A Dhow Cruise Marina is one of the most relaxed ways to see Dubai’s skyline. Board a traditional wooden dhow for a 2-hour evening cruise past the glittering towers of Dubai Marina, the beachfront of JBR and Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, while you enjoy a buffet dinner and live entertainment. There’s no walking and no rush: just good food and the city lights reflected on the water.
Why a Dhow Cruise
The dhow is the traditional wooden boat of the Gulf, used for centuries for fishing, pearl diving and trade. Today’s cruise dhows keep that classic shape but add air-conditioned dining and an open upper deck. Sailing one through Dubai Marina, past some of the most modern architecture in the world, is old Dubai meeting new.
What You’ll See on the Cruise
The route takes in Dubai Marina’s best views, then heads out to the open water along JBR and Bluewaters before looping back.
The Marina Towers
Glide between skyscrapers that rise straight from the water’s edge, including the twisting Cayan Tower.
Marina Mall and the Promenade
Pass the busy waterfront promenade, lined with restaurants and lit up after dark.
JBR Beachfront
See the towers of Jumeirah Beach Residence from the water, with The Walk and the beach below.
Bluewaters and Ain Dubai
Cruise past Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel at 250 metres.
Your Evening Step by Step
The cruise is simple and relaxed from start to finish. Here’s how a typical evening runs.
1. Pick-Up or Arrival
We collect you from your hotel / Make your way to the berth. Arrive about 30 minutes before sailing.
2. Boarding
Step aboard to a welcome of Arabic coffee and dates, and choose a seat in the air-conditioned lower deck or on the open upper deck.
3. Sailing and Dinner
As the dhow sets off, the buffet opens, with Arabic, Indian and international dishes.
4. Entertainment
Enjoy the Tanoura dancer and live music as you cruise past JBR and Ain Dubai.
5. Return to the Berth
The dhow returns at about 10:30 to 10:45 PM, and we drop you back at your hotel.
Dubai Marina or Deira Creek?
Choose the Marina cruise for the modern skyline, glass towers and Ain Dubai. Choose our Dhow Cruise Deira for historic Dubai Creek, the old souks and the best value. Both are evening dinner cruises of about 2 hours.
What’s Included
- About 2 hours on a traditional dhow in Dubai Marina
- International buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes
- Welcome Arabic coffee and dates
- Water and soft drinks
- Tanoura show and live music (none during Ramadan)
- Air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck
- Hotel transfers, if included
Not Included
- Alcoholic drinks unless on the premium option
- Hotel transfers unless included
- Tips
What to Wear and Bring
- Smart-casual clothes; no beachwear
- A light jacket or shawl for the upper deck in winter
- A camera or phone for the skyline
- Photo ID, if you choose a drinks package
Who This Tour Is For
Couples, families and anyone who wants relaxed evening sightseeing without walking. Want to see the Marina at speed? Try our Jet Ski Dubai Marina ride. Want the view from the sky? Book our Helicopter Tour.
Good to Know
- Arrive about 30 minutes before sailing
- Boarding is by a gangway, and the upper deck is up stairs; tell us about mobility needs
- Outside food and alcohol aren’t allowed on board
- During Ramadan, the cruise runs without music or dancing
Dhow Cruise Marina Packages
Choose the cruise only, add transfers, or upgrade your drinks.
