The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts has partnered with AuthentEscapes to offer exceptional bespoke travel experiences, tailored for the most discerning global explorers, at the most desired destinations in the world. Set along celebrated culinary and wine trails, amongst unrivalled architecture and spectacular natural wonders, experience unforgettable Journeys.
View More Journeys
Bordered by a golden desert on the Arabian Peninsula, the glittering skyline of Dubai is a 21st century marvel. Once a pearl-diving and trading center, the city has transformed into a major Middle Eastern metropolis, boasting countless architectural monuments, including Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper.
“All sunshine makes the desert.” – Arabian Proverb
Amidst its bustling city life, ancient Arab tradition is still preserved within narrow, winding streets lined with centuries-old spice and gold souks. From enchanting moonlight cruises on historic dhows to thrilling desert safaris, experience a fascinating journey through the City of Gold.
Dinner at the Observatory
Panoramic vistas of the Dubai Marina and the Palm Jumeirah Island welcome you to the Observatory, Dubai’s signature dining experience. Located on the 52nd floor of the Harbour, the restaurant offers an incredible vantage point for your first meal in Dubai. Enjoy updated European classics such as a trio of duck and bite-sized foie gras burgers in a spectacular setting.
Bastakia, Al Fahidi Fort
By private car, visit a selection of Dubai’s modern landmarks in a tour of the city. Opened in 1998, the magnificent white-stone Jumeirah mosque features twin minarets alongside a crown-like dome and serves as the city’s only mosque open to non-Muslim visitors. Drive past modern palaces sprawled along the stunning coast before traveling to the 19th century Bastakia quarter with its historic wind-tower houses.
Built in 1799 to defend the city from sea attacks, the nearby Al Fahidi Fort now stands as the Dubai Museum, recording the city’s past as an important pearl-diving and trading center. Continue your journey by abra, a private water taxi, and cross the sparkling Dubai Creek to tour the modern part of the city.
By moonlight, board a private dhow for an enchanting gourmet dinner along Dubai Creek.
Margham
Less than an hour outside of Dubai lies valleys of endless sand dunes, perfect for sporting adventures. Travel by a chauffeured four-wheel drive, deep into the Arabian desert, where you will be greeted to commence a half-hour camel ride across the spectacular red dunes of Margham. Then abandon tradition for a modern, exhilarating sport: sand boarding through the steep-sided dunes to the valley floor below.
In the afternoon, visit the Sahary Gate, a traditional Arabic house where you will be welcomed by a local family. Your hosts will acquaint you with the unique facets of Arabian culture, from traditional family life to modern lifestyle, over a delicious meal.
Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque
Enjoy a round of golf at one of Dubai's most esteemed courses at the Emirates Golf Club, home of the Dubai Desert Classic and Dubai Ladies Masters. This famed club features two championship golf courses, including the Nick Faldo-designed, 18-hole par-73 course, alongside a golf academy, and a variety of fine dining options.
Alternatively, choose a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the cosmopolitan capital of the UAE. There, you will visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque. With its 82 white marble domes and thousands of inlaid columns, it is considered to be of the most important national architectural treasures of the country.
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Be mesmerized by a magical evening of an unforgettable safari adventure. A guide will transport you by four-wheel drive through the rolling dunes to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve deep in the heart of the desert. From the crest of a high dune, watch the sun casts its orange glow over the rippling sand as it sets. Witness the flickering lights of a camp as a traditional Arabian welcome awaits your arrival. Experience a short camel ride or relax on comfortable low cushions in Bedu tents as your hands are painted with intricate henna designs before your feast begins. Under the stars, be entertained by a belly dancer swaying to the strains of Arabian music as you dine on grilled meats, fresh salads and delectable sweets for an enchanting evening.