One of the best ways to soak in Dubai’s contrasting beauty is through a dhow cruise, a traditional wooden boat that now offers luxury experiences for visitors.
These top dhow cruises in Dubai provide not only stunning views but also gourmet dining and entertainment. Whether you’re sailing along the historic Dubai Creek or through the modern Dubai Marina, each cruise offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
What is a Dhow Cruise?
A dhow cruise involves sailing on a traditional wooden boat, historically used by traders and fishermen. These boats have been transformed into floating restaurants and entertainment venues, offering everything from international buffets to live cultural performances. A dhow cruise experience in Dubai lets you admire the city’s skyline and explore its waters while enjoying a relaxing and memorable journey.
How to Pick the Best Dhow Cruise
With so many options available, finding the best dhow cruise in Dubai can be tricky. Here are some things to consider when choosing your cruise.
Location
Two of the most popular areas for dhow cruises are Dubai Creek and Dubai Marina. A Dubai Creek dhow cruise takes you through the historic heart of the city, where you can see traditional souks, old buildings, and local life. In contrast, a Dubai Marina dhow cruise sails through a modern waterfront lined with luxury hotels, skyscrapers, and impressive architecture.
Ambience
Some cruises focus on creating a romantic, intimate atmosphere, while others offer a more lively experience with performances and entertainment. For an upscale experience, choose one of the more luxurious cruises like the Luxury Canal Dhow Cruise, while for a family-friendly night out, a traditional Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise might be more suited.
Dining and Entertainment
Most dhow cruises include live entertainment such as Tanoura dancing, live music, or puppet shows. They also feature extensive buffets with both local and international cuisine, so you can enjoy a feast while you admire the views. Make sure to pick the dhow cruise that best suits your dining and entertainment interests.
Best Dhow Cruises in Dubai
Luxury Canal Dhow Cruise
For those looking to for something fancy, the Luxury Canal Dhow Cruise is a fantastic option. You’ll glide through the Dubai Water Canal and take in breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Business Bay. While you feast on a buffet of international delicacies, enjoy live performances that add excitement to your evening. This dhow cruise can also be paired with tickets to Dubai’s famous La Perle Show for an added bonus.
- Timing: 7 to 9 p.m.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Highlights: Burj Khalifa, IMAGINE Fountain Show, live performances
- Inclusions: 90-minute ride, buffet dinner, soft drinks, live entertainment
Dubai Creek Luxury Dinner Dhow Cruise
The Dubai Creek Luxury Dinner Dhow Cruise offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it one of the best dhow cruises in Dubai Creek. The evening begins with a red carpet welcome before you embark on a two-hour journey along Dubai Creek. Sail past a fascinating mix of traditional souks and modern skyscrapers, including iconic buildings like the National Bank of Dubai and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.
The cruise features a lavish buffet with a variety of international and local dishes, complemented by unlimited soft drinks. You can choose to relax in the fully air-conditioned lower deck or enjoy the refreshing breeze on the open-air upper deck.
This is a wonderful choice for those who want to experience the charm of Old Dubai combined with a modern luxury dining experience.
- Timing: 2-hour cruise in Dubai Creek
- Highlights: Red carpet welcome, Dubai Creek landmarks, buffet dinner, live entertainment
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (if opted), buffet dinner, soft drinks, access to lower and upper decks
Ocean Empress Dhow Dinner Cruise
If grandeur is what you seek, the Ocean Empress Dhow Dinner Cruise offers a lavish experience on Dubai’s largest dhow. This enormous boat features four decks, each offering spectacular views of the Dubai Marina skyline. Enjoy a gourmet buffet while live performances entertain you on this 16,000-square-foot floating palace.
- Timing: 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Highlights: Dubai Marina views, international buffet, BBQ, live cooking
- Inclusions: Full-course buffet, soft drinks, 2-hour cruise, live entertainment
Dhow Dinner Cruise on Dubai Creek
For a more cultural experience, the Dhow Dinner Cruise on Dubai Creek is a top choice. Sail through the serene waters of the historic Dubai Creek, where traditional markets and modern skyscrapers coexist. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner while watching live Tanoura dancing and puppet shows on this elegant wooden boat.
- Timing: 9 to 11 p.m.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Highlights: Traditional souks, Tanoura dance, live performances
- Inclusions: Full-course dinner, live entertainment, vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
Dubai Marina Luxury Dhow Dinner Cruise
For a serene and memorable evening, the Dubai Marina Luxury Dhow Dinner Cruise offers a peaceful journey through the city’s most iconic waterfront. Sail past towering skyscrapers and glittering hotels while enjoying a delicious international buffet. The cruise features both air-conditioned indoor seating and an open-air upper deck, allowing you to choose your preferred atmosphere.
- Timing: 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Highlights: Dubai Marina skyline, luxury dining, atmospheric music
- Inclusions: Buffet dinner, soft drinks, hotel transfers (if opted)
Whether you’re drawn to the modern skyline of Dubai Marina or the historical allure of Dubai Creek, the best dhow cruises in Dubai offer something for everyone.
From luxurious canal cruises to family-friendly dinners, each experience is unique, providing a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and world-class dining.
No matter which option you choose, a dhow cruise is one of the most magical ways to enjoy the beauty of Dubai.
