Middle East
OMAN
Tucked into the southeastern corner of the vast Arabian Peninsula, Oman has historically been isolated by mountains, sand and sea. In Muscat's Grand Mosque there is a beautiful hand-loomed carpet which was once the world's largest rug. Oman is full of alluring markets, mosques, souks, Bedouin Camps and museums. There are many activities such as desert safaris, camel racing, turtle watching, wadi-bashing and shopping in the famous Nizwa Souk.
DUBAI
The first Middle Eastern city to make the Unesco list of creative cities of design. Although rooted in Islamic tradition, this is an open society where it’s easy for newcomers and visitors to connect with myriad experiences, be it eating like a Bedouin, dancing on the beach, shopping for local art or riding a camel in the desert. Dubai has the ambition and ability to dream up projects that elsewhere would never get off the drawing board. It's clear that this city is firmly in charge with its high buildings, palm-shaped islands, Sci-fi concepts such as flying taxis, a lightning-fast Hyperloop train and an army of robocops with many more grand projects in the pipeline for World Expo 2020.
ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi is the UAE's forward-thinking cultural heart. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, opened in 2017. It's the first of the city's planned mega-museum projects to open and as it pushes to become the region's cultural leader. For a glimpse of Emirati heritage seek out but pearl journey dhow trips and the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Here you will see a triumph of Islamic architecture the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. For those dedicated thrill-seekers out there head to Yas Island, where you will find the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the track hallowed ground for Formula One fans. Off the track, Ferrari World and its favourite Formula Rossa roller coaster or Warner Bros World provide full-on family entertainment with enough rides to wear out kids and adults alike. If beaches are your thing Saadiyat Island has one of the nicest public beaches (with a minimal fee) while Al Bateen, the Corniche and the new beach on Hudayriat Island are also completely free.
FUJAIRAH
Fujairah, is the youngest of all the Emirates in the UAE. Situated in an area surrounded by things to do, you’ll never be bored on a holiday to Fujairah. Enjoy some of the fantastic local cuisine, intriguing architecture, or a drink in one of the many bars in the area.
RAS AL KHAIMAH
Surrounded by the Hajar Mountains, Ras Al Khaimah (or simply ‘RAK’, pronounced 'rass-al-kai-muh') is the UAE’s northernmost emirate. Jebel Jais (the UAE's tallest mountain) has the world's longest zip line and a via ferrata route. To see the city looking its best, head here to the promenade down Al Qawasim Corniche at sunset.