United Arab Emirates with Ahlam Yusuf

Dates

Aug 1–7, 2024

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

For many people, the United Arab Emirates might seem like a paradox. A dizzying array of contrasts where arid desert sands meet the sparkling blue waters of the Arabian Gulf and where ancient Bedouin culture meets the glitz and glamour of the sci-fi-esque skyscrapers of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Between the sand and the glitter lies an alluring culture and destination that will welcome you into its warm embrace.
$2,800USD
$3,000USD
Aug 1–7, 2024
7 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Ahlam Yusuf
Ahlam Yusuf

Hey, travel enthusiasts! My name is Ahlam Yusuf. Join me on an incredible journey to the UAE. As a passionate traveler, I'll be sharing my expertise and connecting with online supporters. Let's make this girls' trip of a lifetime unforgettable! 🌍✈️

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Trip Activities

  • Abu Dhabi City Tour

  • Yas Island Visit

  • Desert Safari, 4x4 Dune Tour

  • Desert BBQ & Bedouin Experience

  • Burj Khalifa Viewing Deck

  • Old Dubai Tour

  • Abra Boat Ride on Dubai Creek

  • Emirati Market Tour and Cooking Course

Optional Activities*

  • Emirati Coastal Road Trip

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double Occupancy in 4-star Hotels

  • Local Guide throughout Trip

  • All City Transfers

  • Arrival Airport Transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure Airport Transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International Flights

  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers Outside of Designated Times

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Group chat

Informal Gathering
Chat to speak about everyone’s experience on the trip so far, likes, dislikes, what can change to make the trip better, what we can improve on. This is a perfect time to also take group photos, connect with everyone on a deeper level and just end the night on a positive note.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

After a long journey, you’ve made it, welcome to the Emirates! After clearing immigration and customs you will be transferred to your hotel in Abu Dhabi where your adventure begins.

Airport Transfer

20 Mins

Airport Transfer

dinner

Meet up with the rest of the group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Centro Yas Island (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Abu Dhabi

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Day 2

Info

Rise and shine to your first morning in the United Arab Emirates! Today will be a full-day tour of Abu Dhabi, the capital and cultural center of the UAE.

breakfast

Included breakfast at hotel.

Abu Dhabi City Tour

6 Hours

Abu Dhabi offers so much more than its stunning skyline. Visit Yas Island, and go on a scenic drive down the Corniche of Abu Dhabi. Lined with cafes and restaurants, pedestrian walkways, and bike paths, the Corniche boasts gorgeous views of the Gulf. From there you will head into Abu Dhabi’s city center and visit the Heritage Village, a reconstruction of a traditional oasis village. Marvel at grandiose architectural masterpieces with stops at the Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Watan, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Yas Island Visit

1 Hour 30 Mins

Visit Yas Island, the entertainment capital of the Middle East. At the heart of the island is the Yas Marina, the home of Formula One, Ferrari World, and Clymb, the highest indoor climbing wall in the world.

Group chat

Chat to speak about everyone’s experience on the trip so far, likes, dislikes, what can change to make the trip better, what we can improve on. This is a perfect time to also take group photos, connect with everyone on a deeper level and just end the night on a positive note.

Centro Yas Island (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Abu Dhabi

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

After breakfast, you will have the morning free and at leisure to explore Yas Island or simply lay back and chill. In the afternoon, you will leave the city behind and enter the great expanse of the Emirati desert.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the hotel.

Desert Safari, 4x4 Dune Tour

5 Hours

Begin your desert safari by hopping in a 4x4 truck and going climbing and crashing through the sand dunes. There will be plenty of opportunities to hop out and appreciate the grandeur of the golden desert.

Desert BBQ & Bedouin Experience

2 Hours

When the sun begins to set, you will reach an oasis and camp where you’ll experience Bedouin culture. There will be music, a fire, and a Bedouin BBQ for you to enjoy as the stars begin to appear and glimmer above you.

Centro Yas Island (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Abu Dhabi

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

This morning you will wave goodbye to Abu Dhabi and hit the road for Dubai. Although towering skyscrapers have risen from the sands of Dubai, the lightning-fast growing city of Dubai has never forgotten its vibrant heritage and golden traditions.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the hotel.

Burj Khalifa Viewing Deck

45 Mins

Bring your camera, it's time for a bird’s eye view of the city from the top of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.

Old Dubai Tour

5 Hours 15 Mins

Experience Old Dubai, where you will visit Al Baskia, the Dubai Museum, and the spice market.

Abra Boat Ride on Dubai Creek

1 Hour

You will board a traditional abra boat, and ride down Dubai Creek, surrounded by the stunning skyline.

Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Dubai

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Day 5

Info

Today you will have a glimpse into the traditional food culture of the Emirates. After a foodie experience, the afternoon is free for you to explore Dubai on your own or relax by the pool.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the hotel.

Emirati Market Tour and Cooking Course

5 Hours

Meet your chef and food expert who will give you a tour of Dubai’s food market. After food shopping in the market, you will head to the kitchen where you’ll take part in a cooking lesson. At the end, you will have the chance to sample your creations and hopefully leave the experience with a few recipes and tricks to bring home.

Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Dubai

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

Your last full day in the Emirates is free to either relax, shop or do any last-minute sightseeing.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the hotel.

dinner

Swap stories with your newfound friends at your farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Emirati Coastal Road Trip (optional)

4 Hours

On this tour, you will embark on a scenic road trip to the coast and watch the modern skyline transform into amber sand slopes and rocky mountain ranges. You’ll pass by old ruins, visit markets, fishing villages, and the oldest mosque in the country.

Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Dubai

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until our next adventure. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport where you will bid farewell to the Emirates.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

Airport Transfer

breakfast

Included breakfast at the hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip

Explore the world with confidence. You're in great company!

Flexible Payment Options

Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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We partner with 50 handpicked Trip Operators worldwide to give you authentic, unforgettable adventures.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.