Dubai

The most populous city of the seven emirates of the UAE, Dubai was once a tranquil coastal town of houses, huts with roofs made from palm fronds, and pearl divers. Today, the city has reinvented itself with the discovery of oil, and is now a major center of global commerce and finance. With sparkling, towering skyscrapers alongside ancient minarets, Dubai's entry into the modern world is flashy, fun, and more than slightly surreal. Indeed, when the city ran out of coastline on which to build, engineers created huge, man-made islands, some shaped like palm trees, others like continents - a testament to the immense, monumental ambition that drives the development of the city.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Bastakiya Quarter

Explore the shops, galleries, and restaurants in the alleyways of the Bastakiya quarter, an area that has been inhabited by wealthy Persian merchants since the late 19th century and was painstakingly renovated by the government in the 1980s. Narrow pedestrian alleyways snake around the district, lined with local architecture and wind-towered houses in coral-colored stone and beige clay.

Burj Khalifa

Visit the Burj Khalifa, currently the world’s tallest skyscraper at 2,722 feet (830 meters). The tower houses both residential and commercial spaces as well as the first Armani Hotel, situated in the lower 39 floors of the building.

Contemporary Art Tour

Dubai is home to an extensive collection of art by emerging Iranian, Pakistani, Indian, and Arab artists, as well as increasing exhibits of work by Western and Far Eastern artists. The Al Quoz district, one of the most popular art sectors, has seen more than 30 galleries open since 2005.

Notable galleries include: The Third Line, which showcases some of the most interesting art by Middle Eastern talent; 1x1 Contemporary, which was transformed from an old warehouse and displays art from all over the Asian subcontinent; and the Flying House, based in the private home of a curator, and which contains the work of three generations of Emirati artists.

Desert Safari

Take a ride out to the desert for a safari adventure. You will be picked up in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle that will take you to the entrance of the desert, where your driver will deflate the tires to prepare the SUV for the sand dunes. Your vehicle will then climb and slide its way through the dunes until you reach a tented area, where you can stop for a camel ride.

Dubai Museum

Visit the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, which dates back to 1787. The museum details life in the Middle East before the discovery of oil via a series of intricate, life-size dioramas depicting scenes of life at sea, life in the desert, domestic and commercial life. In addition to scenes on a date farm, in a souk, or open-air market, and inside a mosque, there are also detailed exhibits on some of the lesser-known aspects of the Emirates, including one on pearl diving complete with weights, scales, sheaves and other occupational accoutrements.

Dubailand

A giant conglomeration of theme parks and suburbs, Dubailand will, upon completion in 2018, be about the size of Singapore. Interestingly, Dubailand will also include a medical community centered around one of the world’s largest plastic surgery clinics, as well as an outpost of the Harvard Medical School.

Hatta Oasis

Visit the Hatta Oasis, a village located at the bottom of Hajjar Mountains. Hatta is accessible by a desert safari ride through the sand dunes and volcanic peaks before reaching the village. Take a dip in the series of clear-water pools, where tiny fish will swim with you or may even nibble at your toes.

Indoor Skiing

Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East and offers skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing (or just playing in the man-made snow). The construction covers an astounding expanse of over 240,000 square feet, covered with fresh powder year-round. Runs of varying difficulty include the world’s first indoor black diamond slope and a quarter pipe for stunt-minded snowboarders. Appropriate clothing and equipment can be provided.

Musandam Peninsula

Charter a private cruise on a luxury yacht to the Musandam Peninsula, a finger of rock overlooking the Strait of Hormuz. Its remote location is home to wild, mountainous fjords, dolphins and isolated villages. Visit the town of Khusab to go dolphin-watching or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.

Palm Jumeirah

Visit Palm Jumeirah, the giant, artificial archipelago that is the first of three planned Palm Islands off the coast of Dubai. Visible from outer space, the Palm's sister projects include the World, an archipelago of private islands formed in the outline of the seven continents, and the Universe, islands modeled after planets and constellations.

Sheik Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding

Have lunch at Sheik Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), where you will have a traditional Emirati lunch and will be able to chat (through your guide as interpreter) with locals about their lives in this singular city.

Snow Penguins

A rare opportunity to get up close to playful and cuddly penguins awaits you at Dubai's Snow Penguins experience. Touch, feed and play with several penguin species in a specially created environment, with private access available for Remote Lands clients.

The Creek

Cruise down the Creek, a huge natural inlet, at a leisurely pace on a wooden dhow, a traditional sailing vessel with triangular sails and a swift hull that sits low in the water. The Creek was once the only trade route in the Emirates, a position it now shares with Jebel Ali Port. As you cruise down the inlet, you will see myriad facilities providing anchorage and port services to traders from across the region and the subcontinent.

Underwater Restaurant

Have an over-the-top dinner at the Burj Al Arab’s “underwater” Al Mahara Restaurant (Al Mahara means “the Oyster” in Arabic). The dining area is wrapped around a massive aquarium holding 35,000 cubic feet of water, coral, vibrant tropical fish, and other marine life, including black-tip reef sharks. The menu is equally impressive, with a wide variety of seafood prepared in styles that fuse Asian and European cuisine.

Wild Wadi Water Park

Indulge your inner child at the adjoining Wild Wadi Water Park, a true feat of technology in such an arid region. Wild Wadi is the most technologically advanced water park outside the US, with 12 acres of grounds and 30 rides.

UAE Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Dubai Itineraries

Classic UAE

This 5-day classic journey to the superlative-laden UAE reveals its complete rags-to-riches story, from quiet bedouin life to glittering sky-soaring megalopolis. In Dubai, see the tallest building in the world, manmade islands in the shape of a palm, malls with penguins and ski jumps. An hour away in Abu Dhabi, see some of the world's finest art, taste the subleties of dates, and see the nation's bird in action.

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,000
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An Emirati Cultural Journey

This nine-day itinerary starts and ends in two most well-known cities in the UAE, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Discover the opulence and wealth of the country along with history and culture as the journey stops at Sharjah, Al Ain and more.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,200
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Arabian Peninsula: Art On The Beach

Discover trendy contemporary art galleries and some of the best exhibitions in the Gulf region amidst the gleaming skyscrapers of Abu Dhabi and the sand-coloured streets of Muscat. Relax on the beach with the tranquil backdrop of turquoise waters from the Indian Ocean and receive the finest in famous Arabian hospitality.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,600
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Cities of the UAE

This eight-day itinerary starts off in the best-known UAE city where opulence and wealth can be seen at every turn. Moving on to Abu Dhabi, a city to rival Dubai, the extravagance continues before traveling to Al Ain and Al Maha to discover the desert, wildlife, traditional markets and souks and true Emirati life.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,600
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Dubai to Abu Dhabi - Sun, Sights, Sand & Shops

This nine-day itinerary starts and ends in two of the most iconic cities in the UAE, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Shop to your heart’s content with travel through Al Maha and a stay at the Qasr Al Sarab for some pure indulgence in this desert oasis. 

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,900
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Earlymoon Getaway to Dubai and Oman

Ideal for an engaged couple who wish to pause their busy schedules and take a quick getaway, this 7-day itinerary through Dubai and Oman promises to clear the mind and re-energize the spirit.

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,500
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Exclusive Excursions: Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Hop between the UAE’s two most opulent desert emirates on this exclusive 6-day luxury tour. You’ll experience a few nights in the world-renowned Armani Hotel Dubai, see the sand dunes on a safari ride, visit important mosques, and spend time at the fast-paced Ferrari World, on this exciting adventure.

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $3,800
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From Desert to City: A Luxury Trek Across Abu Dhabi, Oman, and Dubai

Lights, camera, action: your highlight reel of Abu Dhabi, Oman, and Dubai is set to begin with this 14-day tour of all the luxurious hotspots in this exciting region of the Middle East. From desert islands to stunning fjords, this tour showcases the very best these countries have to offer, at the intersection of adventure and luxury. 

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $17,200
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Living the High Life: Maldives and Dubai

Jetset between two of the world’s most luxurious destinations: the Maldives and Dubai on this 9-day tour. You’ll relax in the paradise of North Malé Atoll, dive into the lively azure waters that surround, and fly to Dubai, where you’ll see the city from a private plane, all the while staying in the world’s best hotels.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,700
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Address Downtown Dubai
Preferred Hotel

Address Downtown Dubai

Dubai, UAE

The award-winning and flagship Address Downtown hotel in Dubai is the epitome of ultra-luxe. Perfectly located to offer views of the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountain, the Souk Al Bahar and the wider skyline, this refined and superlative property offers a wide range of accommodation styles, dining options and luxury facilities. Rooms and suites are generous with space (the Signature Royal Suite extends over an incredible 5,059 square feet), with options of views depending on your mood, as well as...
Armani Hotel Dubai
Preferred Hotel

Armani Hotel Dubai

Dubai, UAE

Designed with typical Armani flair and set in the heart of downtown Dubai, The Armani Hotel Dubai is one of the city’s most chic addresses and a must for fashion-conscious travelers. The hotel has 160 beautifully designed rooms and suites, some designed by Giorgio Armani himself and many offering incredible views of the city, with personal Lifestyle Managers on hand to make sure your stay goes smoothly. The hotel also has as many as seven restaurants and lounges offering Asian,...
Atlantis The Royal
Preferred Hotel

Atlantis The Royal

Dubai, UAE

Situated on the crescent of the tree-shaped Palm Jumeirah, the massive 43-storey Atlantis The Royal offers 795 rooms with impressive views of the iconic island and picture-perfect Dubai skyline. Designed by Kohn Pederson Fox Associates, the architects behind New York’s One Vanderbilt, with the intent to introduce guests to Dubai in a big way, it emphasizes light, space, and pools in the sky. The rooms are spacious (the smallest measuring just under 600 square feet) with plenty of natural light...
Jumeirah Burj Al Arab
Preferred Hotel

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

Dubai, UAE

The world’s first six-star hotel, it is regularly voted as the world’s most luxurious hotel and has taken opulence to a new level. All 202 duplex suites have at least 170 square meters of space and all come with their own private butler, Jacuzzi and spectacular views. The hotel also boasts six award-winning restaurants, the exclusive Assawan Spa & Health Club, a private beach, and a whole new level of personalized service.
One & Only The Palm
Preferred Hotel

One & Only The Palm

Dubai, UAE

Built with Moorish and Andalusian architectural style and techniques, this palatial hotel sits on a glimmering peninsula amid manicured gardens, fountains and pools. Understated elegance may have been their goal, but this opulent hotel is well-suited to Dubai’s over-the-top nature. Guests may choose from a vast array of well-appointed rooms, all boasting exquisite views, and featuring plush, Arabian-inspired interiors. Dining options at One&Only The Palm include the hotel’s four bars and restaurants, featuring fine cuisine of both Middle Eastern and...
One&Only Royal Mirage
Preferred Hotel

One&Only Royal Mirage

Dubai, UAE

Evoking memories of Bedouin palaces, the One&Only Royal Mirage sits on an expansive plot of coastal land in Dubai. It features three unique environments: The Palace, Arabian Court, and Residence & Spa. The Palace area has beachfront rooms, temperature-controlled swimming pools, and a watersports center. The Arabian Court’s regal architecture makes for a majestic atmosphere, featuring rooms and suites with sprawling sea views, and three fantastic restaurants. The Residence & Spa features its own private reception, as well as Arabian-styled...
Bulgari Dubai

Bulgari Dubai

Dubai, UAE

Opened in late 2017, Bulgari Dubai promises to set the standard for luxury in the flourishing metropolis. The property is situated upon the seahorse shaped manmade island of Jumeirah Bay and connected to the Dubai coastline via a 300-meter bridge. Featuring 173 sea-facing apartments, 15 private mansions, and 101 rooms and suites, the project is the work of renowned Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, the same firm responsible for all other Bulgari Hotels & Resorts. Imbued with the charm of a Mediterranean village, the resort is home to Bulgari’s first-ever Marina and Yacht Club, 20 villas with lush pools, a garden, and stunning views of the sea. The resort offers a full-range of facilities such as the gourmet Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, an iconic oval-shaped freestanding bar, state-of-the-art spa, 24-hour fitness center, beauty salon, traditional barbershop, and an exclusive beach club with a mosaic outdoor swimming pool.

St. Regis Dubai

St. Regis Dubai

Dubai, UAE

Located approximately 10 minutes away from the Dubai Mall and the iconic Burj Khalifa, the elegant St. Regis Dubai offers 234 rooms ranging from standard deluxe rooms to 2 different types of suites. Each room has a flat screen TV, a minibar and complimentary WiFi. The St. Regis Butler Service is available to all guests and services include unpacking and packing, beverage service, garment pressing and more. Unwind at both outdoor rooftop pools, which offer complimentary snacks throughout the day. The hotel fitness center is conveniently open 24 hours a day, and the Iridium Spa offers an array of treatments including massage treatments and facials. The spa is also home to two Hammams and separate female and male areas that include a steam room and sauna. Dining options at the St. Regis Dubai range from classic steakhouse fare at J&G Steakhouse to French cuisine at Brasserie Quartier. If you wish, enjoy a cocktail at the classic St. Regis Bar or the Champagne Lounge. A light menu is on offer at Sidra and Le Patio. Sidra is also known for offering a traditional British afternoon tea. Another place to relax is Café Fleuri, a Parisian style café offering coffee and light fare. The St. Regis Dubai is located approximately 25 minutes away from the airport.

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