DAY 1: ARRIVE IN DOHA, QATAR

Meet your local representative on arrival at Hamad International Airport and transfer to your hotel.  Remainder of the day is at leisure, until meeting your fellow travelers, and your tour leader at the welcome dinner at the hotel this evening.

Overnight in Doha

 

DAY 2: DOHA SITES

This morning we begin our Doha sightseeing with a visit to the impressive Imam Abdul Wahaab Sheikh Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Qatar. The architecture and design here are truly a work of art – understated with spectacular attention to detail. It has over 90 domes and can accommodate 30,000 people.  

After we will continue to the Msheireb museums.  This collection of museums, comprising of four different buildings, showcases not just the history of Qatar and Doha, but also family and cultural life and architectural innovation and development in the country.  

A short walk will take us to Souq Waqif where we will enjoy a lunch at one of the many exotic restaurants.  
Lunch at Souq Waqif, a local restaurant.

After lunch another short walk will bring us to the Museum of Islamic Art. Located on the Doha Corniche, it is home to the largest collection of Islamic art in the world. The museum was designed by I.M. Pei (the architect behind The Louvre).  

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In the late afternoon we will enjoy a traditional dhow cruise around the Doha waterfront.  Dinner in our hotel in the evening

Overnight in Doha

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DAY 3: FLIGHT TO KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT

This morning we will visit the National Museum of Qatar followed by an early lunch in Souq Waqif.  After transfer to the airport, for a short flight to Kuwait City.  

On arrival transfer and check-in to our hotel.  

After, take a leisurely walk along the Kuwait City Corniche. The scenic thoroughfare offers extraordinary views of the Arabian Gulf. Watch the sunset and enjoy the cool breeze.  Unwind at Marina Crescent, a popular waterfront lined with restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisines. Tonight we will enjoy a delightful dinner while savouring the stunning views.

Overnight in Kuwait

 

DAY 4: KUWAIT CITY SIGHTSEEING

Today we have a full day tour exploring Kuwait City.  
We will begin with one of Kuwait's most famous landmarks, the Kuwait Towers, an iconic landmark on Kuwait's skyline.

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We also visit the Tareq Rajab Museum, a private collection of the Rajab family. The museum deals with calligraphy, pottery, metalwork, glass, wood, ivory and jade carvings of the Islamic world. Early calligraphy is presented in a separate small room, showing pages from the Holy Qur'an, dating back to the first three centuries of the Islamic period. There are also displays of costumes, textiles, embroideries and jewelry of the Islamic world.  Lunch at Kuwaiti local restaurant.

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We also visit the Bayt Al Othman Museum, with a vast display of popular Kuwaiti culture and history in a large traditional complex of inter-connected ancient houses and courtyards as well as a visit to admire the very photogenic dhow harbor and fish market.

Overnight in Kuwait

 

DAY 5: FAILAKA ISLAND

Today we will take a ferry boat 20 kilometres to the island of Failaka.  This remote island in the northern Persian Gulf contains a number of important archaeological sites dating from 4,000 years.  The islands strategic location is close to the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. The island also played a role in modern history and endured a short period in trying to fend off the invading Iraqi forces in 1990. Evidence of that brief battle can be seen on the island today in littered tanks and armored vehicles.  

 

Our tour of the island includes: 
•    Archaeological ruins: The island has many archaeological ruins, including sites from the Dilmun civilization and Greek ruins. Some of the ruins are still being excavated hence entrance to this site is not permitted.
•    Heritage Village: A reconstructed traditional village with houses, mosques, and shops that showcase Kuwait before the discovery of oil. 
•    Tank Graveyard: A collection of rusty Iraqi tanks and vehicles. 
•    National Bank of Kuwait: A bank that was set to open on the day of an attack and never did. 
•    Camel Farm: A small herd of camels that graze the island's shrubbery. 
•    Hellenistic Fortress: A fortress that dates back to the 3rd century BCE. 
•    Bronze Age Temple: An almost complete temple that measures 11 x 11 meters. It was discovered along with artifacts such as seals and pottery. 
•    War-stricken structures: The island has many war-stricken structures. 
•    Abandoned villages and mosques. 

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We will enjoy lunch on the island and some spare time to visit a local zoo, and horse stables before our return to Kuwait City.

Overnight in Kuwait City

 

DAY 6: FLY TO MANAMA, BAHRAIN

Transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bahrain. 

Upon arrival we will check-in to our hotel and have lunch. We then start our local excursions.

Deserts are usually perceived as barren and uneventful places, where the passing of time is only visible through the ever-shifting sands. This is not the case, however, with the desert of Bahrain. Combining the luring temptation of the Arabian Nights with meaningful historic sites and adrenaline-infused activities, Sakhir is one of the most thrilling deserts you will ever roam. To unveil all its grandeur, our local guide will mark the route and excavate stories that will incite and amaze. 

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We begin at the Royal Camel farm followed by a visit to the first oil well in Bahrain.  Later we will explore the Riffa Fort and the A’Ali Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising over 100,000 burial mounds dating from the Dilim-era over 4000 years ago.  Finally we will visit the Tree of Life - a 400 year old tree standing alone in the desert without water.  Lit up at night, it makes its existence even seem more mysterious.

Overnight in Manama, Bahrain

 

DAY 7: BAHRAIN SIGHTSEEING

Today will be spent further exploring this tiny island state. We begin with a visit to the Bahrain National Museum where we will trace the archaeological development of the region. Through sculpture and ceramics, reconstructed burial mounds, Arabic calligraphy and illuminated Korans, the different periods of Bahrain's history are presented.

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We will also visit the Bahrain Fort. The first dwellings on the site are believed to have been constructed around 2800 BC, and have subsequently been overlaid by numerous fortified settlements. The last was built in the early 16th century to defend Portugal's recent acquisition of the islands; for this reason, it is also known locally as the Portuguese Fort.

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We will also pay a visit to the Al Fatih Grand Mosque, Bahrain's largest mosque and a magnificent piece of architecture. On the Island of Muharraq we visit Sheikh Isa House, in the old town of Muharraq. This was once the home of the Amir's great-grandfather, Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa. It provides a fine example of local architecture, complete with wall carving and latticework, and representative of traditional 19th century life. The house is complete with a 'wind tower'; constructed 5-6m (16-20ft) above the house and open on all four sides. One of the early forms of air conditioning, this acts as a funnel, catching the breeze and drawing it down into the cavities below, as well as allowing the release of hot air like a chimney. Lunch at local restaurant.

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No visit to Bahrain would be complete without a tour of the Old Souq, with its profusion of colors, sounds, and aromas. The souq lies in the centre of the old town, near the archway of Bab al-Bahrain and, although much of the surrounding area is modern, the street layout and division of occupations still follow traditional lines. All wares are sold, from cloth of different colors and textures to gold and jewelry as well as the traditional array of spices and local produce.

Overnight in Manama, Bahrain

 

DAY 8: TO RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

Breakfast and transfer to Riyadh by surface.

Today we have an early departure for our drive to Riyadh. We leave Manama and drive along the causeway known as the King Fahd Causeway, that connects Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. The causeway is a series bridges and islands for a distance of 25 km. 

When driving from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, you will need to go through customs and immigration checks at the border before our desert drive to Riyadh.

On arrival in Riyadh check-in to our hotel to freshen up and relax.  Dinner this evening will be in our hotel but afterwards we will head out to see some of the sights of Riyadh at night.  Our first stop is to the Kingdom Sky Center Bridge.  At 300 meters (1000 feet) high this is the tallest building in Riyadh and offers spectacular views of the city light up at night.  Afterwards we will drive to explore old Diriyeh by night.  Diriyeh was the original home of the Saudi Royal family located in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

Overnight Riyadh

 

DAY 9: FLY TO ABHA; DRIVE TO THE 900 YEAR OLD TOWN OF RIJAL ALMAA

This morning we will catch a flight to the southwest of Saudi to the mountain city of Abha. Depending on our flight schedule and arrival time, we may see some sites in Abha before departing for the 900 year old living museum of Rijal Almaa (Tentative UNESCO site).  Our hotel is in a renovated 900 year old hotel right across from the scenic view of the old town. Enjoy dinner with some time to wander around the town center.

Overnight in Rijal Almaa

 

DAY 10: RIJAL ALMAA MUSEUM; OLD HOUSE FOR DINNER

Today we will explore Rijal Alma which should soon become a UNESCO world heritage site. We will explore this village on foot which is a 1 minute walk from our hotel. Learn about the architectural style of the time and how life was here 900 years ago. The buildings and pathways are all made of stone. After the tour, you can enjoy time exploring on your own, and enjoy the ambience of this picturesque town!

In the evening, we will have dinner in one of the old houses on the hill with a great view. With traditional Saudi dishes, we will learn about the culture, both new and old!

Overnight in Rijal Almaa

 

DAY 11: TO AL BAHA; CAVES OF SHADA

Today we depart for Al Baha. Upon arrival we will check in to our accommodations before setting out to explore the Caves of Shada.  Jabal Shada is a cavernous landscape believed to date many thousands of years. Drawings and engravings have been discovered inside the caves and according to geologists, are likely to be the workings of the Thamudites, a tribal civilization said to have existed in the 8th century BC. We will have lunch here with time for more exploration in the afternoon. We return to Al Baha for dinner.

Overnight in Al Baha

 

DAY 12: HIKE TO REMOTE ANCIENT MOUNTAIN VILLAGE OF DHEE AYN

We will enjoy a hike to the beautiful mountain village of Dhee Ayn. This "marble village" is located 30kms from Al Baha and our drive passes through 25 tunnels on a road with many switchbacks.

Dee Ayn (or Thee Ain) is an ancient fortified village built near a spring (Ain). It’s an imposing site from a distance and an interesting site to explore. Surrounding it are trees and a stream flowing through a series of rocky outcrops. The village is abandoned so we need to take water, sunscreen, and a flashlight (your phone flashlight is also fine). The views are stunning!

Overnight in Al Baha

 

DAY 13: TO JEDDAH; SNORKELING IN THE RED SEA

Today we depart for Jeddah. Enroute we stop to snorkel in the Red Sea which is teaming with coral and sea life. We will take a catamaran or yacht to our snorkeling site and have lunch onboard. Today is a wonderful contrast to much of our trip in which we will see stunning scenery with beautiful rock formations. The western length of Saudi looks out to the Red Sea. Today is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the underwater beauty on Saudi’s western coast. Snorkeling equipment will be provided.

Later in the afternoon, we will continue to our hotel in Jeddah which is on the Corniche overlooking the Red Sea. Before checking into our hotel, we will take a short drive down the Corniche to see the floating mosque, and drive by the Formula 1 circuit that is close by.  Finally, we can check into our 5-star hotel for some tasty cuisine!

Overnight in Jeddah

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DAY 14: JEDDAH SITES; BULLET TRAIN TO MEDINA

Today we will visit ‘old Jeddah’ with it’s unique architectural style and the impressive Al Taybat Museum which has thousands of cultural, historical and religious artifacts as well as exhibits on the many cultural groups from Jeddah and all over Saudi Arabia. 

Later in the afternoon, we will take a bullet train to Medina, the second most religious city in Saudi after Mecca, which is open to foreigners.  We will check into our hotel where we will have dinner.

Overnight in Medina

 

DAY 15: MEDINA SITES

Today is a full day to visit the many sites of Medina, starting with the massive and impressive Masjid-e-Nabawi. It is considered the second most sacred place in Islam. The Prophet is buried in the Sacred Chamber, directly under the green dome. The Prophet is buried along with two of his most faithful companions and the first two caliphs of Islam, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq and Umar ibn al-Khattab. The Sacred Chamber was once the house (hujra) of his wife Aisha – the house in which he was staying in at the time of his physical demise. Today, it forms part of the Masjid Nabawi complex and is arguably the most venerated tomb in the world. The graves are surrounded by several walls which have no windows or doors.  Please note: Non-Muslims cannot venture inside the gates of the Prophet's Mosque so we are confined to seeing this from outside the gates.

There are many sites that one can see in Medina. We will see as many as we can which may include Quba Mosque, Jannat al-Baqi (cemetery), Medina Bazaar, Mount Uhud, and Quba Castle depending on time.

Overnight in Medina

 

DAY 16: TO AL ULA (UNESCO)

After breakfast we depart Medina by coach. Our first stop is at the oasis of Khaybar and the site of the ancient Jewish mountain fortress of Qamos. Considered to be the "Masada” of Arabia, and once home to a Jewish Tribe known as the Band Nadir. This mountain redoubt was the scene of an epic battle in the 7th century.  Afterwards, we continue on to the Radwan viewpoint for a scenic view, followed by a walk through the palm trees along the Oasis Heritage Trail.  We continue on to Al Ula. On arrival in Al Ula we will transfer to our hotel.

Overnight in Al Ula

 

DAY 17: AL ULA SITES

Today will we begin our exploration of Al Ula Old Town, where pilgrims, travelers and permanent settlers congregated through the ages. Today, you can explore the maze of adobe buildings that remain and enjoy views of Al Ula Castle, dating back to the 10th century. Explore Old Market street in Al Ula Old Town and shop a variety of retail stores featuring local artisans, entrepreneurs, cafes, and more. Cultural experiences, handicraft stores, local speciality foods to name a few, are featured for guests to discover and learn more about the wonders of Al Ula. We conclude our day with a visit the Hijaz Railway station (if it is open to the public). Al Ula has long been a place of journey, travel, and exploration. Construction of the Hijaz Railway station began in 1900, reaching Madinah in 1908 and opening in Damascus in 1913. As a result of World War 1, the railways full 1,300 planned kilometres were never completed.
Overnight in Al Ula

 

DAY 18: VISIT TO MADAIN SALEH; HEGRA (UNESCO)

This morning we transfer to the Hegra, also known as Madain Saleh, or Al-Ḥijr, which is an archaeological site located in the area of Al Ula within Al Madinah region in the Hejaz, Saudi Arabia. A majority of the remains date from the Nabatean Kingdom. The site constitutes the Kingdom’s southernmost and largest settlement after Petra, its capital.

The archaeological site of Al-Hijr (Madain Saleh) is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. Formerly known as Hegra, it is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan. It features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. The site also features some 50 inscriptions of the pre-Nabataean period and some cave drawings. Al-Hijr bears a unique testimony to the Nabataean civilization. With its 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are decorated, and water wells, the site is an outstanding example of the Nabataeans’ architectural accomplishment and hydraulic expertise.

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This afternoon we enjoy a visit to Elephant Rock. This spectacular rock formation resembles an elephant with its trunk touching the ground.  It is but one of the many geomorphological wonders common to this area, and an iconic landmark in Al Ula.

Overnight in Al Ula

 

DAY 19: TO WADI AL DISAH IN 4 x 4's AND ONWARD TO TABUK

Today we will enjoy our scenic drive, which takes us to the breathtaking natural beauty of Wadi Al Disah. We will leave our coaster van or bus and travel in 4 x 4’s. Wadi Al Disah is a lush oasis framed by towering cliffs.  After our visit here, we will continue to Tabuk for our overnight. 

Overnight in Tabuk

 

DAY 20: TO TABUK; SAUDI'S GRAND CANYON

We continue our overland journey on 4 x 4's to Tabuk, with a stop at Saudi’s Grand Canyon. With it’s spectacular views carved over millions of years of erosion, we can enjoy some small hikes and lunch while enjoying the many great views of the canyon. We continue on to Tabuk, where we will enjoy dinner.

Overnight in Tabuk

 

DAY 21: MOSES MOUNTAIN; PETROGLYPHS

Although controversial, many researchers believe that the real Mount Sinai is Jabal al-Lauz on the border of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Today we will visit this mountain which many believe to be the real Moses Mountain in the old land of Midian.
 

Here, we will hike to the top of the mountain to the split rock. We will learn about the local compelling arguments as to why this is the land of the Exodus, in the footsteps of Moses. This hike is optional. There are petroglyphs on many places on the mountain. Here, we will have a picnic lunch. Later in the day, we return to Tabuk.

Overnight in Tabuk

 

DAY 22: BAJDAH WILDLIFE RESERVE

Today we once again venture out in our 4 x 4's to Bajdah Wildlife Reserve. Today is more than just stunning landscapes as we observe magnificent desert animals such as Deer, Nubian Ibex, Arabian Oryx, Idmi Gazelle, Rhim Gazelle, and Ostriches in their natural habitat.

Overnight in Tabuk

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DAY 23: TO TAYMA; 2000 YEAR OLD WELL
Our journey takes a new direction as we leave the northern route behind, venturing south before making our way east. Today, we arrive in the historic town of Tayma, where we'll delve into its rich heritage by exploring ancient mosques, forts, and marveling at its renowned 2,000-year-old well. 
Overnight in Tayma

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DAY 24: TO HA'IL; A'ARIF FORT

Today we drive to the city off Ha’il. Here we will visit the A’arif Fort (built of mud and clay in the 17th century) and Qishlah Palace (built in the 1940’s as an artillery and a weapons depot) and finally the impressive Al-Rajhi mosque. 

Overnight in Ha’il

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DAY 25: TO USHAIQER

Today we depart for Ushaiqer, but make a detour to Al Hatima volcanic crater where we will enjoy a picnic lunch and some short hikes around the crater’s rim.

After lunch, we continue to Usahiqer, which is one of Saudi Arabia's most beautiful heritage villages.

Overnight in Shaqra

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DAY 26: TO RIYADH; WORLD'S LARGEST CAMEL MARKET; SUNSET AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD

This morning we will visit the world’s largest camel market. Every day at six in the morning, the Buraydah camel market comes to life as vendors and buyers exchange riyals for camels, sheep, goats, and goods such as saddles and blankets. There are thousands of camels which are bought and sold daily within a 2-square mile area. We continue our journey traveling southeast with a stop for lunch on our route. 

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In the afternoon, we will drive to Jebel Fihrayn popularly known as “the Edge of the World”, located 120km (75mi) from Riyadh. Standing atop the 1,000-foot high escarpment at Jabal Fihrayn, you find stretching before you an uninterrupted view of the horizon in all directions, leaving you with the impression that you are, indeed, standing at the very edge of the world. The effect on one’s body and mind and soul is exhilarating. These cliffs rise dramatically from the desert, stretching toward the sky like a great natural wall. When you stand atop them and look toward the horizon, you have a prime view of the sky as it seems to melt into the barren earth.

Overnight in Riyadh

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DAY 27: RIYADH SITES; FAREWELL DINNER

This morning, after breakfast, we visit Riyadh’s Souq Al-Zal, a shopping trip through time. The market can trace its history back to 1901, to the beginning of modern Saudi Arabia. It sits within a stone’s throw of the Masmak fortress – the site where, in 1902, where young Lbn Saud and a small band of his most trusted soldiers crept up after dawn prayers, rushed the gate, captured the governor, and announced the return of the Al Saud family. A treasure trove of traditional Eastern artifacts, the souq is one of the major tourist attractions in Riyadh. The word ‘zal’ means ‘carpet’ or ‘floor rug’, referring to the patterned textiles so central to Middle Eastern imagery.

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Following our visit to the National Museum of Saudi Arabia which was established in 1419 as a significant part of the King Abdulaziz historical center in Riyadh. This very impressive and important museum showcases everything about Saudi history, the Saudi royal family and the formation of the kingdom.

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The museum includes interesting examples of Arabian and Islamic art and architecture.  Masterpieces include a prehistoric elephant skeleton, a huge meteor found in the Empty Quarter in the Saudi Arabian desert, rock graffiti from the Hejaz region backdated to pre Islamic era, a copy of rosetta stone, and an example of the Madaian Salah Rock-cut tombs.

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After, enjoy a walk through the outdoor gardens of the National Museum park.  We will then continue to the Hall of King Abdulaziz where there is an extensive showroom of old cars that were part of the King’s collection. Continuing on, we will visit Murraba Palace - among the most important palaces built by King Abdulaziz that was built to accommodate his family. It was built in the traditional Najid style, by using local building materials only. 

 

Tonight we will enjoy our farewell dinner and reminisce over your exploration of Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia!

Overnight Riyadh

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DAY 28: DEPART RIYADH

Today is the conclusion of our Arabian Gulf Adventure as we transfer to the airport for our flights home.