Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise: The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Evening on the Water
Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise: The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Evening on the Water
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Discover Why the Marina Dhow Cruise Is Dubai's Best-Value Evening Out
Dubai, UAE is famous around the world for its towering architecture, but the most memorable views of this coastline are never seen from a viewing deck. A Marina Cruise Dinner gives you exactly that perspective — an unhurried two-hour sail through Dubai's most iconic canal, with an international buffet spread plus authentic Arabian entertainment.
What makes it even better is the price. Packages begin at AED 60 per person, and that makes it arguably the best-value evening anywhere in Dubai.
What Exactly Is a Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina?
Traditionally, a dhow is a traditional wooden boat that has been used across the Arabian Gulf by traders, fishermen and pearl divers. Now, those same vessels have been carefully restored and modernised into floating restaurants complete with cool, air-conditioned interiors and open-air rooftop decks.
Unlike the older Creek cruises, the Marina route sails you through the city's newest district: skyscrapers rising on both banks, the curve of Dubai Eye, the vibrant JBR Walk, and the marina skyline reflecting on the water.
Our Marina Cruise Options
Several options are available — your choice depends on budget, group size and occasion.
Standard Marina Dhow Cruise – AED 60 per person
Without question, this is the most booked package. You get two hours of cruising, an international four-star buffet, fresh chicken barbecue, choices for vegetarians and meat eaters, free-flowing soft drinks and mineral water, onboard music, plus an authentic Tanoura dance show. Guests may choose on the air-conditioned lower deck or the open upper deck.
Luxury Dubai Marina Cruise – just AED 70
A small step up buys you extra comfort and polish. Everything from the standard package is included, with improved seating throughout, extended live entertainment and a a headline Tanoura performance.
Marina Glass Cruise Dinner – from AED 80
Ideal for those wanting panoramic, uninterrupted views, the glass cruise is the obvious choice. Guests board at 8 PM and disembark at 10:45 PM, with a complete buffet and barbecue, complimentary soft drinks, separate toilets for men and women and background music and entertainment.
The Premium VIP Cruise – from AED 150, reduced from AED 190
The get more info premium tier. Expect a red-carpet reception at boarding, a five-star international buffet dinner, a traditional Arabic wooden dhow decorated in classic style, a live Tanoura performance by a professional artist, an air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck, and close-up views of Ain Dubai, JBR and the Marina skyline. You board directly at Dubai Marina Harbour.
Food and Dining Onboard
The dining spread is one of the highlights. The spread covers international favourites alongside regional specialities, hot mains, a salad and mezze counter, rice and grilled items, and a range of desserts. Chicken barbecue is grilled fresh onboard, with there is a full vegetarian selection rather than given a token side dish. Unlimited soft drinks and bottled water are included for the full two hours.
Entertainment on the Water
The signature moment of the night is the live Tanoura performance. This whirling folk dance has roots in Egyptian and Sufi tradition, and it is performed by a professional artist wearing an illuminated, colourful skirt as the boat glides past the towers. Beyond the Tanoura, you will hear live music and entertainment for the duration of the cruise.
Landmarks You'll See Along the Way
As you sail, the route takes in the dense cluster of Marina towers, the famous twisting Cayan Tower, the beachfront energy of JBR and The Beach, the vast Ain Dubai observation wheel, Marina Walk, and glimpses of Palm Jumeirah in the distance. Camera in hand, the upper deck is the place to be, particularly during the golden hour before dark.
Ideal for Special Occasions
An evening onboard is ideal for birthday celebrations, anniversaries, family reunions, proposals as well as corporate team outings. We can arrange birthday celebrations on the boat, and companies can access special group rates and customised packages for team outings and bulk reservations.
When to Go and What to Know
Guests typically board at 7:45 PM, and cruising takes place between 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM. Try to reach the harbour ahead of time so you can pick your seat. Smart casual dress is ideal, and a light jacket is useful since the open deck catches the sea air. The cruise is family friendly, and in fact kids are priced at the same AED 60.
Other Tours Worth Adding
The cruise works well alongside a Dubai desert safari priced from AED 90, which includes thrilling dune bashing, a short camel ride, sandboarding, barbecue dinner at camp plus live shows. Further options include Dubai City Tours from AED 100, Abu Dhabi City Tours from AED 220, the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck from AED 180, a Hatta Mountains Tour from AED 180, jet ski tours from AED 200, deep sea fishing trips from AED 250 plus yacht rental starting at AED 500 per hour.
Questions We Get Asked
What does the cruise include?
A full two-hour sail, a four-star international buffet, chicken BBQ, unlimited soft drinks, a live Tanoura show, music entertainment plus panoramic Marina views.
How much does it cost?
AED 60 per adult and AED 60 per child, covering meals, entertainment and the full cruise.
When does boarding begin?
Boarding is at 7:45 PM, and the cruise runs 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM every day.
How to Book
Seats fill quickly, particularly between October and April, so advance booking is advised. We are contactable around the clock to help you choose the right package.
Ring +971 56 1277925 or message us via WhatsApp on +971 50 9912456 to book your Marina Cruise Dinner today. Browse www.marinacruisedinner.com for complete package information and live pricing.
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