Dubai is the ultimate luxury escape, with extravagant architecture, beautiful beaches, and miles of gorgeous golden desert, making for the perfect few days before your onward travels. 

Marvel at the colossal Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, before strolling to the grand Dubai Mall where you can shop until you drop! The mall is also home to an impressive aquarium and an Olympic sized ice-skating rink; what more could you ask for? 

Make sure to head to the iconic Palm Jumeirah and stop at Atlantis, The Palm. Release your inner child and enjoy all that the Atlantis Aquaventure World waterpark has to offer or simply grab a sunbed and relax under the Arabian sun. 

For something different, leave the lively city behind and venture to the majestic Arabian Desert. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, go deep into the desert and enjoy a thrilling 4WD dune drive!

Don’t miss out on: The dancing Dubai Fountain show. 

For more inspiration, take a look at our 72 Hours in Dubai city break.

Abu Dhabi has plenty to offer and seamlessly blends old with new. Experience historic, grand architecture and modern skyscrapers, unwind on the picturesque beaches, and journey to the golden surrounding desert. 

Visit one of the main highlights of the city - the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, amongst the world’s largest. After, continue to the charming Heritage Village and catch a glimpse of authentic Abu Dhabi life before oil was discovered. The village also features a reconstruction of a traditional Bedouin camp. A must whilst in Abu Dhabi is a visit to the various souks, perfect for finding fragrant spices and fantastic souvenirs. 

For the perfect evening, make sure to journey into the desert for an exciting 4WD dune drive and dine under the stars at a desert camp. Before heading back to the city, try your hand at sandboarding down the red sand slopes. 

Don’t miss out on: The world-class theme parks on Yas Island, including the iconic Ferrari World which boasts the fastest roller coaster in the world. 

For more inspiration, take a look at our 72 Hours in Abu Dhabi city break.

Doha, Qatar’s capital city, boasts a striking and ever evolving skyline and impressive cultural landmarks. Doha perfectly combines old world hospitality and cosmopolitan sophistication with traditional souks and modern shopping malls. 

Stroll along the bustling Souq Waqif and browse for aromatic spices or explore Katara and Doha’s booming arts scene at one of the various museums and galleries. When you’re not sightseeing, head out to the desert to discover the importance of falconry in Qatari culture or visit one of the country’s intriguing natural attractions such as Khor Al Adaid, where the desert meets the ocean. Alternatively, unwind on one of the idyllic beaches and enjoy the Arabian sun, the perfect way to break up a long journey.

Don’t miss out on: The Pearl Qatar, a man-made island famed for its luxury boutiques, marinas and the Venice inspired Qanat Quartier. 

For more inspiration, take a look at our 72 Hours in Doha city break.

Surrounded by majestic mountains and facing the dazzling waters of the Gulf of Oman, Muscat has a charm unlike any other city in the Gulf. Spend your time here taking in the old and new, visiting historic landmarks and modern architecture.

Stop at the impressive Al Alam Palace and marvel at its gold and blue façade, visit the impressive Royal Opera House, and marvel at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. For an insight into Omani heritage, head to the Bait Al Zubair Museum and look at the various exhibits and cultural relics. Make sure to also stroll along the picturesque Corniche waterfront which is filled with lively fish markets and the traditional Mutrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East. 

There are also great opportunities to see the natural beauty just outside of the city which includes the stunning coast of Bandar Al Khairan and Nizwa, the historic heartland of Oman. If you enjoy viewing wildlife, why not embark on a dolphin cruise from Muscat? 

Don’t miss out on: Qurum Beach which boasts golden sands and clear waters, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.

For more inspiration, take a look at our 72 Hours in Muscat city break. 

Bahrain offers a convenient location, making it the ideal location for a stopover when venturing to destinations further afield such as the Maldives. Year round sunshine, beaches, history, and modern architecture make for an interesting and diverse stay.

Visit the Qal’at al-Bahrain, one of the kingdom's most notable highlights, home to an impressive 16th Century fort and the location of the erstwhile capital of the ancient Dilmun Empire. To learn more about Bahraini history, explore a wealth of museums showcasing Bahrain’s pearling heritage, how the Dilmun Empire came to be an important trading centre 4,000 years ago, and the historical significance of the Quran.

The city also features the famed Bahrain International Circuit, why not plan your trip around one of the exciting events they host throughout the year? After exploring, head out on the waters and try pearling. You can keep whatever you find! Lastly, Bahrain is known for its international food scene, so be sure to sample as many tasty dishes and new flavours as possible.

Don’t miss out on: The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park for exciting slides and attractions.

For more inspiration, take a look at our 72 Hours in Bahrain city break.

Turn your stopover into an unforgettable desert escape; race across the dunes on a thrilling 4WD safari, unwind in a luxury desert camp or enjoy dinner under the stars. 

Just an hour by road from Dubai airport lies the Arabian Desert, while two hours by road from Abu Dhabi airport brings you to the vast Empty Quarter. Alternatively, venture further to Oman’s Wahiba Sands, Jordan’s Wadi Rum and Morocco’s sweeping deserts, each offering remarkable scenery and epic adventure.