Experience the vibrant blend of culture and innovation in the Emirates! Start your journey in Dubai, exploring its booming business landscape and stunning architectural marvels, from the iconic Palm Jumeirah to the Burj Khalifa. Then, venture to the nation’s capital, Abu Dhabi, to immerse yourself in Emirati culture and discover how its rich heritage complements its economic power.
* Please note that this is only a sample itinerary for a group of Executive MBA students. All of our itineraries are tailor-made and can accommodate any academic level and theme. All itineraries are subject to change.
Day 1: Saturday, December 9Sat December 9Day 1: welcome to Dubai
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Since the discovery of oil nearly 60 years ago, the UAE has transformed from small desert principalities to a modern, high-income nation. The UAE’s strategic plan emphasizes economic diversification, global trade, tourism, industrial growth, and job creation for nationals through enhanced education and private sector roles. During the trip, you will explore the UAE’s unique political and economic landscape, gaining firsthand insights from industry leaders and government officials. You will visit key business hubs, innovation centers, and cultural landmarks to better understand the nation's growth strategies, diversification efforts, and ambitions for global prominence.
intercity transfersarrive in Dubai
Own arrangements
Meet ISP Program Manager at the airport.
own arrangements
afternoon
transportationtransfer to hotel, check-in
bus transfer
rest of the day at leisure
Recommended activity: If you'd like to stretch your legs and get some fresh air after a long flight, head to the JBR beach that is nestled in Dubai's Marina district. Use this opportunity to relax in a cabana between dips in the sea, top up your tan during a game of beach volleyball, take to the waves on a jet ski or wakeboard or browse the waterside markets.
Day 2: Sunday, December 10Sun December 10Day 2: discovering the gems of Dubai
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for city tour
bus full day
morning
cultural eventtreasures of the 'City of Gold' - tour of the souks
Relive Dubai's past and trace the city's origins in the storied neighborhood of the ancient Deira that is home to the city’s famed gold, perfume and spice markets. Then, get in an abra, a traditional wooden boat and embark on a journey through the Creek, a defining stretch of water at the heart of the city and a key building block in its economic development. Continue your tour in Bur Dubai, as you stroll along the streets of the historical Al Fahidi and Al Seef districts.
abra/walk
mealsEmirati-style lunch and cultural workshop
Join us for a traditional Emirati lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding. Learn more about life in the United Arab Emirates, and gain a deeper understanding of religion, heritage and customs in the Gulf area while you enjoy a local fare.
Sheikh Mohammed Cultural Centre
afternoon
cultural eventthe View at the Palm and the Lost Chambers aquarium
One of the world's most daring developments, the Palm Jumeirah is a symbol of creativity and ambition and a true landmark of Dubai. This architectural feat was constructed in the early 2000s from sand dredged from the sea floor, and today, it houses Atlantis, a luxury hotel and entertainment center, various restaurants, malls, and residential and office buildings. By Palm monorail get to the Lost Chambers Aquarium, a captivating underwater world inspired by the myth of the lost city of Atlantis. Home to over 65,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish, the aquarium offers visitors an immersive experience with its labyrinth of underwater tunnels and chambers.
monorail/walk
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for dinner cruise
bus transfer
evening
mealsdhow dinner cruise by the Dubai Marina
Cruising down Dubai Marina is a novel and unforgettable experience, especially on a traditional wooden dhow boat! Experience an enchanting evening against the city’s iconic skyline. Enjoy a Middle Eastern feast and toast to the beginning of a great trip.
boat/restaurant
Day 3: Monday, December 11Mon December 11Day 3: future-proofing the Emirati economy
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
For centuries, Dubai was only known for its excellent strategic location within the Persian Gulf and its long-standing tradition of pearl diving. Today, however, the emirate is a global hub for trade and technology and a major tourist destination reputed for its futuristic cityscape and flair for opulence. Find out what designates Dubai as a prime economic destination for investors, consumers as well as job seekers and tourists, and learn about the development of the emirate’s relationship with the United States.
The vision of the UAE is to create a future that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and efficiency, working toward a world with zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion. This vision aligns with current automotive trends such as autonomous driving, vehicle electrification, and smart mobility solutions. Learn how an multinational automotive company is developing advanced safety technologies, expanding its electric vehicle lineup with innovations like Ultium batteries, and investing in smart infrastructure and mobility services. Achieving this vision will require collaboration between automakers, governments, and consumers to build a cleaner, safer, and more efficient transportation system.
management presentation, discussion
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for Burj Khalifa
bus transfer
early evening
cultural eventatop the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain Boardwalk
Experience what it feels like to stand and see the world from the tallest building in the world! Explore Dubai's urban masterpiece from the 124th floor and enjoy the unforgettable view! In addition to that, get a chance to check out a brand-new floating platform located within Dubai Fountain. The Boardwalk allows you to get closer than ever, giving you a whole new perspective of the captivating performances. Start your journey from Burj Park or Fountain promenade and stroll down the 272-meter boardwalk, with the closest point putting you only 9 metres away from the fountains!
bus/walk
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Explore the Dubai Mall, a world-renowned destination that offers over 1,200 stores featuring everything from luxury brands to popular retailers. Beyond shopping, it’s home to unique attractions like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, housing thousands of marine animals, and the stunning Human Waterfall, an art installation cascading across multiple floors. For adventure, check out the VR Park for immersive virtual reality experiences or skate on the Olympic-sized rink. The Dubai Mall is truly an unforgettable experience, redefining the global shopping mall.
Day 4: Tuesday, December 12Tue December 12Day 4: creating a gateway to the world
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel conference room for panel discussion
The principles of Islamic banking are derived from the Quran, the central religious text of Islam. The Islamic Shariah law strictly prohibits any form of speculation or gambling and prohibits taking interest on loans. So, in order to earn money without the typical practice of charging interest, Islamic banks use equity participation systems, which are similar to profit sharing. Learn about the specificities of this unique financial system and how banks founded on Shariah law utilize their resources to maximize profit.
discussion
hotel conference room
mealsnetworking lunch with panelists
Continue this conversation over lunch! Share a meal with the panelists and discuss with them further the foundations and guiding principles of Islamic banking and its benefits and challenges compared to conventional banking.
hotel restaurant
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
Dubai is home to more than 30 free zones targeting economic sectors ranging from transport and logistics to healthcare, media and technology. The city’s free zones serve Fortune 500 companies and small businesses that make up more than 94% of the UAE’s economy and 86% of the private sector workforce. Learn about the benefits, risks and costs associated with operating a business in Dubai's free zones and how the introduction of the new corporate tax regime has impacted companies in the UAE.
management presentation, discussion
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Have a look inside the most iconic hotel in the Emirates - Burk Al Arab. With Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's architect, Tom Wright and interior designer Khuan Chew at the helm, the Inside Burj Al Arab tour highlights never-before-seen design elements from the chosen patterns and colors to the very-first hand-drawn sketch.
evening
optional cultural eventDubai's delights - street food tour
Did you know that there's a whole other side to the gilded and glamorous city of Dubai? A multicultural city with a rich food scene, Dubai is definitely best explored with your appetite! Immerse yourself in the city's authentic flavors and wind your way through Dubai's backstreets on our own food trail. It will be one unforgettable evening as we discover, taste, explore, and eat the different plates of rich ethnic culture that get served up in the city every day!
sts pay individually
Day 5: Wednesday, December 13Wed December 13Day 5: getting to know the 'Manhattan of the Middle East'
breakfast
hotel
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi, city and capital of Abu Dhabi emirate, one of the United Arab Emirates (formerly Trucial States, or Trucial Oman), and the national capital of that federation. The city occupies most of a small triangular island of the same name, just off the Persian Gulf coast and connected to the mainland by a short bridge. Abu Dhabi was formerly an undeveloped town of only local importance, but the emirate’s oil revenues enabled it to evolve into a modern city with a fully developed infrastructure. During a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, you'll explore the country's innovative sustainable initiatives and visit the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
transportationtransfer to Abu Dhabi (duration approx. 2 hours)
Abu Dhabi's future is set to be defined by its advancements in smart cities and sustainable urban development. As the home of Masdar City—a leading clean-tech cluster and business-free zone—the emirate offers valuable insights into sustainable growth and innovation. Progress toward the Government of Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision continues, highlighting a commitment to creating a more sustainable, technologically advanced, and resilient nation.
management presentation, discussion, tour of premises
mealsnetworking lunch at Howden Guardian
Enjoy a networking lunch in Abu Dhabi featuring Howden Guardian, a distinguished insurance brokerage firm. Connect with industry professionals in a dynamic atmosphere as we delve into insightful discussions on insurance, risk management, and life. Join us for a delightful meal and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering an environment that encourages meaningful connections and camaraderie.
Howden Guardian
afternoon
cultural eventpanoramic tour around Abu Dhabi
Explore the captivating contrast of tradition and modernity in the city from a unique perspective. This comprehensive tour guides you through the heart of the UAE's capital, highlighting its most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. As you traverse the city, take in the breathtaking architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic design. Marvel at the opulent Emirates Palace and the impressive Etihad Towers, symbolic of the city’s luxury and forward-thinking spirit. The tour also includes a scenic drive along the Corniche, providing stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline.
bus/walk
late afternoon
cultural eventguided visit to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The marble white Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful and prominent Islamic architectural monuments in the world. Beside its imposing white exterior, the Grand Mosque is also credited with holding a Guinness World Record for the largest hand-woven carpet and it boasts one of the largest chandeliers in a religious building. Take a guided tour of the Mosque that covers an area of approximately 30 acres which is sufficient room for 40,000 people to worship at one time.
bus/walk
transportationreturn to Dubai (duration approx. 2 hours)
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Discover the Bluewaters Island in Dubai, a vibrant, man-made island located off the coast of Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). The island offers a mix of luxury residential spaces, upscale hotels, and a variety of dining and retail options, making it a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors. Its modern architecture and beachfront views create a perfect blend of urban sophistication and relaxed coastal living. Bluewaters Island is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a range of entertainment options and beautiful promenades, making it a lively addition to Dubai's landscape.
Day 6: Thursday, December 14Thu December 14Day 6: exploring the city's superlatives
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
Tourism and hospitality are one of the mainstays of Dubai's economy and a vital pillar for its strategic plan for economic growth and development. Investment in travel infrastructure makes Dubai one of the most accessible destinations on the planet, with more than 6,000 flights passing through its main airport every week. Learn about the emirate's comprehensive tourism strategy that allowed Dubai to become one of the premier destinations in the world and to rebuild its economy after the pandemic.
management presentation, discussion
mealsgroup lunch
restaurant
afternoon
entrepreneurial labswhere visions become missions - inside Dubai's booming innovation hubDubai Future Foundation
With the UAE rapidly positioning itself as a leading technology hub, the country is fostering innovation through a robust ecosystem that supports start-ups at every stage. The government, in collaboration with major corporations, is implementing cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking policies designed to fuel entrepreneurial growth. Join local entrepreneurs to discuss, share, and learn about the unique challenges and opportunities they encounter in this thriving environment.
management presentation, discussion
Dubai Future Foundation, Emirates Towers, The Boulevard (Level 1) , Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Centre - Trade Centre 2 – Dubai, UAE , Dubai
late afternoon
cultural eventwhere tomorrow is now - the Museum of the Future
Take a visit to the Museum of the Future which builds on the visionary culture that has transformed the UAE into one of the world's most advanced nations in less than 5O years. It is a showcase for the spirit of courage, optimism, and innovation that propels Dubai forward. As the home city, the Museum is a place of tolerance, inviting varied cultural, philosophical, social, and spiritual outlooks. Our imagined futures are rooted in the values of the UAE and the Arab world.
self-guided
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Visit AYA, an out of this world immersive and experiential entertainment park. You are invited to wander through wonder in 40,000 square feet of vibrant interactive experiences that combine art and technology in twelve rooms. You will play, drift, and dream as they command observatories full of stars, roam gardens blooming light, and traverse rivers that bridge the infinite.
Day 7: Friday, December 15Fri December 15Day 7: traditional values in modern times
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
bus full day
morning
visitembracing energy transition - diversification of the power industrySiemens Energy
In 1966, oil was first discovered in Dubai at the offshore Fateh field, and today, export of petroleum and natural gas consist 85% of the UAE’s economy. The United Arab Emirates possesses the sixth largest proven oil reserve in the world, and is constantly in search of new ways of maximizing the country’s proven and undiscovered hydrocarbon resources, and of ensuring a more sustainable and economic gas supply in the region. Although the UAE's oil reserves are expected to last for another 130 years, it is important to continue the quest for alternative energy sources for the sake of our planet and the future of the generations to come.
management presentation, discussion
mealsnetworking lunch at DHL
Join an engaging networking lunch hosted by DHL, where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and hear from their esteemed speakers. This event is designed to foster meaningful connections and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in logistics and supply chain management.
DHL Innovation Center
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for desert safari
late afternoon
cultural eventan Arabian adventure - desert safari experience
Experience an unforgettable ride through the Arabian Desert with some thrilling dune bashing with our expert drivers! Continue this unique and culturally-rich trip with a chance to ride a camel and a visit to a Bedouin village, built in the desert for a 1,001-night tent party. Grab a sand board and enjoy surfing down the slopes or get a henna tattoo on your hands as you watch the brilliant sunset for a special evening.
Jeeps/walk
evening
mealsfarewell dinner and show in a Bedouin camp
Spend an unforgettable evening under the starry desert sky and share with your classmates a delicious Bedouin-style barbecue dinner showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East. After dinner, enjoy some local entertainment including belly dancing, tanoura and fire performance.
desert camp
Day 8: Saturday, December 16Sat December 16Day 8: depart for USA
