Discover Why the Marina Dhow Cruise Is Dubai's Best-Value Evening Out
Dubai has earned its reputation for its futuristic skyline, although the most stunning views of this coastline are enjoyed from the water instead. An evening Marina Cruise Dinner gives you exactly that perspective — a leisurely two-hour sail through the most photographed waterfront in the region, with a generous buffet dinner and live shows and music.
The best part is the value on offer. Rates start at AED 60 per person, which turns it into one of the best-value experiences in the entire emirate.
Understanding the Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise
Traditionally, a dhow is a classic wooden sailing craft that was used for centuries across the Arabian Gulf for pearling and trade. Now, the design has been elegantly converted into luxury dining boats with air-conditioned lower decks plus open upper decks.
Compared with a traditional Creek sailing, the Marina sailing sails you through the ultra-modern side of Dubai: glass towers on both banks, the curve of the Ain Dubai observation wheel, the lively promenade of JBR Walk, as well as the whole skyline mirrored in the water.
Our Marina Cruise Options
There are four main packages — the right one depends on your budget and the occasion.
The Classic Marina Dhow Cruise – from AED 60
This is easily the most booked package. It includes two hours of cruising, an international four-star buffet, fresh chicken barbecue, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, complimentary soft drinks and water, onboard music, plus a traditional Tanoura display. There is seating indoors in the cool lower deck or outside on the upper deck.
Luxury Dubai Marina Cruise – AED 70 check here per person
For a little more adds a slightly more polished experience. All the standard inclusions remain, with upgraded seating on both decks, a longer entertainment programme and a a headline Tanoura performance.
Marina Glass and Fiber Cruise – only AED 80
Ideal for those wanting unobstructed sightlines, the fibre-and-glass cruise is the best pick. Guests board at 8 PM and disembark at 10:45 PM, with the full buffet with BBQ, unlimited soft drinks, dedicated washrooms for ladies and gentlemen plus soft music with entertainment shows.
VIP Marina Cruise Dubai – just AED 150 instead of AED 190
This is the highest-end option. It comes with a red carpet welcome at the boarding point, a five-star international buffet dinner, a beautifully decorated Arabic-style wooden dhow, a live Tanoura performance by a professional artist, an air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck, as well as close-up views of Ain Dubai, JBR and the Marina skyline. You board directly at Dubai Marina Harbour.
What You'll Eat
The buffet is far from an afterthought. The spread covers continental, Arabian and Asian options, hot mains, salads and mezze, rice and grilled items, followed by a dessert selection. The chicken BBQ is cooked fresh on the boat, and veg diners are never an afterthought not just a single side option. Unlimited soft drinks and bottled water are included for the full two hours.
Onboard Entertainment
A highlight of every sailing is the Tanoura. The spinning folk dance has roots in Egyptian and Sufi tradition, and features a skilled professional dancer in a glowing, colour-changing costume as the boat glides past the towers. Alongside this, you will hear live music and entertainment across the whole evening.
The Route and the Views
As the dhow glides through the canal, you'll pass the towering residential skyscrapers of Dubai Marina, the striking twisted tower, the beachfront energy of JBR and The Beach, the glowing Ain Dubai wheel, Marina Walk, and the outline of Palm Jumeirah beyond. The upper deck is where you want to be, especially at blue hour.
Special Occasions Onboard
A dinner cruise works beautifully for birthday celebrations, wedding anniversaries, family reunions, romantic surprises as well as corporate group bookings. We can arrange birthday celebrations on the boat, and business groups receive exclusive discounts and tailored packages for team outings and bulk reservations.
Planning Your Evening
Boarding usually begins at 7:45 PM, and the sailing runs from 8:30 PM until 10:30 PM every day. We recommend arriving early to get a good spot on the upper deck. Smart casual dress is ideal, and a light layer is worth bringing as the upper deck can get breezy. Children are welcome, and notably kids are priced at the same AED 60.
More Than Just a Cruise
Most visitors combine the cruise with a desert safari starting at AED 90, featuring dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, a BBQ buffet dinner and live shows. Further options include a Dubai City Tour from AED 100, Abu Dhabi City Tours from AED 220, Burj Khalifa's observation deck from AED 180, a Hatta Mountains Tour from AED 180, jet ski tours from AED 200, deep sea fishing from AED 250 as well as private yacht charter from AED 500 per hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I get for AED 60?
Two hours of cruising, an international buffet dinner, fresh chicken barbecue, unlimited soft drinks, a live Tanoura show, live music and stunning Dubai Marina views.
What's the rate?
AED 60 per adult and AED 60 per child, covering meals, entertainment and the full cruise.
When does boarding begin?
Guests board at 7:45 PM, with cruising from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM daily.
Ready to Book?
Seats fill quickly, especially in the cooler months, so it pays to reserve in advance. We are contactable around the clock to help you choose the right package.
Call +971 56 1277925 or message us via WhatsApp on +971 50 9912456 to reserve your seats. Browse www.marinacruisedinner.com to see all packages and current deals.
