Discover Why the Marina Dhow Cruise Is Dubai's Best-Value Evening Out
This desert metropolis is famous around the world for its towering architecture, yet the most stunning views of the emirate are not found on dry land. A Marina Cruise Dinner offers you that rare perspective — a gentle two-hour sail through one of the world's most photographed waterfronts, complete with a lavish buffet dinner plus authentic Arabian entertainment.
What makes it even better is the price. Prices start from AED 60 per person, which makes this arguably the best-value evening in the entire emirate.
The Dhow Cruise Experience Explained
A dhow is a traditional wooden boat that was used for centuries around the Gulf region for pearling and trade. Today, those same vessels have been beautifully restored and refitted into floating dining venues that feature cool, air-conditioned interiors and breezy open-air upper decks.
Compared with a traditional Creek sailing, a Dubai Marina cruise takes you through contemporary Dubai: towers lining both sides of the water, the famous Ain Dubai, the lively Jumeirah Beach Residence, as well as reflections shimmering across the canal.
Our Marina Cruise Options
There are four main packages — what you pick depends on budget, group size and occasion.
Marina Dhow Cruise Dinner – only AED 60
This remains our best-selling package. It includes a two-hour voyage, a 4-star international buffet dinner, fresh chicken barbecue, veg and non-veg options, free-flowing soft drinks and mineral water, onboard music, and a click here an authentic Tanoura dance show. Seating is available either on the AC lower deck or the open-air upper deck.
The Luxury Marina Cruise – AED 70 per person
A modest upgrade delivers a more refined evening. All the standard inclusions remain, plus upgraded seating on both decks, extended live entertainment and a spectacular Tanoura dance show.
Marina Glass and Fiber Cruise – from AED 80
Ideal for those wanting unobstructed sightlines, the glass-sided boat makes the most sense. Boarding is at 8 PM with drop-off at 10:45 PM, covering the full buffet with BBQ, free-flowing soft drinks, separate toilets for men and women and soft music with entertainment shows.
Premium VIP Marina Cruise – from AED 150, reduced from AED 190
Our top-tier package. You are welcomed with a red-carpet reception at boarding, a five-star international buffet dinner, a traditional Arabic wooden dhow decorated in classic style, a professional Tanoura 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. Departure is from Dubai Marina Harbour.
The Dining Experience
The onboard buffet deserves special mention. Guests can help themselves to a broad international selection with Arabic classics, hot mains, fresh salads and mezze, grilled dishes and rice, followed by sweet dishes to finish. Chicken barbecue is grilled fresh onboard, while veg diners are never an afterthought with real variety. Unlimited soft drinks and bottled water are included for the full two hours.
Entertainment on the Water
A highlight of every sailing is the Tanoura show. This whirling folk dance has roots in Egyptian and Sufi tradition, and it is performed by a professional artist in a glowing, colour-changing costume that transforms the deck. Complementing the show, you will hear soft music and a full entertainment programme across the whole evening.
Sights Along the Marina Route
While the boat moves along the water, you will see the dense cluster of Marina towers, the striking twisted tower, the lively JBR promenade, the glowing Ain Dubai wheel, Marina Walk, as well as distant views towards Palm Jumeirah. For photos, the open upper deck is the best spot, particularly just after sunset.
Celebrations, Birthdays and Corporate Events
A dinner cruise works beautifully for birthday parties, wedding anniversaries, family get-togethers, proposals as well as company events and team outings. Birthday arrangements can be organised onboard, with companies can access exclusive discounts and tailored packages when booking for teams.
Planning Your Evening
Check-in starts at 7:45 PM, with the cruise sailing from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM daily. Arrive a little early to secure the best seats. Dress smart casual, and bring something light for the breeze as the upper deck can get breezy. The cruise is family friendly, and kids are priced at the same AED 60.
Other Tours Worth Adding
Most visitors combine the cruise with a Dubai desert safari starting at AED 90, featuring dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, barbecue dinner at camp plus live shows. Other popular additions include Dubai City Tours from AED 100, Abu Dhabi City Tours from AED 220, the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck from AED 180, Hatta Mountains Tour from AED 180, jet ski tours from AED 200, deep sea fishing trips from AED 250 and private yacht charter from AED 500 per hour.
Common Questions
What do I get for AED 60?
120 minutes on the water, a four-star international buffet, fresh chicken barbecue, free soft drinks and water, the Tanoura performance, music entertainment and panoramic Marina views.
What is the price?
AED 60 per adult and AED 60 per child, including all food, shows and the sailing itself.
What time does the cruise start?
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. Support is available 24 hours a day to answer questions and confirm your booking.
Ring +971 56 1277925 or WhatsApp on +971 50 9912456 to book your Marina Cruise Dinner today. Head to www.marinacruisedinner.com to see all packages and current deals.
