Spread out over sandy inland deserts and the sparkling Arabian Gulf, the oil-rich United Arab Emirates has grown from a quiet backwater to the most developed economy in the Middle East, and now one of the hottest holiday destinations in the world. In supersonic Dubai, futuristic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands and palatial malls dance with one another in a constantly shape-shifting landscape. Abu Dhabi, the capital located an hour’s drive away from Dubai, proudly flexes its financial muscles together with a wealth of cultural riches. Fujairah, the eastern state along the Gulf of Oman, offers seaside sojourns and lofty excursions into the mighty Hajar Mountains. Discover all these and more today with a customised United Arab Emirates tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and glimpse into the Emiratis’ confident rendition of a very glittering future.
Dazzling Dubai
If there is a city that the future would use as its cover star, it would be Dubai. Audaciously ambitious in its urban planning projects as can be seen with cloud-piercing towers the likes of the iconic Burj Khalifa, and massive shopping malls the size of an entire city that come complete with indoor ski slopes and giant aquariums, architectural buffs and shopaholics alike will find themselves huffing and puffing with excitement. To see another face of Dubai aside the glitz and glamour, take some time out to indulge in some contemporary culture at Alserkal Avenue Arts District, an emerging precinct of pop-up restaurants, creative fashion boutiques and edgy galleries showcasing progressive Middle Eastern art. And if budget is not an issue, set up camp at Burj Al Arab, located on a man-made island and Dubai’s most luxurious hotel, and gaze into the horizon of what lies ahead.
Culture Capital
Apart from being the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is also widely regarded as its cultural heartbeat. For travellers looking to glance into traditional Emirati culture but still wish to be based in the urban comfort of a first-class city, the capital should be their first choice. Clad in white Macedonian marble and decorated with glass work, mosaic tiles and intricate carvings all around, the mammoth Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the city’s most singular sight, and the good news is all areas are opened to non-Muslims which can be a rare occurrence in the Middle East. And for those who are itching to discover culture beyond the city, the divine Liwa Oasis, south on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, is home to a cluster of traditional desert villages. Ride on dune buggies, go sand surfing or join a camel trekking tour and traverse across one of the world’s largest sand dunes.
Springs break
Follow the cue of the Emirati locals and head east into the state of Fujairah to escape from the urban noises of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Beaches and a laidback vibe take centre stage here as scuba divers, snorkellers and sunbathers gather to frolic in the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Oman. And for some surprise pampering that you may not expect in the deserts of the Middle East, Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs nestled in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains is a true-blue nature oasis offering well-deserved respite for both body and mind.
For more destinations in the Middle East, try:
Discover the bejewelled gems of the Arabian Gulf with a customised United Arab Emirates tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours today. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg for more information.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Dubai. Upon arrival at the airport, meet your driver and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel.
Today, embark on a tour of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Then, proceed to Palm Jumeirah. Here, gear yourself up for a range of thrilling activities at Aquaventure Waterpark such as kayaking, paddle boarding and flyboarding. This evening, embark on a 2-hour leisure dhow cruise. Feel the cool and gentle sea breeze as you glide along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow while enjoying an Arabian dinner that features delicacies from around the world. Revel in Dubai’s fantastic, brightly lit skyline amidst the calm swooshing of waves.
Dubai Marina
This morning, visit ancient Arabia meticulously created at Bastakia Quarter, the oldest quarter in the city. In the afternoon, embark on a safari in the enchanting desert. A desert safari in Dubai will take you to a camp in the stunning desert. Experience the adrenaline rush of dune bashing, camel riding and sandboarding in the desert before enjoying a belly dance performance to give you a truly Arabic experience.
Desert Safari
After breakfast, go on a half-day tour of Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, home to more than 30,000 aquatic animals. Thereafter, visit the world-famous Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building and be enthralled by this modern architectural and engineering marvel. It provides a breathtaking and unobstructed 360-degree view of the city, desert and ocean.
Dubai Aquarium
After a hearty breakfast, visit the beautiful Dubai Miracle Garden, where you will see millions of blooming flowers in stunning designs, awesome shapes and structures. Thereafter, visit The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall. Spanning over an area of 440,000 square metres, the complex is an homage to fashion and haute couture with its myriad of high- and mid-range labels.
Miracle Garden
Enjoy a private airport transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.