Oman and UAE Combined Tour
Oman and UAE Combined Tour
The Oman and UAE combined tour is an an eight-day adventure exploring the United Arab Emirates and Oman. This tour promises an extraordinary experience, immersing you in the rich cultures and natural beauty of these two countries. You'll start your journey in Dubai, where you'll visit bustling markets, ancient forts, and fascinating museums. From there, you'll travel to Al Ain, a city known for its historical significance and stunning landscapes.
As you continue your adventure, you'll cross into Oman, making your way to Nizwa, a city that boasts a blend of traditional and modern attractions. Here, you'll delve into the local culture, exploring its vibrant markets and historic sites. The journey then takes you to Muscat, the capital of Oman, where you'll get to experience the city's unique charm. A highlight of your time in Muscat will be a trip on a traditional dhow, offering a chance to take in the coastal scenery from the water.
One of the most memorable parts of this tour will be your time in the Wahiba Sands, a vast desert landscape that offers breathtaking views and thrilling adventures. Whether you're taking a peaceful moment to enjoy the serene coastline or feeling the energy of the city, this trip ensures a balance of relaxation and excitement.
As your journey comes to an end, you'll reflect on the diverse experiences and treasured memories you've collected. From the lively urban environments to the tranquil natural settings, every part of this trip contributes to a rich and fulfilling travel experience. Your adventure concludes with a heartfelt farewell, leaving you with lasting impressions of the people, places, and cultures you've encountered along the way.
Day 1 – Welcome to Dubai (UAE)
Welcome to the Oman and UAE combined tour! Upon your arrival in Dubai, our dedicated team will be readily available after the passport control, easily identifiable with a sign displaying your name. There's no need to purchase a local SIM card; you'll be provided with a complimentary one, offering 1 gigabyte of internet access by the time your passport is stamped. Check in at your hotel and discover the surroundings at your own pace
Meals: None
Day 2 – Explore Dubai
After breakfast, explore Dubai's rich blend of tradition and modernity with a private half-day city tour. Admire iconic landmarks, including the Jumeirah Mosque and the Burj Al-Arab, and delve into history at the Dubai Museum. Cross Dubai Creek on an Abra water taxi and discover the Spice Souk and Gold Souk while your guide provides insights. Experience the best of old and new Dubai, guided by a knowledgeable companion.
Meals: B
Day 3 – Al Ain and Nizwa (Oman)
Today you will set off on a journey that blends history and nature. Start with breakfast at your Dubai hotel, then meet your guide in the lobby to transition from modern Dubai to captivating Al Ain. As you head to Al Ain around mid-morning, explore its cultural richness and natural beauty at the Al Ain Palace Museum. After saying goodbye to Al Ain at the Mezyad Border which separates the UAE from Oman, enjoy lunch at Rimi Restaurant in Ibri Bawadi Mall. Then, visit the Bat Tombs in Ibri to discover echoes of the Bronze Age. You continue to Nizwa, where you will discover the grandeur of Jabreen Castle, showcasing 17th-century opulence. With an early evening arrival in Nizwa, which is about 40 km from Jabreen Castle, there is time to unwind at your hotel, reflecting on the day's adventures. Dinner is available at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Meals: BLD
Day 4 - Explore Nizwa
Today you will get to explore Nizwa and its surroundings, discovering its rich history and culture. Visit the iconic Nizwa Fort and Souq, then journey to Misfat Al Abriyeen for lunch with a local family. Explore Al Hamra village and Bait Al Safah Museum, followed by a visit to Bahla Fort and pottery workshop. Return to your hotel with some great memories of Oman's heritage and hospitality.
Meals: BLD
Day 5 – Wahiba Sands
At dawn, led by your expert local guide, you will embark on a journey to the majestic Wahiba Sands. At Birkat Al Mawz, a scenic oasis surrounded by mountains, explore ancient ruins, banana plantations, and the restored Bait al Redidah fort. Then, uncover the UNESCO World Heritage site, Falaj Al Khatmain, showcasing Oman's ingenuity in sustaining life in the arid land. Enjoy lunch at Razwan Restaurant nearby, revitalizing for the adventures ahead. Then, head to Bidiyah, where the vast Wahiba Sands beckon with its towering dunes and expansive golden sands. Prepare for an exhilarating dune bashing experience, followed by check-in at your Resort Camp. Enjoy the sunset from the towering dunes, then return for a delicious local style dinner. End the night by immersing yourself in the serene desert ambiance
Meals : BLD
Day 6 – Wadi Bani Khaled and Sur
Experience the enchanting beauty of a desert sunrise, where golden rays illuminate the sky and awaken your senses to a new day filled with promise and renewal. Explore the serene oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid before indulging in a culinary journey in Sur. Witness the craftsmanship of traditional dhows at the Dhow Factory and take a refreshing dip in the Bimmah Sinkhole. Finally, arrive in Muscat for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day's adventures in Oman's captivating landscapes.
Meals: B L
Day 7 - Muscat
Explore the vibrant city of Muscat, where each moment unveils a new facet of its rich history and culture. Your guide will start your tour by visiting the fish market, where you'll handpick fresh catches for lunch. Afterwards, head to a local restaurant near the market, where the chef will expertly prepare your seafood feast. Next, explore the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a breathtaking symbol of Oman's devotion and architectural excellence. View the intricate design and serene ambiance, reflecting the nation's spirituality. Continue your journey with a visit to the Royal Opera House Muscat, an architectural masterpiece and a hub of artistic expression. Explore the rich heritage of Old Muscat at the Bait Al Zubair Museum, where exhibits offer insights into Omani art, tradition, and history. Capture photos against the backdrop of Mirani Fort and Jalali Fort, remnants of Portuguese influence, and admire the grandeur of the Al Alam Palace. As the day draws to a close, return to your hotel to unwind and reflect on the beauty, history, and culture experienced during your unforgettable day in Muscat
Meals: B
Day 8 – Leave Oman
As your Oman and UAE combined tour comes to a close, it's time to bid farewell to the mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant cultures, and cherished memories you've experienced. As you board your flight back home, cherish the moments you've shared and the adventures you've embarked upon, knowing that the spirit of the UAE and Oman will forever remain in your heart.
Departure Dates
The Oman and UAE Combined Tour is tailor-made to your exact requirements. Our expert travel consultants can design the tour to your budget and preferences. Just get in contact to find out more.
Private Guided Tour - Scheduled to your dates and requirements
Price of itinerary as shown - from £2975 per person (based two people sharing per room)
What is included in the Oman and UAE Combined Tour
- Accommodation and meals as stipulated in the itinerary - Meals according to description - (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner • 2 Nights at a 4-star hotel in Dubai a on a bed and breakfast basis • 2 Night at a 3 star hotel in Nizwa on a Half Board basis • 1 Night at a 4 star in Wahiba Sands in camping site HB Basis • 2 Night at 4 Star hotel in Muscat on a bed and breakfast basis
- Local transportation in 4WD Vehicle
- Service of an English-speaking Guide
- Entrance fees to Fort, Castle, Museum
- Water & soft drinks on tour
Not Included in the Oman and UAE Combined Tour
- International travel to the start and end point - contact us for information and flight options
- Any airport taxes
- Travel Insurance
- Any visa requirements
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks plus meals other than those mentioned on the program.
- Expenditure of a personal nature, laundry, telephone bills, drinks, souvenirs, tips etc.
- Early check in/ late checkout fees if required
- Gratuities for local tour guide
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice. Please refer to the COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry.
Oman - https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/oman
UAE - https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates
Visa and Passport Information
Passport validity - To enter the UAE, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive in the UAE. To enter Oman, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Visas - For the UAE, you can get a visitor or tourist visa issued free of charge when you arrive in the UAE. You do not need to apply in advance of travel. Your passport will be stamped with the visa as you go through immigration. It will be valid for up to 40 days. You can visit Oman for up to 14 days without a visa. If you overstay or do not extend your visa or residency, the Omani authorities may fine and detain you. Fines can be up to 10 Omani rials a day, with a total maximum fine of 500 rials.
To stay longer than 14 days or for work, study or other reasons, you must have a visa. To avoid the risk of refusal, it’s better to apply for a visa online before you travel – you can select the ‘unsponsored visit visa’ option if you’re a tourist.
At Omani border control, you must be able to show:
- a ticket for return or onward travel
- proof of your accommodation – for example, a hotel booking
- proof of your travel health insurance
Local Laws and Custom
Oman’s laws and customs are very different to those in the UK and reflect the fact that Oman is an Islamic country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times. Make sure your actions do not offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you plan to visit religious areas.
Tourists and visitors can buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs. The legal drinking age is 21. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public, be drunk in public or to drink-drive. The police have arrested and charged British nationals for these offences. Border police may arrest passengers travelling through Omani airports or seaports under the influence of alcohol. It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place anywhere in the UAE.
It is illegal to import or use e-cigarettes or vape products in Oman. Some herbal highs and products containing cannibidoil (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Some skincare products and E-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in the UAE such as CBD oil. If you are found in possession of such products, they will be confiscated from you and you may face criminal charges.
You should dress modestly in public areas including in shopping malls. Your clothing should cover the tops of your arms and legs (below the knee), and underwear should not be visible. Wearing tight-fitting clothes is likely to attract attention. Do not wear swimming costumes or beachwear in public areas, except on tourist beaches or at swimming pools. Cross-dressing is illegal.
It is illegal to live with or share a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex if you are not married or closely related.
Only cross roads using designated pedestrian crossings, in the UAE it is illegal to cross in other places. Take care when crossing, as vehicles often do not stop at zebra crossings marked on the roads.
Illegal drugs penalties - There are severe penalties for importing, trafficking, smuggling and possessing drugs, even residual amounts. In some cases, offenders could get the death penalty. There is no distinction in Omani law between ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ drugs – both are treated with equal severity.
Using cameras and binoculars - It is illegal to photograph some government buildings and military sites. Do not photograph people without their permission. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood – particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.
Drones - It is illegal to fly drones or any other remote-controlled flying device without a valid licence or in restricted airspace.
LGBT+ travellers - Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Oman. All same sex activity is illegal in the UAE, and same-sex marriages are not recognised. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Health
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines.
Healthcare facilities in the UAE are similar to those in the UK, but visitors may be prevented from using them without travel insurance or without the means to settle any medical fees.
The quality of healthcare facilities in Oman is similar to those in the UK. British nationals must use the private healthcare system. Visitors who do not have travel insurance or the means to settle any charges may be stopped from leaving the country until the debt is paid. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. FCDO has a list of medical providers in Oman where some staff will speak English.
UAE Emergency medical number - Dial 998 and ask for an ambulance.
Oman Emergency medical number - Call 9999 and ask for an ambulance.
What to bring on your Oman and UAE Combined Tour
Clothing
Light clothing will be sufficient for most of your trip. Long sleeve shirts/tops and pants are ideal. Remember to dress with respect. It may get cold in the mountains in the evenings so bring a warm jumper or top. A light waterproof coat should be included.
Footwear
Well-worn low-cut hiking shoes are ideal for hiking activities. Any normal pair of running shoes or hiking shoes will be sufficient. Sandals or beach footwear is good for the coastal areas.
Luggage while on your tour
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. Remember, you are expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suit case.
Equipment
We recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent and a waterbottle. A solar charger for your phone and other electronics is a good idea.
Currency
The dirham is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates. The dirham is subdivided into 100 fils.
The Omani rial is the official national currency of Oman, and it's used nowhere else. The Omani rial is made up of 1,000 baisa. The Central Bank of Oman pegs the value of the Omani rial at $2.6008 (USD).
Money can easily be changed at banks in the main cities and ATMs that accept international cards are widespread. If you need to change money, please ask your driver or staff at your hotel where the best place to do this is. Nowadays international credit cards (MasterCard, Visa and Amex) are also accepted in many places throughout Oman, but this may not be the case everywhere you will be travelling.
Weather
Like most of the Arabian Peninsula, UAE and Oman has a tropical desert climate, with scorching summers and pleasantly warm, dry winters. There is some regional variation between the more humid coastal areas, the arid desert interior and the cooler, more Mediterranean climate of the mountain regions. However, with an abundance of warm, sunny days and balmy seas, the pleasant weather in Oman makes it an almost year-round destination.
Electricity
Domestic power supply in the UAE is 220 volts. Sockets suitable for three-pin 13 amp plugs of British standard design are the norm, though in some cases sockets accommodate the two-pin plug types (which are generally what appliances purchased in the UAE come attached with).
In Oman the power sockets are of type G. The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Mobile Phones
There are two major network operators inUAE; Du (based out of Dubai) and Etisalat (based out of Abu Dhabi), and both offer coverage throughout the UAE. And with an average 5G download speed of 316.8 Mbps, the UAE has some of the fastest and high-quality internet servers and providers in the world.
Most of the big UK networks works will have connections in Oman and if your phone is enabled for overseas calls you should be able to get a signal, at least in the larger towns and cities. Connections elsewhere may not be so good.
Ready to book or need more information?
Then get in touch with our expert travel consultants now. We can help you with tailormade options, best times to travel and much more...
