Best of Dubai & Oman

Upon your arrival at Dubai Airport, you will be greeted by an English-speaking driver outside the airport. You will then be transferred to your hotel, where you can enjoy some free time to explore the surroundings. Take the opportunity to discover the area before embarking on your Arabian adventure.

Stay overnight at the Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Mina or similar and get ready for an exciting experience. 

Free time to explore the futuristic marvels of Dubai, or alternatively join our optional excursions. A half day city tour in the morning and a Dhow cruise with dinner and show in the evening.  

Unwind back at the Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Mina or similar for your overnight stay. 

Embark on an enthralling journey that seamlessly blends history and nature. Your day begins at 7:00 AM with a delightful breakfast at your Dubai hotel. By 7:30 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby, signalling the start of your voyage from modern Dubai to the enchanting realm of Al Ain. 

Around 9:00 AM, you'll seamlessly transition to Al Ain, a city renowned for its cultural richness and natural allure. Immerse yourself in the past at the Al Ain Palace Museum. 

At 10:00 AM, bid adieu to Al Ain Mezyad Border, which separates the UAE from Oman. By 1:00 PM, you'll make a stop at Ibri Bawadi Mall, located about 124 km, where you'll have time for lunch at Rimi Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal before heading out at around 2:00 PM to the Bat Tombs in Ibri, located 40 km from Ibri, offering a window into the echoes of the Bronze Age.

Around 3:30 PM, continue your journey onward to Nizwa, the road leads to the grandeur of Jabreen Castle by 4:30 PM, a testament to 17th-century opulence. 

By 6:30 PM, you'll arrive in Nizwa, located about 40 km from Jabreen Castle, a city steeped in heritage. Hotel check-in invites relaxation, providing a moment to reflect on the day's voyage. After checking in to the Heritage Inn, Nizwa or similar, dinner awaits either at your hotel or at a local restaurant nearby. 

Embark on a captivating journey through time and culture, commencing at 9:00 AM after a delightful breakfast. Join your knowledgeable guide as you set forth to unravel the captivating tapestry of Nizwa and its enchanting surroundings. 

09:00 AM - Your first destination is the iconic Nizwa Fort and Souq, a marvel of history. This fortress, erected in the 1650s by the second Ya’rubi Imam, boasts distinctive round architecture. Beyond its historical significance, Nizwa Fort stands as a living testament to Oman's opulent heritage. Within the fort's premises lies a bustling traditional souq, an eclectic haven where treasures like local handicrafts, silver jewellery, pottery, spices, and quintessentially Omani artifacts await your discovery. 

09:30 AM - Embark on your journey to Misfat Al Abriyeen, a village perched 1000 meters above sea level amidst majestic mountains. Steeped in 300 years of human settlement and agricultural history, Misfat Al Abriyeen is renowned for its breath-taking mud architecture ingeniously built atop massive boulders. Wander through labyrinthine passageways, be charmed by verdant gardens, and admire vast open terraces that recount tales of a bygone era. 

12:30 PM - Immerse yourself in an authentic Omani experience as you savour a delectable lunch hosted by a local Omani family in the heart of this mountain village. The flavours and warmth of Omani hospitality unfold as you relish this exquisite meal. 

01:30 PM - Continue your voyage toward Al Hamra village, a living testament to Oman's architectural heritage. Behold well-preserved mud-brick houses, historic edifices, and traditional Omani design, all steeped in a rich tapestry of history. 

02:30 PM - Your journey through time and heritage takes you to Bait Al Safah Museum. This treasure trove of antiquity, dating back 400 years, serves as a repository of cultural memories. Initially a political and social nucleus, this heritage museum provides a mesmerizing window into the local culture, history, and heritage of the village. 

03:30 PM - The road leads to Bahla, one of Oman's oldest oasis towns, home to many unspoken myths and legends of magic. Here you'll encounter the formidable Bahla Fort, a UNESCO-listed gem since 1987. This architectural marvel, built between the 12th and 15th centuries by the Banu Nebhan tribe, stands as a splendid exemplar of a fortified oasis settlement from the medieval Islamic era. Capture its grandeur in a photo-stop, a moment frozen in time. 

04:30 PM - Immerse yourself in Bahla's storied tradition of pottery-making as you visit the Pottery Workshop. Dating back to the third millennium BC, Bahla's legacy in pottery crafts echoes through the ages, a testament to artisanal excellence. 

05:30 PM - With a heart full of memories and a mind steeped in history, your journey concludes as you return to your hotel, where relaxation awaits—a fitting end to an extraordinary day. After returning to the Heritage Inn, Nizwa or similar, you have the option for dinner either at your hotel or at a local restaurant nearby. 

As the sun's golden rays caress the horizon, your enchanting day unfolds. Guided by your knowledgeable companion, you embark on a mesmerizing journey to the majestic Wahiba Sands – a realm of untamed beauty and exhilarating exploration. With the desert's whispers as your lullaby, you drift into a peaceful sleep, eagerly anticipating the adventures that tomorrow's sands will unveil. 

8:00 AM - Embrace the new day and relish a fulfilling breakfast that energizes you for the upcoming adventure. 

8:30 AM - Embark on a captivating journey as you set out with your guide towards the mesmerizing Wahiba Sands. 

9:00 AM - Your first stop leads you to Birkat Al Mawz, a picturesque oasis embraced by towering mountains. Immerse yourself in its beauty, explore ancient ruins, and wander through a sprawling banana plantation. Nestled on the southern cusp of Jebel Akhdar, the village reveals the architectural grace of a restored fort named Bait al Redidah. 

Unveil the mysteries of the UNESCO world heritage site "Falaj Al Khatmain." Nestled in Barkat Al Mouz, Nizwa, this historic 2,450-meter-long falaj boasts a unique water distribution system, ensuring a year-round flow that sustains life in this arid land. 

10:30 AM - The road winds towards Sharqiya, with a pause at Al Minzifah Ibra Ruins. This abandoned town of mud-brick mansions whispers tales of its 18th-century origins, offering a fascinating glimpse into Oman's rich history and cultural tapestry. 

12:30 PM - Pause to savour a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, reinvigorating your spirits for the adventures that await. 

2:00 PM - The journey continues towards the enigmatic expanse of Wahiba Sands, also known as Sharqiya Sands. This sprawling desert, spanning over 12,500 square kilometres, reveals a mesmerizing landscape of towering sand dunes, glistening golden sands, and endless desert vistas. 

4:00 PM - Brace yourself for an exhilarating experience of Dune Bashing. This captivating drive through the dunes, lasting around 30 minutes, showers you in a cascade of sand, a testament to the desert's timeless energy. 

4:30 PM - Venture onwards to your Resort Camp, where a warm welcome awaits. Check-in and freshen up for the next highlight of the day. 

5:30 PM - As the sun begins its descent, you'll be transported to the nearest towering dunes to witness the enchanting Sunset on Dune. A moment of awe unfolds as you watch the sun paint the sky with hues of gold and crimson, harmonizing with the tranquil desert landscape. 

6:30 PM - Return to camp, where a delectable dinner awaits, a tantalizing blend of flavours to indulge your senses. 

7:30 PM - Embrace the night's serenity, a time for relaxation and reflection, as you find solace in the heart of the desert, surrounded by the whispers of sand and stars 

Spend the night in unique surroundings at the Safari Desert Camp, Omani Desert or similar. 

Embrace the magic of a desert sunrise as the first rays of dawn paint the sky with hues of gold and amber. Awaken your senses to the promise of a new day, where the sun's gentle embrace dispels the night's shadows and ushers in a sense of renewal. 

08:00 am: After a rejuvenating start, indulge in a hearty breakfast that energizes you for the day's adventures. As the sun ascends higher, your journey beckons you to explore the captivating wonders of Oman. Your guide awaits as you set forth toward the breath-taking Wadi Bani Khalid. 

09:30 am: Your first stop unveils the heart-warming hospitality of the desert dwellers. Experience the warmth of a Bedouin House Visit, an intimate encounter that offers insights into the resilient lives led amidst the desert's harsh embrace. Delve into their traditions, stories, and a way of life that has endured for generations. 

About 10:30 am: As you bid farewell to your Bedouin hosts, the path to Wadi Bani Khalid unfurls before you. Nestled in the eastern region of Oman, this picturesque valley is a testament to nature's artistry. Crystal-clear turquoise waters meander through lush palm groves, creating an oasis of serenity amidst the arid landscape. Take a refreshing plunge into the inviting pools, allowing the cool waters to envelop you in tranquillity. 

About 12:30 pm: A symphony of flavours awaits as you enjoy a delectable lunch at a nearby local restaurant. Savour the authentic tastes of the region, a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds. 

About 01:30pm: Your journey continues with a visit to the historic Al Mudayrib Village. A town steeped in tradition and cultural significance, its mudbrick buildings and timeless architecture transport you to a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the stories whispered by its ancient walls, a living testament to Oman's heritage. 

Around 3:30 pm, the allure of Muscat beckons as you draw closer to the city's welcoming embrace. Upon reaching your hotel, the Royal Tulip, Muscat or similar, you will be greeted into a sanctuary of comfort and relaxation and to complete your check-in process. Take a moment to unwind and contemplate the day's explorations, enveloped in the serene atmosphere of your accommodations. 

After settling in, you'll be presented with a captivating choice: embark on a Sunset Dhow Cruise (at an additional cost) from Bander Al Rowdha. This experience is a symphony for the senses. A traditional wooden dhow becomes your vessel, gliding gracefully across the water. As the sun descends, it embraces the Muscat skyline with a golden hue, painting an enchanting tableau before you. 

Later, return to your hotel for dinner or venture to a nearby local restaurant, where the flavours of the region await.

Embark on a captivating journey through Muscat's vibrant tapestry, where every moment is a brushstroke painting the city's rich history and culture. 

About 08:00 am: Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, energizing yourself for a full day of exploration. Your guide awaits as you step into the enchanting world of Muscat. 

About 08:30 am: Your first stop is a rendezvous with magnificence at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This iconic Islamic masterpiece stands as a testament to Oman's devotion and architectural grandeur. Marvel at its intricate design and serene ambiance, a profound reflection of the nation's spirituality. (Note: Visiting hours are from 8 am to 11 am, Saturday to Thursday. Dress code applies.) 

About 10:00 am: The Royal Opera House Muscat beckons next, an architectural gem that hosts the heartbeats of arts and culture. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this prestigious venue, a sanctuary for creativity and expression. 

About 12:00 pm: Old Muscat welcomes you with open arms, and your first stop is the Bait Al Zubair Museum. Step into the past as you explore its corridors, discovering a treasure trove of Omani heritage. The exhibits narrate tales of art, tradition, and history, painting a vivid picture of the nation's soul. 

About 01:30 pm: Recharge your senses with a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savouring the flavours of Oman that dance on your palate. 

About 02:30 pm: Pose for photographs against the majestic backdrop of Mirani Fort and Jalali Fort, relics of Portuguese influence. The Al Alam Palace graces your view, a symphony of Islamic architecture and regal allure. 

About 03:30 pm: The enchanting melody of Muttrah Souq calls, its narrow alleys and vibrant stalls inviting you to a sensory journey. Traverse its bustling pathways, where treasures and trinkets from across the land beckon. 

About 5:00 pm: As the day's adventures come to a close, return to your hotel, the Royal Tulip or similar, where relaxation awaits. Reflect on the beauty, history, and culture that have enveloped you throughout this unforgettable day in Muscat. Your journey through Oman's heart continues, promising more tales of discovery and wonder in the days ahead. Free time for dinner.

Embark on a captivating odyssey from Muscat to Fujairah. Enjoy a scenic drive through valleys and wadis, passing by fortresses and greenery that take your breath away. Upon arriving at your hotel, the Radisson Blue, Fujairah or similar, relax and spend the rest of the day enjoying the beach.  

We recommend starting early so that you have enough time on the beach before heading home the next day. You can expect to reach Fujairah in about 6 hours. 

Bid farewell to the enchanting lands of UAE and Oman as you transfer to the airport to catch your flight back home. As you embark on your journey homeward, your heart will be brimming with cherished memories of the incredible experiences you've savoured, showcasing the very best of these two captivating destinations.