A Dhow Cruise Deira takes you back to where Dubai began. Board a traditional wooden dhow on Dubai Creek and sail past the old souks of Deira, the wind-tower houses of Bur Dubai and the little abra boats that still ferry people across the water, while you enjoy a buffet dinner and a Tanoura show under the lights of the old city. It’s a relaxed, affordable evening that shows a side of Dubai the skyscrapers can’t.
Why Dubai Creek Matters
Dubai Creek is the reason Dubai exists. In 1833, about 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe, led by Sheikh Maktoum bin Butti, settled at the mouth of the creek, and its sheltered water became a base for pearl diving, fishing and trade with Iran, India and East Africa. In 1961 the creek was dredged for the first time so bigger ships could enter, and it remained the city’s only port for around a century. Today it’s on UNESCO’s Tentative List as ‘Khor Dubai’, a traditional merchants’ harbour.
What You’ll See From the Water
The cruise follows the stretch of creek where old and new Dubai meet. Here’s what to look out for from the deck.
The Deira Waterfront
Lit-up hotels and offices line the Deira side, behind the old souk district that’s home to the Gold and Spice Souks.
Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi and Al Seef
Across the water, the wind towers of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya) and the heritage-style waterfront of Al Seef show how Dubai looked before oil.
Abras and Wooden Dhows
Traditional abra water taxis still carry passengers across the creek, and wooden dhows line the waterfront: a scene that has barely changed in decades.
Your Evening Step by Step
The cruise is easy and relaxed. Here’s how a typical evening runs.
1. Pick-Up or Arrival
Arrive about 30 minutes before sailing.
2. Boarding
Step aboard the dhow, find your table and enjoy a welcome drink.
3. Sailing and Dinner
The dhow sets off along the creek as the buffet opens, with Arabic and international dishes and plenty of vegetarian options.
4. Entertainment
Watch the Tanoura dancer spin in a whirl of colour, then head to the upper deck for views and photos.
5. Return to the Jetty
The dhow returns at about 10:15 to 10:30 PM.
Deira Creek or Dubai Marina?
Choose the Deira Creek cruise for old Dubai, history and the best value. Choose our Dubai Marina cruise for the modern skyline of glass towers, JBR and Bluewaters. Both are evening dinner cruises of about 2 hours.
What’s Included
- About 2 hours on a traditional dhow on Dubai Creek
- International buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes
- Welcome drink, water, soft drinks, tea and coffee
- Tanoura show and music (no music or dancing during Ramadan)
- Air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off, if included
Not Included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Hotel transfers unless included
- Tips
What to Wear and Bring
- Smart-casual, comfortable clothes
- A light layer for the upper deck on winter evenings
- A camera or phone for the lit-up waterfront
Who This Tour Is For
Families, couples, first-time visitors and anyone on a budget who wants a relaxed evening with dinner and a view of old Dubai. Pair it with a day exploring the city on our Dubai City Tour, visit the nearby Dubai Frame, or try something faster on the water with our Jet Ski Al Mamzar ride, just up the coast.
Good to Know
- Arrive about 30 minutes before sailing
- No alcohol is served on board
- During Ramadan, the cruise runs without music or dancing
- Combine it with an afternoon in the Gold and Spice Souks
Dhow Cruise Deira Packages
Choose the cruise only, or add hotel transfers.
