THE ARABIAN GULF…Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE & Oman
February 20 – March 06, 2023
Escorted by Courtney Stewart, Islamic Art Historian

Best known for their wealth and abundance of oil, the Gulf States also house some remarkable museums that display magnificent ancient Islamic art, calligraphy, pottery, embroideries and jewelry. This unique tour will visit Bahrain, an archipelago located in the heart of the Gulf that boasts a unique blend of ancient and modern; a destination where glistening skyscrapers share the skyline with majestic, centuries-old mosques. In Qatar, you will saunter around the Old Souq (market) and down to the nearby Dhow Harbor to see some of the Gulf’s traditional and distinctive trading vessels and the world-class Islamic Arts Museum. Kuwait, home to the oldest modern art movement in the Arabian Peninsula, contains an impressive number of art galleries. A quick stop in Kuwait City is just enough time to experience its diverse and liberal culture. In the UAE, you will marvel at Abu Dhabi’s unique architecture as one of the most futuristic cities in the world. When in Dubai, an emirate that has transformed itself in the last few decades from an obscure pearl-fishing village into one of the world’s most important trading hubs and a land of luxuries, you will visit its Old town. Oman is one of Arabia’s true gems - a land of rugged coastlines and vast deserts where tradition and progress go hand in hand. This wonderful adventure takes us from the heart of its picturesque capital, deep into its desert.

Can be combined with Saudi Arabia Tour (March 06 - March 19,2023)

Trip Grade:
II Active – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable but busy schedule and some long rides and extensive drives.

LODGING Level:
*** Superior: Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service and comfort level acceptable to western standards. (3 or 4 stars)

**** Luxury: Regular style- usually large- hotels, typical western standard with ample venues, and full amenities. (4 or 5 stars)

Special Notes on Travel:
Active Touring - You will be covering a lot during this journey. The roads are good, and the bus is very comfortable. Some driving days are long, but there will be several restroom stops along the Friday, way. It is Aug important 28 to recognize the exhausting nature of some of Gitega the long – sightseeing Bujumbura days, - as well as, some of the site visits where USA you may have to climb over uneven terrain, steps, rocks and sand, as well as, up inclines and stairs. Be prepared to travel with comfortable shoes. You do have the option of staying in the vehicle if some sites seem difficult to you.

Note on Visas:

Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of your tour, and it must have at least three blank pages for visas.

Qatar Visa: US visitors are eligible for visa-free entry into the State of Qatar and can obtain a visa waiver upon presentation of a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and a confirmed onward or return ticket. The waiver will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.

Bahrain Visa: It is obtainable upon arrival, and it costs (BHD 25 equivalent to approx. $66) to be paid at the airport on arrival OR you can apply in advance for an e-visa through this web site: http://www.evisa.gov.bh/VisaBhr3En.html Kuwait Visa: Please note that it is pre-arranged, no additional visa fee will be collected and will be upon arrival.

UAE Visa: Does not require a visa for US citizens to enter.

Oman Visa: All nationalities need to apply for the visa in advance through www.evisa.rop.gov.om / www.rop.gov.om