Top Dubai Dinner Cruises

See the stunning city skyline while enjoying a full meal aboard a Dubai dinner cruise. These are some of the best options available now, according to past travelers:

• Dubai Marina Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ
• Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Drinks & Live Music
• Dubai Creek Royal Dinner Dhow Cruise with Optional Pickup
• Dubai Marina Alexandra Dhow Cruise with Dinner and Drink Options
• Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Drinks & Live Music

Dubai dinner cruises are worth it, as they are a relaxing way to wind down a day of sightseeing from a unique vantage point of the city. Aboard a passenger boat modeled after a traditional wooden dhow sailing vessel, you can take in the passing scenery of Dubai’s evening lights, listen to traditional music, and watch dance performances while enjoying various food options, typically from a buffet.

Two-hour buffet dinner cruises in Dubai cost as little as US$15 per person. More expensive cruises, which can cost US$100 or more per person, feature private hotel transfers, a longer cruising time, more expansive buffet options, or more elaborate entertainment.

Dubai dinner cruises typically last two hours. That includes time for dinner and entertainment, cruising around Dubai’s waterways, such as Dubai Creek, with its old-style marketplaces called souks, and the modern Dubai Canal.

In Dubai, where residents dress conservatively, modest clothing is appropriate (e.g., no short shorts or strapless tops). Dubai dinner cruises can be a fun opportunity to dress up, so women might consider a long, flowy dress, and men could wear pants and a collared shirt. Also, bring a wrap or sweater in case indoor areas of the dhow boat have the air-conditioning cranked up—as is common in Dubai, especially in the sultry summer months.

Yes, alcohol is available on Dubai dinner cruises. Islam is the official religion in Dubai (and the UAE), and Muslims do not drink alcohol. However, it is available to visitors at Dubai hotel restaurants and bars and on dinner cruises designed for tourists.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Dubai aside from dinner cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Waterskiing and Jet-Skiing

• Safaris

• Dhow Cruises

• Theme Park Tickets and Tours

• Layover Tours

Dubai dinner cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Dhow Cruise with Dinner at Dubai Marina

• Dinner Cruise in Dubai Marina Onboard Alexandra Dhow

• Catamaran Cruise with Dinner at Al Jaddaf Dubai

• VIP Dhow Cruise at Canal with BBQ Buffet Dinner

• Dubai Creek Dinner Dhow Cruise w/ Buffet & Live Shows Lower Deck

There are a lot of Dubai dinner cruises out there, so research all your options—you can probably find something that fits your exact budget and interests. Most are geared toward families and do not serve alcohol on board, but cruises that serve alcoholic drinks are available. Many tours provide some form of entertainment, such as live music and performances.

Follow the specified dress code for the best experience on a Dubai dinner cruise, which is often smart-casual, and pack an extra layer for after dark. Many cruises are accessible for wheelchairs, but it’s best to double-check accessibility details before you book, especially if you have specific needs. If transportation is not included, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure to ensure you don’t miss the boat and can secure the best seats.

Booking a Dubai dinner cruise during the cooler months, typically from November through March, ensures a more comfortable experience with mild temperatures and pleasant evenings. This period allows you to fully enjoy outdoor dining and scenic views of the illuminated skyline, ensuring you can maximize your experience.