjoy sunsetting scene with Nizwai cuisine dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Golden Tulip Hotel, Nizwa (1 night) (B, D)

Day 06: Nizwa/Cattle Market/Al Ain (Drive) (EMIRATE OF ABU DHABI, UAE)

Friday is the day to experience the vibrant traditional livestock market in Nizwa, and indeed, we find ourselves amidst the lively scene. The large, open-air ring, surrounded by a low wall where traders conduct business, sees sheep and goats paraded in a slow, steady circle by their owners. Lambs and older animals, some cradled in their owners' arms, are scrutinized by men in dishdashas—long traditional Arab robes—sporting pillbox hats or turbans. The market resonates with the bleats of animals and the spirited negotiations of buyers and sellers. While predominantly a male-dominated profession, the market also features local Omani women, clad in black abayas and hijabs. The livestock trade strictly involves live animals, with no slaughtering on-site; traders take their purchases home for rearing.

Next, we visit the crafts souq, where one can admire souvenirs and, of course, loban (frankincense). A short walk and we are at Oman’s most visited national monument, the 17th Century Nizwa Fort. With a spectacular view over the town to the mountains beyond, it is a place to gaze over flat roofs and swaying palm trees and pinch yourself: you are truly in Arabia! Nizwa Fort combines elements of a castle and a fort and served as the administrative seat of power for various Imams and Walis who ruled the Imamate of Oman. Built in the mid-17th Century by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya’rubi, who successfully defeated the Portuguese. And now it is masalama (farewell in Arabic) as we cross over to the UAE and head to Al Ain. This 4-hour drive gives us an opportunity to see and compare the rural areas of Oman and the UAE. Enroute we will have lunch at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Rotana Hotel, Al Ain, UAE (1 night) (B, L)

Day 07: Al Ain/Dubai (Drive) (EMIRATE OF DUBAI, UAE)

After breakfast at our hotel, we embark on a day tour of Al Ain. Our exploration begins with the Cultural Sites of Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that bears witness to sedentary human occupation of a desert region since the Neolithic period, featuring remnants of various prehistoric cultures. Notable vestiges within the property include circular stone tombs (circa 2500 B.C.), wells, and an array of adobe constructions such as residential buildings, towers, palaces, and administrative structures.

Today’s excursion includes visits to Jebel Hafit, the nation’s tallest mountain providing commanding views of the city, Green Mubazzarah hot spring, Al Flaj irrigation system, Sheikh Zayed Museum, Green Oasis, Al Jahili Fort, and the Camel Market. After exploring Al Ain, we'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before driving to Dubai for our overnight stay. This tour is designed to enable us to stay at one hotel without the need to change accommodations every night. Thus we will have a 4-night stay in Dubai and explore the rest of the Emirates as day trips from Dubai.

Overnight: Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai, Dubai (4 nights) (B)

Day 08: Dubai/Ajman & Sharjah (EMIRATES OF AJMAN & SHARJAH, UAE)/Dubai (Drive)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras al Khaimah, and Fujairah. These were once independent sheikhdoms (literally kingship) unified in 1971 to form the UAE, creating a "federation of monarchs" with the federal capital in Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh of Abu Dhabi serves as the president of the kings of the UAE. Many of the emirates are unknown and less travelled to and thus make us experience which is local, uninfluenced and culturally laidback.

Today's tour takes us to two emirates – Ajman and Sharjah. Ajman, the smallest emirate, maintains traditional and modern fishing industries, alongside significant dhow building. Ajman's museum, located in an ancient fort that once served as the ruler's palace, showcases the emirate's originality. In contrast, Sharjah is a highly traditional kingdom, recognized by UNESCO as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World. Our tour includes visits to the Heritage Museum, Souqs Al Majarrah and Al Arsan, the most popular in the UAE. We explore the fish market to witness the day's catch.

After a short drive back to Dubai and some rest time, we embark on an exhilarating desert safari. We traverse magnificent sand dunes for an adrenaline-pumping dune bashing experience. As the sun sets, we experience camel rides and reach our campsite adorned with traditional carpets and pillows. Ladies may get henna designs before the evening entertainment begins with authentic Arabic music and belly dances, concluding with a barbecue dinner under the stars. Then it's back to the contrasting world in Dubai. (B, D)

Day 09: Dubai/Umm Al Qawain/Ras Al-Kaimah/Fujairah/Dubai (Drive) (EMIRATES OF UMM AL QAWAIN, RAS AL-KAIMAH & FUJAIRAH)

Today, we explore three Emirates. The first is Umm Al Quwain, meaning "Mother of two powers," a nod to the emirate's robust seafaring tradition. With minimal rainfall averaging at 42 millimeters per year, the coastal area benefits from refreshing sea breezes during the day. In Umm al-Quwain city, situated on the Arabian Gulf, we discover the old town area and the UAQ National Museum housed in a centuries-old fort. Nearby, Al Sinniyah Island in a protected lagoon serves as a sanctuary for seabirds. We also visit the camel racetrack at the village of Falaj Al Moalla.

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is renowned for its gulf beaches. We explore the capital city of the same name, where the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is located in a centuries-old fort, featuring regional history and archaeological exhibits. Adjacent is the grand Mohammed bin Salem Mosque, reflecting traditional architecture. To the northeast, the mountaintop Dhayah Fort dates from the 19th century.

The last emirate of the day is Fujairah, uniquely positioned entirely on the eastern coast of the UAE along the Gulf of Oman. The shores of Fujairah stretch about 70 kms from the city in the south to the town of Dibba in the far north, covering a total area of 1,450 sq. km. Our exploration here includes the Fujairah Museum, the old city, and Fujairah Fort. We return to Dubai for our overnight stay. (B)

Day 10: Dubai (EMIRATE OF DUBAI, UAE)

Dubai, the commercial capital and the most well-known of the emirates, is the focal point of our exploration. It is a harmonious blend of the old, new, and perhaps even glimpses into the future. We commence our journey at the Dubai Museum within Al Fahidi Fort. Next, we traverse the cloth markets, utilizing water taxis to cross the creek to the spice and gold souks. Stroll through the vibrant alleys of these bustling markets. Moving on to the Bastakiya area, we encounter the well-preserved wind-towered houses of affluent merchants. While in this vicinity, we visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre in the heart of the old Bastakiya area for a specially arranged local Emirati lunch and meeting with local folks. Enjoy an open discussion and learn more about Emirati culture and local traditions.

Driving on the Palm, we have a photo stop at the majestic Atlantis Hotel, famous for its architecture and underwater aquarium. Then, we visit Burj Al Arab and Dubai Marina (both seen from outside) followed by the Mall of the Emirates for a photo stop near Ski Dubai. A drive along Sheikh Zayed Road grants us views of artistically designed skyscrapers, leading to one of the world's largest malls, Dubai Mall, before a photo stop near Zabeel Palace, the residence of the ruler of Dubai. The afternoon is free, with an optional tour to the pinnacle of the world – the Burj Khalifa, offering breathtaking 360-degree views over the city, desert, and ocean from the 124th floor.

Evening, relish a memorable cruise along Dubai's Creek aboard our traditional wooden dhow. Sail past the illuminated skyline, witnessing a fusion of traditional and modern architecture. Enjoy the sights of 'Abras' (water taxis), old trading dhows, luxury yachts, and landmarks such as the National Bank of Dubai, Chamber of Commerce & Industry building, Sheikh Saeed's House, and the Heritage Village. Accompanied by a harmonious blend of Arabic and international music, indulge in a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring a diverse array of continental and oriental dishes, complemented by an excellent selection of beverages. (B, L, D)

Day 11: Dubai/Abu Dhabi (Drive) (EMIRATE OF ABU DHABI, UAE)

Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest of the Emirates in the UAE. Located just about a 2-hour drive from Dubai, it is one of the wealthiest and most modern city-states in the world. Abu Dhabi serves as the center of the oil business in the UAE. Situated on a natural island, the emirate encompasses several offshore islands and vast expanses of desert. The city is renowned for its lush greenery, planned development, and beautiful Corniche. The magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the sixth largest in the world, is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding President of the UAE. We visit the mosque and then drive to our next stop, the magnificent Emirates Palace Hotel, known for its interesting Arabian-style architecture (photo stop from outside only).

Passing by the Presidential Palace, we drive through the most popular street in Abu Dhabi, and visit the Heritage Village. Here, you can journey to the past and experience traditional life in Abu Dhabi before oil revenues altered the landscape. In addition to Bedouin tents, there are reconstructions of palm ('Arish‟) and other houses, old fishing villages, and a traditional souq. Continuing on to the Corniche, we have a delicious lunch. At the Port Zayed we visit the Date Market, where we will have a great opportunity to taste a variety of local fruits.

At Yas Island, we see the hosts of the first Ferrari theme park, the 21-circuit Formula 1 marina race track. Yas Island is home to the famed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Ferrari World, the largest theme park in the world, featuring the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster. We end our day at our centrally located hotel in the capital of the UAE.

Overnight: Marriot Hotel Downtown, Abu Dhabi (1 night) (B)

Day 12: Abu Dhabi/Doha (Flight) (QATAR)

Morning is free to stroll around Abu Dhabi on your own. There are many optional visits that you can add to your experience of the last emirate (inquire for details) before being transferred to the airport for our short evening flight to a sheikhdom which is playing a central stage in world sports, politics and mediation—Qatar.  We are met, cordially welcomed, and transferred to our hotel in downtown Doha, the capital of Qatar.  Qatar is a peninsular Arab country whose terrain comprises arid desert and a long Persian (Arab) Gulf shoreline of beaches and dunes. Also, on the coast is the capital city of Doha, known for its futuristic skyscrapers and other ultramodern architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design, such as the limestone Museum of Islamic Art. The museum sits on the city’s Corniche waterfront promenade. We have a 2-night stay in the capital city, Doha.

Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha (2 nights) (B)

Day 13: Doha

Discover the charm of Doha on a tour where you'll visit the many attractions in this fast-changing city, offering a fascinating blend of the traditional and modern. Our explorations today commence with the World Heritage Site of Al Zubarah Archaeological Site*. The walled coastal town of Al Zubarah thrived as a pearling and trading center in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, establishing trade links across the Indian Ocean, Arabia, and Western Asia. However, it was destroyed in 1811. A layer of desert-blown sand has protected the remains of the site’s palaces, mosques, streets, courtyard houses, fishermen’s huts, harbor, walls, and cemeteries. We will also visit the Camel Training and Racing Track at Shahaniya, the Sheikh Faisal Museum displaying artifacts from Qatar’s history, and the Barzan Tower, dating from the late 19th century. If time permits, a stop will be made at the traditional Old Souq, where we will be swept up into our own Arabian Nights story as we see Arabian falcons, the spice market, fabric and perfume stores, art galleries, traditional handicraft shops and Shisha-Cafés.

Breathing in the spice-scented air at Souq Waqif, we'll catch a glimpse of the falcons at the falcon shops. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, which is influenced by ancient Islamic architecture but boasts a uniquely modern design featuring geometric patterns. Marvel at masterpieces of Islamic art, including metalwork, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, textiles, coins, and glass. Enjoy a panoramic drive on Doha's Corniche with a photo stop and explore the bustling West Bay district. Visit The Pearl-Qatar, an artificial island spanning nearly four million square meters, and the high-end shops along the Porto Arabia Boardwalk. Finally, visit Katara cultural village, where the grace of the past meets the present. (B)

Day 14: Doha/Kuwait (Flight) (KUWAIT)

After breakfast, we take a short flight to the island sheikhdom of Kuwait. Upon arrival, we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel. Some interesting facts of Kuwait include that in 1899, Britain took control of Kuwait's foreign affairs. Following the outbreak of World War I (1914–18), Kuwait became a British protectorate. Then at the 1922 Conference of Al-ʿUqayr, Britain negotiated the Kuwait-Saudi border, with substantial territorial loss to Kuwait. The first oil wells were struck in 1936, leading to the oil boom of the 1950s and 1960s, which transformed Kuwait’s economy, cityscape, and way of life. After being invaded by Iraqi forces in August 1990, Kuwait came under the world’s focus during the two Gulf Wars.

Kuwait today is a cosmopolitan city-state with an ancient history, offering an authentically Arab experience. Our morning tour of this not so well known as a tourist destination, commences with the Kuwait National Museum, Sadu House, and Al Bader House, built in the mid-1800s and a great example of pre-oil architecture. We pass by the Liberation Tower, National Assembly House, Seif Palace, dating from 1880, Jahra Gate, the Fish Market, and Kuwait Maritime Museum. Enjoy a photo stop at the new dhow harbor and visit the Kuwait Towers - a proud symbol of modern Kuwait.

Overnight: Movenpick Hotel, Kuwait (1 night) (B)

Day 15: Kuwait/Bahrain (Flight) (BAHRAIN)

Continuing with our exploration of Kuwait, we visit the Grand Mosque (closed Fridays, Saturdays & public holidays), and proceed to the National Museum (closed Sundays). We visit the traditional fish market. En route to the airport, we see the Liberation Tower, National Assembly House, Seif Palace, Jahra Gate, and more. A short evening flight gets us to the last of the Arab Sheikhdoms in our tour, Bahrain. We are cordially welcomed and transferred to our hotel. We have a 2-night stay in Bahrain.

Overnight: Wyndham Garden Hotel, Bahrain (2 night) (B)

Day 16: Bahrain

Bahrain, derived from the Arabic term meaning “two seas,” is an island kingdom made up of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial ones. It was among the first emirates in the Gulf to discover and refine oil. The country has been ruled by Sheikhs from the Khalifa family since the 18thCentury and was also a British protectorate from 1861 to 1971.

Visit the Bahrain National Museum to explore a wonderful collection of exhibits, from contemporary Bahraini paintings, sculptures, and ceramics to scenes depicting life in the Dilmun civilization of 6,000 years ago. A highlight of the museum is a section featuring Arabic calligraphy, traditional trades, and crafts displayed in a reconstruction of a typical souq of the 1930s. Appreciate the unique buildings in Muharraq City, which are part of the Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy* UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the last oyster beds, storehouses, and shops that once sold pearls, extravagant merchant residences showcasing the wealth. Admire the traditional Gulf architecture at Shaikh Isa Bin Ali House seat of the government from 1869 to 1932.

Something very different as we visit a Camel Farm home to 175 camels residing here used for racing. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Qal’at al-Bahrain*. Underneath the impressive Portuguese fort there is an archaeological tell, a mound created from the remains of millennia of human occupation. Artifacts and structures in the tell date from the way back 2,300 BC when the site was the capital of the ancient civilization of Dilmun. About 25 percent of the site has been excavated so far, revealing residential, public, commercial, religious, and military structures. Balance of the day is free. Evening, we enjoy a sumptuous Bahraini dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 17: Depart Bahrain/Optional Extension to Saudi Arabia (Flight)

The Arab Sheikhdoms experience will make us yearn to learn more of the diversity in cultures. Hotel checkout time is 11:00 AM. Breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight timings, you will be transferred to the airport for your next destination. At this point in Bahrain, you are at the border with KSA. An ideal opportunity to extend the experience and visit this unique kingdom. For details please see KSA–Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or we customise the journey, just for you. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

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Guaranteed Departure(s) 2024

Notes

Inclusions

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 02 and a maximum of 08 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

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