Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina FAQs | Prices, Timings & Tips
Get all your questions answered about Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina – ticket prices, boarding location, dress code, entertainment, dinner, timing & more.
How much is the Dhow cruise in Dubai Marina?
The cost of a Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina typically ranges from AED 99 to AED 250 per person, depending on the package. Prices vary based on the deck (upper/lower), inclusions like buffet dinner, live entertainment, pickup & drop-off, and type of dhow (standard or luxury).
Where does Marina Dhow Cruise start from?
Most Dhow Cruises in Dubai Marina start from Dubai Marina Harbour or Pier 7 area. Exact departure points vary by operator, so always check the confirmation or contact the provider.
How much does a cruise cost in Dubai?
Cruise prices in Dubai vary:
Dhow Cruise (2 hours): AED 99 to AED 250
Luxury Yacht Cruise (1-3 hours): AED 134 to AED 800+
Full-Day Cruises or Event Cruises: AED 500 to AED 2000+
Is Marina Dhow cruise worth it?
Yes, the Marina Dhow Cruise is especially popular due to its location amidst modern skyscrapers, luxury residences, and iconic landmarks. The ambiance is more upscale compared to Creek cruises, making it ideal for couples, families, and tourists seeking a premium experience.
How expensive is Dubai Marina?
Dubai Marina is one of the most upscale and premium locations in Dubai. Dining, shopping, and activities here are on the higher side compared to other areas. However, with many tour operators offering packages, Dhow Cruises remain affordable and value for money.
How much does a Dhow cruise cost?
The average Dhow Cruise cost in Dubai ranges from:
Without dinner: AED 50 – AED 100
With buffet dinner: AED 99 – AED 150
Luxury packages: AED 180 – AED 250+
What is the dress code for Dhow Cruise?
The dress code is smart casual. While there is no strict rule, it's best to avoid beachwear or overly revealing outfits. Modest attire is appreciated, especially on family-friendly cruises. For dinner cruises, a neat and tidy look is ideal.
Where does the Dhow cruise start?
For Dubai Marina, the Dhow Cruise typically starts from:
Dubai Marina Yacht Club
Pier 7 area
Dubai Marina Walk dock
Exact locations are provided upon booking.
How much is the Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina per person?
On average, the price per person is:
AED 99 to AED 150 for standard Dhow Cruises
AED 200+ for luxury or themed dhow cruises with premium dining and live shows
How much time is required for a Dhow cruise in Dubai?
Most Dhow Cruises in Dubai Marina last for approximately 2 hours, including boarding, dinner service, and sightseeing.
Which Dhow cruise is better, Marina or Creek?
Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise: Modern, upscale, scenic with skyscrapers and luxury yachts.
Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise: Historic, cultural, more traditional atmosphere.
Marina cruise is preferred by most tourists for its vibrant modern vibe.
Is there a dance performance in Dubai Marina Cruise?
Yes, most Dhow Cruises in Dubai Marina include Tanoura dance, a traditional Middle Eastern spinning performance. Some may also include live music or other cultural entertainment, depending on the operator.
What is the difference between yacht cruise and Dhow cruise?
Dhow Cruise: Traditional wooden boat, buffet dinner, cultural shows, budget-friendly.
Yacht Cruise: Modern luxury vessel, private or shared, customizable, usually more expensive.
Dhow Cruises are cultural and relaxed; Yacht Cruises are modern and elite.
How much is the cruise ticket in Dubai?
Cruise ticket prices:
Dhow Cruises: AED 99 to AED 150
Yacht Cruises: AED 219 to AED 1200+
Luxury Dinner Cruises: AED 200 to AED 500
How much does an average cruise cost?
For tourist experiences:
Dhow Cruise (2 hrs): AED 99 to AED 150 per person
For international sea cruises departing from Dubai (e.g., to Oman, India):
Starts from AED 1000 – AED 5000+, depending on duration and cabin class.
How much does a boat ride cost in Dubai?
Speedboat Tour (1-2 hrs): AED 149 to AED 350
Dhow Cruise: AED 80 to AED 150
Luxury Yacht Rental (per hour): AED 400 to AED 1500+, depending on the yacht size
Are there any cruises from Dubai?
Yes, there are several:
Dhow Cruises in Marina and Creek
Luxury Yacht Cruises
International Cruises departing from Port Rashid (Mina Rashid) to destinations like Oman, India, Europe
How much is a cruise for 1 person?
Dhow Cruise Marina: AED 99 – AED 250 per person
Luxury Yacht (shared): AED 300 – AED 500 per person
International Sea Cruise (multi-day): AED 1000 – AED 10,000+
What does a cruise ticket cost?
Local Dhow Cruise Ticket: AED 49 to AED 150
Luxury Dinner Cruise: AED 200 to AED 500
Yacht Cruise (shared or group): AED 300 to AED 800+
International Cruise from Dubai: AED 1000 and up, depending on the duration and destination
How much is the Dhow Marina Cruise with dinner?
A Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina with dinner usually costs between AED 99 to AED 250 per person, depending on the cruise type (standard or luxury), inclusions like upper deck seating, entertainment, pickup/drop-off, and buffet type (international or premium).
What time is dinner on the Dhow Cruise?
Dinner service on a Dhow Cruise typically starts around 8:30 PM, shortly after the cruise departs. Boarding usually begins around 8:00 PM, with cruising from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
What is special about the Dhow Cruise?
Dhow Cruises offer a blend of tradition and luxury, showcasing Dubai’s skyline from a beautifully lit wooden boat. Guests enjoy live entertainment (Tanoura dance, music), international buffet dinner, and panoramic views of Dubai Marina – all creating a magical experience on the water.
Is dinner free on a cruise?
Dinner is included in the cruise ticket price unless stated otherwise. Most Dhow Cruises are dinner-inclusive by default.
Is alcohol served in Dhow Cruise?
Some premium or luxury Dhow Cruises do offer alcoholic beverages, either included or at an extra charge. Standard dhow cruises usually do not serve alcohol due to licensing restrictions.
What do you wear to cruise dinner in Dubai?
Wear smart casual attire. For men: trousers or jeans with a polo/shirt. For women: dresses, modest tops, or elegant evening wear. Avoid beachwear, sleeveless shirts, or flip-flops.
What is the best time to have dinner on a cruise ship?
In Dubai, the ideal dinner time is 8:30 PM, when the skyline is beautifully lit and temperatures are pleasant, especially for open-deck experiences.
How to reach Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise?
Metro: Take the metro from any station and get off at Sobha Realty Metro Station. From there, take a tram to Mina Seyahi Tram Station. It's a short walk (10 to 12 minutes) from the tram station to the Dubai Marina Harbour. Please visit rta.ae for detailed public transportation schedules.
Car/Taxi: You can easily reach Dubai Marina Harbour by taxi using any taxi booking application. Our team will also assist you in guiding you on how to reach by taxi if needed.
Pickup Option: You can select the transportation service during your booking process on our website. Our team will pick you up from your location and take you directly to Dubai Marina Harbour.
What are some fun facts about Dhows?
Dhows are traditional wooden boats used in the Middle East.
Originally used for fishing and pearl diving.
Modern dhows are fitted with air conditioning, dining decks, and entertainment.
The word “dhow” is believed to originate from the Swahili or Arabic word "daw".
What is the point of a cruise?
A cruise offers a leisurely, luxurious travel experience combining sightseeing, fine dining, entertainment, and relaxation – all in one place, often with scenic or waterfront views.
What can travellers do besides going on a Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina?
Walk the Marina Promenade
Dine at Pier 7
Take a speedboat tour
Visit Bluewaters Island or Ain Dubai
Enjoy beach clubs, cafes, and malls nearby
How much does a dhow boat cost?
A traditional dhow boat costs:
Basic small dhow: AED 50,000 – AED 100,000
Large luxury dhow: AED 500,000 – AED 2 million+
Prices vary based on build, engine, and customizations.
Where does Dhow Cruise start in Dubai?
For Dubai Marina cruises, the common starting points are:
Dubai Marina Harbour
Marina Walk – near Pier 7
Dubai Marina Yacht Club
How much money should you take on a cruise?
For local Dhow Cruises, you don’t need much as dinner and entertainment are included. Carry:
AED 50–100 for tipping, soft drinks, or photos
More if you plan to buy souvenirs or use bar services
Do I need a passport for a cruise?
For local Dhow Cruises in Dubai: No passport is required, just your Emirates ID or booking confirmation.
For international cruises departing from Dubai, a passport is mandatory.
How much is a cruise ticket?
Dhow Cruises (with dinner): AED 99 to 250
Yacht cruises (shared): AED 300 to 800
International cruises (multi-day): AED 1000 to AED 10,000+
What do you wear on a Dhow Cruise?
Smart casual is best. Comfortable yet elegant. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or flip-flops. For women, modest dresses or long skirts are preferred.
Can we bring alcohol on cruise?
Generally, no. Alcohol is only permitted on certain licensed cruises and must be purchased onboard. Bringing your own alcohol is not allowed.
Is Dhow Cruise air-conditioned?
Yes. Most modern dhows are equipped with fully air-conditioned lower decks, while the upper decks are open-air for scenic views.
Can we wear jeans in Dubai Cruise?
Yes, jeans are allowed and widely accepted. Just make sure your outfit remains modest and neat.
How much is the dinner cruise in Dubai?
Dinner cruises typically cost between AED 99 and AED 250, depending on the experience level (standard vs luxury), inclusions, and add-ons like drinks or transportation.
Can you wear jeans to dinner on a cruise?
Yes, jeans are acceptable. Pair them with a nice top or shirt to maintain a smart-casual look.
Do you tip every dinner on a cruise?
Tipping is optional but appreciated. A small tip of AED 10–20 per person is standard for excellent service.
Do I need a dinner jacket for a cruise?
No formal dinner jackets are required for Dubai Dhow Cruises. Smart casual attire is perfect — a shirt or polo for men is enough.
Is it better to eat early or late on a cruise?
Dhow Cruises generally offer only one dinner time — usually between 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Eating during the cruise is part of the overall experience with city lights and skyline views.
How much is the entry fee for the Dubai Marina Cruise?
There is no “entry fee” but the ticket price (AED 100–250) covers the full experience, including the cruise, buffet dinner, and entertainment.
How long is the Dhow Cruise in Dubai?
The cruise duration is approximately 2 hours, including boarding, sailing, dining, and entertainment.
Is a Dhow cruise worth it?
Yes, especially in Dubai Marina! It’s an affordable yet luxurious way to explore Dubai’s iconic skyline, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in international cuisine — all while sailing smoothly on the water.
What time is the Dhow Marina cruise?
Boarding: Around 8:00 PM
Departure: Between 8:30 PM to 8:45 PM
Return: Around 10:30 PM
What time does Dubai Marina open?
Dubai Marina is open 24/7 as it’s a residential and recreational district. However, restaurants and cruise operations generally start after 10:00 AM, with dinner cruises in the evening (11:00 PM onward).
How many people can a Dhow hold?
Depending on the size:
Small dhows: 99 to 250 people
Large dhows: 200 to 300+ passengers
Mega dhows for events can even accommodate 500+ people.
How do you pronounce Dhow?
Dhow is pronounced as "dow" (rhymes with cow).
What are the advantages of Dhows?
Cultural charm: Traditional Arabian feel
Smooth sailing: Great for calm waters
Multi-deck space: Good for dining and viewing
Affordable luxury: Scenic and romantic experience without high costs