I’ll admit I thought this trip would be all malls and skyscrapers but I was pleasantly surprised. There’s so much more to the UAE than just glitz. The contrast between Dubai’s cutting-edge architecture and Abu Dhabi’s quieter, more traditional vibe really stood out. One moment we were staring up at the Burj Khalifa and the next we were soaking in the peaceful beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
One of my favorite experiences was the Dhow dinner cruise in Dubai. Watching the city lights reflect on the water while enjoying dinner and live music made for a really memorable evening. The tour itself was very well organized. From airport pickup to hotel check-ins and day tours everything ran smoothly. Our guide Afran was friendly and informative,sharing local insights that made each stop more meaningful. My only regret is not booking an extra day at the end to slow down and take it all in.