Legacy and Luxury: An Urban Escape Through the UAE and Qatar

Step into a world where centuries-old traditions meet striking modernity, where opulent mosques, bustling souks, and world-class art museums coexist with glittering skylines and architectural marvels. This journey through the United Arab Emirates and Qatar is a curated exploration of cultural depth and contemporary elegance, designed for travelers who seek both authenticity and refinement.

From the pearl-diving roots of coastal villages to the polished corridors of cutting-edge galleries and gourmet restaurants, each moment invites you to experience the Modern Gulf in all its layered beauty.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1. Abu Dhabi. Upon arrival you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Time permitting enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby Corniche, the city’s iconic stretch of waterfront.

Day 2. Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the highlights and must-see landmarks of the city. It is a breathtaking fusion of Islamic architecture and serene elegance with gleaming white domes and one of the world’s largest hand-knotted carpets beneath its soaring chandeliers. In the afternoon head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an architectural masterpiece floating on water. Conclude the day with tea at the Observatory Deck at 300 offer the best panoramic views of the city.

Day 3. Liwa Desert. Depart mid-morning for Liwa Desert and check into the Qasr A Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara – a luxurious oasis surrounded by the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter. Spend the afternoon camel trekking, dune driving or heading out on a guided walk through the sandscape. Dinner will be served under the stars surrounded by the pristine desert silence.

Day 4. Dubai. From Dunes to Design: Depart this morning for Dubai. Spend the afternoon in the Al Fahidi Historical District and in the city souks, offering a vibrant window into the city’s trading heritage nestled along the winding lanes of Deira and Bur Dubai. This area is home to the Gold Souk, the Spice Souk, the Perfume Souk and the Textile Souk.

Day 5. Dubai. This day is dedicated to the city’s icons and innovations starting with at VIP visit to Burj Khalifa, piercing the sky as the tallest building in the world and standing as a shimmering symbol of Dubai’s ambition and innovation.

Continue on to the Museum of the Future where cutting-edge technology, design and imagination converge to explore the possibilities of tomorrow. In the afternoon enjoy a private yacht cruise or a spa treatment at Talise Ottman Spa.

Day 6. Doha. A short flight takes you to Doha a city with a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. This afternoon, visit Souq Waqif and enjoy a private perfume-blending session followed by an art gallery tour.

Day 7. Doha. Take time today to immerse yourself into one of Doha’s cultural gems, the Museum of Islamic Art perched on its own island and designed by legendary architect I.M. Pei. The museum’s serene geometric design is striking as are the treasures within. Its vast collections spans over 1,400 years. In the afternoon take a walk through the Katara Cultural Village, a hub for art, music and film festivals before ending the day at Msheireb Downtown, the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project.

Day 8. Departure

This itinerary serves as a sample outline, providing a glimpse of what your journey could look like. However, we understand that every traveler is unique, and we are delighted to tailor every detail to your individual preferences, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.

Our Top-Choice Hotel Picks:

Abu Dhabi

  • Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

  • Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

  • Zaya Nurai Island

  • The Edition Abu Dhabi

Sur

  • One & Only The Palm

  • Armani Hotel

  • Burj Al Arab

  • Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

Doha

  • Mandarin Oriental

  • The Ritz-Carlton

  • Four Seasons

  • Al Messila Resort & Spa

Best Time to Visit: 

  • October through April

Optional inclusions and activities:

  • Go mangrove kayaking through Abu Dhabi’s lush mangrove forest.

  • Visit the lively Al Mina Fish Market and watch the fish auction.

  • Explore the history and culture of coffee in the Arab world at the Coffee Museum in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood of Dubai.

  • Stroll through the less-visited seaside souq Al Wakrah and browse local shops and dine on fresh seafood just south of Doha.