Independent Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Independent Dubai & Abu Dhabi

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Independent Dubai & Abu Dhabi

6 Days Starting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and ending in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Visiting: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Asia

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

IAU2-2025

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Discover the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of the United Arab Emirates with the "Independent Dubai & Abu Dhabi" tour. Begin your journey in Dubai with a private guided walking tour through the historic Bastakiya Quarter, cross Dubai Creek by traditional abra, and explore the bustling spice and gold souks. Ascend to the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views. Enjoy a leisurely day before driving to Abu Dhabi, stopping at the serene Al Ain Oasis. In Abu Dhabi, visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Stay in luxurious accommodations and savor daily breakfasts, making this a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Highlights

  • Walking tour through the historic Bastakiya Quarter in Dubai

  • Cross Dubai Creek by abra, a traditional ferry boat

  • Explore the spice souk and gold souk in Dubai

  • Visit Burj Khalifa and ascend to the At the Top observation deck on the 124th floor

  • Stop at Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO cultural site with over 147,000 date palm trees

  • Explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi

  • Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Places You'll See

Four Points By Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road

Southern Sun Abu Dhabi

Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Four Points By Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road

Southern Sun Abu Dhabi

Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive In Dubai,United Arab Emirates

Location: Dubai

Accommodation Name: Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road

Welcome to Dubai! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Day 2: Dubai

Location: Dubai

Accommodation Name: Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road

Meals Included: Breakfast

DUBAI• This morning, your private guided sightseeing begins with a walking tour through the narrow lanes of the historic Bastakiya Quarter. You’ll also cross Dubai Creek by abra, a traditional ferry boat.• Next, explore the souks (markets), including the spice souk with aromas of exotic spice and vibrant colors, and the gold souk with more than 220 glittering shop windows. • Lunch is served at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Your local host answers questions about life in the emirate while you relish traditional Emirati cuisine.• Lastly, visit Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Here, ascend to the At the Top observation deck on the 124th floor for spectacular views and a presentation on Dubai’s history. Perhaps, return to the area in the evening for a boat ride on Burj Khalifa lake or stroll on the boardwalk to view the illuminated dancing fountains set to music.(B)

Day 3: Dubai

Location: Dubai

Accommodation Name: Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road

Meals Included: Breakfast

DUBAI•Enjoy a full day at your leisure.(B)Today's I-Time TipsEnjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi or consider an exciting desert safari that ends with a barbecue dinner under the stars.

Day 4: Dubai-Al Ain-Abu Dhabi

Location: Abu Dhabi

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun Abu Dhabi

Meals Included: Breakfast

DUBAI-AL AIN-ABU DHABI• Today, drive to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. On the way, you’ll stop at Al Ain Oasis, a dreamy reprieve from the bustling city life. This UNESCO cultural site is home to over 147,000 date palm trees and preserves a culture and way of life from over thousands of years. (B)

Day 5: Abu Dhabi

Location: Abu Dhabi

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun Abu Dhabi

Meals Included: Breakfast

ABU DHABI• This morning, explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi, created in 2007 through a cultural exchange with its counterpart in France. Then, visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the country’s largest and known for its beautiful architecture. (B)

Day 6: Abu Dhabi

Location: Abu Dhabi

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun Abu Dhabi

Meals Included: Breakfast

ABU DHABIYour vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai and Southern Sun Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi.

  • Meals

    Breakfast is provided daily.

  • Guided Sightseeing

    Private guided sightseeing in Dubai, including a walking tour through the historic Bastakiya Quarter, a visit to the spice and gold souks, and a trip to the Burj Khalifa.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding with traditional Emirati cuisine and a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

  • Transportation

    Drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi with a stop at Al Ain Oasis.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a day trip to Abu Dhabi or a desert safari with a barbecue dinner are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from the United Arab Emirates are not included.

Meals

Breakfast daily

Notes

Some sites in Dubai are closed on Friday. In these instances, sightseeing may take place on day 3.

Accommodation

Dubai: Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road. Abu Dhabi: Southern Sun Abu Dhabi.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes a private guided sightseeing tour in Dubai and a drive to Abu Dhabi with a stop at Al Ain Oasis.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation includes a private guided sightseeing tour in Dubai and a drive to Abu Dhabi with a stop at Al Ain Oasis.

  • What kind of accommodation is included in the tour?

    In Dubai, you will stay at Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road, and in Abu Dhabi, you will stay at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, breakfast is provided daily. Additionally, lunch is served at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in Dubai.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding with traditional Emirati cuisine, a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

  • What activities are planned for the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive in Dubai and your hotel will be available for mid-afternoon check-in.

  • What will we do on the second day in Dubai?

    On the second day, you will have a private guided sightseeing tour that includes a walking tour through the historic Bastakiya Quarter, crossing Dubai Creek by abra, exploring the spice and gold souks, having lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, and visiting the Burj Khalifa to ascend to the At the Top observation deck on the 124th floor.

  • Is there any free time during the tour?

    Yes, on the third day in Dubai, you will have a full day at your leisure to explore on your own or take optional activities such as a day trip to Abu Dhabi or a desert safari with a barbecue dinner.

  • What is the itinerary for the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

    On the fourth day, you will drive to Abu Dhabi with a stop at Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO cultural site with over 147,000 date palm trees.

  • What are the main attractions in Abu Dhabi included in the tour?

    In Abu Dhabi, you will visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

  • What happens on the last day of the tour?

    On the last day, your vacation ends with breakfast in the morning.

  • Are there any optional activities not included in the tour package?

    Yes, optional activities such as a day trip to Abu Dhabi or a desert safari with a barbecue dinner are not included.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Are international flights included in the tour package?

    No, international flights to and from the United Arab Emirates are not included.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.