United Arab Emirates Cruises

Discover Dubai, Abu Dhabi and more

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates, comprising Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is coined ‘the Manhattan of the Middle East’ for its incredible mix of state-of-the-art skyscrapers, century-steeped culture and vibrant cosmopolitan rooftop bars. Dubbed as the ‘Oasis of Cosmopolitan Luxury Travellers,’ Dubai is an epitome of excess — with ultramodern buildings soaring above the skyline and luxurious supercars dominating the roads. If you want to escape the metropolitan cities, head to Sharjah to learn about history and culture or Ajman for natural beauty and pristine beaches.

Take a United Arab Emirates cruise and discern the individual charm and diverse offerings of every port of call. Lay your eyes on the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa — a quintessential experience when you’re in Dubai. Abu Dhabi is on par with Dubai’s splendour, except it has more traditional and liberal values – home to hotspots, such as the gold-gilded Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, circular Aldar Headquarters and the 5-star Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental! Head to the coastal emirate of Fujairah, where sparkling beaches and the Hajar Mountains meet, with traces of history mapped from the old forts and museums.

Exploring the region in its entirety might take a lifetime of adventures, thrills and experiences that many people only ever have the chance to dream about, so why not book a cruise to United Arab Emirates for your next holiday?

United Arab Emirates Cruise Highlights

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest free-standing structure in the world, with a whopping 160 stories and the highest outdoor observation deck. Stand above the clouds and indulge in the opulence of the city’s golden skyline. If you’re not in the mood to climb the top of the skyscraper, catch the spectacular fountain display at the base of Burj Khalifa as music-synced jets of water soar at 500 metres, making it the world’s most massive performing fountain.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Abu Dhabi is home to UAE’s largest mosque and the main place of worship for Islams — Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which can accommodate up to 40,000 people into a space the size of four football fields. It’s not only a mecca for worshippers but also for architecture, design, history and culture enthusiasts. White-washed exterior with gold accents, staggering columns, striking domes, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers, reflective pools, marble mosaic flooring, and a colossal hand-knotted carpet characterise this architectural masterpiece.

Hajar Mountains

The scenery of rugged peaks in Fujairah is worlds away from the imposing city skyline of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. If you wish to trade the glitz and glamour of the city to peaceful valleys and abundant wildlife viewing, the Hajar Mountains will be a great addition to your itinerary! The mountain ranges run through the emirates of Fujairah, Ras Al-Khaimah and Sharjah — but Fujairah’s slice offers stunning views of the Gulf of Oman from the top, which is hard to beat!

History and Culture

Although the United Arab Emirates is best known for its imposing skyscrapers, it’s a multicultural country steaming with cultures, legends and experiences that transcend time and people. Unveil the way of life of the locals before and the traditional Emirati culture before the world’s tallest building, lavish cars and futuristic architecture come into the picture. Check out these notable historic sites that showcase UAE’s storied past:

Fujairah Fort, set in a small heritage village, is considered as one of the oldest forts in the country — which served as the residence to the ruling family and a defensive castle during the ancient times.
Emirates Heritage Village, a traditional desert village with an old-world souk (market), where you can shop, see artefacts and watch artisans make pottery or weave fabric.
The 17th-century Al Fahidi Fort near the Dubai Creek houses the Dubai Museum, which displays a wide array of archaeological wonders from ancient settlements dating back to the pre-oil period.

Things to Do in United Arab Emirates

Satisfy your shopping needs in Dubai Mall

A shopper’s paradise can be found in downtown Dubai, standing next to the towering Burj Khalifa. Dubai Mall is one of the world’s largest malls, combining entertainment, shopping and leisure in one grandiose setting. This sprawling mall features over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and a wide range of restaurants — so a day won’t be enough to explore it all! If you still have time at night, catch the Dubai Fountain show outside the mall.

Experience a world of family fun on Yas Island

Fuel your adrenaline and soak up unrivalled entertainment by heading over to Yas Island, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, high-end hotels, endless dining venues, a striking waterfront marina and for world-class theme parks. This one-of-a-kind island destination hosts the award-winning Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi — featuring 45 rides, gigantic slides and a plethora of family-friendly attractions. You can also spend a day in the world’s only Ferrari-theme park, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster!

Dive under the sea at Dibba Rock

Seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure? Take a plunge into the waters as deep as 30 metres at the small island of Dibba Rock, off the coast of Fujairah. Dive into the sea bed and discover a vast array of underwater treasures, from colourful corals and abundant marine life to a small shipwreck. This dive site offers an easy night dive as it’s quite simple to navigate and it also makes a great destination for snorkelling, especially for turtle sightings.

Natural Wonders

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in United Arab Emirates? You’ll be delighted to know that there’s so much more than to the tall buildings and luxury lifestyle in the major cities. Leave the glitz and glamour behind and get out into nature, where breathtaking sceneries and a slow-paced lifestyle await. From majestic mountains to rolling sand dunes, UAE offers something for every nature lover who needs a break from the metropolis…

Hike through the Hajar Mountains valleys. As you hike through the jagged terrain, you’ll chance upon a variety of flora and fauna, as well as postcard-perfect Gulf of Oman views.
Explore the Dubai desert. Nicknamed the ‘Big Red’ and locally known as Al Hamar, the mystical Arabian desert makes a perfect spot for dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding and quad biking.
Snorkel off the coast of Snoopy Island. Marvel at diverse marine life at Snoopy Island, a rocky island off the northern coast of Fujairah — which makes one of the most revered snorkelling spots in UAE.

United Arab Emirates Cruises FAQs

What are the seven states of United Arab Emirates?

The seven emirates are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

When is the best time to go on a United Arab Emirates cruise?

The Middle East sailing season runs from December through March, when the weather conditions are mild and relatively better than the unbearable hot summers. This is also the best time to go on a cruise to Dubai and the Arab Emirates.

Is the United Arab Emirates an LGBTQ-friendly country?

Homosexuality is illegal in the United Arab Emirates and is punishable by law. Discretion is advised for all travellers, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. As long as proper measures according to the country’s cultures are observed and public display of affection with your partner is avoided, you’ll be safe across the Emirates.

What should I know before I go to the United Arab Emirates?

Note that it’s illegal to drink in public in the UAE, but alcoholic beverages are likely to be available in hotels, bars and restaurants. Public display of affection is also not allowed, as well as swearing or making indecent gestures. Further, travellers must be mindful of the way they dress and it’s wise to stay on the side of modesty when it comes to clothing.

What is the currency used in United Arab Emirates? Is there a tipping culture?

The United Arab Emirates dirham is the official currency used in the UAE. Tipping is not compulsory but it’s generally a good practice to give a tip if you find the service excellent. A service charge of 10 to 15% is sometimes added to the bills in hotels or restaurants.

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United Arab Emirates Cruises

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