Dubai - Dubai Oriental magic – glittering metropolises

In Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, luxury meets tradition and avant-garde architecture meets magnificent mosques. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, whose dazzling white domes and intricate mosaics are among the most impressive sights in the entire country, is an absolute highlight. The futuristic face of this metropolis is reflected in the glass facades of the Etihad Towers, while spectacular buildings such as the Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace and the Emirates Palace hotel are reminiscent of a modern dream from the Arabian Nights. The Heritage Village museum offers fascinating insights into the lives of the Emiratis before the oil boom in the 1960s, taking visitors on an extraordinary journey through time. Art lovers will be delighted by the Louvre Abu Dhabi with masterpieces from various cultures, and those seeking relaxation will find it on the city’s fine sandy beaches. Thanks to the long lay time, you can enjoy the metropolis until the evening.

Sir Bani Yas – a small Garden of Eden with pristine beaches, azure waters and expansive nature – lies off the coast of the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Once the private retreat of Sheikh Zayed, the island now offers not only luxurious relaxation, but is also a true paradise for nature lovers: more than half of its area is taken up by the Arabian Wildlife Park, which is home to more than 10,000 animals, including giraffes, gazelles and oryx antelopes. Picture-perfect beaches and vibrant underwater worlds invite you to enjoy nature in a relaxed manner or with sports activities. Thanks to the long lay time, you can take full advantage of the attractions of Sir Bani Yas until late in the evening.

In Doha, Qatar’s vibrant capital city, modern luxury and centuries-old traditions blend to create a unique atmosphere. The futuristic face of the metropolis can be seen along the Corniche, which offers breathtaking views of the skyline, and on the artificially created island of The Pearl: the district, also known as the “Arabian Riviera”, attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches, exclusive shopping mall and first-class restaurants. Fans of culture will love the Museum of Islamic Art, considered one of the most important museums of its kind, as well as Katara Cultural Village, where exhibitions, concerts and traditional architecture provide an authentic image of Qatar. You can experience a touch of old Doha on a short detour to Souk Waqif, where traders offer spices, handicrafts and fabrics.

Mina Khalifa, Bahrain’s main port, is the perfect starting point for exploring the small kingdom and its capital, Manama. Due to its exciting contrasts, the bustling financial metropolis is also known as the “Wall Street with a medina”. While the architecturally spectacular Bahrain World Trade Centre is the modern landmark, traditional everyday life awaits you behind the iconic Bab Al Bahrain gate building as you wander through the souk. Alongside oriental treasures, a tempting selection of regional street food awaits you here. The enormous Ahmed-al Fatih Mosque, one of the largest religious buildings in Islam, is also impressive.

Welcome to Muscat in a scenic location at the foot of the Hajar Mountains. The capital of Oman has its own unique way of blending tradition with modernity. Enjoy the view of the glittering yachts in the harbour as you stroll along the Corniche, then immerse yourself in the colourful offerings of the Mutrah souk, which has been the bustling heart of the city for centuries. Thanks to the seductive scents of spices, perfumes and herbs as well as the colourful selection of fine fabrics and handmade jewellery, a stroll here promises to be an experience for all the senses. The enormous Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest religious buildings in the world, is also an unforgettable sight – a masterpiece of modern architecture. The EUROPA 2 will stay here overnight and give you plenty of time for extensive explorations.

The small emirate of Ras al-Khaimah, still considered a real insider tip, delights visitors with its white sandy beaches, spectacular nature and unspoilt charm. For thousands of years, the terracotta-coloured desert has been home to Bedouins, who still maintain their nomadic lifestyle here according to ancient rituals. The capital city of the emirate, which shares the same name, welcomes you with great hospitality and authenticity. Enjoy the special atmosphere on a stroll along the Corniche and take time to sample the local cuisine in one of the cafes or restaurants. In the old town, houses built from coral stone and the Al Hisn Fort tell of Ras al-Khaimah’s rich past.