Sundowner Dune Dinner

Your safari guides will transport you by 4WD for a thrilling journey over rolling dunes through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, deep into the heart of the desert.  En route, you will stop to see camels resting at their camp and then, from the crest of a high dune, watch the setting sun cast its orange glow.  Relax on comfortable low cushions in Bedu tents, have your hands painted with intricate henna designs, experience a short camel ride or just enjoy the aromatic shisha (water pipe).  A delectable Arabian feast is served while you are entertained by the bewitching belly dancer.  Includes transfers, select beverages, dinner and entertainment.

from $91 per person

Half-day City of Merchants

An historical excursion to the Jumeirah Mosque and past modern palaces.  In Bastakiya, stop to admire the old wind-towered houses built by wealthy merchants and the nearby 150-year-old Al Fahiki Fort. Here the Dubai museum records the city’s past as an important pearl diving and trading area.  Continue the journey by abra (ferry) as you cross the creek and see the modern metropolis, with its splendid architecture dwarfing the bustling alleys of the gold and spice souks - a highlight of the day.  Departs daily in the afternoon and includes hotel transfers.

from $37 per person

Half-day Arabian Treasures

This exclusive tour gives you a fascinating insight into Arab culture.  Start with a visit to the Miraj Islamic Art Centre, where you will view a varied collection of Islamic arts.  Continue to one of the first schools in Dubai, the Al-Ahmadiya school established in 1912, nowa restored historical site.  The final stop is the Sahary Gate, a traditional Arabic house in the Bastakiya area which was home to wealthly merchants years ago.  Departs in the morning on request, and does not operate in the holy month.  Minimum tour numbers required.

Cultural Understanding Program

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) is based in the Bastakia Quarter of Dubai and was established with the aim of removing the barriers between people of different nationalities and to raise awareness of the local culture, its traditions, customs, and Islam among foreign residents and visitors.  They do this by organizing numerous tours and activities including the Jumeriah Mosque in the UAE open to non-Muslims.  Tour departs every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am.  Appropriate conservative dress required.  Transfers available (own expense). Entry to the Mosque is $US3 payable direct.