Two Hours of Cruising, Buffet Dining and Tanoura Entertainment in the Heart of Dubai Marina
Dubai, UAE has earned its reputation for its glittering skyline, yet some of the finest views of the emirate come from the sea rather than a rooftop. A relaxed Marina Cruise Dinner gives you precisely this viewpoint — a gentle two-hour voyage across Dubai's most iconic canal, paired with a lavish buffet dinner and live cultural entertainment.
What makes it even better is the cost. You can board from as little as AED 60 per person, which makes this arguably the best-value evening available to visitors.
Understanding the Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise
Historically, the dhow was a hand-built wooden vessel that was used for centuries around the Gulf region by traders, fishermen and pearl divers. These days, these boats have been beautifully restored and refitted into floating restaurants with fully air-conditioned indoor seating plus open-air rooftop decks.
In contrast to a Dubai Creek cruise, a Dubai Marina cruise takes you through the city's newest district: skyscrapers rising on both banks, the curve of here Dubai Eye, the vibrant Jumeirah Beach Residence, along with reflections shimmering across the canal.
Which Marina Cruise Package Suits You?
Several options are available — what you pick depends on what you want from the evening.
The Classic Marina Dhow Cruise – only AED 60
This is the crowd favourite. It includes two hours of cruising, a 4-star international buffet dinner, fresh chicken barbecue, veg and non-veg options, unlimited soft drinks and mineral water, music entertainment, plus a traditional Tanoura display. Guests may choose on the air-conditioned lower deck or the open upper deck.
The Luxury Marina Cruise – from AED 70
A small step up buys you a slightly more polished experience. Everything from the standard package is included, with comfortable AC seating on upper and lower decks, extended live entertainment plus an extended Tanoura show.
Marina Glass Cruise Dinner – only AED 80
If you prefer unobstructed sightlines, the fibre-and-glass cruise is the best pick. Guests board at 8 PM and disembark at 10:45 PM, and it includes the buffet dinner and BBQ, unlimited soft drinks, separate toilets for men and women and background music and entertainment.
VIP Marina Cruise Dubai – AED 150 per person
This is the highest-end option. Guests receive a red-carpet reception at boarding, a 5-star international buffet, a beautifully decorated Arabic-style wooden dhow, a professional Tanoura artist, an air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck, and landmark views of Ain Dubai, JBR and the full Marina skyline. You board directly at Dubai Marina Harbour.
What's on the Menu
The dining spread is one of the highlights. Guests can help themselves to continental, Arabian and Asian options, hot mains, a salad and mezze counter, grilled dishes and rice, with sweet dishes to finish. The chicken BBQ is cooked fresh on the boat, while there is a full vegetarian selection with real variety. Soft drinks and mineral water are unlimited throughout the sailing.
The Live Shows
The signature moment of the night is the Tanoura show. The spinning folk dance comes from Egyptian Sufi tradition, and it features a skilled professional dancer in a brightly illuminated costume as the boat glides past the towers. In addition, you will hear live music and entertainment across the whole evening.
What You'll See From the Deck
Over the course of the two hours, look out for the towering residential skyscrapers of Dubai Marina, the famous twisting Cayan Tower, the beachfront energy of JBR and The Beach, Ain Dubai lit up on Bluewaters Island, Marina Walk, plus distant views towards Palm Jumeirah. Photographers should head to where you want to be, especially at blue hour.
Ideal for Special Occasions
This experience works beautifully for birthday celebrations, anniversaries, family gatherings, proposals plus corporate group bookings. We can arrange birthday celebrations on the boat, with corporate clients benefit from exclusive discounts and tailored packages for team outings and bulk reservations.
When to Go and What to Know
Check-in starts at 7:45 PM, and the sailing runs from 8:30 PM until 10:30 PM every day. Arrive a little early to get a good spot on the upper deck. Comfortable smart-casual clothing works best, and a light layer is worth bringing as the upper deck can get breezy. Families with children are very welcome, and in fact kids are priced at the same AED 60.
Combine Your Cruise With Other Tours
Consider adding a desert safari priced from AED 90, covering 4x4 dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, barbecue dinner at camp plus live shows. Other popular additions include Dubai City Tours from AED 100, an Abu Dhabi City Tour 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the Marina Dhow Cruise Dinner?
Two hours of cruising, a four-star international buffet, chicken BBQ, unlimited soft drinks, a live Tanoura show, live music and stunning Dubai Marina views.
What is the price?
AED 60 per adult and AED 60 per child, including all food, shows and the sailing itself.
What are the timings?
Guests board at 7:45 PM, and the cruise runs 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM every day.
How to Book
Seats fill quickly, particularly between October and April, so it pays to reserve in advance. Our team is available 24/7 to help you choose the right package.
Phone +971 56 1277925 or WhatsApp at +971 50 9912456 to reserve your seats. Visit www.marinacruisedinner.com to see all packages and current deals.
