Road Trip: Essence of Arabia

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is strongly rooted in its rich Arabic heritage. You simply can’t miss the local customs and traditions as you roam around the city’s souks or local markets savoring the delicious flavors and checking out the colorful wares. Famed for the stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi’s historical past is more evident at the 200-year-old Al Maqtaa Fort, or Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s oldest watchtower and a modern archaeological site. But it’s not just its own culture that the city nurtures so lovingly. Abu Dhabi is famous for its unforgettable multicultural experiences, the Louvre being a recent iconic addition to the city! Reminiscent of the stark post-modernist façade of the original, the Louvre Abu Dhabi impresses with its artistic and anthropological collections. Of course, if you are in Abu Dhabi, then you can’t miss the call of the desert. The silky sandy terrain of the Rub Al Khali, the largest portion of the Arabian desert stretches endlessly for you to discover on a drive or by spending a night in a camp in true Bedouin style.

Dubai is vacation town! It feels like this glittering sun-kissed cosmopolitan city exists to offer the discerning traveler the vacation of their dreams in every way possible. Standing on the world’s highest observation deck at the staggering Burj Khalifa to soak up stunning views of the Arabian Sea, it is impossible not to feel giddy like a child. It is pretty much how you are likely to feel for the rest of your stay as you stroll through Dubai’s souks or local marketplaces discovering traditional wares and the aromatic local cuisine on display. The modern shopping malls in contrast delight with their imaginative facades and designs, living up to their reputation of being a shopper’s paradise with the best international brands. Venue to some of the biggest concerts, festivals and events in the world, there’s no dearth of entertainment in multi-cultural Dubai with its many clubs, beach cafés and rooftop bars. However, your Dubai sojourn isn’t complete without a trip to the desert. The experience of a desert safari on camelback or camping under the stars like the Bedouins is just the perfect way to end your vacation.

Dibba Al-Baya is a cozy little settlement that nestles at on the southeastern tip of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula. Set on the Omani border with Sharjah and Fujairah, this town is the gateway to outdoor fun. A natural harbor and gorgeous sun-drenched beaches are the chief attraction here. Dhow cruises and scuba diving let you get up close with the colorful reefs and exotic marine species that inhabit the waters off the coast. Trekkers will relish the opportunity to explore the mountain scenery to their heart’s content. Given its classic old town vibe, there are not too many upscale restaurants offering international cuisine. However, if authentic Omani cuisine and dishes like kebabs are right down your alley, you are in the right place!

The hotel's otherworldly setting is a natural playground for adventure seekers - from sunset cruises to their very own Dhahab dhow, off-road adventures in the Sabatyn, village treks and mountain biking. The hard and soft coral reefs are bursting with color and marine life. There is plenty of choice: village treks, hiking trails, visit a local farm, enjoy outdoor cinema, book a speed boat tour or a romantic sunset cruise. Or do you rather fancy diving, snorkeling a cooking class, kayaking, archery? Feel free to choose from all of this and even more. The choice is yours to make.

Discover Fujairah, a sprawling city of glass and steel nestled by the foothills of the Hajar Mountains. Flanked by a pristine beach lapped by the azure waters of the Arabian Sea on one side, this city has featured in an important trade route of old. Today, it's known for its Corniche area by the beach and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the second-largest in all of UAE, reminiscent of the Islamic Ottoman style of architecture. For a closer glimpse into the city’s eventful past, a trip to the Fujairah Fort is a must; not only are the historical tales intriguing, but the views from the top of the fort are spectacular too. When in Fujairah, also explore the picturesque Snoopy Island which is a paradise for water lovers, and the Dibba Rock, a place of colorful corals, turtles, and clownfish that is ideal for diving.

Take a day trip to the east coast of the UAE. Enjoy the scenic drive as the city gives way to miles of sandy stretches surrounded by mountains. Stop along the way to stroll along the picturesque coast dotted with small fishing villages. Visit Dibba, one of the villages, to enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Explore the vibrant Friday Market, with local traders showcasing their collections of colorful crafts, pottery and carpets. Head on to the Al Badiyah Mosque, which is the oldest and smallest mosque in the country, built way back in the 15th century. After that, drive on through the pretty port towns of Khorfakkan and Fujairah, where you will witness the ruins of the early mountain habitation. Don’t miss the 300-year old Fujairah Fort and the fortress of Bitnah Oasis on the way. (Duration: Full Day; Shared Activity with Transfers; Included: Guide; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note that you will need to walk some distance; Please bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses & hats; Don’t forget to bring your camera.)

Explore Al Ain, an idyllic oasis shimmering in the middle of the sandy desert in the UAE. Nicknamed the Garden City of the Arabian Gulf for green stretches such as the Al Ain Oasis, this mammoth forest of swaying palms is watered by a traditional irrigation system. An important stop on the erstwhile caravan route between Oman and the Gulf, Al Ain today is a sprawling city marked by towering skyscrapers and UNESCO-listed sites scattered around, speaking to its reputation as a hub of culture. For travelers, the best way to witness the color and life in Al Ain is to stroll through its souks or local markets and soak up the heady sights and aromas. Just on the edge of the oasis lies the Al Jahili Fort offering panoramic views of the landscape from its summit. Equally stunning are the views from the Jebel Hafeet, the second-highest peak in the UAE, which you can reach on four wheels or two!

Experience the myriad attractions of Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage city, listed for its natural and cultural heritage. Go back in time at the Hili Gardens, where your guide tells you about the kingdom’s 5000-year-old history, traced through archeological finds and digs. Check out more of the land’s cultural and historic artifacts at the Al Ain National Museum and later marvel at the royal splendor of Al Ain Palace Museum, that once was the home of the late ruler Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan. Soak up the Edenic beauty of the Al Aini oases, watered by natural springs and lush with palm groves. At the Visitors Center, learn all about traditional farming and modern plantations sustained by the life-giving oasis. Later, wander through shaded walkways and sample on sun-ripened dates till you are ready to bid goodbye to this beautiful place. (Duration: Half Day; Shared Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: easy; Tour includes Private Guide)

Liwa is everything that you would expect in an oasis with plenty of palms and greenery around the waterholes. Standing out in contrast to the golden sands all around this sanctuary is located on the northern edge of Rub al Khali desert, southwest of Abu Dhabi. The birthplace of the ruling dynasties of the twin cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai is now a favored getaway for city dwellers. This verdant oasis has its share of landmarks in the form of an ancient fort and a camel farm among others. The smooth sand that sometimes shimmers pick in the sunlight is perfect for leisurely camel treks, thrilling four-wheel drives, and exciting sandboarding adventures. Each year, the oasis turns into a weeklong carnival of contests and souqs as part of the Liwa Date Festival. Meanwhile, falcon and camel racing, car and bike races, and shooting competitions liven up the region during the Liwa Sports Festival.

The pristine desert beauty of Liwa makes it the perfect town to explore on your own. Discover centuries of authentic Emirati culture in this ancient land of Bedouins, particularly the Bani Yas tribe which is also the origin of Nahyan dynasty, the current ruling family of Abu Dhabi. Find restored fortresses in the desert which appear like giant sand castles. However the biggest attraction of Liwa is the Moreeb Dune, the biggest among the sea of dunes known as the Empty Quarter. Climb to the top of this 300-meter high dune that runs to a length of 1,600 meters and has an inclination of more than 50 degrees. If you have had the foresight to bring a bottle of wine along, raise a toast to one of the most spectacular sunsets on the face of the earth. On your return drive pause at a camel farm and enjoy the legendary hospitality of Bedouins with a cup of frothy camel’s milk. (Duration: Full Day; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included)

Sir Bani Yas Island, with its pristine beaches and azure waters, sits off the southwestern coast of Abu Dhabi. With the distinction of being the largest natural island in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it once served as the private retreat of the country’s founding father. Now, the island is known for its sprawling wildlife reserve with free-roaming animals ranging from oryxes to cheetahs and gazelles. Game drives into the reserve in open-sided four-wheel vehicles let you enjoy the wildlife from a safe distance. Meanwhile, guided walks through the valley or wadis with their moonscape-like scenery make for a unique experience. Numerous archeological sites including that of a 1,400-year-old Christian monastery beckon explorers. Horse rides and mountain bikes are other ways of discovering all that the island has to offer.

A private island shared with sister resorts Al Sahel and Al Yamm, Sir Bani Yas is an homage to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Nature blooms, with a terrain that varies from salt domes to savannah to beach to mangroves, all ripe for adventure. Ride through the wildlife park. Kayak calm waters. (Kindly note that water sport activities are not available during the summer months from May until Aug). Book your activities of choice when staying at Sir Bani Yas Island: Wadi Walk, Falconry, Culture and History Tour, Archery, Land Sailing, Mountain Biking and Kayaking are options to choose from.

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is strongly rooted in its rich Arabic heritage. You simply can’t miss the local customs and traditions as you roam around the city’s souks or local markets savoring the delicious flavors and checking out the colorful wares. Famed for the stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi’s historical past is more evident at the 200-year-old Al Maqtaa Fort, or Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s oldest watchtower and a modern archaeological site. But it’s not just its own culture that the city nurtures so lovingly. Abu Dhabi is famous for its unforgettable multicultural experiences, the Louvre being a recent iconic addition to the city! Reminiscent of the stark post-modernist façade of the original, the Louvre Abu Dhabi impresses with its artistic and anthropological collections. Of course, if you are in Abu Dhabi, then you can’t miss the call of the desert. The silky sandy terrain of the Rub Al Khali, the largest portion of the Arabian desert stretches endlessly for you to discover on a drive or by spending a night in a camp in true Bedouin style.