Table of contents
Quick answer
A dhow cruise is a shared dinner cruise on a traditional wooden boat, usually about two hours in the evening with a buffet and entertainment. Dubai Marina cruises pass the modern skyline; Dubai Creek cruises pass old Dubai, the souks and the dhow wharves, and are generally cheaper. Expect roughly AED 100–250 per person, depending on the route, the boat and whether transfers are included.
1Should you choose a Marina or a Creek dhow cruise?
| Dubai Marina | Dubai Creek | |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | Dubai MarinaTowers, JBR, Ain Dubai | Dubai CreekOld Dubai, souks, abras, the wharves |
| Atmosphere | Dubai MarinaModern and lively | Dubai CreekTraditional |
| Typical price | Dubai MarinaTowards the upper end | Dubai CreekTowards the lower end |
| Best for | Dubai MarinaSkyline photos, a first night out | Dubai CreekHeritage, a cheaper evening |
Prices vary by boat and package. Confirm what the buffet and drinks include.
2What is included in a dhow dinner cruise?
- About two hours on the water, usually in the evening.
- An international buffet, often with Arabic dishes and vegetarian options.
- Soft drinks and water; other drinks may be extra.
- Entertainment such as a tanoura dancer or music.
- Hotel transfers on some packages, for an extra charge.
3What time do dhow cruises run?
Most leave in the evening — around 8pm — and return two hours later. Boarding starts before departure, and seats near the rail go first. Some operators also run sunset or lunch cruises.
4Dhow cruise or private yacht?
A dhow cruise is a shared evening at a per-person price — ideal for couples and small groups on a budget. A private yacht is the whole boat for your group, from about AED 600 an hour, with your own route, music and timing.
For more than eight or so people, a private yacht can come close to the per-person dhow price — and you are not sharing the deck.
Upper-deck seats on a dhow are open-air and best for photos; the lower deck is air-conditioned — useful in summer.
5Tips for a dhow cruise
- Book a table by the window or on the upper deck.
- Check whether the price includes transfers.
- Arrive early — boarding closes before departure.
- Bring a light layer in winter for the open deck.
6A dhow dinner cruise, step by step
- 1Arrive 15–30 minutes before boarding and check in at the pier.
- 2Welcome drinks, then find your table on the upper or lower deck.
- 3The dhow sets off and the buffet opens.
- 4Live music or a show, with time on the open deck for photos.
- 5Back at the pier about two hours after departure.
7Booking tips
- Compare what the buffet includes and whether drinks are extra.
- Check the boarding point and time.
- Ask whether hotel transfers are included, and their cost.
- Book ahead in winter and at weekends.
8What to wear on a dhow cruise
Smart-casual is fine. In winter, bring a light jacket for the open upper deck; in summer, the lower deck is air-conditioned. Flat shoes are easiest for boarding.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a dhow cruise in Dubai?
Roughly AED 100–250 per person, with Creek cruises usually cheaper than Marina cruises.
How long is a dhow cruise?
Usually about two hours, in the evening.
Is dinner included on a dhow cruise?
Yes, most dhow cruises include a buffet dinner and soft drinks.
Which is better, Marina or Creek dhow cruise?
The Marina for the modern skyline, the Creek for old Dubai and a lower price.
What is a dhow?
A dhow is a traditional wooden Arab sailing boat. The dhows used for dinner cruises today are motorised, with an enclosed, air-conditioned lower deck.
Is a dhow cruise good for families?
Yes — it is a relaxed evening with a buffet, and children can move around the deck. Ask about children's prices, and keep little ones away from the rails.
Is there entertainment on a dhow cruise?
Most dinner cruises include live music or a show, such as a Tanoura dancer. Check the listing for the exact programme.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 22 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
