10-Nights Oman & the Emirates: The Sands of Time - Marco Polo Journeys

Wahiba Sands

These rolling desert sand dunes cover a large part of eastern Oman. The scenery is starkly beautiful: clear blue sky and rust-colored sands are all you can see for miles/kilometers. The only inhabitants in the area are roving Bedouins, who have traded in their camels for four-wheel-drives, which are the best options for exploring the area. Camping in Wahibah Sands is a popular tourist adventure. 85 mi/135 km south of Masqat.

Dubai

Dubai is a member of the United Arab Emirates, the cluster of sheikdoms along the Arabian Sea. Located at the crossroads between East and West, the emirate's long-standing trading tradition has for centuries brought visitors from throughout the Middle East and neighbouring regions. Now modernized, Dubai continues to attract many with its international facilities and its exotic, yet cosmopolitan lifestyle. Dubai has the best prices in the Arab Gulf states for gold, electronics, perfumes and is a tax-free city. It also has good beaches and excellent resort hotels. The town was the residence of the British political agent for the former Trucial States from 1954 until 1971. Known as the Venice of the Gulf, Dubai is the chief port and commercial center of the United Arab Emirates.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is one of the most modern cities in the world. It is the center of government and business life in the UAE. The architecture of its modern buildings and sky scrapers is the finest in the Middle East. The promotion of tourism and various tourism related projects will elevate Abu Dhabi to a Singaporean status in the region. Large gardens and parks, green boulevards lining all the streets and roads, sophisticated high-rise buildings, state-of-the-art communication services and transport, the presence of all the international luxury hotel chains, rich shopping malls, cultural centers and events provide tourists a one-of-a-kind experience all the year round.

Muscat

Surrounded by striking mountains on one side and soft sandy shores along its coasts, Muscat is an ancient town, characterized by a unique civilization reflecting Arabian and Islamic influences. It maintains a medieval appearance with two ancient Portuguese forts guarding the rocky cove around which the town is built. In the heart of the old, walled-in city is the magnificent Sultan’s Palace and various ancient buildings, distinctive with Eastern Arabian style, Arabesque gates and beautiful engravings. The Muttrah Souq (bazaar) is without a doubt the most interesting souq in the Arab Gulf States - with a vast array of Arabian antiques, bright textiles and exquisite gold and silver jewelry. Muscat is indeed a treasure chest of places to see, where history comes alive and age-old secrets are revealed in a taste of timelessness. Muscat boasts fine museums. Distinctive with its clean silver sands, Qantab Beach is surrounded by mountains which prevent exposure to strong winds. Muscat is a photographer’s delight.