Arabian Peninsula: Art On The Beach
The affluent United Arab Emirates is revered for the luxury of its modern cities but it also has a thriving art scene - an eclectic mix of modern works and heritage pieces. Oman is also known for its lavish taste, but the port city of Muscat is full of surprises, mixing contemporary art with traditional Arabian souks and stone buildings reminiscent of a different era. You will stay at opulent hotels, spend blissful afternoons relaxing on the beach, all the while discovering the diverse artwork of the Arab peninsula from beautifully minimalistic galleries – such as the Salwa Zeidan – to the more quirky modern art spaces and studios.
Highlights
- CREATIVE COMMUNITY
- HISTORIC BAZAAR
- PICK UP A PAINTBRUSH
Inclusions
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Accommodation
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Transport
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Guide
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Entrances
Extensions
Destinations
- ABU DHABI
- ABU DHABI
- MUSCAT
- MUSCAT
- SHARJAH
- SHARJAH
- DUBAI
- DUBAI
- DEPARTURE
Trip Plan
DAY 1 (ABU DHABI)
Arrive in Abu Dhabi. Take this evening at your leisure, perhaps indulge your tastebuds at one of Abu Dhabi’s many sumptuous restaurants such as Scott’s (for glorious ocean views and exquisite seafood), Li Beirut (for delectable Lebanese cuisine), or Bord Eau (for fine French dining).DAY 2 (ABU DHABI)
A day of exhibitions awaits you; explore the exhibitions of the newly finished Louvre Abu Dhabi, the diverse collection of contemporary art products at Gallery One, the dynamic Etihad Modern Art Gallery and the minimalist Salwa Zeidan Gallery. Your final activity for today is a visit to Art Hub Community – the first artist collective space established in the UAE.DAY 3 (MUSCAT)
After flying from Abu Dhabi to Muscat, start at the diverse Al Madina Art Gallery, followed by a visit to MuscArt, which is considered one of Oman’s premier photography and art spaces. Optionally, if available, have a curator, expert or one of the artists will accompany you during your visit. Complete your day with an exploration into the visual arts of Stal Gallery in the heart of Muscat.DAY 4 (MUSCAT)
Start your day with a visit to the Ghalya Museum of Modern Art, in its juxtaposed setting of a period Omani house, browse the work at Bait Muzna – whose mission is to provide “fresh and exciting” pieces – and stop by the Muttrah Souk (a vibrant traditional Arabian market) if you wish. Take the afternoon at leisure; enjoy the beach or a private dolphin watching cruise.DAY 5 (SHARJAH)
After a short flight to Sharjah, enjoy an art-themed walk (or drive) through Sharjah’s art and heritage areas, such as the Bait Obaid Al Shamsi Studios – set in a beautifully restored creek-side house – and the Emirates Fine Art Society, who strive to promote art education among the public.DAY 6 (SHARJAH)
Visit the Sharjah Art Museum which boasts one of the largest art exhibitions in the Gulf region and then venture towards the Sharjah Art Foundation venues including the Al Mureijah Square and Calligraphy Square galleries with an expert. Take the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the serene blue ocean waters at the beach.DAY 7 (DUBAI)
Drive 30 minutes from Sharjah to Dubai where you’ll explore the innovative Maraya Art Centre and Art Park, the XVA Art gallery – one of the leading galleries specialising in contemporary Arab art – the Tashkeel Art Space and/or Thejamjar studio, with the option for a two-hour painting session in the DIY studio.DAY 8 (DUBAI)
Discover hidden gems and quirky coffee shops in the once industrial, but now up-and-coming, trendy neighbourhood of Al Quoz, before moving on to explore the galleries and museums of cultural hub Alserkal Avenue (largely considered home to Dubai’s growing art scene) with the optional guidance of an expert.DAY 9 (DEPARTURE)
Your private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travel or flight home.
