Within the second largest emirate after Abu Dhabi, the city of Dubai has transformed itself from a small fishing settlement into one of the world’s most modern and developed cities.
Following the discovery of oil in the region in the 1960s, the city quickly grew into the commercial hub and prime tourist destination we see today. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Arabian Gulf’, the city is divided by Dubai Creek into the north and south regions, Deira and Bur Dubai.
The cosmopolitan region of Deira combines the modern with traditional in abundance, widely evident in the contrasts between the magnificent modern shopping centres and the colourful ancient souks.
Bur Dubai meanwhile, offers a more Arabian flavour of the region: here you can discover elegant mosques, unspoilt beaches, desert oases and traditional souks including the famous Gold Souk.
Dubai City Tour
Begin your morning excursion with a drive to one of Dubai’s most iconic images, the Burj Al Arab hotel.
Located on a manmade island in the Persian Gulf nearly 300 metres from the mainland, at 321 metres in height the hotel is by far the tallest in use today.
Following a brief photostop outside the hotel, you re-board your coach and continue your excursion with a further photostop at the famed Jumeirah Mosque, one of Dubai’s largest and a prime example of modern Islamic architecture.
Step back in time with a visit to the traditional region of Bastakiya, then continue on to the Dubai Museum. Housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort, constructed in 1800, the Dubai Museum is home to a variety of exhibitions designed to preserve local antiquities and traditions.
After time at the museum, your tour will take you past Sheikh Saeed’s House, the elaborate residence of the 19th-century ruler.
You conclude your tour with visits to the famous spice and gold souks of the city. Here you can absorb a flavour of traditional Dubai or perhaps shop for jewellery before returning to Port Rashid and Spirit of Adventure.
Included excursion
Duration: 41/2 hours
Dune Dinner Safari
Beyond Dubai city lie sweeping desert landscapes, and this exciting evening excursion enables you to experience the magical quality of the dunes beneath the stars.
Embark your four-wheel-drive vehicle and set out on a journey through traditional Bedouin settlements to an exclusive Arabian camp.
Perhaps learn how to ride a camel and see how henna artists create distinctive designs typical of the Arab world.
During your time at the camp, you will be treated to an authentic Arabian barbecue, followed by a show from local bellydancers.
Optional excursion
Duration: 6 ½ hours
Modern Dubai City Tour
This unforgettable excursion reveals the modern delights of Dubai, beginning with a visit to the Palm Island Project Office to see the development of what has been dubbed the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’.
This monumental project is set to be a gigantic palm tree-shaped resort; a construction featuring 120 kilometres of sandy beaches, which the designers claim will be visible from the moon.
Continue your excursion with a drive through the marina projects and Media City to Emirates Hills, a new and exclusive residential district, before reaching the colourful Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
This vast and vibrant market features hundreds of shops and restaurants, selling everything from leading brands to traditional handicrafts.
Further shopping delights can be experienced at the Renaissance-style shopping centre, Mercato, before your return to Spirit of Adventure.
Optional excursion
Duration: 4 ½ hours
Sharjah Heritage Tour
Depart the port and drive to Sharjah, the third largest of the United Arab Emirates set on both the Persian and Oman Gulfs.
Your tour begins with a drive past the Quran Roundabout to the American University, where you can enjoy a drive through the campus grounds to admire the impressive Islamic architecture.
Continue past the Ladies Club en route to the Fort of Sharjah, the early 19th-century former residence of the ruling family. Visit next the Al Naboodah House.
Also known as the Sharjah Heritage Museum, this beautiful former residence provides a fascinating insight into the culture and traditions of life in Sharjah.
From Al Naboodah House, your coach takes you to explore the fish and vegetable markets of the town, before stopping at the Souq Al Markazi.
Here you can browse the endless array of handicrafts, from carpets to fine jewellery, before returning to the port.
Included excursion
Duration: 4 ½ hours
Stable Tour
Dubai is renowned worldwide for its horse racing; the Dubai World Cup being one of the most prestigious and expensive events in the sport.
This exclusive tour provides an insight into one of the world’s finest thoroughbred training facilities. A very early start takes you to the Godolphin Stables to enjoy a guided tour unveiling the equipment, training areas, stable areas and feed rooms of this leading complex.
Following your tour of the stables, travel on to the Spikes Lounge at the Nad Al Sheba Club where you can enjoy an included breakfast.
You will be able to tour the jockey and steward areas, and also enjoy an early morning viewing of the famous course from the Millennium Gallery.
You conclude your excursion with a walk around the Godolphin Gallery, a magnificent display of all the major trophies won by the Godolphin-trained horses.
Optional excursion
Duration: 4 hours