7-day tour of the United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai & the desert

Day 1: Arrival in Abu Dhabi

After landing in Abu Dhabi, a comfortable transfer takes you to your hotel. The rest of the day unfolds at a gentle pace: unwind for a moment, enjoy a short walk along the Corniche or simply relax in the warm evening air. Welcome to the Emirates.

Day 2: Day trip to Dubai

Today you travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai for a full-day excursion. Your visit begins in the historic Bastakiya district, where charming alleys and wind towers bring old Dubai to life. A traditional abra takes you across the Creek to the spice and gold souks, where scents, colours and lively trading fill the streets.

After lunch in a local restaurant, you explore the modern part of the city. You drive past the Jumeirah Mosque and the Burj Al Arab, then stroll through the atmospheric markets of Madinat Jumeirah. On Palm Jumeirah, the monorail offers a spectacular panorama before you end the day at the Burj Khalifa, with views stretching all the way to the desert.

Day 3: Abu Dhabi & into the desert

In the morning, you explore Abu Dhabi: the elegant Corniche, the impressive Qasr Al Watan and the shimmering Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Afterwards, you head towards the desert, with a stop at the Al Marmoom Camel Race Club, a quintessential glimpse of Emirati culture. A 4x4 takes you into the dunes, where the light shifts to warm golden tones.

At the desert lodge, an intimate evening awaits you: a softly glowing sunset, welcome drinks, sandboarding or a walk on the dunes, followed by an atmospheric dinner with live music.

Day 4: Desert day

You begin the morning with a peaceful camel ride through the dunes. Later, during a calligraphy session, you discover the elegance of traditional Arabic script. A cooking demonstration shows you how to prepare classic samosas, followed by a lunch full of local flavours. In the afternoon, you learn more about the Emirati bond with falcons during an impressive demonstration. The day ends once again under the stars with a warm dinner at the lodge.

Day 5: Abu Dhabi at your own pace

After checking out from the desert, you return to Abu Dhabi, where the afternoon is yours to fill. Perhaps Ferrari World Abu Dhabi catches your attention with its spectacular rides and signature red energy. If you prefer marine life, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi offers futuristic worlds and fascinating ecosystems.

A speedboat tour around Yas Island shows the city from a dynamic angle, passing skyline, mangroves and hidden coves. Warner Bros. World adds a colourful touch with its film-inspired settings. For an unforgettable overview, a helicopter flight reveals Abu Dhabi as a mosaic of islands, towers and coastline.

Day 6: Art, culture and city views

Your day begins at Louvre Abu Dhabi, a masterpiece where light, water and global art meet. Next, you visit the Abrahamic Family House, a place where three faiths stand side by side in harmony. After lunch, you step into Abu Dhabi’s history at Qasr Al Hosn and explore local craftsmanship at the House of Artisans. You end the day at the Observation Deck, 300 metres above the ground, with a breathtaking view of the city and the Arabian Gulf.

Day 7: Departure

After breakfast, your transfer brings you to the airport. You return home with memories of sparkling skylines, silent deserts and warm Emirati hospitality.

What budget should you expect?

For this 7-day journey, you can expect a guideline price from €4,600 per person, including direct flights from Brussels to Abu Dhabi and back. The final cost varies depending on your travel dates, room selection and any additional experiences you decide to include along the way.