


Ancient Past Meets Modern Wonders
Exotic cities draped across the desert sands of the United Arab Emirates and beyond effortlessly blend ancient traditions with 21st-century sophistication. Here, gleaming skyscrapers stand alongside historical old towns and adventures among the dunes are complemented by intriguing cultural immersions. Dubai’s and Abu Dhabi’s futuristic skylines create a stunning contrast to Sir Bani Yas’ sprawling wildlife park. The glorious mosques and exotic souks of Salalah and Muscat open the door to profound explorations of Omani culture, history and architecture, while Jeddah showcases a rich, vibrant heritage and serves as a gateway to the pilgrimage sites of Mecca and Medina.
Holy Lands Cruises Special Offers
- Book early to reserve your ideal itinerary and choice of stateroom AND receive the best price on air to and from your cruise.View Voyages
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- 120+ voyages across the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Australia and more with up to 10% Early Booking Savings and Your World Included™ amenities.View Offer
Reservations Now Open - For a limited time, take up to 30% off plus receive a free beverage package and shipboard credit up to $800.View Offer
- 2027 Around the World Cruise aboard Vista with our Exclusive Prestige Package* and Your World Included™.View Offer
Reservations Now Open - Book early to reserve your ideal itinerary and choice of stateroom AND receive the best price on air to and from your cruise.View Voyages
- Oceania Club Members receive 10% savings plus member benefits on select voyages.View Offer
- Reserve your accommodations with a specially reduced single supplement of up to 50% on select categories.View Cruises
- 120+ voyages across the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Australia and more with up to 10% Early Booking Savings and Your World Included™ amenities.View Offer
Reservations Now Open - For a limited time, take up to 30% off plus receive a free beverage package and shipboard credit up to $800.View Offer
- 2027 Around the World Cruise aboard Vista with our Exclusive Prestige Package* and Your World Included™.View Offer
Reservations Now Open



Holy Lands Shore Excursions
From Dubai’s Burj Khalifa to the scenic fjords in Khasab, our Holy Lands shore excursions bring you the best of the regional cuisine, culture, history and natural beauty. Extended evening stays and overnights across the region give you the chance to more fully embrace the awe-inspiring wonders and local life with explorations ashore and leisurely, meaningful touring.
Al Khatim Desert By Off-Road Vehicle (ABU-002)
- Port:Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Tour Length:Half-Day (Approximately 4 hours)
- Venture off-road on an exploration of the breathtaking Al Khatim Desert.
- Crisscross dunes that rise to heights of nearly 1,000 feet, the world’s tallest.
- Enjoy refreshments surrounded by stark, mystical Arabian dunes.
Explore the Al Khatim Desert around Abu Dhabi during this exhilarating off-road adventure. Travel from the pier in an off-road vehicle with a professional driver through Abu Dhabi and on to the Al Khatim Desert. Once there, traverse the world’s tallest sand dunes that rise to imposing heights up to 934 feet. You’ll pause for refreshments among the dunes and marvel at the stunning beauty of this arid, undulating terrain of tranquil Arabian sand.
- Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Abu Dhabi Orientation and High Tea At Emirates Palace (ABU-004)
- Port:Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Tour Length:Half-Day (Approximately 4 hours)
- Discover the wonders of Abu Dhabi, breathtaking capital city of the United Arab Emirates.
- Satisfy your inner race car driver at Ferrari World, a Ferrari-themed amusement park.
- View the city’s captivating highlights, including Yas Marina, the Grand Mosque, Heritage Village and the famous Corniche Road.
- Capture views of the extraordinary city skyline and its imposing high-rise glass buildings.
- Sip high tea in the striking Emirates Palace Hotel following a walking tour of its stunning grounds.
Embrace the beauty and traditions of the United Arab Emirates during an enlightening tour of Abu Dhabi, accompanied with high tea at the spectacular Emirates Palace Hotel. Acquaint yourself with the stunning capital city of the U.A.E., founded in 1761 and situated on a small peninsula surrounded by a cluster of islands. Discover the speedy side of striking Yas Marina, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, at Ferrari World, the world’s first Ferrari-themed amusement park. Delve deeper into the culture at the Grand Mosque, the country’s largest, and at Heritage Village, a reconstruction of a traditional desert village with craft workshops. You’ll adore the famous Corniche, a seaside roadway replete with cycle paths, fountains and park areas, and marvel at incredible views of the city skyline and its compelling high-rise glass buildings. Arrive at the spectacular Emirates Palace, the U.A.E.’s most prestigious hotel, for a walking tour of the exquisite grounds followed by high tea, an enchanting conclusion to your exploration of this unforgettable city.
- Wear smart-casual clothing.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Oasis Town of Al Ain (ABU-005)
- Port:Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Tour Length:Full-Day (Approximately 8 hours)
- View the garden city of Al Ain, a once vital caravan stopover between the U.A.E. and the Sultanate of Oman.
- Explore Al Jahili Fort, where a paramilitary force kept the tribal peace and protected the mountain passes.
- Savor a delicious buffet lunch at an elegant local hotel.
- Discover intriguing cultural and archaeological displays in the fascinating Al Ain Museum.
- Visit a regional market selling camel milk and meat, along with sheep, cows, goats and poultry.
Experience the U.A.E.’s incredible scenic beauty during this visit to picturesque Al Ain, the Garden City. Discover the lush terrain created by the groundwater springs of Al Ain, which served as a vital stopover point on the caravan trail between the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman. Visit historic Al Jahili Fort, erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect its precious palm groves. Explore this beautifully landscaped former residence for the local governor and past headquarters of the Trucial Scouts, who protected the mountain passes and kept inter-tribal peace. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a nearby deluxe hotel before visiting Al Ain Museum, purported to be a favorite childhood place of Sheikh Zayed, president of the U.A.E. and ruler of Abu Dhabi. Discover the museum’s ethnographical and archaeological sections and walk through an enchanting oasis nestled among palm trees to find an excellent example of falaj, an ancient irrigation system. A brief visit at a charming regional market selling camel milk and meat, along with a variety of livestock, will give you a unique view into this fascinating land.
- Wear light cotton clothes and conservative attire covering the shoulders, arms and knees.
- Bring a light jacket or a cardigan for your comfort.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Abu Dhabi City Tour (ABU-006)
- Port:Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Tour Length:Half-Day (Approximately 4 hours)
- Revel in the architecture and setting of Abu Dhabi, the stunning capital of the United Arab Emirates.
- Appreciate Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque, the eighth largest in the world.
- Understand why Abu Dhabi’s dramatic skyline inspired its nickname, the Manhattan of the Gulf.
- View the spectacular Emirates Palace Hotel, perched on a turquoise half-moon bay.
- Visit the city’s oldest stone building, Q’asr al Hosn Fortress, and learn about its unique ventilation system.
Delve into the history, architecture and culture of the United Arab Emirates during this enriching and scenic tour of its capital city, Abu Dhabi. Acquaint yourself with this stunning capital, founded in 1761 and situated on a small peninsula surrounded by a cluster of islands. Explore Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque, the largest in the U.A.E. and eighth-largest mosque in the world. You’ll appreciate the approximately 1,000 columns covered by more than 20,000 panels inlaid with semi-precious stones including lapis lazuli, red agate, amethyst, abalone shell and mother-of-pearl. Delight in a leisurely drive along the spectacular Corniche, a seaside roadway replete with cycle paths, fountains and parks. Enjoy spectacular views of Abu Dhabi, known as the Manhattan of the Gulf for its ultra-modern skyscrapers and impressive skyline, and discover the Emirates Palace Hotel, dramatically rising at the end of a palm-lined promenade. You’ll visit Q’asr al Hosn Fortress, the city’s oldest stone building that has stood watch since the 18th century, and marvel at its ventilation system that allows sea breezes to circulate and cool the interior, an ingenious example of innovation in this city of architectural wonders.
- Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable, non-slip walking shoes.
- Dress appropriately for a mosque visit; men should wear long trousers and women should cover their hair, arms and knees.
- Bring a light jacket or a cardigan for your comfort.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Hop On, Hop Off - Abu Dhabi City Tour (ABU-010)
- Port:Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Tour Length:Half-Day (Approximately 4 hours)
- Revel in an independent exploration of Abu Dhabi during this hop-on, hop-off excursion.
- Gain access to many of the city’s landmarks from the over 20 stops available.
- Deepen your knowledge of the city with recorded commentary in English provided on the bus.
- Tour famed Abu Dhabi landmarks such as the splendid Grand Mosque or beguiling Heritage Village.
- Take advantage of free or discounted admission to the city’s most popular attractions, including the Marina Mall Sky Tower and the Etihad Modern Art Gallery.
- Experience a free Yas Island tour, home of an indoor Ferrari-themed amusement park, if time permits.
Enjoy the ultimate in sightseeing freedom during this hop-on, hop-off bus tour of the United Arab Emirates’ capital city of Abu Dhabi. Explore any site you wish however you wish on an open-top Big Bus sightseeing adventure that includes a ticket valid for the entire day. With over 20 stops to choose from, visit any or all of the city’s famed landmarks, from the opulent Grand Mosque, also known as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, to historic Heritage Village. When aboard the bus, appreciate informative recorded commentary in a number of languages, including English. You’ll enjoy specially arranged benefits while using your tour ticket, such as free admission to the Sky Tower at Marina Mall, the Etihad Modern Art Gallery, Heritage Village and an Arabian dhow cruise, plus half off on entry to the Observation Deck at 300, which offers birds-eye vistas over the entire city from the 74th floor of Etihad Towers. If time permits, join the complimentary Yas Island tour, home of the Ferrari-themed amusement park, an indoor facility featuring over 20 attractions and one of the world’s fastest roller coasters.
- Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
- Dress appropriately if you wish to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque; men should wear long trousers and women should cover their hair, arms and knees.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Dream. Plan. Discover
Wander away into the unknown depths of this world and let your soul be your guide.



Hotels
Featured Holy Lands Hotels
Raffles Dubai
Dubai, UAE
Inspired by the great pyramids of Egypt, the pyramidal structure of Raffles is a stunning landmark in Dubai’s skyline. Featuring luxurious rooms and suites, this award-winning Dubai hotel offers some of the most spacious rooms in the city, each with a generously sized private balcony. Ten restaurants and bars offer an extensive array of dining, entertainment and clubbing options, while Raffles Amrita Spa beckons with a pampering menu to relax, revitalize and rejuvenate. This luxury Dubai hotel is a mere 15 minutes from the International Airport and 10 minutes from Dubai Financial City and Dubai World Trade Exhibition and Convention Center.St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, UAE
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi soars to new heights of splendor and service beyond expectation. Located at the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi, you are invited to the finest address in the city. Each of the hotel’s 283 rooms revels in a magnificent view of the alluring Abu Dhabi Corniche. The Abu Dhabi Suite, high on the skybridge between the two Nation Towers, has an astonishing 360-degree view.Hotel Grande Bretagne
Athens, Greece
Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is centrally located and within walking distance of Athens' emblematic Acropolis, trendy restaurants and exclusive shopping. The 320 elegant rooms and suites feature original art and antiques plus a full range of stylish bars and dining venues. Each of the rooms and suites at the Hotel Grande Bretagne offers enchanting views of the hotel's courtyard or a spellbinding panorama of the city's timeless landmarks. You can escape to the GB Spa Athens for an Ouzo Oil Massage or an indulgent respite in the Thermal Suite. Then venture up to the GB Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar for Champagne as the sun sets behind the Acropolis. Perhaps head down to The Cellar for a tasting of one of its 3,000 bottles of wine from the exquisite hotel collection.



Land Programs
Featured Holy Lands Programs
Dubai Discovery
Marvel at Dubai’s iconic architecture as a prelude to experiencing the city like a local. Photo stops at Jumeirah Mosque and the instantly recognizable Burj Al Arab hotel serve to pique your interest in Dubai. Still, the ultimate view awaits you from the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa skyscraper. Prepare to be awed. Browsing the souks offers a far more intimate exploration, as does cruising the lagoon in a traditional dhow. A day in Abu Dhabi presents the capital’s charms, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Grand Mosque.
Program includes:
- 3 nights in Dubai
- Browse the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Grand Mosque in the capital of Abu Dhabi
- View the Palm Jumeirah archipelago, Jumeirah Mosque and sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel
- Gaze over Dubai from the Burj Khalifa's 124th floor
- Enjoy a dinner cruise on a traditional dhow boat
- Shop for jewelry and perfume in old Dubai's souks
- Spend free time browsing the massive Dubai Mall
Arabian Desert Extravagance
Explore the dry, barren landscape of the Arabian Desert that belies the wonders of life that flourish there. A drive through the rippling red sands of the Al Wadi Nature Reserve reveals its haunting natural beauty and perhaps herds of gazelles. At night, the sky becomes an inky canvas of brilliant constellations for exquisite stargazing. Cruising the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula – the Norway of Arabia – and a definitive drive through Dubai are sure to shatter any lingering assumptions you may have had about desert life.
Program includes:
- 3 nights in Ras Al Khaimah
- A full range of optional activities that include a nature drive, stargazing, sunset camel ride and cruising the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula
- A panoramic driving tour through Dubai
- Select meals
- An English-speaking guide throughout
- Entrance fees
- Transfer from the airport to the hotel
From the Oceania Cruises Blog
A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO DUBAI
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