Dune Safari , Dubai
Headline-grabbing Dubai is where sky-high towers sit under the gaze of the world ’ s tallest building ; where gorgeous beaches and manmade islands are graced by palatial resorts ; where on the same day you can go to the desert , hit the ski slopes before whizzing down water slides ; where you can splurge in the gold souks or buy your bling at a fancy mega mall ; where you can cross Dubai Creek by traditional abra or watch for super cars along the highways . While Abu Dhabi may not have Dubai ’ s western touch , it ’ s equally forward thinking and no stranger to glitz with glittering malls , luxury hotels and beaches to lure the sun-loving set .
Jumeirah Beach , Dubai
History and culture is preserved at atmospheric souks , opulent mosques and historic forts ; there are cultural treasures at world-class museums and full-on family fun . Ras Al Khaimah , which nestles at the foot of the Hajar Mountains entices with dreamy beaches , frenetic souks , Bedouin culture , kayaking amidst mangroves , zip lining and exciting desert-centric activities . Intriguing Ajman is a hidden gem if ever there was one . Authentic and laidback , it ’ s a haven of uncrowded white sands and wildliferich nature reserves . Mingling tradition with modernity , Qatar excites both young and old . In the impressive capital
Doha , avant-garde architecture , man-made islands and Mediterranean-style marinas contrast with centuries-old souqs and graceful mosques . Beyond the metropolis , discover mangrove forests , vast deserts , impressive coastal fortresses , footprint-free sandy beaches , a mystical ‘ inland sea ’ and Bedouin heritage . Oman is still very much the “ Arabia ” of your imagination . With its amazing mountainous scenery , mudbrick villages that nestle amidst sprawling date plantations , secluded untouched sandy beaches , dramatic contrasts in architecture and peeks into ancient cultures , this land offers a unique and exotic holiday .
MIDDLE EAST with
PREMIER HOLIDAYS
Nizwa Fort , Oman
Burj Khalifa , Dubai
Here ’ s just a few ideas to consider when planning your Middle East holiday : -
CITY & BEACH BREAKS
With a relatively short flight , the Middle East is a fabulous year-round option for either a short break or longer stay in the sun .
BEACHES
As the Middle East has no shortage of sand , the beaches are incredible , whether you fancy somewhere lively , family-fun or a tranquil retreat .
DESERT & MOUNTAIN ESCAPES
Retreat from the hustle and bustle for a few days amidst the extraordinary landscapes of Abu Dhabi ’ s flame-coloured dunes ( page 176 ) or Oman ’ s fabled Green Mountain , Jabal Akhdar and Desert Nights Camp ( page 183 ). Both are ideal places to relax , or indulge in thrilling activities .
MIX & MATCH
As Middle Eastern cities are major airline hubs , the holiday combinations are seemingly endless . Stopover enroute to or from Asia , Sri Lanka or the Indian Ocean for one amazing holiday .
FORMULA ONE GETAWAYS
Get away for some adrenalin-fuelled action at the Abu Dhabi or Qatar Grand Prix . After the roar of the engines quieten , enjoy city sights , great shopping , beaches and more . Call for our latest F1 packages .
Doha , Qatar
Fun for all at Atlantis Aquaventure , Dubai
Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix
www . premierholidays . co . uk THE MIDDLE EAST 161