Between Ocean And Desert

Between Ocean And Desert

6 Views
11 Days From

$2479

Between Ocean And Desert

11 Days Starting in Muscat and ending in Dubai

Visiting: Muscat, Bait Al Zubair Museum, Mutrah Souq, Al Alam Palace, Nizwa, Maison Musée Bait Al Safah, Jebel Shams, Jabrin, Nizwa Souq سوق نزوى, Jibreen Castle, Wahiba Sands, Sinaw Market, Al Manzifat, Ras Al Jinz, Wadi Bani Khalid, Sur, Wadi Tiwi, Bimmah Sinkhole, Dubai, Dubai Marina, Bastakiya, Burj Khalifa, Al Shindagha Museum, Desert Safari Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, Abrahamic Family House, Emirates Palace, Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain, Qasr Al Muwaiji

Tour operator:

Today Voyages

Tour code:

54417

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 24

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

From: $2479

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey "Between Ocean and Desert," exploring the rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes of Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Begin in Muscat, visiting the Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and Bait Al Zubair Museum, before venturing into the heart of Oman to discover Jabreen Castle, Al Hamra Village, and the breathtaking Jebel Shams Canyon. Experience the vibrant Sinaw Market and the serene beauty of Wadi Bani Khalid, then cross the desert dunes of Wahiba Sands. In the UAE, marvel at Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa, enjoy a traditional dhow cruise, and delve into the history of Abu Dhabi with visits to the Louvre Museum and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, adventure, and luxury, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience.

Highlights

  • Bait Al Zubair Museum

  • Mutrah Souq

  • Jabreen Castle

  • Jebel Shams

  • Wahiba Sands

  • Wadi Bani Khalid

  • Dubai Marina

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

  • Bait Al Zubair Museum,

  • Mutrah Souq,

Show all

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival In Muscat ( / / )

Location: Muscat

Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Panorama Muscat (4*)

Arrival at Muscat International Airport. After proceeding through immigration and collecting your luggage you will be met by your driver in the arrivals hall. Transfer to the hotel and check-in.
Overnight at Muscat.

Day 2 : Full Day Muscat Tour And Sunset Boat Trip (Appr. 80 Km) (B/L/ )

Location: Bait Al Zubair Museum, Mutrah Souq, Al Alam Palace, Muscat

Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Panorama Muscat (4*)

At 09:30 depart for the city tour which begins with a visit to the magnificent Grand Mosque, built with sandstone and marble. A beautiful Swarovski chandelier and a huge handmade Persian carpet adorn the main prayer hall. Then continue to Muttrah Souk, a traditional market. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and the scent of frankincense and spices. Next, visit Bait Al Zubair museum. This privately owned museum, located in the old town of Muscat, is known for its fine collection of traditional costumes, antique jewellery and weapons. Lunch is included in a local restaurant during the tour. Afterwards we will have a photo stop at Al Alam Palace, the palace of the Sultan, followed by a 2-hour sunset boat ride along the coast of Muscat. On the way back to the hotel, photo stop at the Royal Opera House and drive through the ministry and embassy district back to the hotel.
Free time for dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 3 : Muscat – Jabreen – Al Hamra – Jebel Shams Canyon – Nizwa (Appr. 350 Km) (B/L/ )

Location: Nizwa, Maison Musée Bait Al Safah, Jebel Shams, Jabrin, Nizwa Souq سوق نزوى, Jibreen Castle

Accommodation Name: Al Diyar Hotel

After breakfast we will leave Muscat and depart towards the interior of Oman. You will visit Jabreen Castle, Oman's most beautiful castle with its winding hallways, hidden staircases and beautifully decorated interior.
Later, you will reach Al Hamra and visit the village. Afterwards switch to 4x4 vehicles and go further up to Jebel Shams, the ‘mountain of the sun’. Enjoy the spectacular view from the Grand Canyon. Lunch during the tour in a local restaurant.
Afterwards, proceed to Nizwa, the former capital of Oman. Visit Nizwa Souq, which lies in the vicinity of the walls of the famous Nizwa Fort. The building embraces both traditional and modern architectural lines through its many alleys and divisions. Nizwa Souq has remained for hundreds of years home to a number of local industries, such as daggers, copper, spinning, livestock, fish, vegetables and handicrafts.
Overnight at Nizwa.

Day 4 : Nizwa – Sinaw Market – Al Manzifah – Wahiba Sands (Appr. 220 Km) (B/L/D)

Location: Nizwa, Wahiba Sands, Sinaw Market, Al Manzifat

Accommodation Name: Arabian Oryx / Sama Al Wasil Camp

After breakfast, proceed to Sinaw Thursday Market, held every Thursday. It is a very busy market due to its proximity to the Bedouin communities, who head there to buy staples and sell their livestock and handicrafts.
After the visit you proceed to a local house where you will meet the family and enjoy a homemade lunch.
After lunch, see the ruins of the old mercantile community of Al Manzifah near Ibra. Later arrive in Wahiba Sands. 4x4 vehicles will take you to the camp.
Dinner and overnight in the desert camp.

Day 5 : Wahiba Sands – Wadi Bani Khalid – Sur – Ras Al Hadd (Appr. 230 Km) (B/ /D)

Location: Ras Al Jinz, Wadi Bani Khalid, Sur

Accommodation Name: Turtle Beach Resort 3*Sup

After breakfast, take the 4x4 vehicles and return to the bus. You proceed to Wadi Bani Khalid, which stands in strong contrast to the desert with its natural pools and greenery.
Afterwards you will continue to the coastal town of Sur and visit the dhow factory. Drive to Ras Al Hadd and Check in to the hotel.
After dinner, night excursion to Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve, where you can witness the nestling turtles. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Dinner and overnight at Ras Al Hadd.

Day 6 : Sur – Wadi Tiwi – Bimah Sinkhole – Muscat – Flight To Dubai (Appr. 250 Km) (B/L/ )

Location: Wadi Tiwi, Bimmah Sinkhole, Dubai, Muscat

Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dubai

After breakfast , we will start our journey back to Muscat along the coast.
We will stop at the beautiful Wadi Tiwi and have lunch at local restaurant . You then head towards Bimah Sinkhole, a geological formation of the karst topography and a scenic wonder.
Continue your drive to Muscat and transfer to the Airport. Flight to Dubai (included).
Arrival at Dubai International Airport. After collecting your luggage and completing the formalities, meet one of our English-speaking representatives who will meet you in the arrival hall at the airport, welcome you and then accompany you to meet your driver.
Your driver will take you to your hotel (Transfers with an English-speaking driver, without a guide).
Dinner at your leisure. Overnight stay at a Dubai hotel.

Day 7 : Full Day Dubai Tour & Dhow Cruise Creek (B/L/D)

Location: Dubai Marina, Bastakiya, Burj Khalifa, Al Shindagha Museum, Dubai

Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dubai

Breakfast at the hotel.

Dubai is a unique and spectacular city. Start your visit with the discovery of the skyscrapers along the famous Sheikh Zayed highway which runs along the city. After a photo stop in front of the Burj Al Arab, an iconic 7-star hotel in Dubai.

Continue to the Dubai Marina and stop for a moment to admire the various buildings, before heading to Palm Jumeirah for some Instagram worthy photos with the famous Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal as a backdrop.

Taking the Sheikh Zayed Road back towards the city we stop in Downtown Dubai, home of the tallest building in the world. We’ll visit the highest observation deck in the world at level 124 of Burj Khalifa to take in some stunning 360-degree views of the city.

We stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

After discovering the modern part of the city, the scenery changes as we stroll through the narrow streets of the historic Bastakiya district with its Arabic wind towers. Learn more about Emirati history and traditions at the Al Shindagha Museum (including a visit to the childhood home of Sheikh Al Maktoum).
Cross Dubai Creek on board an abra (local, traditional water taxi) to reach the spice and gold souks where you can show off your bargaining skills.

At this point, your guide will leave in the hands of your capable driver who will accompany you until the departure of the dinner cruise.

Dine aboard a traditional dhow on the waters of the creek, you can discover the "Old Dubai" from another viewpoint. Admire the district of “Bastakiya” by night as you sail past the skyline of Dubai.

Dinner is an International buffet on-board a traditional Arabian trading boat – Dhow (cruise duration is 2 hours).
Your driver will drop you off at the hotel after dinner.

Overnight stay at a Dubai hotel,

Day 8 : Free Morning – Pm: Desert Safari With Bbq Dinner (B/ /D)

Location: Dubai, Desert Safari Dubai, Sharjah

Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dubai

Breakfast at the hotel.
Free morning.

In the early afternoon, 4x4 vehicles will pick you up from your hotel for a Safari in the desert (English-speaking drivers without a guide - 6 people per vehicle).

As you cross the golden sands, deep in the dunes, the safari guide will demonstrate his expert hand at the wheel and you’ll experience an exhilarating “dune bashing” adventure unique to the desert. Stop at the top of a dune to admire one of the most beautiful sunsets you can imagine and then drive onwards to a Bedouin camp for dinner. Relax for a while and be entertained by lively belly dance and traditional tanoura dance performances.

Your driver will then accompany you back to the hotel.

Day 9 : Full–Day Abu Dhabi Tour With Abrahamic House, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Heritage Village & Louvre Abu Dhabi (B/L/ )

Location: Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, Dubai, Abrahamic Family House, Emirates Palace

Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dubai

Breakfast at the hotel.

Leave Dubai and discover the Capital city of the UAE: Abu Dhabi!

The day tour of Abu Dhabi will begin with a visit to the newly opened Abrahamic House, where you can learn more about the three great monotheistic religions and their cohabitation in the United Arab Emirates. Then head to the Louvre Museum (entrance included and free visit – a guided tour is available at an additional cost)

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (food and soft drinks included).

Continue with a panoramic city tour along the Corniche, passing iconic architectural structures such as Emirates Palace Hotel, Etihad Towers and Qasr Al Watan. Take a short stroll through Heritage Village.

End the day by visiting the splendid Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the largest Mosques in the world and an architectural work of art. This historically significant Mosque blends architectural styles and embodies Islam's message of tolerance and peace.

Following this visit, the driver will then accompany you to your Hotel in Dubai.

Dinner is at your leisure. Overnight stay at a Dubai hotel.

Day 10 : Full–Day Al Ain Tour (B/L/ )

Location: Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain, Qasr Al Muwaiji, Dubai

Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dubai

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today, discover the oasis of Al Ain. Located near the Omani border and surrounded by mountain and desert landscapes, Al Ain is the second largest city in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. With more than 10,000 hectares of parks and gardens, it is called "the garden city" of the Emirates. We’ll visit the former home of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan (Sheikh of Abu Dhabi), then Al Jahili Fort to discover the history of Al Ain.

Lunch is at a local restaurant (food and soft drinks included).

In the afternoon, enjoy the lively atmosphere of the camel market followed by a walk under the shady palm trees of an oasis. We will also take you to “Qasr Al Muwaiji”, a recently restored UNESCO site where you can learn about the history of the royal family Al Nahyan, of Abu Dhabi.

After this visit, we head back to Dubai.

Dinner is at your leisure. Overnight stay at a Dubai hotel.

Day 11 : Departure From Dubai (B/ / )

Location: Dubai

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Dubai International Airport with English speaking driver (without guide).

What's Included

  • Return airport transfers without guide

  • Hotel accommodation in selected category

  • Flight ticket from Muscat to Dubai

  • Meals and programmes as mentioned above

    Meals and programmes as mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes 2 half board and 1 full board day in Oman, Dhow cruise dinner at Dubai Creek, Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner (except 1st program), and Musandam Cruise Dibba on a shared basis.

  • 1 small bottle of water in the bus

  • All transfers as mentioned in the programme

    All transfers as mentioned in the programme are provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle and a 4x4 desert safari in all programs (except 1st program).

  • Entrances to sites as per the program

    Entrances to sites as per the program and an English-speaking guide during visits are included.

  • Value added tax (VAT) 5% in Oman & UAE

    Value added tax (VAT) of 5% in Oman and UAE is included.

  • Meals and programmes as mentioned above (Oman: 2 half board & 1 full board day / UAE: Dhow cruise dinner at Dubai Creek depending on the program chosen; Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner included (except 1st program); Musandam Cruise Dibba on shared basis wit

  • All transfers as mentioned in the programme in a modern air-conditioned vehicle and a 4x4 desert safari in all programs (except 1st program)

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What's Not Included

  • Insurance; long haul flights and airport taxes

    Insurance, long haul flights, and airport taxes are not included.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as phone calls and beverages are not included.

  • Visa

  • Meet & Greet inside the airport/transit

  • Meals and beverages (unless mentioned in the programme)

  • Tour guide during Dhow Dinner Cruise and Desert Safari & Musandam Cruise Dibba

  • Tips for drivers & guides

    Tips for drivers and guides are not included.

    It is recommended to tip 3-4 USD per person per day for drivers and 5-7 USD per person per day for guides.

  • Porters in the hotels and at the airport

  • Tourism Dirham Tax

    Tourism Dirham Tax is not included and is payable directly to the hotel.

    The rates are: 5* hotels: 20 AED (approx.

    6 USD), 4* hotels: 15 AED (approx.

    4 USD), 3* hotels: 10 AED (approx.

    3 USD).

  • Insurance; long haul flights and airport taxes. Personal expenses (phone calls; beverages; etc)

  • Tips for drivers & guides (we recommend 3-4 USD per person per day for drivers & 5-7 USD per person per day for guides)

  • Tourism Dirham Tax (AED per room per night) payable directly to the hotel: 5* hotels: 20 AED (approx. 6 USD) 4* hotels: 15 AED (approx. 4 USD) 3* hotels: 10 AED (approx. 3 USD)

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with return airport transfers, modern air-conditioned vehicles, 4x4 desert safaris, and a flight from Muscat to Dubai, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey throughout the tour.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Radisson Hotel Panorama Muscat (4*), Al Diyar Hotel, Arabian Oryx / Sama Al Wasil Camp, Turtle Beach Resort 3*Sup, and Hampton by Hilton Dubai, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides hotel accommodation in selected categories, including stays at Radisson Hotel Panorama Muscat (4*), Al Diyar Hotel, Arabian Oryx / Sama Al Wasil Camp, Turtle Beach Resort 3*Sup, and Hampton by Hilton Dubai.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, meals are included as per the program. In Oman, there are 2 half board and 1 full board days. In the UAE, a Dhow cruise dinner at Dubai Creek and a Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner are included. Additionally, lunch is provided on several days during the tour.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, an English-speaking guide is provided during visits to various sites as per the program. However, there is no tour guide during the Dhow Dinner Cruise, Desert Safari, and Musandam Cruise Dibba.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    All transfers mentioned in the program are conducted in a modern air-conditioned vehicle. Additionally, 4x4 vehicles are used for the desert safari and certain other parts of the tour.

  • Are there any special activities included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes several special activities such as a sunset boat ride along the coast of Muscat, a night excursion to Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve, a Dhow cruise dinner at Dubai Creek, and a Desert Safari with dune bashing and a BBQ dinner.

  • What is the policy on tips for drivers and guides?

    Tips for drivers and guides are not included in the tour price. It is recommended to tip 3-4 USD per person per day for drivers and 5-7 USD per person per day for guides.

  • Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?

    Yes, additional costs not included in the tour price are insurance, long haul flights and airport taxes, personal expenses, visa, meet & greet inside the airport/transit, meals and beverages unless mentioned in the program, tips for drivers and guides, porters in the hotels and at the airport, and the Tourism Dirham Tax payable directly to the hotel.

  • Is there any free time during the tour?

    Yes, there is some free time during the tour. For example, on Day 2, there is free time for dinner, and on Day 8, there is a free morning before the desert safari.

  • What kind of activities are included in the desert safari?

    The desert safari includes dune bashing, a stop to admire the sunset, and a visit to a Bedouin camp for dinner with belly dance and traditional tanoura dance performances.

  • Is there any special dress code for visiting religious sites?

    While the tour description does not specify a dress code, it is generally advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as the Grand Mosque in Muscat and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

  • How does Today Voyages work?

    We are an Online Travel Agency, specialized in Group Vacations and Private Vacations. We have been in business for over 30 years through our sister company Go West Tours and, throughout the years, have developed an extensive network of trusted professionals around the world and a structured methodology to screen our suppliers. Today Voyages offers a selection of tours that are designed, managed and operated by our network of trusted Tour Operators and DMCs. Our database is connected with our partners so that when you make a booking with us this will immediately be received and processed by the Tour Operator.

  • Where should I buy the flights to reach my destination?

    Today Voyages does not sell flights directly. None of our tours come with flights included. Why? Because we prefer to give full flexibility to our valued customers to select the airlines and the booking platform they prefer. As soon as your flight is booked and confirmed, we invite you to update your flight plan within your Today Voyages booking confirmation page by entering your flight number, departure and arrival times, as well as your Passport information (if needed). None of these fields are mandatory but we highly encourage you to provide as much information as possible. This will allow us to provide you with the excellent service you are looking for.

  • What is an additional excursion or tour optional?

    Certain tours might show a selection of additional excursions/optional activities that you may want to add to our standard itinerary. These services are priced separately and can be added to the cart before completing the booking. We believe these optional services to contribute to making your vacation unforgettable; however, you are in no way obliged to purchase them. All our tours are awesome with our without optional services!

  • What is the difference between Group Vacations and Private Vacations?

    If you purchase one of our Group vacation packages, you will be escorted by a professional tour guide and will be traveling with other like-minded travelers you may not know. The group size depends on the tour you select. If you purchase one of our Private vacation packages, you will be traveling only within your group of friends. You may or may not be escorted by a professional tour guide; this depends on the type of private tour you are interested in.

  • When and how will I receive the travel documents (vouchers)?

    If you book one of our Group or Private tours, you will receive your travel documents via email approximately 20 days prior to travel date. If you reserve one of our Vacation Rentals, you will hear back from the property manager via email a few days prior to checking-in. We recommend checking your emails on a regular basis as this is our most reliable method of communication. If you have questions or need additional support, you can always chat with us or email us directly.

  • What happens if a Group tour does not get confirmed?

    It is very simple... you will be offered an alternative departure date or be refunded the full amount you pre-paid. No questions asked!

  • What happens after I book?

    The majority of our tours are confirmed at the time of booking. This means that, after submitting the payment online, you will receive an order confirmation email; make sure to save this email and to note down your confirmation number for any future communication with us. Some tours may be sold on a 'on request' basis. This means that for these tours we reserve the right to check the availability of your spot(s) with the Tour Operator before confirming the tour to you. As soon as you submit the payment online for a 'on request' tour you will receive an email notification that confirms your order request. Within 72 hours, you will receive either a confirmation email or a denial email. Do not worry... we will do everything we can to confirm your tour!

Reviews of this operator

Paula  

Unforgettable tour in the US National Parks

04-May-2022

I booked a guided tour in the National Parks through Today Voyages and couldn't have been happier! Our guide was great, he knew the destination very well and gave us great advice for the best hikes and view points. The itinerary was well-packed and we were amazed at the scenery of the South West. We would definitely consider booking another tour next year.

Date of experience: May 04, 2022
Emily  

Helengeli island is stunning

12-Apr-2023

Wow, Helengeli island is stunning. The resort is clean, the staff are so attentive, the grounds are pristine, and the food is 5*. Spending a week at this resort was simply paradise, white sand, crystal blue ocean, what more could you want! As I wasn't able to tailor-make my holiday, the Today Voyages team helped me find the tour that best matched my expectations, and they definitely didn't disappoint!!!

Peter  

Good Bali experience

03-Feb-2023

There is no better place on Earth than Bali to celebrate your honeymoon. We are so glad we came across this tour. Two unforgettable weeks of jungle adventures, beaches and snorkeling, massages, nature. And the price was great. We cannot be happier! Planning Vietnam for 2024!

Date of experience: January 29, 2023
Chetcu  

Top Experience!

03-Feb-2023

The Las Vegas and the National Parks Hiking Tour is a deal not to be missed. What a phenomenal trip! We were 14 people in our minibus and it was great to connect to all of them. So many stories to share. The cool thing about this tour is that it attracts hikers of all kinds: laid back hikers as well as more experienced ones could find beauty in every single destination this tour took us to. I will for sure join another tour soon. Thank you guys, also, for the assistance provided throughout the trip. Loved it!

Date of experience: October 19, 2022
Emmanuelle  

Amazing affordable trip!

20-Jan-2023

I booked a self-drive vacation to Greece for my family. The trip was amazing, easy communication, great customer service since we had an issue on the road with the car and we got immediate assistance.

Date of experience: September 22, 2022
Adelaide  

Unforgettable 8-day trip to Kenya

01-Mar-2023

I just came back from an unforgettable 8-day trip to Kenya. A mix of relaxation and adventure. I had never traveled with a group before and, honestly, I was a little skeptical at the beginning. Pauline at Today Voyages convinced me that this was the right tour and the right destination for me. And the truth is... she was right. Tsavo and Watamu are such awesome destinations, our guide was impeccable and it was a small group: a family of 4, a young couple, and us. We became friends. Highly recommended!

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Today Voyages allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 65 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Today Voyages requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of today voyages charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.