Discover the Jewels of the Emirates

13 Nov 2015 | by Myles Johnson

FOCUS ON: THE EMIRATES

The glittering jewels of the Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a land of fascinating contrasts. Made up of seven distinctly different Emirates, each with their own unique traditions, it’s no wonder that this corner of the Arabian Gulf is so popular with cruisers for a mesmerising year round sunny escape.

Abu Dhabi is the capital, and slightly more understated than its glitzy neighbour Dubai. But with its more modest façade comes an array of Arabian traditions and customs to discover. There really is something for everyone to enjoy, and all within easy reach of the cruise port. One of the standout attractions of the city is one of the world’s largest and most extravagant places of worship, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This mighty structure is made up of many bright white domes, visible from miles away as you approach.

Experience the traditional Arabian shopping culture at the many Souks across the city. Savour the local atmosphere, practice your bargaining skills, and absorb all the authentic sights and sounds of your surroundings. The city is also famed for its exciting Formula One circuit. The Grand Prix track can be found on Yas Island, where you’ll also find Ferrari World – the world’s largest indoor theme park. Here you can ride the fastest rollercoaster on the planet, and try out racing simulators, a Go Karting academy and much more!

Keith's Top Tips

If racing’s not really your thing you can head to Yas Waterworld to cool off from the desert heat instead. This adrenaline-fuelled waterpark is home to some of the biggest water rides in the world, and the biggest children’s play area in the Middle East. To experience the extreme landscapes that exemplify the Emirates, a 4x4 sand dunes safari is a fantastic excursion to take. Escape the bright lights of the city and take an off-road journey across the expansive desert. You could take a camel ride, try out sandboarding, and enjoy a desert sunset.

Top 4 Abu Dhabi & Dubai Excursions

With an incredible mix of jaw dropping architecture, year-round sunshine, and stunning desert landscapes, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the perfect sun destinations with the added wow-factor. Most itineraries passing through the Emirates will call at Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with most offering an overnight stays. With so much to see and do in this mesmerising part of the Emirates, here are our top ways to spend your time in Dubai.