This exclusive pre cruise program invites Regent Seven Seas Cruises guests to discover the United Arab Emirates through a lens of elegance, authenticity, and immersive luxury. From the golden dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to the architectural icons of Dubai and the cultural richness of Sharjah, each day is thoughtfully curated to blend unforgettable moments with refined comfort.

Begin with a tranquil and luxurious retreat at The Nest by Sonara, where nature, wellness, and desert adventure come together under starlit skies. Then transition into the heart of the city to experience Dubai’s towering landmarks and world-renowned hospitality—including rare access to the iconic Burj Al Arab. Finally venture into Sharjah, the cultural soul of the Emirates, and explore its museums, heritage quarters, and elegant cuisine.

Special Note: This program involves walking distances at times over uneven ground as well as through sand at the hotel. Due to the nature of this program, it is not available to guests who require use of a wheelchair, walker or scooter. Please also advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be send to our local ground operators for review.

DAY 1 – December 24, 2026

Upon arrival at Dubai’s International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and privately transferred to one of the emirate’s most exclusive retreats—NEST by Sonara, a luxurious desert escape that seamlessly blends eco-conscious design with elevated comfort.

First there was camping, then there was glamping; Sonara now introduces Desert NESTING. Nesting offers a peaceful and innovative sleeping concept, designed by award-winning Architect Gianni Ranaulo, for unforgettable nights in the desert.

After check-in, guests are invited to unwind amid the serene beauty of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Nestled among golden dunes, NEST offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the bustle of city life and reconnect with nature, all within an atmosphere of refined elegance.

Whether enjoying the seclusion of your private tented NEST suite or simply soaking in the sunset hues over the sand, guests are enveloped in tranquility from the very start of their journey. Each NEST has an ensuite bathroom and private terrace. Note: the hotel is designed and built in the sand – guests will need to walk through the sand to get around the site. We encourage you to review the hotel on line at www.nara.ae/nest/ prior to booking.

Lunch is on own but for dinner, enjoy a shared tapas style menu while watching the sunset in the heart of the dunes, where silence and starlight reign supreme.

Note: your stay at NEST is not guided. You will receive a welcome letter upon arrival detailing where to meet and when for your tours on the following days however on Day 1 you will be met by the staff at NEST and you will be on your own to settle in and enjoy the surroundings. The staff at NEST can assist with any questions you have on the portion of your stay there. For any other questions pertaining to the remainder of the itinerary or for any emergencies please contact the number listed below.

*Should your flight arrive at the Abu Dhabi airport, a surcharge will apply for the airport to hotel transfer.

DAY 2 – December 25, 2026

Awaken in the peaceful sanctuary of The Nest, where dawn stretches over undisturbed dunes and breakfast is served with views that go on forever. The morning begins gently with a nature safari through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where guests travel in 4x4 vehicles guided by expert naturalists. The hour-long journey offers a respectful glimpse of Arabian wildlife—graceful gazelles, majestic oryx, and the sweeping terrain they call home.

Return to the Nest and enjoy some time at leisure as well as lunch on own.

After time to unwind and absorb the serenity of the desert, the afternoon ignites with an adrenaline-fueled dune bashing adventure. Skilled drivers guide guests through rolling golden waves of sand, twisting and turning across the desert’s dramatic landscape—a thrilling counterpoint to the calm of the morning.

Note: Guests do not drive. The drive can be quite bumpy and is not recommended for anyone with heart ailments, a bad back or if pregnant.

As twilight approaches, guests are whisked to the legendary Sonara Camp, where the desert transforms into an open-air stage. Settle into low lounges and candlelit tables for a luxury sunset dinner framed by soft music, flickering torches, and the natural beauty of the surrounding dunes. The cuisine is refined, the service seamless, and the atmosphere—pure magic. After this unforgettable evening, return to The Nest, where the silence of the desert invites a peaceful rest.

DAY 3 – December 26, 2026

After a leisurely breakfast, check out and meet your driver and guide for a transfer into the heart of Dubai where you will have a day of witnessing architectural marvels coupled with legendary hospitality.

In Dubai, begin with an exclusive journey to the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower. From this VIP vantage point, take in breathtaking and panoramic views that stretch from the desert dunes to the Arabian Gulf—a truly unforgettable way to see Dubai.

Next, continue with the rare opportunity to step inside one of the world’s most opulent landmarks: the Burj Al Arab. You will be guided through its palatial interiors during a specially curated tour that reveals the rich design, heritage, and hospitality legacy of this global icon.

The experience is elevated further with a delicious lunch at Al Iwan, the hotel’s signature restaurant, where traditional Arabian flavors are presented with luxurious flair in a setting of golden columns and sea views.

By mid-afternoon, check in to your hotel located in the heart of the city for an evening at leisure, perfectly balancing discovery with relaxation.

The Waldorf Astoria DIFC, located at Burj Daman - Al Mustaqbal St - Za'abeel, spans floors 18 to 50 in the Burj Daman building. This urban retreat is within 10 minutes of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and The Museum of the Future. They are home to best-in-class award-winning restaurants and bars, a state-of-the-art Waldorf Astoria Spa, and world-class hospitality. Your stay includes a dedicated Personal Concierge on hand to assist with any special requests.

DAY 4 – December 27, 2026

After breakfast, meet your guide and drive to the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates—Sharjah. This is a city that is steeped in heritage and charm.

Begin in the heart of Sharjah, where winding alleyways, traditional courtyard homes, and vibrant souqs offer an intimate glimpse into life before the skyscrapers. A visit to the Sharjah Heritage Museum further reveals the customs, craftsmanship, and daily traditions of Emirati culture.

Next, explore the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, a true gem showcasing centuries of artistic, scientific, and cultural achievements from across the Islamic world. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building along the Corniche, the museum offers both intellectual depth and visual splendor.

Your morning of discovery is followed by a refined lunch at The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah’s premier heritage hotel where traditional Arabian architecture meets five-star luxury. Set in a beautifully restored historic building, this dining experience is a perfect blend of authenticity and elegance.

Return to your hotel by late afternoon, enriched by a day that honors the region’s soul and story.

DAY 5 – December 28, 2026

Your final day begins with breakfast, followed by check-out and then a journey into Dubai’s historic heart.

Explore the charming Al Fahidi Historical District (Al Bastakiya), a peaceful labyrinth of wind towers, art galleries, and traditional homes that reflect the city’s early beginnings along the creek.

A short drive leads to the Shindagha Museum, where immersive exhibits trace Dubai’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. Located along the historic creek, the museum’s interactive storytelling and beautifully preserved buildings offer a deep cultural resonance.

From here, stroll to the waterfront to board an abra, a wooden boat once used by merchants and locals alike. The short but scenic ride leads to the Spice and Gold Souqs, where the air is perfumed with exotic aromas and glittering treasures abound. It’s a vibrant, sensory experience and the perfect place for last-minute treasures.

As a meaningful finale, you will be welcomed at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding for an authentic Emirati lunch hosted by a local Emirati. In a warm, informal setting, stories are shared, questions are welcomed, and guests experience the famed hospitality that defines the culture of the Emirates.

After this enriching encounter, you will be transferred to the cruise terminal where you will begin your next chapter, carrying with you the colors, flavors, and memories of an unforgettable land.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details including timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests who do not arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program without notice will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm. Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

DAY 1

Arrive at Dubai’s International Airport

You will be met after Customs and luggage claim at the paging area of the terminal and transferred to your hotel for check-in

3:00pm Check in time at your hotel

Although every effort will be made to have rooms available sooner, this cannot be guaranteed.

Lunch is on own

TBA Shared tapas-style dinner at Tappas Restaurant

Overnight at NEST by Sonara

*Guests arriving in Abu Dhabi will have a longer transfer and a surcharge will apply

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

DAY 2

From 6:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Nature Tour

10:00am Return to the Nest, time at leisure

Lunch on own

4:00pm Dune bashing

5:00pm Transfer to Sonara Camp

Sunset dinner and opportunity to try various activities

10:00pm Return to your hotel

10:30pm Approximate arrival at your hotel

Overnight at NEST by Sonara

DAY 3

From 6:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:30am Checkout and transfer to Dubai city, settle any incidentals before departing

10:15am Transfer to the Burj Khalifa

10:30am Visit to Burj Khalifa 148th Floor

11:30am Transfer to Burj Al Arab

12:00pm Inside Burj Al Arab Visit

1:30pm Transfer to Al Iwan restaurant at Burj Al Arab

1:40pm Lunch at Burj Al Arab

2:40pm Transfer to your hotel

3:00pm Check in, remainder of day at leisure

Your personal concierge can assist with meal suggestions, reservations and further sightseeing options

Dinner on own

Overnight at the Waldorf Astoria DIFC or similar hotel

DAY 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Meet you guide and transfer to Sharjah

10:00am Heart of Sharjah Program with Heritage Museum & Souq Visits

11:30am Transfer to Sharjah Islamic Civilization Museum

11:40am Visit of Sharjah Islamic Civilization Museum

12:40pm Transfer to Chedi Al Bait Restaurant

12:50pm Lunch at Chedi Al Bait restaurant

2:00pm Return to your hotel

Overnight at the Waldorf Astoria DIFC or similar hotel

DAY 5

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Check out, settle any incidentals before departing

Transfer to Al Bastakia Quarters (Al Fahidi Historical District)

9:30am Visit of Al Bastakia Quarters (Al Fahidi Historical District)

10:00am Transfer to Shindagha Museum

10:10am Visit of Shindagha Museum

11:00am Walk towards the Abra station to board the Abra

11:10am Experience the Abra ride towards Gold and Spice Souq

11:30am Visit to Gold and Spice Souq

1:00pm Transfer to Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural understanding

1:20pm Traditional Emirati lunch

3:00pm Transfer to the port for embarkation

Please note that Arabic men and women are generally shy and do not like to be pictured. We suggest that you refrain from taking pictures without their permission.

What to Bring:

Comfortable walking shoes, light loose clothing, a sweater or light jacket for the evenings and early mornings in the desert, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, bathing suit.

If visiting any mosques, ladies should come prepared with a head covering. For both men and women: no transparent clothing, no shorts or skirts, no sleeveless shirts, no clothing with profanity and no tight clothing (including leggings) or beachwear.

Local Currency:

UAE Dirhamns and USD is also accepted

Electricity

The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. We recommend you bring a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required.

Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

Accommodation:

Nest by Sonara

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road, Margham Gate

Phone: +971 50 336 7909

Waldorf Astoria DIFC

Burj Daman - Al Mustaqbal St - Za'abeel - DIFC - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Phone: +971 4 515 9999

*Note that there are two Waldorf Astoria properties in Dubai. The above address is correct for this program.

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotel(s) listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•2 nights at ‘The Nest by Sonara’ – Sunrise view room

•2 nights at the Waldorf Astoria DIFC – King or Queen Premier Room

•All entrances and tours per the above itinerary

•Transfers as mentioned in the itinerary (Private transfer per couple or solo traveler on Day 1)

•Meals including water and/or soft drinks as mentioned in the itinerary

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

•Gratuities for drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Any personal expenses

•Meals or beverages other than specified above

•Beverages with alcohol

Please note:

Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

Price: $5,599 per guest based on double occupancy.

Hotel and Land Program pricing is not combinable with FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Luxury Hotel Package. If applicable, please contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises or your travel agent for multi-night pre-cruise hotel pricing information. Land program promotions are subject to terms.