Desert Days

Known as the shining jewel of Qatar, Doha sits on the east coast lapped by the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. It is an ancient city in the midst of a modern renaissance as evidenced by stunning new buildings, resorts, shopping malls, and sporting venues emerging from the desert landscape like a futuristic oasis. Ships will dock at Doha Port.

Top Things to Do in Doha:

• sail Doha Bay in a traditional dhow
• shop at the Souq Waqif market
• visit the Museum of Islamic Arts
• venture to Khor Al Adaid, the inland sea
  

Al Manamah, the capital city of Bahrain, serves as a vibrant hub of commerce and culture in the Persian Gulf. This city blends modern skyscrapers with historic sites such as the Bahrain Fort and the Bahrain National Museum, which showcases artifacts from the island's 6,000-year history. The bustling Manama Souq offers a taste of local life with its myriad of shops selling spices, fabrics, and handicrafts. Don't miss the iconic Al Fateh Grand Mosque, a symbol of Islamic architecture and hospitality. Cruise ships dock at the bustling Khalifa Bin Salman Port, which is a 20-minute drive away.

The lure of Dubai is irresistible, from its glittering mega-skyscrapers to its traditional Islamic roots. Dubai’s most iconic sights include the 160-story Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, and the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, a luxury resort which happens to be shaped like a boat’s sail.

Dubai is all about luxe shopping, high-end boutiques, unique souqs (markets) and cultural institutions like the Dubai Museum. While you’re stopped on a Dubai cruise, you’re meant to live it up on unforgettable excursions like a helicopter tour of the city or a camel ride at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Khasab, often referred to as the "Norway of Arabia," captivates visitors with its fjord-like khors, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic mountain landscapes.

This city in Oman's Musandam Peninsula is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as dhow cruises in the fjords, snorkeling, and dolphin watching.

Its rugged terrain and small, scattered villages offer a glimpse into traditional Omani life, while the Khasab Castle, dating back to the 17th century, provides a historical insight into the region's rich heritage.

Sir Bani Yas Island, off the coast of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, stands as a unique blend of luxury, history, and wildlife conservation. Originally a royal retreat, it has been transformed into a wildlife reserve, home to thousands of free-roaming animals, including the Arabian Oryx, gazelles, and giraffes. The island's landscape is dotted with lush mangrove forests and beautiful beaches, offering a tranquil escape and various nature-driven activities.

Archaeological sites on the island tell tales of ancient civilizations, including a 7th-century Christian monastery that visitors can explore. With its carefully preserved environment and rich heritage, Sir Bani Yas offers an exceptional encounter with both nature and history in a secluded setting.

The world's richest city and the capital of the UAE boasts a wealth of culture, history and adventure, from the emirate's old souks, where you can sip a fragrant Arabic coffee, to the rush of the world's fastest rollercoaster. This 5,000-year-old metropolis is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and atmospheric back streets. Ships will dock in Port Zayed.

Top Things to Do in Abu Dhabi:

• admire the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• explore the Al Khatim Desert in a 4x4
• visit the Abu Dhabi Louvre
• enjoy high tea at the Emirates Palace Hotel

Known as the shining jewel of Qatar, Doha sits on the east coast lapped by the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. It is an ancient city in the midst of a modern renaissance as evidenced by stunning new buildings, resorts, shopping malls, and sporting venues emerging from the desert landscape like a futuristic oasis. Ships will dock at Doha Port.

Top Things to Do in Doha:

• sail Doha Bay in a traditional dhow
• shop at the Souq Waqif market
• visit the Museum of Islamic Arts
• venture to Khor Al Adaid, the inland sea