United Arab Emirates Luxury Travel

See All United Arab Emirates Journeys

Modern Marvels and Ancient Sands

There are few places where the contrast between natural landscapes and urban splendors is as stark as in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where vast expanses of windswept Arabian desert and mountains yield to the glittering manmade towers of its capital city, Abu Dhabi. Stop by the falcon hospital, built to care for the swift raptors kept by local royals and businessmen who favor the exotic sport of falconry. Nearby, you can visit a skyscraper that dwarfs all comers — Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Make time for the massive Dubai Mall nearby as well, along with the aquarium, which brims with aquatic life.

Journey overland to the heritage area of Bastakiya, to discover the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort and the on-site Dubai Museum, for a glimpse of life in the region before the discovery of oil. You may also wish to stroll the nearby spice and gold souks, which you reach by abra (traditional water taxi). Join a shared heritage safari via vintage Land Rover, skirting the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, to sight local wildlife, and, if you’re still feeling adventurous, opt for a camel ride or try your hand at sand boarding. Pair your exploration of the United Arab Emirates with a visit to neighboring Oman and crown your adventure at a lantern-lit Bedouin desert retreat, where you dine under twinkling skies.