A Dhow Cruise offers a memorable and unique way to experience Dubai’s charm. Visitors enjoy a special view of the city’s beauty and character. Dhows, which were formerly used for fishing and pearl diving, have been converted into classy floating restaurants.. 

These cruises provide a serene and picturesque way to enjoy Dubai’s skyline and waterfront landmarks. This blog explores some of the best available in Dubai to help you choose the right dhow cruise.

What is Dhow Cruise Dubai?

A Dhow Cruise Dubai is a unique and popular tourist activity that offers a relaxing and scenic experience. Today, dhows have become elegant floating restaurants, providing a romantic and unforgettable evening out.

These cruises are conducted on traditional wooden sailing vessels called dhows, which were once used for pearl diving and fishing in the region. 

Top 10 Best Dhow Cruise Dubai

Some of the best Dhow Cruise options for tourists are discussed below.

1 Dubai Marina Alexandra Dhow Cruise with Dinner & Drink Options

Enjoy a 2-hour sightseeing dinner cruise in Dubai Marina aboard the refurbished ‘Dhow Alexandra,’ a traditional wooden ship turned into a luxury floating restaurant. 

This popular tourist attraction offers a buffet dinner, live entertainment, and stunning views of the city skyline. Seating options are available, and you can upgrade to an open bar.

The buffet menu includes a variety of starters, mains, and desserts. Enjoy dishes like grilled fish, Lebanese-style chicken, beef stroganoff, and more. 

Soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee are provided, with an option to purchase souvenirs onboard.

The cruise departs from Dubai Marina, near the Masjid Al Rahim Mosque. Expect to pass by iconic landmarks like the Cayan Tower and Dubai Marina Walk. 

2 Full Day Musandam Cruise with Lunch & Snorkelling from Dubai

This tour includes a cruise on a traditional Arabian dhow, where you can relax on soft carpets and cushions as you sail through Musandam’s fjord-like inlets. 

Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and a delicious onboard lunch without worrying about transport or paperwork.

The tour includes hotel transfers, snorkel equipment, and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll also enjoy a buffet lunch with a mix of Arabic and Asian dishes. A valid passport is required for the journey due to border crossings.

Pickups start early in the morning from central Dubai hotels. The cruise departs from Dibba port in Sharjah, with scenic views of rugged inlets and small fishing villages along the way. 

3 Dhow Cruise with Dinner at Dubai Marina

This cruise offers modern skyline views with the traditional ambience of a wooden dhow. Feast on a delicious buffet of international and Arabian cuisine while taking in the stunning sights of the city’s famous architecture. 

The evening includes live music and entertainment, adding to the delightful atmosphere. The buffet menu features a variety of salads, barbecued meats, and vegetarian dishes, along with desserts like fresh fruits and caramel cream. 

Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, and drinks like juice and bottled water are provided.

The cruise departs from Marina Harbor and offers views of iconic landmarks such as the Marina Torch, Cayan Tower, and Atlantis The Palm. If requested, pick-up and drop-off services are available.

4 Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Drinks & Live Music

Here you can enjoy a dinner cruise with private seating for your group on either the open-air upper deck or the lower restaurant area. Relax with a welcome drink and live acoustic music as you glide through the night lights of Dubai Marina. 

The international buffet features a salad bar, live cooking station, and a variety of dishes and desserts to satisfy all tastes.

The menu includes options like grilled fish, beef goulash, roasted chicken, and salads and sweets. Drinks are available, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included for added convenience.

The cruise departs from Dubai Marina, with sights of famous landmarks like The Beach at JBR and Bluewaters Island. .

5 Sunset in Dubai – 60 Mins Abra (traditional wooden boat) Tour

Sail along the Dubai Canal on a traditional wooden ‘Abra’ and enjoy a full hour on the water. This tour is timed to catch the sunset over Dubai’s iconic skyline. 

Relax onboard with refreshments as you glide through the city, with guided audio commentary providing insights into Dubai’s landmarks.

Refreshments such as bottled water, soda, and snacks are included. The tour starts and ends at Dubai Festival City Mall, near the Imagine Fountain Show. You’ll also pass the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, a significant cultural landmark.

This evening tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing boat ride while experiencing Dubai’s beautiful sunset. Cancellations are fully refundable up to 24 hours in advance.

6 Dubai Canal Dinner Cruise with La Perle Show Tickets Combo

Start your evening by boarding a traditional wooden dhow at Dubai Festival City. Then, enjoy a Dubai Canal Cruise combined with a “Silver Pass” to La Perle, an aqua-stage live performance. 

Cruise past landmarks like Dubai Creek Harbor, the Burj Khalifa, and the Sheikh Zayed Bridge Waterfall. After the cruise, you’ll be dropped off for the *La Perle* show.

The cruise includes dinner, drinks, and scenic views, as well as onboard refreshments like coffee, tea, and sparkling water. 

If you choose that option, you’ll also be transferred back to your hotel after the show. Boarding starts at 6:15 p.m. from the Al Faris Floating Restaurant near the IMAGINE show. 

7 Dubai Marina Yacht Tour: Breakfast or BBQ with Drinks Option

This tour is a budget-friendly alternative to private yacht charters. It allows you to take in famous sights like the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis as you sail over the Persian Gulf. 

The sample menu includes dishes such as German Potato Salad or Lentil Soup for starters, chicken cacciatore or Vegetable Kadai with stir-fried noodles for the main course, and Banana Cake or Fruit Salad for dessert.

The cruise includes breakfast and soft beverages, with lunch available if selected. Life vests are provided, and hotel pickup and drop-off are available. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased on board. 

The meeting point is at Xclusive Yachts in Dubai Marina, accessible via DMCC metro station, Marina Mansion by taxi, or parking at Marina Mall. This tour is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing yet affordable excursion. 

8 Dubai Creek Royal Dinner Dhow Cruise with Optional Pickup

This is a relaxing Dubai Creek dinner cruise aboard a fairy-lit wooden dhow. With convenient hotel pickup, you can avoid the hassle of taxis and enjoy a pre-booked ticket to secure your spot. 

As you glide along the creek, you will see old Dubai’s illuminated landmarks, such as wind towers, minarets, and bridges.

Savor a 5-star international buffet featuring dishes like grilled fish, beef stroganoff, and chicken shish tawook. Live entertainment and music complement the meal. Coffee, tea, and bottled water are also included. 

Pickup is available from hotels or the meeting point at Al Seef Street, and the cruise starts at 8:30 p.m. It is ideal for most travelers, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. 

9 Dubai Marina Guided Sightseeing High-Speed Boat Tour

Experience the thrill of speeding along Dubai’s coastline on a high-speed RIB (rigid-inflatable boat) cruise. Departing from Dubai Marina, zoom over the waves with your skilled skipper. 

Circle Palm Jumeirah for stunning views of landmarks like Palm Atlantis, Burj Al Arab, and the Dubai Lagoon.

With just 10 passengers, enjoy a personalized ride, photo stops, and speeds up to 25 knots. Choose from various departure times, and relax, knowing life jackets and bottled water are provided. 

It is suitable for most travelers but not recommended for pregnant women or those with serious conditions. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

10 Romantic Dhow Cruise Dinner

Here, you’ll be welcomed with tasty drinks and unlimited soft drinks and water throughout the cruise. The international buffet offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options prepared by top caterers.

The show features a fully air-conditioned lower deck and an open-air upper deck. Entertainment includes a Tanoura dance, magic shows, and puppet shows. 

You can head to the meeting point or request pickup from central Dubai hotels. The cruise includes a 2-hour ride with all amenities and entertainment. During Ramadan, entertainment and alcoholic drinks are not available.

Conclusion

Dhow cruises in Dubai offer a variety of experiences, from exciting high-speed boat tours to relaxing dinners. These Dhow Cruises allow you to create long-lasting memories.

Each option provides a unique perspective on the city’s stunning landmarks and vibrant atmosphere, making them an excellent choice for anyone exploring Dubai in style.

How much does a Dhow cruise in Dubai cost per person? 

The cost of a Dhow cruise in Dubai varies depending on the type and inclusions, ranging from approximately $50 to $150 per person.

Is a Dubai dinner cruise worth it? 

A Dubai dinner cruise is generally worth it for its scenic views, dining experience, and entertainment. It offers a memorable way to enjoy the city’s skyline.

What is the dress code for a Dhow Cruise in Dubai? 

The dress code for a Dhow cruise is typically smart casual. Avoid wearing beachwear or overly casual attire.