Discover the best of luxury travel in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
As winter bathes the Arabian Peninsula in a comfortable golden glow, Dubai and Abu Dhabi beckon as the ultimate playgrounds for discerning sun-seekers. Just a short journey apart - 30 minutes by helicopter or 90 minutes by road - these two iconic cities offer the best of both worlds and can easily be experienced on a single luxurious trip. Dubai dazzles with world-class shopping, man-made wonders, and its signature glitz and glamour, while Abu Dhabi enchants with serene elegance, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Here, we’ll explore some exclusive adventures, cultural marvels, and prestigious events that await visitors this winter.
Desert Delights:
Dubai and Abu Dhabi both boast impressive desert safari trips, with the gentler winter climate being the perfect time to experience them. Dubai’s desert excursions are more geared towards thrill-seekers, offering a range of activities from traversing towering dunes in a private 4x4, whizzing over the shifting sands on an adrenaline-pumping dune-bashing adventure, or capturing the essence of Arabian nights on a camel trek at dusk. Meanwhile, desert safaris in Abu Dhabi focus on wildlife spotting and peaceful, eco-luxe exploration. In both locations, you can conclude your day at an exclusive desert camp with a gourmet fine-dining feast under a starlit sky, accompanied by traditional entertainment.
Sky-High Splendour:
A sunrise hot air balloon flight over Dubai or Abu Dhabi is a magical experience, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the vast deserts, glistening Arabian Gulf, and each city’s famous skyline. During winter the skies are clearer which often results in more vivid colours, and the reduced haze enhances visibility. Hot air balloon charters also provide the opportunity to spot the area’s wildlife, including eagles, gazelles, and Arabian oryxes. Premium flights end with a champagne breakfast in a sophisticated Bedouin-style camp.
Yachting on the Glamorous Gulf:
Hiring a private yacht is always a great way to explore the Arabian Gulf, but when the sun is warm but not scorching, sunbathing, water sports, and admiring the view are all the more enjoyable. In Dubai, cruise past the imposing Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and the dazzling Marina. Or, in Abu Dhabi, take in the tranquil waters around the Corniche, marvel at the Emirates Palace, or island hop over to Snoopy Island, a top spot for snorkelling and diving in the UAE.
Bespoke Shopping Experiences:
The UAE is a designer shopping haven, offering some of the world’s biggest and best malls and a host of divine boutiques. Both cities excel in personalised shopping experiences, including private sessions and bespoke commissions. We’d recommend visiting renowned jewellers like Mouawad or Graff to enjoy private consultation, design a unique piece, and celebrate with a champagne reception as your creation is crafted.
Private Tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi:
Both cities offer a wealth of top galleries and museums, but the most impressive has to be the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a masterpiece of modern architecture home to a diverse collection of art and artefacts from around the world. A private tour allows you to explore the museum's exhibitions in an intimate setting with a dedicated guide. To further elevate the visit, follow the tour with a refined dining experience at the museum’s rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy exquisite cuisine with sweeping city views.
Elite Falconry:
Falconry is deeply rooted in Emirati heritage and is among the UAE’s most honoured traditional sports.
Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai offer some of the world's most authentic and luxurious falconry experiences. Participate in a private falconry session, where you can learn about this ancient sport, handle the majestic birds, and witness their incredible speed and precision in action. This experience, often hosted in secluded desert settings, is both culturally enriching and exhilarating.
Why Winter?
There really is something for everyone in these Emirati powerhouses, and with daytime highs of around 26°C, winter is the prime time to explore everything they have to offer. Whether you favour the modern opulence of Dubai or the more laid-back elegance of Abu Dhabi, both cities are home to ultra-luxurious hotels, exceptional shopping, high-end restaurants, cultural treasures, and unforgettable activities to suit all tastes.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are served by multiple airports, all of which offer outstanding private jet facilities and are located only a short chauffeur drive from the very finest hotels. With Air Partner’s extensive experience in the region and unwavering commitment to excellence, your winter escape will start and finish with the utmost style, comfort, and convenience.
To learn more about our Private Jets offerings or to discuss upcoming charter requirements, contact our expert team today.
Spotlight: Abu Dhabi's Role as a Hub for Film & TV Production
In recent years, Abu Dhabi has emerged as one of the Middle East’s premier destinations for global film and television production. With its diverse and cinematic landscapes, from golden deserts to futuristic skylines, the emirate has served as a breath-taking backdrop for major international blockbusters and popular TV series. Production companies are increasingly drawn here not just for the striking locations, but also for the region’s generous film incentives. Abu Dhabi’s government offers an attractive rebate of up to 30% on production spend in the emirate, covering not just big-budget productions but also TV, commercials, and post-production work. This blend of world-class facilities, skilled local crews, and significant financial incentives has made Abu Dhabi a sought-after choice for filmmakers seeking both creative inspiration and cost efficiency.
Leading titles such as "F1: The Movie", "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and "Fast & Furious 7" have showcased Abu Dhabi’s versatility as a filming location, while its advanced infrastructure enables seamless logistics for even the most demanding shoots. Beyond the productions themselves, visiting crews and VIP talent can enjoy the city’s exceptional luxury accommodation, cultural offerings, and discreet hospitality.
Air Partner's Commitment: Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Initiative
As the entertainment industry grows ever more conscious of its environmental footprint, Air Partner is proud to support sustainable travel for film and TV projects. Through our Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) initiative, we help clients reduce the carbon emissions associated with air travel to and from Abu Dhabi. Whether facilitating the seamless transportation of crew, cast, or vital equipment, Air Partner’s tailored jet solutions allow production teams to achieve their ambitious creative goals while prioritizing sustainability. Our SAF programme lets you demonstrate to stakeholders - both on-screen and off - that you are part of a greener, more responsible future for entertainment travel.
For more information about how Air Partner works with the Film and Television industry, visit our dedicated landing page.
