How to Experience a Traditional Dhow Cruise in Abu Dhabi

If you're planning to visit Abu Dhabi, don’t miss the opportunity to see the city from the water on a traditional dhow cruise. These classic wooden boats were once used for fishing and pearl diving, but today, they’ve become a popular tourist attraction. This guide will take you through the joys of a dhow cruise in Abu Dhabi, while offering tips and insights.

Abu Dhabi Dhow Cruise Dinner 

Sign up for a relaxing and memorable evening cruise. Tours are offered by Abu Dhabi Dhow Cruise. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy delicious food in the most mesmerising way while taking in the beautiful sights of the skyline and the Corniche. With fresh dates and Arabic coffee, they really know how to make you feel like a celebrity. 

You’ll be sailing around for two hours, savouring delicious food and listening to music. 

For an adult, it costs about AED 250, and for kids, it’s AED 200. Cruises are conducted on Thursday and Friday from 8 PM to 10 PM.

Dhow Dinner Cruise by Desert Rose 

Take luxury to another level by joining the luxurious dinner cruise offered by Desert Rose. You’ll be cruising across the water on a wooden double-deck boat. While the five-star menu is an obvious winner, the stunning views of the city come a close second, if not first. 

There’s comfortable seating to let you relax and take in the views. The buffet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, along with hot and cold beverages. 

The duration is two hours, from 8 PM to 10 PM. This particular cruise happens to be among the best things to do and see in Abu Dhabi, so make sure you take advantage of the opportunity.

Wouldn't it be just marvellous if you didn’t have to end the luxurious experience even after the cruise has come to an end? It’s a possibility. Book yourself into a five-star resort, such as Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, for a luxurious stay.

Abu Dhabi Gulf Cruise 

This guided dhow cruise is an excellent opportunity to view the main landmarks of the city from the water. It’s a double-decker wooden boat. Upon boarding the boat, you’ll be given complimentary bottled water and soft drinks. 

The average cost for an adult is AED 100, and for kids, it’s AED 60. You’ll be cruising around for about an hour. The availability is Monday to Sunday, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM.

Dhow Cruise Abu Dhabi Yas Island 

Another indulgent cruise safari, the Dhow Cruise at Yas Marina Abu Dhabi brings you the best views of the capital’s iconic skyline. It comes as a package that includes a five-star international buffet, Arabic coffee, dates, and a selection of soft drinks. 

The cruise is available for private and corporate events. If you’re thinking of hosting an event, the minimum number of people must be 15, while the maximum number is 25. 

The average cost for an adult is AED 220, and AED 175 for a child. It’s a two-hour cruise available from Monday to Sunday, between 8 PM and 10 PM.

Yas Island Sightseeing Cruise 

Guaranteeing you a memorable evening, the Yas Island sightseeing cruise has become one of the most popular diversions in Abu Dhabi. There’s popcorn, soft drinks, and music to be enjoyed while taking in the gorgeous views of landmarks like the Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World Theme Park. 

The cost for an adult is about AED 125, and for a child, it’s AED 100. The duration is one hour.

Dhow Cruise Dinner in Abu Dhabi 

It’s a two-hour dinner cruise offered by Ryana Tours.  The cruise allows you to admire the beauty of the city. The dhow itself, with its precise Arabian craftsmanship, is something to appreciate. 

This dhow cruise also offers hotel pickups and welcome drinks. There’s an international buffet and soft drinks waiting for you on board. 

The cost is about AED 325 per person, and the cruise is available from 8 PM.