Dubai Marina’s Royal Dhow Cruise offers a truly unique way to explore the city’s modern waterfront while enjoying traditional Arabian hospitality. A dhow cruise in Dubai Marina is not just a dinner—it’s an immersive experience combining sightseeing, dining, entertainment, and cultural exploration on a beautifully lit wooden boat. Whether you’re booking a dhow cruise dinner in Dubai, planning a New Year’s Eve cruise, or simply looking for the best way to enjoy the Marina at night, this guide covers the top 20 activities, attractions, and highlights to make the most of your cruise.
Why Choose a Royal Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina?
Dubai Marina is one of the most iconic waterfront developments in the world. A Marina Dhow Cruise Dubai offers:
- A panoramic view of glittering skyscrapers and the luxurious Dubai Harbour
- A floating restaurant experience with an international buffet dinner
- Traditional wooden dhows alongside modern yachts and catamarans
- Live entertainment including Tanura dance performances
- Perfect vantage points for sunset photography
From Basic Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina to Lotus Mega Yacht and Premium Heaven Dhow cruise Dubai Marina, the options are plenty. Below are the 20 best things to do while on board.
1. Enjoy a Scenic Sunset Departure
Most dhow cruise Marina tours start around sunset. This timing allows you to watch the skyline of Dubai Marina shift from golden daylight to the neon glow of the evening.
2. Relish a Lavish Buffet Dinner
A highlight of every Dubai Marina dinner cruise is the buffet dinner. Expect a mix of:
- Continental dishes
- Arabic mezze
- Grilled seafood and meats
- Desserts and fresh fruits
Different operators such as white yacht, Xclusive yacht, or Alexandra Dhow Cruise offer slightly different menus.
3. Watch the Tanura Dance Show
A Tanura dance performance is a traditional Egyptian-inspired art form performed on the upper deck of the dhow. This whirling dance, combined with lights and music, is a crowd favorite.
4. Capture Iconic Skyline Photography
Bring your camera or phone to capture high-resolution images of landmarks such as:
- Cayan Tower
- Princess Tower
- Marina 101
- 23 Marina
- Elite Residence
- Damac Heights
- The Torch Tower
- Ocean Heights
- Marina Pinnacle
- Grosvenor House
- Pier 7
- Dubai Marina Mall
- Bluewaters Island (Ain Dubai)
- Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR Towers)
- Marina Gate Towers
5. Experience the Floating Restaurant Atmosphere
The wooden dhow cruise boats are designed as floating restaurants. Some cruises even feature a catamaran Yacht Cruise-style deck or luxury yacht hybrid for a smoother experience.
6. Dine on the Upper Deck Under the Stars
Choose seating on the upper deck to enjoy fresh air, skyline views, and a quieter dining experience.
7. Witness Dubai Marina at Night
Dubai Marina by night transforms into a glowing spectacle. From the boat, you see the full effect of the skyscraper lights reflecting on the water.
8. Celebrate Special Occasions
Dhow cruises are perfect for:
- Birthday parties
- Anniversaries
- Corporate gatherings
- Romantic dinners
- Halloween Festival
Some packages even include personalized cakes and decorations.
9. Learn About Dubai’s Maritime Heritage
Traditional dhows are wooden vessels that were historically used for pearl diving and trade. Onboard hosts often share this history, connecting the experience with Dubai’s heritage.
10. Choose a Premium Luxury Dhow Cruise Experience
For those looking for exclusivity, opt for:
- Lotus Mega Yacht Cruise
- Alexandra Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina
- Premium White Yacht Luxury Dhow Cruise
- Silver Dhow Cruise Marina
- Wooden Glass Cruise Marina
- Golden Glass Yacht Cruise Marina
- Sunset Exclusive Yacht Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise
These offer premium buffet menus, live DJs, and private seating.
11. Attend a New Year’s Eve Dhow Cruise
A Dhow Cruise New Year’s Eve Dubai Marina is one of the best ways to watch fireworks over the city. These packages sell out early, so book well in advance.
12. Capture Deira and Bur Dubai on Creek Cruises
For a more traditional route, you can also try a dhow cruise Dubai Creek or Al Seef dhow cruise to see Old Dubai, Deira, and Bur Dubai. While not the Marina, these cruises are linked by the same cultural experience.
13. Try a Canal Cruise for a Different View
A Dubai Canal Dhow Cruise offers a different route, gliding past Business Bay and Sheikh Zayed Road bridges.
15. Take Advantage of Marina Dhow Cruise Offers
Look for dhow cruise Dubai Marina offers and deals online. Websites often list discounted dhow cruise ticket prices, including dinner and entertainment.
16. Learn the Dress Code and Timings
- Dress code: Smart casual (no beachwear)
- Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina timings: Typically 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Nearest metro station: DAMAC Properties Metro Station
17. Enjoy Live Music and Cultural Performances
Apart from Tanura, some cruises include:
- Arabic oud players
- Violinists
- DJs on luxury yachts
18. Explore Different Boat Types
Apart from traditional wooden dhows:
- Catamarans (stable, luxury)
- Yachts
- Glass-covered boats
Each type offers a unique experience.
19. Take a Family-Friendly Cruise
Dhow cruises are safe and suitable for families with children. Many operators have special kids’ menus and entertainment.
20. Book the Best Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina
Some of the top-rated operators:
- Alexandra Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina (traditional)
- Rayna Tours Dhow Dinner Cruise
- Lotus Mega Yacht Dinner Cruise
- Royal Tour Dubai Cruises
Each offers unique features like a floating restaurant or a luxury buffet on the upper deck and lower deck.
Related Topic: 8 Best Dubai Dhow Cruises (Prices Start AED 35 – AED 70)
