Exploring Arabia: Qatar, Oman and Jordan

October 13 – October 28, 2025
Led by Mr. Siham Haleem

Whilst to a certain extent pushing modernity to the limit, these three countries of Arabia, are also consciously aware of their Arabian essence. Our journey aims to focus on how deep cultural traditions are being carefully tended and nourished as their economies continue to prosper. Begin the trip in Qatar where Qatar’s emir is building magnificent cultural institutions. Visit I.M. Pei’s Museum of Islamic Art which houses one of the greatest collections of Islamic art and the recently opened National Museum while also strolling through the historical Souk Waqif where you can as easily find Bedouins bringing their sheep to market as falcon shops. Fly to Muscat, the country capital of Oman, where we will learn about the traditions of this ancient nation whose development, whilst astounding, has occurred at a very different pace and philosophical direction to that of Qatar. Wander through the Mutrah Souk and Grand Mosque which is an excellent example of contemporary Islamic architecture. Travel inland exploring majestic landscapes and 17th century fortresses, including the spectacular fortress at Jabrin. In Nizwa witness the weekly market at the animal souk and admire the unique clothing worn by the locals. Fly to Amman, capital of Jordan and the original Philadelphia of 2,000 years ago. Visit the site of Jerash which is nestled in a green and well-watered valley. Drive south stopping at Madaba to admire the famous 6th century map of Palestine which is in the form of a mosaic. At Petra walk through a narrow siq which suddenly opens out into a hidden valley lined with temples, treasure-houses and tombs carved from the salmon-pink rock by the Nabateans. Explore Wadi Rum where huge pillars of sandstone rock rise abruptly and majestically from the sandy desert floor before heading to Jordan’s Dead Sea for a final night. Return home from Amman.

Itinerary

Day 1. Depart US
Day 2. Doha. JW Marriott
Day 3. Doha
Day 4. Doha.
Day 5. Muscat. Grand Hyatt Hotel
Day 6. Muscat.
Day 7. Amman. InterContinental Amman
Day 8. Amman
Day 9. Petra. Marriott Hotel Petra
Day 10. Petra
Day 11. Dead Sea. Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
Day 12. Return home from Amman.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR JOURNEY

We love organizing private journeys as much as we love putting together our group programs. If you would prefer, a customized journey can be planned for one person or a larger group of families or friends, and we would be delighted to work with you on your dream tour that reflects your interests, your pace and your budget.