Discover Dubai on a P&O Cruises holiday

With its pleasant climate, enriching destinations and great value cruise fares available, Dubai and the Arabian Gulf is growing in popularity among European holidaymakers. In 2019, P&O Cruises will introduce a series of new sailings aboard Oceana departing from Dubai. While the majority of P&O Cruises sailings depart Southampton, Oceana is no stranger to offering fly cruises for the cruise line. For the last few years the ship has spent most of the year offering attractive Mediterranean cruises from Malta.

From a 21 or 30 night re-positioning cruise from Southampton to Dubai via the Suez Canal, a 21-night Dubai to Malta sailing or the regular 10 night sailings to the best ports in the Arabian Gulf. There will be a selection of itineraries to suit everyone. The best part of a P&O Cruises fly cruise holiday is that flights and transfers are already included in the price, so there’s no hassle of finding suitable flights or budgeting additional costs.

Dubai

As you arrive in Dubai for your cruise, you’ll be amazed at the metropolis of gigantic skyscrapers that line the ever expanding skyline of Dubai. A visit to the Dubai Mall will be any shopping lovers dream. From high end fashion and the latest technology, to amazing food and even an aquarium – it has it all! Take a trip to the top of the largest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. At 160 storeys tall, this probably isn’t one for those with a fear of heights.

Manama

Located in the small island country of Bahrain, Manama is full of wonder and diversity. If you’re keen to learn about the island nation’s past, a visit to the Bahrain National Museum is essential. For other architectural and cultural wonders, head to the grand Al Fateh Mosque, Beit Al Quran, or any of the country’s well preserved forts.

Abu Dhabi

You’ll have an overnight stay to enjoy all the great attractions in the second largest city in the United Arab Emirates. Thrill-seekers and Ferrari lovers should head straight to the Ferrari World theme park. The iconic red building houses exhibits about Ferrari’s past, indoor rides for the family, and thrilling roller coaster, including the world’s fastest launch roller coaster, Formula Rossa which reaches speeds of 140mph and does 0 to 60 in 2 seconds out beating even the fastest racing car! Why not book an exciting shore excursion and head out of the city on an off road desert safari.

Sir Bani Yas Island

Step off your ship and onto an island oasis. Resting on the crest of a salt dome created millions of years ago, is an expansive nature reserve which covers half of the 34-square-mile island. The Arabian Wildlife Park is home to lush vegetation and 13,000 animals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula.

Muscat

The capital of Oman is home to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman and one of the most impressive in the world. The Al Alam Palace has distinct blue and gold pillars, and is one of six royal residences of the current ruling monarch, Sultan Qaboos. Although off limits to the public, it is still a popular place to visit. The traditional Arab Souq market is popular for buying beautiful textiles and jewellery.

Khasab

Khasab is often referred to as the ‘Norway of Arabia’ due to its fjord-like inlets and mountainous coast. Relax on a dhow cruise, a traditional wooden boat. Soak up the sun and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and keep a look out for the dolphins!

Dubai

Dubai is a very large place, so chances are you didn’t see everything you wanted to during your visit to the city at the start of the cruise. Enjoy another glorious overnight stay in Dubai aboard Oceana, before your flight back to the UK the next day. Relax on Jumeirah Beach, explore the bustling markets or enjoy a desert safari and a BBQ under the stars.

For more information about P&O Cruises range of Arabian Gulf itineraries click here, or call 0800 368 9059 to discuss cruise options.