Xpedition Arabia by The Desert Diva

07/02/2025

🌟 Solo Luxury in Dubai – 5★ Escape This May! 🌟
Looking for a premium solo getaway? Treat yourself to 7 nights of luxury at the 5★ Al Jaddaf Rotana, Dubai, with half-board dining and plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

📍 Why Dubai?
✨ Incredible culture, shopping, and world-class attractions
✨ Stunning weather and endless things to do
✨ A city that welcomes solo travellers with open arms

🏨 Your stay includes:
✔️ 5★ Al Jaddaf Rotana Hotel – Spacious rooms, top-class facilities, and a prime location
✔️ Half-Board – Enjoy daily breakfast & dinner, with countless dining options nearby
✔️ Direct Flights with Emirates – Departing 10th May 2025
✔️ Private Transfers – Smooth and hassle-free arrival

💷 Prices from:
📍 Manchester – £1875
📍 Glasgow – £1865
📍 London – £1805

✨ Limited availability – secure your place today! ✨

📩 Message me to book or find out more!

07/02/2025

📍 Relax in Luxury – 7 Nights in Ras Al Khaimah! ☀️🏝️

✨ All-Inclusive | 5★ Beachfront Resort | Direct Flights from the UK ✨

Escape to paradise with a 7-night stay at the stunning Rixos Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Enjoy pristine beaches, world-class dining, unlimited drinks, and total relaxation at this 5-star luxury resort.

🌍 Departing: 10th May 2025
🏨 Hotel: Rixos Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah
✈️ Direct Flights with Emirates from:
📍 London Heathrow – from £1471 pp
📍 Glasgow – from £1533 pp
📍 Manchester – from £1539 pp
🚗 Private Transfers Included
🍽️ All-Inclusive – dining, drinks, and more
🏖️ Beautiful sandy beaches & stunning views
☀️ Average May temperatures: 29-35°C – Perfect for sun seekers!

💆‍♀️ Relax by the pool 🍹 Sip cocktails at the beach 🌊 Explore the Arabian Gulf’s crystal-clear waters 🏜️ Optional desert safari, city tours & spa treatments

📍 Perfect for couples, families, or solo travellers looking for a stress-free, sun-soaked escape!

📩 DM me to book or click the link in bio to secure your spot!

21/01/2025

My latest newsletter is out, and you can read it via the link below. (don't worry, you don't need to subsribe to read it - but I hope you will like it enough to see one of these emails in your inbox every 2 weeks)

https://subscribe.arabiancitiesandsands.com/preview/980986/emails/143788216279893981

14/01/2025

Sadly I can't be at the Al Dhafra Camel Festival this year, however if you are going, please have a read of my unofficial guide before you head off - lots of tips and hints to make the most of your weekend.

The Desert Diva’s Guide to the Al Dhafra Camel Festival Uncategorized | 0 comments My most favourite event of the year runs between 11th and 30th January 2025. Inthe cities of the UAE, expats rarely meet Emirati families, and the Al Dhafra CamelFestival presents an ideal opportunity for a glimpse ...

28/12/2024

🌴 Discover Salalah: Oman’s Best-Kept Winter Secret
Looking for a unique winter sun destination? ☀️ Salalah is waiting for you! With its stunning beaches, rich history, and temperatures around 20-25°C, this southern Omani gem is perfect for an unforgettable escape.
Stay at one hotel, explore hidden gems, and enjoy a truly authentic Arabian experience.
💼 Ready to plan? I’ll create a bespoke itinerary and give you insider tips to make your trip seamless.
📧 Message me to learn more!

06/12/2024

Amazing pic by Sarah Brooks!

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