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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven independent emirates, each with its own ruler. The federal government is a constitutional republic, headed by a president and council of ministers. Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices. The UAE is a modern, developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.


Known in the region as the "City of Merchants", Dubai has for generations welcomed seafarers and traders crossing the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf to its shores. You can discover this most vibrant of cities, where the best of the cosmopolitan, avant-garde architecture and the highest standards of service blend harmoniously with the mystique and culture of Arabia, to make a destination that is, quite simply, unique.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES The capital of the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi. It is the headquarters for the president of the state, the cabinet, and most of the ministries, the Federal institutions, foreign embassies, Broadcast TV, Mina (Port) Zayed, Abu Dhabi Airport and most of the oil companies, establishments and commercial markets. DUBAI The 'Pearl of the Arabian Gulf', the area of Dubai is 3885 km², equivalent to 5% of the United Arab Emirates' total area excluding the islands. The Emirate's population is estimated to be 695,000. A water creek known as Khour-Dubai, 10 Kilometres long, dividing the town into two divisions, penetrates Dubai City. The Southern division, known as Bur-Dubai, comprises the Ruler's office, head offices and major companies, banks, custom, port, broadcast station and postal authority. The most significant landmarks are the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Zoo and Al-Jumeirah Coast Park. The Northern division, known as Diera, is the centre of business and tourism and comprises most shops, markets, schools, hotels, clubs and Dubai International Airport. Al-Maktoum and Al-Garhoud Bridges and Al-Shindagah Tunnel, which passes under the creek, link the two divisions. Jebel Ali area is considered one of the most significant industrial and commercial areas in the whole country. It has the largest free trade zone in the Middle East. Due to its location, Dubai has become a connecting link between the West and the Indian subcontinent, the Far East and Africa since time immemorial. Traditional Arab hospitality complemented by a highly sophisticated infrastructure have contributed to a perfect atmosphere for the development of tourism. Dubai is endowed with an extensive coastline, sandy beaches and varied landscape where a wide variety of activities can be indulged, ranging from powerboat races to sand skiing. Manicured golf courses provide ready enjoyment and for the less active, shopping opportunities abound. In addition, the country's deep-rooted cultural heritage, accessible in the many cultural centres, has been a powerful attraction for tourists. Dubai has also become a much sought after venue for conferences, regional and international exhibitions and major sports events. A BRIEF HISTORY Archaeologists trace Dubai's early history back some 5,000 years to an established community on the ancient trade routes between Oman and Yemen in the south and the flourishing civilizations of the Tigris and Euphrates valleys in the north. The city's recent development began only in 1833, when a branch of the Bani Yas family of Abu Dhabi, led by Sbaid bin Said Al-Maktoum, whose descendants still rule the emirate today, left Abu Dhabi to settle in Dubai. Attracted by the Creek, a rare haven on the southern shores of the Gulf, the small community of some 800 people live by trading in fish and pearls, the farming of camels and goats and the careful tending of date groves. It was a modest existence, but it established Dubai as an entrepot port and formed a secure base for the commercial development that was to come – and still continues today. Bounded on the east by the Hajar Mountains and on the south and east by the forbidding vastness of the Arabian Desert, Dubai's main contact with the rest of the world was by sea. It is this combination – the traditional heritage of the Bedouin of the desert and the wider view of the seaborne trader – that has helped to create the nation's unique character. Whilst Dubai's culture is firmly rooted in Islamic traditions, the long ties with other nations, combined with the people's courtesy and friendliness, has led to a willing tolerance of different lifestyles. Foreigners are free to practice their own religions, alcohol is served in hotels and, provided reasonable discretion is shown, the dress code is liberal. Women face no discrimination, may drive and need have no fear of traveling unescorted. By the late 1870's, Dubai was the principal port in the region, bringing trade from Iran, India and East Africa. The town received a boost in the early years of this century, when merchants from the eastern coast of the Gulf, disenchanted with burdensome customs duties, decamped to the more congenial business environment of Dubai. Now, nearly 100 years later, today's multinational businesses are doing the same – and for much the same reasons. Pearling continued to be the main basis of the city's prosperity until the 1940's, when the invention of the cultured variety severely damaged the industry. Ever resourceful, however, Dubai's merchants developed other trades, notably the import and export of gold – the modern souks (market place) still testifying to this expertise. After a presence of nearly a century-and-a-half in the Gulf, the British withdrew from the region in 1971. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ruler of Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai, established the basis upon which the federation would be founded – and on 02 December, 1971, the United Arab Emirates came into being. The revenues generated by oil – discovered in Dubai in 1966 – enabled the development of an infrastructure that has attracted both commerce and industry, as well as the increasingly important leisure business. Today, Abu Dhabi and Dubai complement each other – the former being the seat of the federal government and the centre of the oil industry; the latter the region's main commercial centre. The population of Dubai, which enjoys one of the highest per capita incomes in the region, has approximately 800,000 residents, the total population for the country as a whole being 2.25 million. It has the sixth largest economy in the area and is the second largest exporter of goods and services. Reflecting its success in diversification, approximately 80 per cent of the gross domestic product is not unrelated to oil.
CLIMATE Dubai has a subtropical, arid climate. Sunny blue skies can be expected most of the year. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular falling mainly during the winter. Temperatures range from a minimum of 27 degrees Centigrade (81F) to a maximum of 41 degrees Centigrade (106 F) from June to September. October to May is cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14 degrees Centigrade (57 F) to a maximum of 37 degrees Centigrade (99 F).
DRESS CODE Dubai is an Islamic country and clothing should be modest. During the winter months light sweaters are recommended. Beachwear is acceptable at beach clubs, hotels and public beaches. During the daytime, the dress code is fairly casual although more exclusive restaurants may expect guests to dress more formally during the evening.
SHOPPING Dubai is known as a shopper's paradise. Many of the world's finest goods are available at prices well below what would be paid in other parts of the world. TheGold Souk is deservedly famous for its jewellery. Bargaining is acceptable although the basic gold price is set and is dependent on weight. In the main souks, you will find everything from a range of textiles and tailors to perfumed oils and electronic items. Bargaining is expected and a discount of 15 to 25 per cent is usually given.

MAJOR HOLIDAYS, FESTIVALS, AND EVENTS
*Please note that events are scheduled according to the Islamic calendar. This is based on lunar observations and moves forward by approximately 11 days each year.

Spring and autumn are probably the best times to visit Dubai because of the constant sunshine, warm water and the beautiful skies. The temperature is most pleasant from November through April, although it can get cool between December and February. Although July and August are the most humid months, summer runs all the way from June to September. You'll probably want to avoid the coast during these months.

STAYS OF DISTINCTION BURJ AL ARAB ACKNOWLEDGED AS THE BEST HOTEL IN THE WORLD

Designed to resemble a billowing sail, the hotel soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai coastline. At night, it offers an unforgettable sight, surrounded by choreographed colour sculptures of water and fire. This all-suite hotel reflects the finest that the world has to offer.

With your private transfer, discreet in-suite check in, private reception desk on every floor and a brigade of highly trained butlers who provide around-the-clock attention, you can be assured of a highly personalised service throughout your stay.

Where imagination becomes reality. Welcome to Burj Al Arab.

Offering the highest levels of personalised service in the most luxurious surroundings imaginable, your private butler will ensure that every little need is met. Designed to provide maximum comfort, our unique service levels mean that even your check in will be in the privacy of your suite.

Burj Al Arab does not have rooms; it has 202 suites, each one arranged over two floors. Ranging from a capacious 169 m² to an astonishing 780 m² in size, the floor to ceiling glass windows offer simply breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.

Decorated with lavish textures and exuberant colours, each suite features a sumptuous living and dining area, state of the art entertainment system and office facilities. Their sheer opulence in every tiny detail is underpinned with technology that does everything from controlling the 42 inch Plasma screen TV to closing the curtains.

Whether you seek an intimate atmosphere for two, or generous spaces for large families, Burj Al Arab offers a choice of 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom Suites.

DELUXE SUITE (1 BEDROOM)

With beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, the Deluxe Suite features a handsome spiral staircase that leads you from one floor to the next, perfectly separating the entertainment and living spaces.

	Area - 169 m²
	Lower level - Living room with large lounge, dining table for 4, private bar counter, guest washroom
	Upper level - Dressing room, bedroom with king size or twin bed, luxury bathroom with Jacuzzi
	Occupancy - 2 Adults and 2 Children below the age of 12, or 3 Adults (subject to extra occupancy charge)
	Transport - Chauffeur driven Rolls Royce or BMW available at a charge

PANORAMIC SUITE (1 BEDROOM)

Both levels of the Panoramic Suite offer you magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf through floor to ceiling glass windows in an extremely luxurious setting.

	Area - 225 m²
	Lower level - Living room with large lounge, dining table for 4, private bar counter, guest washroom, storage closet
	Upper level - Bedroom with king size bed, luxury bathroom and dressing room
	Occupancy - 2 Adults and 2 Children below the age of 12, or 3 Adults (subject to extra occupancy charge)
	Transport - Chauffeur driven Rolls Royce or BMW available at a charge

CLUB SUITE (1 BEDROOM)

The Club Suite with its spectacular views of both sea and desert and its unique recreation facilities make it an ideal venue for both corporate or private entertainment.

	Area - 330 m²
	Lower level - Living room with large lounge, full size snooker table, dining table for 6, cocktail bar, guest washroom, storage closet
	Upper level - Loft with sitting area, dressing area, bedroom with king size bed, luxury bathroom
	Occupancy - 2 Adults and 2 Children below the age of 12, or 3 Adults (subject to extra occupancy charge)
	Transport - Chauffeur driven Rolls Royce or BMW available at a charge

2 BEDROOM SUITE

The 2 Bedroom Suite has a large dining area with separate kitchen and two lounges offering magnificent sea views - allowing you and your family to rest, relax or entertain in unsurpassed style.

	Area - 335 m²
	Lower level - Living room with large lounge area, dining table for 6, kitchen and separate butler entrance, small lounge, guest washroom, office with chess table
	Upper level - Master bedroom with king size bed and adjoining luxury bathroom and dressing room, second bedroom with twin beds and luxury bathroom
	Occupancy - 4 Adults and 2 Children below the age of 12, or 5 Adults (subject to extra occupancy charge)
	Transport - Chauffeur driven Rolls Royce or BMW available at a charge

FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES

In room facilities

	In addition to a dining and living area, each suite has an office area complete with laptop, Internet access, private fax, printer and copier
	Hidden network of advanced technology - lighting, curtains and air-conditioning at the touch of a button
	42-inch plasma screen, video on demand, DVD and a wide variety of cable channels

LEISURE FACILITIES

	Assawan Spa & Health Club situated on the 18th floor with magnificent views over the Gulf. Treatment rooms, hydrotherapy baths, oriental massage, stand-up solarium, sauna, steam rooms and jacuzzi, two swimming pools, squash court, two fully equipped fitness studios and an aerobics floor
	Unlimited access to Wild Wadi Water Park
	Shopping

TRAVEL INFORMATION

	Dubai International Airport 25 km
	Rolls-Royce or BMW limousine service available at a charge

8 restaurants and lounges, including:

	Al Muntaha - which means the ultimate or the highest at 200 metres above the Arabian Gulf, offering modern European cuisine
	Al Mahara - seafood restaurant accessible by a three minute virtual submarine voyage. Magnificent oval aquarium visible throughout the restaurant
	Al Iwan - sea view restaurant. Finest Arabian hospitality with décor of dramatic gold, red and black
	Majlis Al Bahar - a casual alfresco restaurant serving Mediterranean specialities
	Sahn Eddar - at the base of the world's tallest atrium and offering light fine fare and Afternoon Tea
	Juna Lounge - a stylish and intimate lounge with a fine selection of cigars
	Skyview Bar - located adjacent to Al Muntaha, a wonderful location for pre- and post dinner drinks
	Bab Al Yam - cafe restaurant with a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views

ASSAWAN SPA & HEALTH CLUB

When its time to wind down, nowhere instills a feeling of luxury, pampering and well-being better than the breathtakingly beautiful Assawan Spa & Health Club.

In a setting on the 18th floor that would make a poet sigh, ease your tension in the Spa's crystal clear pools or perhaps indulge yourself with the finest treatments to invigorate and revitalise.

Whether it's pampering, weight loss, stress reduction or relaxation, at Assawan Spa & Health Club, your every need is anticipated and satisfied.

For more information, contact Assawan Spa Reception on 04-301-7338.

CHILDREN

Sinbad's Kids Club
Children can enjoy complimentary access to Sinbad's Kids Club located at The Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

FOR BUSINESS

Complimentary high speed Internet access, office area, Laptop, private telephone and facsimile, photocopier and data port.

FOR ENTERTAINMENT

	Multimedia system - 42 inch plasma screen, video on demand, 75 cable channels and DVD system
	Interactive online communication and hotel guide
	Complimentary access to Wild Wadi Water Park
	Complimentary access to all Jumeirah properties and facilities

FOR YOU

	Welcome drinks, fresh flowers, fruits and Arabic sweets
	Luxury bathroom with Jacuzzi, full-size Hermes toiletries
	Button controlled lighting, curtains and air conditioning and private safe
	24 hour butler
	Pillow menu and Bath menu

SAFARI EXTENSION IDEAS

SUNDOWNER

DUNE DINNER SAFARI

Leaving behind the bustle of the city in the afternoon, your safari guides will take you, by four-wheel drive vehicles, for a thrilling journey over rolling dunes deep into the heart of the desert.

En route you will stop to see camels resting at their camp, and then, from the crest of a high dune, watch the sun set. The flickering lights of your camp beckon, where a traditional Arabian welcome awaits you.

Relax on comfortable low cushions in Bedu tents, explore a traditional spice souk, have your hands painted with intricate designs, experience a short camel ride, or just enjoy the aromatic shisha (hubbly bubbly).

A sumptuous feast of grilled meats, fresh salads and delectable Arab sweets is served and under a starlit sky you will be entertained by the bewitching belly dancer as she sways to the haunting strains of Arabian music.

Operating Daily. Evening Departure.

RIDDLE OF THE SANDS

FULL-DAY DESERT SAFARI

This off-road adventure leaves Dubai, on a journey that leads you through some of the roughest, most dramatic terrain in the country. Travel through traditional villages, over towering dunes, and deep into the steep wadis of the rugged Hajar Mountains.

En route you visit a camel farm and see plantations of alfalfa before arriving at Fossil Rock. This awesome monolith, towering over the surrounding desert landscape, is embedded with fossils some 80 million years old, recalling the time when this part of Arabia was covered by sea.

Your safari then takes you into a rocky escarpment of the Hajar Mountains - the jagged mountain range that runs down the east coast of the Arabian Peninsula. A cold luncheon and refreshments are served in one of the many wadis before our return to Dubai.

Operating Tuesdays, Thursdays. Full Day.

RIDES & SLIDES

CAMEL RIDING & SAND-SKIING SAFARI

Leaving Dubai at 0800 hours, your four-wheel drive vehicle takes you far into the desert, where you meet your camel caravan for a half-hour ride across the spectacular red dunes of Margham.

Here you abandon tradition to sample one of the world's newest and most exciting sports, sand-skiing. Just strap on your sand board, draw a deep breath and take an exhilarating rush down the steep-sided dunes to the floor of the valley below.
You return to Dubai around 1230 hours.

Operating Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays.
Morning Departure.

STARLIGHT EXPRESS

OVERNIGHT SAFARI

Your four-wheel drive vehicle leaves the bustle of Dubai in the afternoon, heading to the camel racetrack where, depending on the season, you may watch a race or see the animals in training. You continue on into the desert where, at sunset, your group set up camp amid the vast dunes. Enjoy a barbecue feast under a starlit sky before retiring for the night.

You rise with the sun to the aroma of breakfast, before starting on the next stage of your adventure - a trip through the wadis which takes you deep into the rugged Hajar Mountains. You return to Dubai between 1200 and 1300 hours.

Operating Thursdays.
Overnight.

UP THE WADI

MOUNTAIN SAFARI TO WADI HATTA

The adventure begins as soon as you leave the highway and turn into the Hajar Mountains, where vast canyons line your route. You follow the trails of the wadis, where in winter you stop for a swim in one of the deep mountain pools.

You enjoy an alfresco picnic lunch in the wadis before commencing your return journey to Dubai. En route, you pause by the biggest of the roller coaster dunes to take in the silent vastness of the desert.

Operating Wednesdays, Sundays.
Full Day.

GRAND CANYONS

SAFARI TO THE HAJAR MOUNTAINS

You depart from Dubai in the morning and drive towards the east coast of the United Arab Emirates, stopping at a pottery market by the oasis town of Masafi.

You continue to the shores of the Indian Ocean, where you can make an optional stop at the colourful vegetable market in the tranquil fishing village of Dibba.

Now your off-road adventure begins, as you travel through the steep passes of the rugged Hajar Mountain range. The next two hours of the journey takes us through a wild landscape of dramatic canyons, deep gorges and rocky valleys.

After pausing for a picnic lunch, your safari continues through the wadis to Ras Al Khaimah. The day's journey takes us through four of the UAE's emirates before we return to Dubai by late afternoon.

Operating On Request. Full Day.

DUNE ROLLER

DESERT DRIVING COURSE

For those of you who would like to master the skills needed to drive across challenging desert terrain in a four-wheel drive vehicle, we offer a choice of two courses:

	A half-day beginner's course
	A more advanced full day's tuition for those who have already completed the beginner's training

Both courses are supervised by a highly proficient and experienced tutor/driver, and are designed to be interesting and fun - as well as leaving you well versed in the art of desert driving.

Course prices include beverages (and a light lunch on the full-day course), but exclude the rental of a training vehicle. Please check the Car Rental price list for Car Rental rates. A minimum of four persons is required to take this course, and a maximum of four persons per vehicle. Group tuition is also available.

Please see our notes on Car Rental concerning eligibility of drivers. You will also need to provide a valid copy of your driver's license before enrolling on the course.

Beginner's Desert Driving Course - Half Day - Group size from 1-4 persons

Days of Operation - On Request ( 01Sep 2008 - 30Apr 2009)

Advanced Desert Driving Course - Full Day - Group size from 1-4 persons

Days of Operation - On Request ( 01 Sep 2008 - 30Apr 2009)

PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Please request availability and prices for the time you wish to travel.

SIGHTSEEING EXTENSION IDEAS

MOONLIGHT SONATA

DHOW CRUISE WITH DINNER

Your cruise aboard one of the traditional wooden vessels called dhows, will offer an intriguingly different view of the city of Dubai by night.

You will see old wooden dhows and luxury yachts and splendid examples of modern architecture like the National Bank of Dubai and the spectacular Chamber of Commerce & Industry building, whilst Sheikh Saeed's House, the birthplace of Sheikh Rashid, and the Heritage Village are reminders of days gone by.

Dinner and fragrant Arabic coffee is included - a delicious taste of true Arabian hospitality.

Seating will be allocated upon boarding.

Evening Departure.

A TALE OF TWO CITIES

TOUR OF SHARJAH/AJMAN

En route to Ajman's enchanting museum - housed in an ancient fort - you will pass Sharjah's spectacular King Faisal Mosque, Al Ittihad Monument and the Ruler's palace.

The return journey includes stops at Majarrah Souk with its intricate mosaics and golden dome, the 150-year-old Al Naboodah House, Al Arsah Souk and the Blue Souk, where more than 600 shops sell carpets, gold, silver, antiques, perfumes, clothes and many other temptations. We return to Dubai in time for lunch.

OPERATING:

Thursdays, Sundays.
Morning Departure.

A CAPITAL ADVENTURE

TOUR OF ABU DHABI

From Dubai you travel past the world's largest man-made port at Jebel Ali and onward for a two-hour drive through coastal desert scenery to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

Here you will see striking examples of modern architecture with an Islamic theme, shimmering skyscrapers, villas and palaces, all lining the route along the Riviera-style Corniche, with its blue Gulf waters and enticing offshore islands.

Visit the Heritage Village and look at the ancient, renovated Al Husn Fort, before visiting the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation. Then see the old dhow yard and charming Batinah harbour. On the return journey, drive past Sports City, the biggest soccer stadium in the Middle East.

Some of the attractions and the order in which they are visited may change during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Lunch not included in the tour price.

Operating Wednesdays, Saturdays.
Full Day.

ALL POINTS EAST

EAST COAST TOUR

Drive through multi-hued desert landscape to the oasis of Dhaid before journeying through spectacular mountain scenery. Just before Masafi, you can shop at the local crafts, pottery and carpet market.

You continue to Dibba, a picturesque fishing village, and then to Bidiyah Mosque, the oldest and smallest in the UAE, before following the coast to Fujairah, with lunch by the Indian Ocean.

The tour stops by the town's 300-year old fort before exploring the now abandoned village of Fujairah.

Your last stop is Bithnah oasis, where you may photograph (from a distance) the impressive fort still guarding the mountain pass, before returning to Dubai.

Lunch not included in the tour price.

Operating Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays.
Full Day.

A WEALTH OF HISTORY

VISIT TO RAS AL KHAIMAH & UMM AL QUWAIN

Take a tour of the historical seafarers' strongholds on the northern coast of the UAE.

From Dubai you travel through the smaller emirates of Ajman and Umm Al Quwain and explore ancient sites dating back thousands of years.

You arrive in Ras Al Khaimah and discover the quaint town and its museum. Next you stop at a historic fort in the Hajar Mountains and, after lunch, your return voyage takes you to the hot springs and date groves of Khatt.

Lunch not included in the tour price.

Operating Thursdays.
Full Day.

A NIGHT AT THE RACES

HORSE RACING

Join us for an exhilarating celebration of Arab horse racing. Evening meetings are held at Nad Al Sheba Club - venue of the world's richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup.

We include transfers to and from your hotel, entry to the club and Millennium Grandstand, your race card and a light meal - in fact the only thing we leave up to you is forecasting the winners!

The racing season runs from November to April. Please request details of the racing schedule.

Operating Thursdays (winter only).
Evening Departure.

PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Please request availability and prices for the time you wish to travel.

Dubai, 5 Stars

The Hyatt Regency Dubai The Hyatt Regency is located on the Deira Corniche close to the Emirate's financial and trade district and not too far from Dubai Airport. Ideal for shopping. The hotel has 400 luxurious guest rooms all providing stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. All rooms have air-conditioning, desk, refrigerator, iron/ironing board, minibar, in-room safe and hair dryer. Other facilities include a fitness center, spa, outdoor swimming pool and golf course. For your dining pleasure, there 4 restaurants offering both international and local cuisines. In addition, there are 2 bars and a discotheque.

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL Dubai Set on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, this property is located on Jumeirah Beach, approximately 25 kilometres from downtown Dubai. All 598 rooms and suites are designed and equipped with all amenities and the hotel offers a range of facilities including: on site restaurants, golfing, business center, out door swimming pool and more.

RITZ CARLTON Dubai Kocated right on the beach and only 30 minutes to international airport. This hotel has 138 guestrooms, all of which have private balconies or patios overlooking the pool and garden area. The architecture is an elegant combination of Moorish and Islamic design. Exceptional Mediterranean style hotel with all of the service and facilities of a luxury property.

Dubai, 4 Stars

FOUR POINTS SHERATON Dubai Located in the downtown commercial area, this hotel is in the district of Bur Dubai and only 10 minutes away from the airport. It has 126 rooms all with en suite bathrooms and modern facilities, mini bars, work desks and hair dryers. The promenade Restaurant offers all day dining. There is also an Indian restaurant and the Lounge Bar offers light meals. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, health club, sauna and Jacuzzi.

OASIS BEACH CLUB Dubai Situated directly on the beach, the Oasis beach Club is a 20 minute drive from the commercial centre of Dubai and 30 minutes from the airport. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle bus service to Dubai. It has 210 rooms, 180 of which have sea view and balcony, all rooms offer mini bars, hair dryers and bathrobes. Restaurant facilities include the Al Mahar and the Bazaar for International cuisine and the Bar Stube for European food. Other facilities include a grass tennis court, gymnasium, volleyball court, outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and watersports.

Dubai, 3 Stars

CHELSEA HOTEL Bur Dubai The Chelsea is in Bur Dubai downtown, 5 minutes away from the major shopping malls, 7 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from the beach. The hotel has 99 rooms all of which have air-conditioning, hair dryers, in-room safe, TV, internet connection, tea/coffee maker, and minibar. The hotel has a rooftop swimming pool, children's pool, beauty salon, sauna, health club, and Jacuzzi. For dining, there is a restaurant and coffee shop plus a bar.

REGENT BEACH Dubai Situated a few minutes from downtown and a 10-minute drive from the airport. Offers 80 air-conditioned guestrooms spread over two floors, simply decorated in a Mediterranean style with colourful touches. All have balconies offering views across the Arabian Gulf, the city, or the pool area. Amenities include cable television, DVD players and non-alcoholic mini-bars. Deluxe rooms and suites come with armchairs and coffee tables. Suites also include plasma-screen televisions, bathrobes and slippers. Within the resort include an Internet corner (surcharge) by the concierge desk, 24-hour currency exchange, same-day laundry and dry cleaning service, a meeting room, and complimentary parking. Modern hotel with easy access to Jumeirah Beach.

SIGHTSEEING EXTENSION IDEAS

MOONLIGHT SONATA

DHOW CRUISE WITH DINNER

Your cruise aboard one of the traditional wooden vessels called dhows, will offer an intriguingly different view of the city of Dubai by night.

Dinner and fragrant Arabic coffee is included - a delicious taste of true Arabian hospitality.

Seating will be allocated upon boarding.

Evening Departure.

A TALE OF TWO CITIES

TOUR OF SHARJAH/AJMAN

En route to Ajman's enchanting museum - housed in an ancient fort - you will pass Sharjah's spectacular King Faisal Mosque, Al Ittihad Monument and the Ruler's palace.

OPERATING:

Thursdays, Sundays.
Morning Departure.

A CAPITAL ADVENTURE

TOUR OF ABU DHABI

From Dubai you travel past the world's largest man-made port at Jebel Ali and onward for a two-hour drive through coastal desert scenery to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

Some of the attractions and the order in which they are visited may change during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Lunch not included in the tour price.

Operating Wednesdays, Saturdays.
Full Day.

ALL POINTS EAST

EAST COAST TOUR

You continue to Dibba, a picturesque fishing village, and then to Bidiyah Mosque, the oldest and smallest in the UAE, before following the coast to Fujairah, with lunch by the Indian Ocean.

The tour stops by the town's 300-year old fort before exploring the now abandoned village of Fujairah.

Your last stop is Bithnah oasis, where you may photograph (from a distance) the impressive fort still guarding the mountain pass, before returning to Dubai.

Lunch not included in the tour price.

Operating Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays.
Full Day.

A WEALTH OF HISTORY

VISIT TO RAS AL KHAIMAH & UMM AL QUWAIN

Take a tour of the historical seafarers' strongholds on the northern coast of the UAE.

From Dubai you travel through the smaller emirates of Ajman and Umm Al Quwain and explore ancient sites dating back thousands of years.

Lunch not included in the tour price.

Operating Thursdays.
Full Day.

A NIGHT AT THE RACES

HORSE RACING

Join us for an exhilarating celebration of Arab horse racing. Evening meetings are held at Nad Al Sheba Club - venue of the world's richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup.

We include transfers to and from your hotel, entry to the club and Millennium Grandstand, your race card and a light meal - in fact the only thing we leave up to you is forecasting the winners!

The racing season runs from November to April. Please request details of the racing schedule.

Operating Thursdays (winter only).
Evening Departure.

SAFARI EXTENSION IDEAS