Dubai

Experience the best of Dubai with a journey that seamlessly blends cultural discovery, desert adventure, and urban luxury. Wander through the city’s historic quarters, sail across the creek on a traditional Abra, and explore the bustling souks before retreating to the eco-luxury sanctuary “the Nest by Sonara.” Immerse yourself in the serenity of the desert with a guided nature tour, a refined picnic lunch, and an exhilarating dune-bashing experience. As the adventure unfolds, return to Dubai’s iconic skyline, capturing breathtaking views from the world’s tallest tower before rejoining your cruise. This curated escape offers a perfect balance of heritage, thrill, and indulgence.

Special Notes:

•This program is not recommended for guests who require use of a wheelchair, scooter, walker or cane. Guests will need to walk through sand at “The Nest” by Sonara.

•Please 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.

•This unique program is limited to 10 guests

DAY 1 – March 2, 2027

Step into the soul of Dubai as you meet your guide and begin your journey through the historic Al Fahidi District, where traditional wind towers and charming alleyways paint a vivid picture of the city’s past.

Continue to the Shindagha Museum, where immersive exhibits bring Dubai’s transformation to life. The cultural experience deepens with a visit to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you’ll be welcomed by a local host for an authentic Emirati lunch, offering a rare opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and learn about local traditions.

In the afternoon, set off on a scenic Abra ride, gliding across the tranquil waters of Dubai Creek before exploring the vibrant Gold & Spice Souq, where the scent of exotic spices and the sparkle of intricate jewelry create an unforgettable sensory experience.

By late afternoon, head to The Nest, a secluded eco-luxury retreat in the desert. Moving beyond glamping, Sonara presents Desert nesting—a tranquil, innovative sleeping experience designed by architect Gianni Ranaulo. The 14 dune-shaped Nests blend into the landscape, each featuring an ensuite bathroom, private terrace, and double bed.

As the sun sets over the golden dunes, indulge in an intimate dining experience under the open sky, where gourmet flavors and serene surroundings create the perfect finale to a culturally enriching day.

DAY 2 – March 3, 2027

Awaken to the peaceful sounds of the desert and savor a leisurely breakfast before embarking on a unique nature tour. Led by expert guides, journey through the pristine Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in a luxury 4x4, where sightings of elegant gazelles and majestic Arabian oryx offer a rare glimpse into the region’s wildlife.

A visit to the conservation center deepens your appreciation for this protected landscape. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch in the heart of the dunes, followed by an opportunity to try soft archery—an engaging and mindful activity in the vast open surroundings.

As evening sets in, a delectable tapas-style dinner is served, preparing you for the night’s grand adventure. The adrenaline surges with an exhilarating dune-bashing experience, where expert drivers navigate the golden dunes for a thrilling ride. As the desert cools, retreat to The Nest for another night of unparalleled serenity.

DAY 3 – March 4, 2027

After a peaceful morning and a gourmet breakfast, bid farewell to the desert and journey back to the city. The first stop is the world-famous Burj Al Arab, where a photo opportunity from outside captures its sail-shaped silhouette against the sea. Next, a scenic drive through Dubai Marina offers striking views of the modern skyline before continuing to the Palm Jumeirah, an engineering marvel rising from the Arabian Gulf.

The highlight of the day awaits at Burj Khalifa, which takes you to the exclusive 148th floor, offering sweeping views of Dubai’s futuristic cityscape. Enjoy free time at Dubai Mall for lunch and a final indulgence in world-class shopping before a seamless transfer back to Abu Dhabi to embark your cruise. This grand journey, from heritage to nature to cutting-edge luxury, ensures a truly unforgettable Dubai experience.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details including timings below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments

DAY 1

10:00am Disembark the ship in Dubai

10:30am Visit Al Fahidi Historical district (Bastakiya quarters)

11:00am Transfer to Shindagha Museum

11:10am Visit Shindagha Museum

12:10pm Transfer to Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

12:30pm Lunch hosted by a local (No alcohol will be provided during this program)

2:00pm Transfer to Abra station

2:20pm Board the Abra

2:30pm Visit Gold & Spice Souq

3:30pm Transfer to ‘The Nest’

4:15pm Arrive & Check in to The Nest

5:30pm Sunset Dinner experience

Overnight at ‘The Nest’ hotel or similar hotel

DAY 2

From 6:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:30am Dune Bashing

1:00pm Picnic Lunch

3:00pm Nature tour

Opportunity to experience Soft Archery

6:30pm Tapas style dinner

Overnight at ‘The Nest’ hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

From 6:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:30am Checkout and transfer to Dubai city

10:15am Photo stop at Burj Al Arab

10:30am Arrive at Dubai Marina for photo stop

11:00am Arrive and drive through the Palm Jumeirah

11:30am Transfer to Dubai Mall to visit Burj Khalifa

12:30pm Visit to 148th floor of Burj Khalifa

1:30pm Lunch at Dubai Mall (This restaurant does not serve alcohol)

2:30pm Transfer to Abu Dhabi port and re-board the ship

Weather:

The average high temperature in Dubai during March is 28ºC / 82ºF, which drops to 17ºC/62ºF at night

What to bring:

Comfortable, weather appropriate clothing that can be layered, hat, sunscreen, camera, chargers, closed toe shoes.

Local Currency:

UAE Dirhams and USD are accepted as are major credit cards

Electricity

The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. We recommend you bring a universal travel adapter 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 for the United Arab Emirates.

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.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.

Accommodation:

The Nest by Sonara

Address - Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road, Margham Gate

Phone - +971 50 336 7909

*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 listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•2 nights at ‘The Nest’ – dune shaped nest room

•All entrances and tours per the above itinerary

•Applicable transfers

•Any meals as mentioned in the itinerary

Program Excludes for guests:

•Meals or beverages other than specified above

•Gratuities to guides, drivers and porters

•Any personal expenses

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

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. Mid cruise overland 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.