Dazzling Arabia: A New Year Voyage
See in the New Year in ultimate style and Luxury with this fabulous Journey by Land and Sea. Explore the wonders of the Arabian Peninsula as you sail around the gulf, pausing for a moment for a glittering spectacle as the clock strikes midnight on the final day of 2026! After welcoming in the New Year, spend the remainder of your journey basking in the sunshine at the famous Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman.
Journey highlights
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Ring in the New Year with world-renowned fireworks illuminating Dubai's iconic skyline. Enjoy a breathtaking spectacle from the Arabian Gulf waters aboard Explora II, complete with flowing champagne and unforgettable festivities.
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Redefining the luxury ocean experience, Explora Journeys brings a refreshing approach to the cruise scene
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Discover rich history and modern marvels across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, and Oman, including landmarks like the Louvre, ancient forts, traditional souqs, and the UNESCO-protected wetlands.
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Enjoy exclusive adventures like an off-road excursion to Sabatyn Plateau and a traditional Omani Dhow cruise along Musandam's breathtaking coastline, offering personalized experiences and stunning vistas.
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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The best time to visit the Arabian Peninsula is between November and mid-March, when the cooler air brings the mountain scenery sharply into focus and daytime temperatures average 25°C. For the rest of the year, much of the area is oppressively hot and hazy, particularly between May and August.
Itinerary
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At a Glance
Day 1:
Port: Dubai
Arrival:09:00
A sun-drenched metropolis of opulence, innovation, and dazzling landmarks. Ski indoors, sail an abra, admire choreographed fountains, and revel in luxury at the Burj Khalifa and extravagant malls. Settle in to your life on board Explora II, a perfect pairing for your Arabian Journey.
Day 2:
Port: Dubai
Departure: 16:00
Day 3:
Port: Al Fujairah
Arrival: 08:00
Departure: 14:00
A powerhouse of superlatives, Fujairah welcomes with the U.A.E’s oldest fort, its second-largest mosque and the only Emirati capital on the Gulf of Oman. Lounging between broad beach and rugged foothills of the Al Hajar Mountains, Fujairah strikes a fine balance between culture and history in a lesser-known locale. Hike, bike, or go off-road in a wadi with wetlands so wondrous they are protected by UNESCO. Dive into cobalt waters, where the Gulf of Oman twists its way into the Persian Gulf, for sustainable fishing, epic scuba diving and dhow sails. Then ponder the watchtowers left behind by pioneering Portuguese once upon a time.
Day 4:
Port: Abu Dhabi
Arrival: 09:00
Departure: 16:00
Frolic in a beguiling modern playground, twinkling with ancient cultural colossus, art and sun-baked sandscapes. Attend enthralling events and cool workshops on Saadiyat Island, jet ski over sparkling seas and journey through impressive collections at the Louvre. Take a desert safari; sandboard, burn up dunes on a quad or live the Liwa culture. Learn Bedouin tribe traditions and watch camels race. Try Emirati cookery, beckon falconry, shoot archery and paddle through peaceful mangrove forests to glimpse indigenous wildlife. Make travelling tales a reality in a region where nothing is beyond reach.
Day 4-5:
Port: DXB
Arrival: 22:00
Celebrate the New Year in Dubai’s tranquil Arabian Gulf waters, where the city’s dazzling skyline sets the stage for an unforgettable night. Champagne flows, fireworks ignite the sky in a breathtaking spectacle, and timeless traditions welcome a radiant new beginning.
Day 6:
Port: Bahrain
Arrival: 09:00
Departure: 19:00
The winds of change have swept across the Kingdom of Bahrain, turning a sleepy fishing port into a bustling metropolis. Strut your stuff in Manama’s luxury malls, poised between the steel canyons and glass gorges of the financial district. Seek soulful moments below the sky-scraping minarets of elegant mosques and the cobbled streets of ancient souqs. Solitary trees stud the desert to the south, where camel treks and 4x4 safaris delve into parched dunes and high-octane adventures await at Bahrain International Circuit. Heed the call of fine fare and warm sands at elegant beach clubs or sail in search of pearls in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and the desert reserves of pristine islands.
Day 7:
Port: Doha
Arrival: 08:00
Departure: 17:00
Delve into a progressive Qatari capital where age-old souks meet sparkling city skyscrapers. Discover how the hallmarks of glamour have replaced pearl diving with a peek around The Pearl and Lusail for pricey real estate and haute couture. Acquire added luxury with a float around the mall or at Banana Island. Delve into one of Doha’s biggest draws at I.M. Pei’s designer gem - The Museum of Islamic Art. Consume insane cuisine, drop into mind-blowing mosques, dune surf with a Persian Gulf backdrop and play Qatar Master standard golf. Friendly Doha delivers an intriguing mix of wonders with ancient traditions.
Day 8:
Port: Dubai
Arrival: 08:00
Return to the city of superlatives for one last indulgence in its dazzling attractions, from sky-high wonders to cultural gems. Dubai’s seamless blend of past and future ensures an unforgettable finale.
Where to stay
EXPLORA II (7 nights)
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At a Glance
Day 8:
After ushering in the new year in style, the opulence continues as you disembark the ship, ready for a new adventure by land. Your private transfer awaits to delivery you to your Arabian haven for the next 7 nights. Enjoy your arrival day lounging by the side of the magnificent fresh water pool or indulging in a personalised spa experiences in the renowned Six Senses Spa.
Begin your land adventure with a private, off-road excursion to the stunning Sabatyn Plateau. Trek through the ancient village of Sabatyn, offering spectacular vistas of Wadi Al Bih and discover petroglyphs, stone towers, and ancient houses from nearly 4,000 feet above sea level. This journey through time promises breathtaking sights and unparalleled excitement in a rugged, beautiful landscape. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy by the pool or in the spa, or down at the beach.
Day 9:
Today's adventure unveils an extraordinary voyage aboard the traditional Omani Dhow Dhahab. Embark on a captivating journey along Musandam's breathtaking coastline on this exquisite 90-foot hand-crafted vessel. Sail the serene waters of Haffa, Sanna't, Lima, Charia, and Hamra, enjoying stunning views on a day trip or an unforgettable overnight stay. Experience the infinite horizon and golden views from this beautifully designed Dhow, all while enjoying impeccable service and cuisine from your on-board private chef and service host.
Day 10:
Today promises an experience that will delight the senses. Begin by either hiking along the narrow goat path to Smugglers Bay or opt for a speedboat ride for easy, yet thrilling access to the secluded spot. Dine on a sumptuous beachside barbecue lunch with refreshing beverages and traditional cuisine. This unique and intimate experience is curated to create cherished memories of Smugglers Bay and your land adventure in Oman. In the evening, indulge in the most sensational dining experience at Sense on the Edge Restaurant. A memorable evening starts with an enchanting view from atop the mountain at the elevated bay-side signature restaurant. Specially crafted sundowners and delicious canapes are presented to you as you savour the moment and admire the breathtaking view of Zighy Bay from above.
Day 11:
The following day you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.
Where to stay
Six Senses Zighy Bay (3 nights)Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
Experiences in this tour






We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on +65 6028 0858 to start planning your holiday.
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