Dhow Cruise Tour Types & Trips (2025 Guide)

Explore Dubai’s Marina, Creek and Water Canal by traditional dhow. Compare cruise types, dinner menus, live entertainment, timings, boarding points, and smart booking tips—everything you need for a smooth evening on the water.

About Dubai Dhow Cruises

A dhow is a traditional wooden vessel once used for trading along the Gulf. Today, Dubai’s restored and purpose-built dhows host relaxed sightseeing and dinner cruises with international buffets, Arabic specialties, and family-friendly shows (like tanoura). Routes span the glittering high-rises of Dubai Marina, the heritage ambiance of Dubai Creek, and the skyline views along the Dubai Water Canal.

Which Route Suits You?

Pick Marina for modern skyline shots (Ain Dubai, Bluewaters, Marina towers). Choose Creek for Old Dubai— Al Seef, souks, and heritage wind towers. Opt for the Water Canal for Business Bay, illuminated bridges, and the Sheikh Zayed Road waterfall gate (when operating).

What’s Typically Included

A 60–120 minute cruise, open-air upper deck or AC lower deck seating, buffet dinner (veg & non-veg options), tea/coffee or soft drinks, and live entertainment on many departures. Some premium boats add live music or an open bar.

Brief History & Timeline

Late 19th–20th c. — Wooden dhows sail the Gulf trading pearls, dates, and goods.
1990s — Evening sightseeing and dinner cruises begin on Dubai Creek.
2003–2010s — Dubai Marina opens; dhow experiences expand to the new skyline.
2016 — Dubai Water Canal launches, adding a dramatic new route through Business Bay.
2020s–2025 — Premium glass dhows, upgraded piers, and diversified menus elevate the experience.

Tour & Ticket Options (What to Book)

Marina Dinner Dhow Cruise

The most photogenic route: skyscrapers, yachts, and the Bluewaters/Ain Dubai backdrop. Ideal for first-timers and couples.

Dubai Creek Heritage Dhow

Classic Old Dubai ambiance past Al Seef and the souks. A good pick for culture lovers and families seeking a calmer route.

Water Canal Luxury Cruise

Glide through Business Bay on premium (often glass) boats with live music and sweeping skyline views.

Combos & Specials

Popular bundles pair a dhow cruise with Big Bus hop-on hop-off passes or seasonal fireworks cruises on NYE.

Good to know: Most cruises last 60–120 minutes. Boarding begins ~30 minutes before departure. Upper deck is open-air (best views, breezier); lower deck is enclosed and air-conditioned. Menus, live shows, and alcohol policies vary by operator—check the tour page.

What You’ll Experience Onboard

Views & Photo Spots

Marina: twisting Cayan Tower, Pier 7, Bluewaters Island. Creek: Al Seef, Deira souks, abras, wind towers. Canal: illuminated bridges, Business Bay towers, and (on select timings) the SZR waterfall gate.

Upper-deck seating for skyline panoramas and sunset light.
Lower-deck AC comfort—good in summer and for families.
City lights after dusk make night photos pop—bring a phone with night mode.

Dining & Entertainment

Expect international buffets with Middle Eastern dishes; many boats offer veg options. Live entertainment can include tanoura dance, music, or a brief magic show. Premium boats may have live bands or a DJ.

Smart-casual dress works well; bring a light layer in winter evenings. Soft drinks and water are commonly included; alcohol availability depends on the operator and route.

Insider Tips

Best Time

Aim for sunset or early evening. In summer, late departures feel cooler; in winter, carry a light jacket for the upper deck.

Seats & Decks

Request an upper-deck window/front table for views (limited availability). Families or guests who prefer AC can choose the lower deck.

Transfers & Access

Many tours offer hotel pickups (paid add-on). Lower decks are generally more accessible, but boarding ramps vary—message the operator ahead if needed.

Visitor Cheatsheet

Departure Points

Marina: Pier 7/Marina Promenade area • Creek: Al Seef/Deira Old Souk piers • Canal: Business Bay/Marasi Marina.

Duration

60–120 minutes (most dinner cruises are ~2 hours). Arrive 30 min early for boarding.

What to Bring

Photo ID for ticket checks, light layer in winter, phone/camera, and your booking QR code (mobile is fine).

Menus & Policies

Menus vary; check veg/halal/allergen info. Entertainment and alcohol service differ by boat and route.

Accessibility

Lower decks commonly accessible; upper decks via stairs. Ask the operator about ramp/handrail availability.

Changes & Cancellation

Many options allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure—confirm on the product page.

Ready to Book Your Dhow Cruise?

Choose Marina for skyline views, Creek for heritage charm, or Water Canal for dramatic bridges—then pick your deck, dinner, and departure time.