Tailor-made
UAE
Private
Private Tour
Dubai to Dubai – 8 Days
Join us on an 8-day cultural tour to United Arab Emirates, a country of diverse emirates renowned for its modern developments, rich cultural heritage, and the world's most iconic landmarks and attractions. This holiday takes you from the heights of Dubai to the deserts of Al Maha, with a stop in the cultural heart of Sharjah and the modern marvels of Abu Dhabi. This is a trip of contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers and luxury shopping meet traditional Emirati culture and desert landscapes. Experience the warm hospitality of the UAE, its history and city life, and unwind in nature’s oasis.
From the luxury hotels of Dubai to the architecture of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the traditional charm of Sharjah, each day reveals a new side of each emirate. Along the way, encounter the beautiful beaches and sparkling waters of the Persian Gulf, as well as the dramatic Hajar Mountains that shape the landscape of the eastern emirates. The trip is led by our local expert and ends in the peaceful seclusion of Al Maha, a unique blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion set against the stunning natural beauty of the UAE.
HERITAGE AND CULTURE IN OLD DUBAI: Begin your journey in Old Dubai, where history meets modern life. Explore the Spice Souk, Gold Souk, and Meena Bazaar, discovering the city’s trading roots. Visit the Jumeirah Mosque and cultural centres to experience authentic heritage tours that showcase the deep traditions of the United Arab Emirates.
ICONIC ABU DHABI AND SHEIKH ZAYED LEGACY: In Abu Dhabi, marvel at the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a symbol of Islamic art and peace. Explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a global cultural beacon blending the Louvre Museum’s brilliance with Arabian elegance. This day combines art, architecture, and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed himself.
DESERT LUXURY IN AL MAHA: Retreat to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a stay at Al Maha, where the desert landscape reveals Emirati traditions. Enjoy a desert safari, try falconry, or relax under starlit skies. This unique desert escape offers insight into the natural beauty and traditional lifestyle of the United Arab Emirates.
MODERN MARVELS: BURJ KHALIFA AND BEYOND: Soak in Dubai’s futuristic energy with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower. From luxury malls to waterfront strolls, modern Abu Dhabi and Dubai offer world-class experiences while staying connected to their heritage. This United Arab Emirates tour blends innovation with cultural depth at every step.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Tailor-made
Light Moderate
Premium
This 8-day culture and heritage tour of the United Arab Emirates blends iconic landmarks with cultural depth. Explore Old Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, then unwind in the desert at Al Maha. From city skylines to timeless traditions, this journey captures the UAE’s rich and diverse identity.
Welcome to Dubai, where the future meets tradition in a world of opulence and architectural wonder. Upon arrival, a chauffeur will meet you at the airport and escort you to one of the city’s ultra-luxury hotels, where you will spend the next 7 nights. Your first evening in Dubai is the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak up the city’s luxury shopping, including visits to Dubai's world-famous shopping malls, iconic skyline, and vibrant nightlife featuring upscale bars, making it an ideal start to your holidays ahead. Afterward, consider a relaxing stroll along the Dubai Marina or Corniche to enjoy the city's waterfront atmosphere.
Explore Dubai’s cultural and historical heritage. Start the day at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding where Emirati traditions and customs come alive. Visit the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort to see Dubai before the oil boom. The day is a shopping extravaganza, from the historic alleys of Meena Bazar and the Spice Souk to the Gold Souk and the massive Mall of the Emirates. Each stop is a window into Dubai’s diverse culture and shopping scene, and the souks offer a great opportunity to sample authentic Emirati cuisine at local restaurants or food stalls, where you can try traditional dishes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage.
Today we travel to Sharjah, the cultural heart of the UAE, where over 600 mosques dot the landscape. Visit the Al Noor Mosque, a masterpiece of Turkish inspired architecture, and the Museum of Islamic Civilization to delve into the Islamic world’s heritage. Be sure to explore the Sharjah Heritage Area, renowned for its traditional architecture and museums that preserve the emirate's history and heritage. The day is not complete without a visit to the Blue Souk, famous for its gold, fabrics, Arabian rugs and more, a treasure trove of shopping. Return to Dubai in the evening, enriched by the day’s cultural and historical discoveries.
Travel to Abu Dhabi, a city that mirrors Dubai’s modernity but with its own charm and attractions. The highlight of your day is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, an architectural wonder and a symbol of Islamic art and spirituality. Afterward, visit the Date Market where the sweet aroma of local dates fills the air and taste the region’s delicacies. Abu Dhabi is also home to modern attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and other theme parks on Yas Island, as well as Yas Beach for leisure and water activities. The evening is for relaxation and reflection at your hotel, with the Abu Dhabi skyline, the sparkling waters of the Persian Gulf, and the Abu Dhabi Breakwater as your backdrop.
Al Ain, ‘The Spring’, a lush oasis in the desert characterized by its abundant date palms that provide shade and support a diverse ecosystem. Visit the Camel Souk, a vibrant display of traditional Arabic commerce where the air is filled with spirited bargaining. Visit local museums to see treasures from the 3rd millennium BC, ancient jewellery, costumes and pottery. Nearby, Jebel Hafeet stands as a prominent natural landmark, popular for hiking and offering panoramic views of the region. This day in Al Ain will give you a deep connection to Emirati heritage and a peaceful evening at your hotel.
From the city to the desert as you arrive at Al Maha, nestled in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. This unique destination is an oasis of luxury and beauty under the sun, a world away from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Check into your desert camp and slow down to the desert pace of life, surrounded by the stunning flora and fauna of the desert. Be prepared for high temperatures by packing lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the desert environment. While here, you can also experience a desert safari, a popular adventure that lets you explore the dramatic landscapes and enjoy cultural highlights.
Wake up to a leisurely day in Al Maha, immersing yourself in the desert magic. Experience the ancient art of falconry, learn about the importance of these birds in Emirati culture, or go on a guided trek across the dunes, reaching the general classification of desert activities. For the adventurous, a 4x4 dune drive will give you breathtaking views and memories. The day ends with a peaceful evening at the hotel, reflecting on the desert's timelessness.
A short journey from Al Maha brings you back to Dubai, the end of your Emirati journey. As you depart, the experiences of the past 7 days – from the architectural wonders of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the natural beauty of Al Maha – will leave you with a rich collection of memories to inspire your next adventure.
This tour was inspired by the desire to showcase the United Arab Emirates as more than just a luxury destination—it’s a land where modern marvels and cultural depth coexist. From the soaring heights of the Burj Khalifa to the tranquil beauty of the Jumeirah Mosque, we wanted to create a journey that reflects both innovation and tradition.
Exploring Old Dubai, with its bustling souks and historic districts, reveals the city's roots as a trading port, while the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi highlight the nation's commitment to art, architecture, and spirituality. These landmarks inspired us to include meaningful stops that reflect the vision of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE’s founding father.
The itinerary also draws inspiration from the desert landscapes and hidden gems like Ras Al Khaimah and Al Maha, offering an immersive experience into Emirati heritage. This is not just a holiday—it's a thoughtfully designed heritage tour.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in British pounds (GBP) and are subject to change. Please refer to the terms and conditions of this trip for further details.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014