Compagnie Du Ponant Middle East: 8 nights from Dubai with Le Bougainville
Jan 13, 2026

Dubai

Dubai is the capital of one of the seven Emirates that compose the United Arab Emirates. Between 2004 and 2006 the city has been subjected to a real booming urbanization, becoming an authentic metropolis. Even today the city is constantly under construction: the desert areas are still being built. Among the many projects, the International City, the Sport City and Dubailand, the biggest amusement park in the world. Dubai is rich of resources and tourism increases the richness of this city. In the area surrounding Dubai there are various archipelagos, some of which have become symbols of the city, such as Palm Islands, artificial peninsulas in the Persian Gulf and rich of activities and residential complexes. The material used for the construction of the Islands arrives from the Emirates themselves. The islands host luxury hotels and countless attractions for the visitors. Significant, is the archipelago called The World, 300 artificial islands visible also from a plane or a satellite! Dubai is the city of excess and offers the visitors a limitless richness.
Visit Jumeirah and you’ll remain speechless for its splendor. It is a residential area where the hotel chain built luxurious and worth-a-visit hotels. One of the most famous structures is Burj al-Arab, the Tower of the Arabs, become the symbol of Dubai: a luxurious 5-stars hotel, with wide dream suites entirely surrounded by windows and, from the highest floor, you enjoy a breathtaking view, considered its 321 m. height. Dubai is the ideal destination for any kind of traveler. The sport lovers can freshen up skiing at the Ski Dubai inside a huge shopping mall, while those who love typical markets and negotiations can bargain over jewels at the Gold Suq in the Old City, surrounded by local merchants offering them anything you can imagine in their back shops. The shopping addicted will feel like in heaven once step foot in the Mall of the Emirates, a shopping mall with more than 630 outlets, more than 100 restaurants and bars and many luxury shops. Everyone can find something, a simple souvenir to the high-value product that you’ll keep with you forever. The attractions in Dubai are many and all different one from the other so that they encounter the tastes of everyone: the fashionistas, the sportsman, the passionate for the local culture will love this rich place full of entertainment activities. Everyone will feel united while trying the delicious typical dishes and in the nightlife. Dubai is famous for its explosive nightlife and you never know… you’ll bump into Kim Kardashian or George Clooney!

The best way to visit the Arab Emirates and getting the best of this place is going on a cruise departing from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. There are many companies offering these cities as destinations: MSC Cruises, Costa Crociere, Royal Caribbean are just a few of the companies with this itinerary and give you the best comfort of cruise combined with the luxury of the Arab Emirates. Pamper yourself with a cruise to modernity! On our website you can find deals and low-costs! Take advantage of the last-minutes and promotions of the moment to plunge into the future on dream ships!

Abu Dhabi

Welcome to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the richest city in the world. The citizens, who sit on one-tenth of the planet's oil and have nearly $1 trillion invested abroad, are worth around $17 million each. (One million foreign workers do not share this wealth.)

Abu Dhabi is one of the most modern cities in the world. It is the centre of government and business in the United Arab Emirates, home of the oil companies that operate in the area and where the embassies are based. It has the most beautiful architecture in the Middle East with its modern buildings and skyscrapers. Abu Dhabi's wealth from oil has been cleverly used to promote healthy trade and a city with many services.

The promotion of tourism and various projects related to tourism will make Abu Dhabi a leader in the region. Large gardens and parks, streets lined with greenery, sophisticated skyscrapers, communication and transportation facilities, the presence of all the international luxury hotel chains, shopping centres, rich cultural centres and events provide tourists a unique experience all year round.

Sir Bani Yas

Discovering the enchantment of cruises to Sir Bani Yas is like opening a book of adventurous tales where nature and history blend in perfect harmony. This island,a hidden gem in the heart of the Persian Gulf, belongs to the United Arab Emirates and offers a travel experience like no other, far from traditional tourist routes. Its uncontaminated nature and rich biodiversity make it an ideal destination for those looking for a unique adventure during their cruise.

Sir Bani Yas is now a wildlife sanctuary, where giraffes, oryx, gazelles, and many other animals roam freely. Visiting the island is not only an opportunity to get closer to nature in a respectful way but also to discover the secrets of ancient civilizations through the archaeological sites scattered across the landscape.

 

Discover the charm of Cruises to Sir Bani Yas is like opening a book of adventurous stories, where nature and history blend in perfect harmony. This island, a hidden gem in the heart of the Persian Gulf, belongs to the United Arab Emirates and offers a unique travel experience, far from traditional tourist routes. Its unspoiled nature and the richness of its biodiversity make it a must-see destination for those seeking a unique adventure during their cruise. Once a private hunting reserve of the royal family, Sir Bani Yas is now a wildlife sanctuary, where giraffes, oryx, gazelles and many other animals roam free. Visiting this island is not only an opportunity to get closer to nature in a respectful way, but also to discover the secrets of ancient civilizations through the archaeological sites that dot the landscape. The ruins of a 4th-century Christian monastery offer a fascinating glimpse into the historical past of the island and the region. The experience of a cruise that includes Sir Bani Yas promises not only relaxation and adventure, but also the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the island. The white sand beaches, the turquoise waters and outdoor activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling and hiking or mountain biking, make every visit unforgettable. Guests can also participate in ecological safaris, guided by experts, to explore the hinterland and see the wildlife up close in a safe and protected environment. Cruises that stop at Sir Bani Yas offer a unique experience, where adventure meets luxury and sustainability. This island is not just a destination, but a gateway to a world of discovery, where every visitor can find their own rhythm between emotions, rest and personal enrichment. Experiencing Sir Bani Yas through a cruise is the perfect opportunity for those seeking a travel experience that leaves a deep mark on the heart and memory.

Doha

Doha, located on the Persian Gulf, is the capital and most populous city of Qatar. A spectacular skyline, huge skyscrapers, splendid works of art and historical monuments blend harmoniously creating a perfect combination of antiquity and modernity. For its enchanting coastal views, sandy beaches, shops, museums, art galleries and restaurants, the city is an ideal destination for every type of tourist and the ideal place to start the journey to discover Qatar and the entire gulf. The desert climate, with mild winters and very hot summers, and its beautiful beaches make Doha the ideal destination for all those who want to relax and enjoy all the comfort of the city's beaches.

Enjoying a refreshing cocktail with a splendid panorama in front of your eyes is an experience that is priceless! If you want to immerse yourself in the typically Arab spirit, you cannot miss a visit to the Imam Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Wahhab Mosque, an iconic symbol of the city. A unique architecture of its kind which, with arches and domes of extraordinary beauty, an earth-colored marble floor, blends traditional and modern elements leaving visitors speechless.

If you are a shopping lover, you absolutely cannot miss a visit to one of the many local markets scattered around the city, the famous souks. Places rich in history, used since ancient times by traders and merchants to exchange products, services and information, are today the ideal place to buy local products and savor one of the typical local dishes.

The temperatures, especially in the summer months, do not always make it easy to visit the city, take advantage of places that have air conditioning such as museums, shopping centers and entertainment venues and don't stop exploring the beauty of this city. For example, the Museum of Islamic Art, one of the most photographed and visited buildings in the city, houses ceramics, manuscripts and many other works of art dating back to the most ancient and also the most modern eras.

Also, to give yourself a break from the heat, the Village Mall is the ideal place for those who want to feel catapulted into the magical atmosphere of Italy. The shopping center is the perfect reconstruction of the city of Venice not only for its canals but for the presence and possibility of making a real trip in a gondola! One of the best ways to reach the city is on board a cruise ship. Choosing a cruise that departs from Doha or has this city as a stop is the ideal choice if you want to explore all the beauties of the Middle East.

Khasab

Fujairah

Welcome to Fujairah, the enchanting pearl of the United Arab Emirates, where the charm of the desert harmoniously blends with the mysterious blue of the Indian Ocean. This emirate, distinguished by its unique location on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, promises a travel experience away from the usual itineraries, immersed in a surprising nature and a historical heritage of inestimable value. Cruises to Fujairah offer the exclusive opportunity to discover a corner of paradise where the tranquility of the sea meets the adventure of the mountains.

The true magic of Fujairah is revealed beneath the surface of its crystal clear waters, considered among the best for diving in the whole Middle East. Diving enthusiasts will be enchanted by the variety of marine life and the colorful corals that inhabit the seabed of this emirate. Beyond its coasts, the Hajar mountains rise majestically, offering hiking trails that wind through breathtaking panoramas and ancient fortresses that tell stories of a distant time.

A visit to Fujairah would not be complete without exploring its rich cultural fabric, with wonders such as the Al Bidyah Mosque, the oldest in the Emirates, and the majestic Fujairah Fort, silent guardian of the emirate's history. Walking through the local markets, you can savor the daily life of the inhabitants, among the perfumes of exotic spices and the traditional craftsmanship that tells of the skill and ingenuity of its peoples.

Taking part in a cruise that includes Fujairah in its itinerary means giving yourself an experience rich in contrasts, where relaxation on the beach alternates with the exploration of ancient ruins and the discovery of unspoiled natural landscapes. Fujairah is a destination that fascinates the visitor with its authenticity, offering a serene and adventurous refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the most well-known cities in the Emirates. A journey here is an immersion in a world of natural beauty, history and culture, which leaves in the heart the desire to return.

Muscat

Muscat, the capital of Oman, is one of the oldest cities in the entire Middle East. Its history dates back to the 2nd century AD and its worldwide fame is mainly linked to the strategic position of the port which has made trade the main source of income for the country.

In addition to trade, the port has played a crucial role in another sector: tourism. Thanks to its geographical position, the city allows you to explore both the coastal and the internal area of ​​the country. One of the best ways to reach the city is on a cruise ship. Choosing a cruise that starts from Muscat or has this city as a stop is the ideal choice if you want to explore the Middle Eastern coasts and the internal areas. There are numerous attractions to visit in Muscat. The wide range of things to see makes the city the ideal destination for every type of visitor. Places of worship, residences of the sultans, large parks, local markets and wonderful beaches are just some of the places that deserve to be visited and immortalized.

A visit to the mosque of Sultan Qaboos is a must, the third largest mosque in the world and the third most important place of worship in the country. Its architecture, with sumptuous walls made of white Carrara marble, renowned all over the world for its high quality, and the enormous Swarovski crystal chandelier that cascades from the golden dome, always leave visitors breathless and make it one of the ideal subjects for the various posts to share with friends.

For history and culture lovers, a visit to the National Museum of the Sultan of Oman is undoubtedly an unmissable experience. Inside are fourteen permanent galleries that tell the story in chronological and thematic order in an attempt to promote the traditional values ​​of the country and accompany visitors on a long journey through the history of the city. If you love long walks in the open air and admiring the beauties that surround you, the Mutrah district is what you are looking for.

Ideal to visit not only during the day for its buildings of unique elegance and great places of worship, but also at sunset to enjoy breathtaking views. If, on the other hand, you are looking for some relaxation and want to enjoy a day at the sea, Muscat offers wonderful beaches, such as Qurum Beach, where it is possible to admire the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Oman up close and relax under the large palm trees that distinguish the area.