Dubai offers a variety of attractions, from its stunning beaches and iconic architecture to its captivating desert landscapes and luxury shopping experiences. While the city is famous for its modern infrastructure, its vibrant food scene is equally important.
One of the most unique ways to enjoy Dubai’s dining options is aboard a floating restaurant. Here you can relax with friends and family while admiring scenic views. Although there are plenty of restaurants in the city, none can match the charm of a dhow cruise.
In this blog, we will review the best floating restaurants in Dubai. These dining options promise an unforgettable experience with breathtaking skyline views and mouthwatering food.
7 Best Floating Restaurants in Dubai
We have outlined for you some of the best floating restaurants you can find in Dubai. Here’s a quick overview of these awesome places.
1 Rustar Floating Restaurant
Rustar Floating Restaurant in Dubai is the largest wooden floating restaurant in the world. Guests can enjoy delicious food while admiring beautiful views of Dubai.
The boat has three levels: the lower, middle, and upper decks. The lower deck is cozy and perfect for quiet conversations.
The middle deck has a large dining hall, and the upper deck is open for fresh air and skyline views. This 155-foot vessel holds up to 400 passengers. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with Arabic coffee and dates.
Guests can watch live performances, including singers and Tanoura dancers, while enjoying a buffet of Arabic, Continental, and Asian dishes. The atmosphere is elegant and perfect for a luxurious meal and peaceful moments.
2 JA Bateaux Dubai
JA Bateaux Dubai is a 5-star floating restaurant offering a luxurious experience for both locals and tourists.
This elegant glass-windowed boat, which first set sail in 2004, is perfect for business lunches, afternoon teas, or wedding receptions.
The cruise departs from the new Al Seef area in Bur Dubai. It combines stunning nighttime views of the historic city with a gourmet dining experience.
Onboard chefs prepare a four-course dinner, featuring dishes like blackberry panna cotta with dark chocolate ice cream, braised beef short ribs, and lobster risotto. Vegetarian options are also available.
Enjoy premium beverages while taking in Dubai’s landmarks from the open-air deck, making your dining experience special.
The Aqua Pod
The Aqua Pod is a floating food truck in Dubai that serves burgers, pizzas, and desserts. It was designed by Ahmad Yousuf of Aquatic Architects Design Studio. It moves around based on demand. Its main spots include Jumeirah, Al Sufouh Beach, Palm Lagoon, and Kite Beach.
You can order in two ways: smaller boats and jet skis can pull up to the pod and place orders directly with the cashier.
There’s a flag system for larger yachts and boats—simply raise the flag delivered by a jet ski to signal your order.
BBQ Donut
Step aboard a bright orange, doughnut-shaped boat with a charcoal BBQ in the middle for a unique dining experience in Dubai.
For this fun adventure, book the Boardwalk BBQ Donut experience and float down Dubai Creek on a private, inflatable boat for up to eight people.
The BBQ Donut has sweet treats, finger foods, and sandwiches. You can even choose items from the menu and grill them yourself as you drift on the water. This quirky sea dining will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Enjoy the sunshine and take photos with Burj Khalifa and the skyscrapers on Sheikh Zayed Road as your backdrop.
Jameela Floating Restaurant
Step aboard Jameela, a traditional wooden dhow restaurant in Dubai. Sail past glowing landmarks like Al Maktoum Bridge, Rolex Tower, Floating Bridge, and the Grand Mosque.
Relax on the open upper deck with comfortable seating and feel the cool breeze. A bar offers drinks for purchase, and free Wi-Fi is available.
The menu includes dishes like Fish Skewers, Grilled Beef, Pasta Carbonara, Lamb Kofta, and Vegetable Lasagna.
You’ll also find a variety of salads, including Hummus, Fattoush, and Chicken Hawaiian Salad. For dessert, sample Cream Caramel, Umali, Basbousa, and more Arabian sweets.
Rayna Floating Restaurant
Rayna Floating Restaurant offers a unique dhow cruise experience in Dubai. You can find it at three different cruise locations.
The boat has both an upper and lower deck, perfect for enjoying a relaxing evening with great food and stunning views.
The buffet dinner includes a three-course meal with appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. It offers a mix of local and international cuisine.
Depending on the location, you’ll see amazing views of the city. You can sit on the air-conditioned lower deck or head to the partially open-air upper deck for fresh air and clear views.
During the two-hour cruise, you’ll be entertained by a Tanoura dancer. You can also combine this experience with a desert safari for the best of both worlds.
Dreamboats
Dreamboats is a beautiful floating café that accommodates up to six people. It offers snacks and drinks, and you can connect your phone to play music while enjoying Dubai’s scenic views.
The café operates daily from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. For the best experience, book the sunset slot to enjoy stunning views of the Dubai sunset along the Al Jaddaf waterfront.
Alcohol is not allowed onboard. Prices for a romantic 45-minute ride start at AED 450 for two people.
Conclusion
Cruising through Dubai’s stunning cityscape and dining at a floating restaurant is a must-do for any traveler. It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s unique charm and luxury.
Discover the magic of Dubai from the water. Dining at a floating restaurant offers a unique perspective and a delicious culinary adventure.
