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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

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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.

Region
Country
Ports
  • EXCURSION TYPE
  • ACTIVITY LEVELS
  • OPTIONS
Excursions

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.

Helpful Hints
  • Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Please Note
This tour involves travel over bumpy, uneven terrain. It is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck issues. Children must be at least four years old and accompanied by a parent to participate on this tour. Parents are advised to provide the age and height of the child so proper seats and safety belts can be arranged. There are no restrooms in the desert; a restroom stop will be made at a fuel station before entering and after exiting the desert.

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.

Helpful Hints
  • Wear smart-casual clothing.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Please Note
No shorts, jeans, T-shirts, slippers or flip flops are allowed. Men cannot wear open-toe shoes and should wear a shirt with a collar. Smart Elegant and closed toe shoes is the dress code for the Emirates Palace.

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.

Helpful Hints
  • 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.
Please Note
This tour includes approximately two hours of walking and includes some steps to negotiate. It may not be suitable for guests with mobility concerns, who are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Note this tour is not suitable to guests who utilize a wheelchair.

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.

Helpful Hints
  • 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.
Please Note
This tour includes approximately 90 minutes of walking and includes some steps to negotiate. It is available to guests who utilize a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have an able-bodied companion to assist them.

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.

Helpful Hints
  • 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.
Please Note
As the HOHO buses are shared with non-cruise tourists; Guests can expect long lines and wait times between buses. Walking on this tour is primarily at the guest’s discretion. Guests must be able to negotiate a step to enter and exit the bus and approximately six-to-eight steep, narrow steps to reach the upper-deck seating. The upper deck is open and is partially air-conditioned. The tour is available to guests who utilize a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. Guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. The tour ticket is valid for the entire day. Buses arrive every 30 minutes for the red loop (city tour) with the last bus departing from stop number one at 5 p.m. The blue loop (Yas Island Tour) is available every 60 minutes from stop number 5 (Sheikh Zayed Mosque). The Yas Island loop is two hours in duration. The recorded commentary is available in eight languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Chinese, Arabic and Russian. Duration noted is the total time of the full loop, not including any optional time guests may spend at the stops. The mosque is not open to visitors on Friday.

Dream. Plan. Discover

Wander away into the unknown depths of this world and let your soul be your guide.
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Hotels

Extend your stay before or after your Holy Lands cruise at one of these luxurious hotels, carefully selected for their superb location, ambiance, world-class standards of service, cuisine and amenities. Our hotel packages include free air date changes up to 3 days before or after your cruise; free transfers between the airport, hotel and ship; and porterage. You’ll also enjoy the services of our exclusive Oceania Cruises hospitality desk at each hotel.

Featured Holy Lands Hotels

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    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.
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    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.
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    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.
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Land Programs

Our Holy Lands Pre-, Post- and Mid-Cruise Overland Programs invite you to immerse yourself in unique cultures, visit astounding UNESCO World Heritage sites, behold iconic architecture and discover the richly layered history of these regions. These multi-day, in-depth Land Programs include exclusive tours, premium hotel stays, airport transfers when arriving and departing the day your program begins and ends, and oftentimes locally inspired meals and porterage too.

Featured Holy Lands Programs

  • Dubai Discover

    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
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    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

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A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO DUBAI

Often called the City of Gold, Dubai has carved its place in the vast desert as a glittering tribute to all that money can buy. Why not discover for yourself what all the fuss is about in this city of superlatives?...Read More

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