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Arabian oryx

Things to do in the UAE

From the ultra-modern skylines of its glittering cities to the traditional souqs and sandstone forts of its historic settlements, and from the turquoise blues of its coastline to the soaring dunes of its desert, the UAE is a country of contrasts. Our specialists have sought out different ways for you to get to know its many facets, from 4x4 safaris heading to Bedouin-style desert camps to a waterfront perspective on the ever-changing cityscapes.

We can arrange for you to discover the local cuisine – something that can be elusive in this country with Michelin ambitions. You could take a walking tour of the historic old parts of Dubai or Abu Dhabi to learn how the architecture reflects the culture and climate. Or you can leave the confines of the cities to climb the towering mountain peaks in Ras al Khaimah, tour 16th-century forts in Fujairah, or visit the Arabian Desert, where you’ll glimpse a traditional way of life amid sun-baked dunes.
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Audley Travel specialist Hannah

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Ideas for experiencing the UAE

Experiences you have as you travel often hold the longest memories. As part of their research trips, our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the UAE, and the best local guides. These activities reflect some of their best-loved experiences.

  • Old Dubai evening walking tour
    Old Dubai Evening Walking Tour, Dubai

    Old Dubai evening walking tour

    Old Dubai evening walking tour

    Look beyond Dubai’s gleaming glass-and-steel skyscrapers to discover the historic side of the city on this walking tour of the Dubai Creek area. Browse spice-scented souqs, explore Al Fahidi District and ride in an abra (water taxi).

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  • Middle East food pilgrimage
    Middle East Food Pilgrimage, Dubai

    Middle East food pilgrimage

    Middle East food pilgrimage

    Dubai is known for its world-class restaurants, but authentic Middle Eastern food can be surprisingly hard to find here. Get an insider’s glimpse into the cuisine on this guided walking tour, which includes sampling baklava, saffron ice cream and cardamom-scented coffee.

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  • Sundowner desert safari with dinner
    Dune dinner safari, Dubai

    Sundowner desert safari with dinner

    Sundowner desert safari with dinner

    Explore the desert with this evening tour that will give you the chance to ride a camel, go dune bashing in a 4x4 and enjoy a traditional feast under the star-lit sky. You may even glimpse some of the desert’s elusive wildlife.

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  • Private city tour of Abu Dhabi
    Lourve Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

    Private city tour of Abu Dhabi

    Private city tour of Abu Dhabi

    Discover the highlights of Abu Dhabi with your own private driver and guide. You’ll explore art at the Louvre, immerse yourself in history at Qasr Al Watan, and experience the city’s spiritual side at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

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  • VIP access to the top of Burj Khalifa
    Burj Khalifa

    VIP access to the top of Burj Khalifa

    VIP access to the top of Burj Khalifa

    Take advantage of VIP admission to the crown of Dubai’s record-breaking Burj Khalifa — the world’s tallest building — with this exclusive access experience. You’ll share refreshments in a luxurious lounge before scouring the horizonal views from a dedicated viewing deck.

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  • Traditional dhow cruise around Oman’s Musandam Peninsula
    Jebel al Harim, Musandam Peninsula

    Traditional dhow cruise around Oman’s Musandam Peninsula

    Traditional dhow cruise around Oman’s Musandam Peninsula

    After a scenic drive north to Oman, you’ll board a traditional wooden dhow and cruise the fjords and islands of the Musandam Peninsula, where the mountainous coastline meets the crystalline waters of the Arabian Sea.

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  • Historical walking tour of Dubai
    Spice souq, Dubai

    Historical walking tour of Dubai

    Historical walking tour of Dubai

    After exploring Dubai’s pivotal role in historic trading routes, you’ll discover the cultural influences of perfume, gold, spices, and spirituality in this vibrant city. You’ll also taste a medley of local delicacies as you wander atmospheric souqs and classical quarters.

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  • Traditional wooden dhow dinner cruise in Dubai
    Dhow cruise

    Traditional wooden dhow dinner cruise in Dubai

    Traditional wooden dhow dinner cruise in Dubai

    Aboard a traditional dhow, you’ll be enveloped in the maritime heritage of Dubai, sailing past the intricately carved minarets or sky-skimming masterpieces of the city. Just as the sunset tints the Gulf, your crew will serve a gourmet buffet dinner.

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  • A day in the Arabian Desert
    Dune dinner safari, Dubai

    A day in the Arabian Desert

    A day in the Arabian Desert

    Experience the vast Arabian Desert with a trip curated to your interests. You could choose a wildlife safari in a vintage 4x4, high-speed dune bashing, sandboarding, or heritage adventures such as camel trekking and archery, all culminating in a starlit feast.

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