Xpedition Arabia by The Desert Diva

07/11/2024

This is my friend Mike, wishing him all the best on his epic adventure!

American adventurer plans a 'Hope Voyage' from January 1, 2025, dedicated to the memory of Nesma and Sindibad

06/11/2024

6th consecutive day of morning fog/mist in the desert!

04/11/2024

Discover the Desert with Expert Guidance on Private Trips!

Are you ready to take your driving skills to the next level and explore some of the Middle East’s most breathtaking landscapes? My private trips, for individuals and small groups, are designed for rookies and enthusiasts alike, offering the chance to learn essential desert-driving techniques and maximize your own vehicle's capabilities. Whether it's a single-day session or an adventurous overland route with a night under the stars, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

My favorite areas are found in the Al Dhafra desert, just 60-90 minutes outside Abu Dhabi. I run popular routes like the scenic Hameem Loop, the breathtaking journey from Al Ain to the White Sands, and my famed "A Tale of Two Wadis" adventure in Oman. If you're looking for something truly unique, I also offer bespoke itineraries tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized, unforgettable experience.

Trip Options & Pricing:

Single-Day Tours start at 800 AED per car (minimum 2 cars, not available on Saturdays)
Overnight Trips begin at 1200 AED per car (minimum 2 cars midweek or 3 on weekends).

Food is provided at cost, though you’re welcome to bring your own. I’ll have a campfire or BBQ ready for you to cook up something delicious under the stars.

These trips are family-friendly and offer easy offroading, bringing you the very best of the Middle East’s natural wonders. With limited dates available, I encourage you to check the calendar and secure your spot!

Whatsapp Marina on 050 947 8563 to book your place in the desert!

04/11/2024

31/10/2024

🚗 Two Incredible Weeks Exploring Oman! 🚗

I’ve just wrapped up a busy but wonderful two weeks, venturing all around Oman to scout hotels, landmarks, and attractions that I can’t wait to share with my future guests.

⛰ Hajar Mountains – The Arabian Rockies – Heading up to the Hajar Mountains was an amazing highlight, especially at Jebel Akhdar. Swimming in wadis, spotting local wildlife, and soaking in those mountain views with Kashafa, my trusty Landcruiser Prado, reminded me why I love this rugged side of Oman so much.

🇴🇲 On the Way Down to Salalah – Driving Oman’s scenic coastal route was a dream! Each stop, from Sur to Ras Madrakah, and Khor Daraf to Shwaymia, revealed beaches, wildlife, and a calm vibe that’s earned Oman the nickname "Switzerland of the Middle East." Omanis themselves embody this with their quiet, courteous hospitality. I even enjoyed some unseasonal rain in Salalah, turning Wadi Darbat into a green wonderland with flowing waterfalls and grazing camels. It was a sight to see!

🏰 Historic Mirbat Fort – I also visited the famous Mirbat Fort and Castle, the site of an incredible SAS-led battle where only 9 SAS soldiers and Omani forces defended against around 300 rebels. Now a museum, the castle is a window into Oman’s rich history. I couldn’t help but imagine the echoes of that day—an unforgettable experience.

🌴 Salalah – The Hidden Gem of the South! Wrapping up my FAM trip here, and what a place! From lush landscapes and unspoiled beaches to the warmest hospitality, Salalah left a lasting impression. The locals were so welcoming—I camped solo on the beaches twice, even enjoyed lunch with local families, and felt genuinely welcomed. Alongside stunning views and friendly faces, Salalah offers a lovely mix of tranquility and safety, with a visible but respectful police presence.

If Oman’s not on your travel radar, it should be! With great winter weather, peaceful vibes, and stunning landscapes, it’s an easy favorite. 😊

Check back soon for more adventures! ✨

30/10/2024

🌴 Celebrate UAE National Day with an unforgettable four-day holiday in Salalah, Oman! 🌄✨
From 29th November to 3rd December, head to Salalah and enjoy a stunning adventure with everything set for you to explore at your own pace. This package includes: 🌟 Choose either a 3 star or 5 star hotel (bed & breakfast)
🚗 4x4 hire for self-driving adventures
✈️ Round-trip flights from Dubai/Sharjah to Salalah
With free visas on arrival for UAE residents and travelers from 103 other countries, a little bit of heaven is just under two hours away! Salalah offers warm weather, lush landscapes, and a rich blend of culture and history year-round.
Marina recently spent a week discovering offroad routes, top cultural and heritage sites, wildlife, and the best Instagrammable views – and she's created a personalized Google map and guide so you can uncover these hidden gems, scenic spots, and much more. You will have three whole days' activities mapped out for you if you can tear yourself away from the beach! Perfect for families, friends, and adventurers alike!
🎟️ Places are limited, so book early to secure your spot. Make this UAE National Day a memorable adventure in Oman!
Price based on 2 adults in three star hotel option
Five star hotel available at a supplement
Payable in dollars or GBP, by Mastercard/Visa/Amex (personal)
Please whatsapp Marina on +971 509478563

30/10/2024

Check out this amazing destination!

🌴 Celebrate UAE National Day with an unforgettable four-day holiday in Salalah, Oman! 🌄✨
From 29th November to 3rd December, head to Salalah and enjoy a stunning adventure with everything set for you to explore at your own pace. This package includes: 🌟 Choose either a 3 star or 5 star hotel (bed & breakfast)
🚗 4x4 hire for self-driving adventures
✈️ Round-trip flights from Dubai/Sharjah to Salalah
With free visas on arrival for UAE residents and travelers from 103 other countries, a little bit of heaven is just under two hours away! Salalah offers warm weather, lush landscapes, and a rich blend of culture and history year-round.
Marina recently spent a week discovering offroad routes, top cultural and heritage sites, wildlife, and the best Instagrammable views – and she's created a personalized Google map and guide so you can uncover these hidden gems, scenic spots, and much more. You will have three whole days' activities mapped out for you if you can tear yourself away from the beach! Perfect for families, friends, and adventurers alike!
🎟️ Places are limited, so book early to secure your spot. Make this UAE National Day a memorable adventure in Oman!
Price based on 2 adults in three star hotel option
Five star hotel available at a supplement
Payable in dollars or GBP, by Mastercard/Visa/Amex (personal)
Please whatsapp Marina on +971 509478563

27/10/2024

Check out our latest newsletter! A change of direction ahead as we move from Tag Along Desert Adventures, to private trips and immersive vacations

Read it here - https://subscribe.arabiancitiesandsands.com/preview/980986/emails/136279064283448795

27/10/2024

🌄 Join Us for The Other Side of Nowhere Tour! 🌌
📅 Dates: 1st-3rd November
🏕️ Two Nights Self-Drive On/Offroad | Wild Camping Under the Stars
🚗 Own 4x4 & Tent Essential
💸 10% off if booked by October 29th!

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the UAE's most untouched desert, spanning over 12,000 sq km from the E15 to the Saudi border. Created by Marina Bruce for Mike Nott’s Advanced Off-Road Adventure Routes UAE & Oman guide, this route has been expertly refined for an even better experience.

Perfect for all skill levels, enjoy pristine, unmarked dunes with scenic, smooth drives, sprinkled with challenges where expert guidance will be provided. End the trip with a thrilling drive through towering dunes—an adrenaline rush you’ll never forget!

✨ Flexible Options for Your Journey:

Early Start: If you prefer to camp just 1 night, join us early on the morning of November 2nd for a fresh start in the desert.
Hotel Stay Option: Arrive early and stay in a nearby hotel on November 1st (extra cost).
✨ Choose 1 or 2 nights of fully catered wild camping:

Only 6 guest cars will join this exclusive journey, ensuring a tailored, memorable experience. Book now to claim your spot and explore the hidden beauty of the desert on The Other Side of Nowhere!

22/10/2024

Join us for the final edition of the "Other Side of Nowhere," a 2-night camping expedition that takes you deep into the heart of Abu Dhabi’s most remote desert. Covering 200km of pure, pristine sand, this journey is fully catered and expertly guided by Marina, aka The Desert Diva, with over 15 years of offroad driving and tour-leading experience. 🌵✨

🛏️ Prefer a touch of comfort? Upgrade your first night to a hotel stay for an extra charge.

🌟 No previous experience needed; we’ve planned an easy route to make this adventure accessible for all. All you need is your own 4x4, basic camping gear, and a sense of wanderlust.

Don't miss out on the last chance to experience this incredible itinerary. 10% off if you book before 26th October! Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and get ready to explore a side of the desert few ever see. 🌌🔥



Full details and sign-up form here: https://arabiancitiesandsands.com/uae_the-other-side-of-nowhere/

13/10/2024

09/10/2024

Some fantastic new for
Al dhafra festival - THE main event - 11th-30th january 2025!

09/10/2024

Newsletter time! Check out our latest trips and hear our news.

https://subscribe.arabiancitiesandsands.com/emails/webview/980986/134690536239924289

06/10/2024

🌍 Agadir, Agadir, Morocco
🏩 Borjs Hotel Suites and Spa
🎉 10 nights from £559 pp
🛏 Classic Double Room, Bed and Breakfast
🗓 18th Jun 2025
✈️ Flying from Edinburgh
🚌 23kg bags, Shared transfer
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✅ Just a 10-minute stroll from Agadir Beach
✅ Three restaurants
✅ 0.85 km from nearest beach
🌟 BOOK NOW FOR £60 DEPOSIT 🌟

06/10/2024

🌍 Agadir, Agadir, Morocco
🏩 Iberostar Waves Founty Beach
🎉 10 nights from £1,114 pp
🛏 Double room with terrace, All Inclusive
🗓 18th Jun 2025
✈️ Flying from Edinburgh
🚌 23kg bags, Shared transfer
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✅ Outstanding seafront location with easy access to Agadir City
✅ Indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine while enjoying the most spectacular views of the surrounding coastline
✅ Beach front location
🌟 BOOK NOW FOR £60 DEPOSIT 🌟