The countries of the Arabian Gulf have successfully reinvented themselves as winter sun destinations. Turbo-charged Dubai is the best known but for the real Arabia, consider Oman which is steeped in culture and history, or Abu Dhabi, which offers an awe-inspiring desert experience plus shopping and sightseeing. 
Recommended tour operator: Barefoot Traveller
Barefoot Traveller says
The Arabian Gulf has long fascinated European travellers. Today it is best known for its vast wealth, lavish hotels and eye-popping modern architecture – but you don’t have to look far to find rustic villages steeped in ancient tradition, sandy beaches where turtles lay their eggs and beautiful deserts.
The glittering city of Dubai provides thrills of every type, from water parks and indoor ski slopes to gold souks and mosques. Its hotels – including the iconic Burj al Arab – are amongst the most spectacular in the world.
But there is another side to Dubai, in the atmospheric old town and on the Creek where wooden dhows unload their cargo. And you need only drive a few miles outside the city to find nature in the raw.
We recommend a stay at the eco-resort of Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa. Nestled amongst the desert dunes, it is a serene oasis where you can ride Arab horses, try your hand at falconry and join guided nature walks.
Neighbouring Oman is another world altogether, a fascinating nation rich in culture, wildlife and history. Discover the Fujairah desert with its mysterious landscapes of red dunes, forts and wadis, and explore the museums and souks of the capital, Muscat.
Oman’s spectacular Six Senses Zighy Bay resort is located on the Northern Musandam Peninsula, just two hours drive from Dubai. This luxurious, secluded resort offers breathtaking scenery with dramatic mountains and a glorious sandy beach.
The capital of the Emirates, Abu Dhabi, is a modern city guided by ancient tradition. It offers sightseeing, shopping and luscious landscapes along with authentic Arabic hospitality. Travel inland to the ancient silk road junction of Al Ain, where the desert colours are brightest between November and March.
Other Abu Dhabi highlights include the Liwa Desert, one of the world’s largest uninterrupted sand deserts, where you can stay at the incredible Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Cool down in the plunge pool outside your private villa and enjoy the vast wilderness that surrounds you.
We offer tailor made holidays, short breaks and twin-centre getaways to Dubai, Oman, Abu Dhabi and beyond. View our latest special offers.
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