Updated November 21, 2016
Hi there, we are so excited for our Middle East trip and we are gathering as much information as we can so we can travel with right knowledge on hand.
We already got our flights confirmed from Manila to Dubai vice versa. Now we’re researching on how to get tourist visas for the two countries, UAE and Oman. This is what we are currently working on.
I’ve heard people doing a trip like this using a transit visa in UAE and it seems impossible for us to get it especially if you did not fly with Emirates or Etihad. But anyway, check out our planned itinerary.
Day 1 – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Arrive in Dubai Airport and check in to our hotel or go straight to bus station to Muscat and travel overnight. We’ll probably rest in Dubai first if we will get some jetlags.
Day 2 — Muscat/Quantab, Oman
Travel by bus and arrive in Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman, and check in to our hotel.
Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Oman Botanic Garden and take in views of Al Alam Palace. Wander through the Muttrah Souk, an Arabian bazaar. In the village of Qantab, see the boatyard featured in National Geographic’s documentary Sailing the Treasure Ship, and meet with archaeologists, if we got a chance, we’d like to talk more about it.
Day 3 — Wadi Shab
Explore the natural wonders of Oman: visit the Bimmah sinkhole, hike through cliff-walled canyons, and take a swim at Wadi Shab; or take a scenic drive. We’re not so sure about visiting this place.
Day 4 — Birkat Al Mawz/Jabal Al Akhdar
Travel inland to the palm tree oasis of Birkat al Mawz and walk through a traditional falaj irrigation field. This type of irrigation system has been in use here for some 1,500 years and was recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. Visit the 17th-century fortress and museum in Nizwa, and uncover the mysteries of Jabal al Akhdar, a mountain range named for its lush green terraced fields. Set out by 4×4 to visit the abandoned mud-brick village of Tanuf. Then travel up to the lovely mountaintop village of Misfat al Abreyeen, where we’ll meet with local farmers and enjoy a traditional home-cooked Omani meal.
Day 5 — Bahla/Bat/Al Ain
Explore Oman’s largest fortress, Bahla Fort, then head to the Al Ayn tombs and the prehistoric settlements, towers, and tombs of Bat. This afternoon, cross the border into the United Arab Emirates and stay in the gateway city of Al Ain. Do you think one day is enough for Al Ain?
Day 6 to 8 — Dubai
Travel to Dubai and wander through the narrow lanes of the historic Bastakiya quarter, founded by merchants in the 19th century. Head to the top of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and enjoy free time this afternoon to shop, or swim in the sea.
Days 9 & 10 — Abu Dhabi/Dubai
After eating our breakfast, we’ll set out on an excursion to the capital city of Abu Dhabi. Enjoy lunch aboard a traditional boat, visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This evening, return to Dubai and enjoy a festive farewell dinner. Transfer to the airport the midnight for our flight back to Manila.
We know that UAE is expensive that’s why we will try to manage our budget and try to visit places as much as we can. If you have some suggestions, recommendations on where we should go, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment, we really need you to make this trip hassle free and unforgettable.
Thank you in advance.
Mark
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