Dubai, a captivating city in the United Arab Emirates, is well-known for its high standard of living and impressive cruiseist attractions. A dhow cruise down Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina is one of the city’s most sought-after activities. These cruises provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to take in the city’s breathtaking cityscape and vibrant culture. Dhow cruises in Dubai range from the traditional to the luxurious, each providing its own unique experience. Let’s explore the realm of dhow cruises and learn about the many options available to you.
Dhow is a general term for a variety of historic sailing vessels common in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. These ships typically have one or more masts and are rigged with a settee or, less commonly, lateen sails.
Dhows are commercial vessels that are often found along the coastlines of Eastern Arabia, East Africa, Yemen, and coastal South Asia. Their long, thin hulls make them ideal for transporting heavy goods like fruit, fresh water, and other commodities. Crew sizes range from twelve on smaller Dhow to thirty on larger ones.
Traditional dhow cruises in Dubai are a unique and real way to learn about the city’s long marine history. Some of the most important things about a typical dhow cruise are:
The famous Dubai Creek, which was once the center of the city’s trade, is where traditional dhow cruises take place. This setting lets you see into the past and understand where Dubai came from.
The cruises use traditional wooden dhow boats that have been used by the people for hundreds of years. Beautifully made and painted in a traditional Arabian style, these boats give off a feeling of nostalgia and charm.
When you step on board a traditional dhow, you’ll be surrounded by the history and culture of the area. The dhow is decorated in a traditional Arabian style, which makes it feel warm and welcoming.
On a traditional dhow cruise, you’ll find sitting in the style of an Arabic majlis. These low-floor seating setups with soft cushions make guests feel comfy and at home.
The traditional Arabic food spread is one of the best parts of a traditional dhow cruise. You’ll be able to try kebabs, grilled meats, rice meals, freshly baked bread, and tasty sweets that are made with real ingredients.
There will be live music and dance shows while you’re on the cruise. Traditional music, like rhythmic oud tunes, is a part of the culture. Skilled dancers do traditional folk dances like the Tanoura dance, which is mesmerizing because it includes spinning colorful skirts.
As the dhow sails along the Dubai Creek, you can see the city’s scenery, famous sites, and busy shore in all directions. This is a unique way to see Dubai’s beauty because it shows both old and new things.
On a traditional dhow cruise in Dubai, you can expect to be entertained by a variety of cultural performances and traditional forms of entertainment. Here are some common types of entertainment offered on a traditional dhow cruise:
A dinner dhow cruise is a type of cruise that blends a beautiful boat ride with a delicious meal on a traditional or modern dhow boat. It’s a special way to enjoy a meal while looking at the Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina.
During a dinner cruise on a dhow, guests are usually greeted with a warm and friendly environment. The show is beautifully furnished and makes for a charming place to eat. Most of the time, the cruise takes place in the evening, when the skyline and other sites are lit up and can be seen from the water.
A wonderful dinner is served on the dhow as it sets sail. On a dinner dhow cruise, food is usually served in the form of a spread with a wide range of dishes to suit different tastes. Most of the time, the table has a variety of appetizers, major dishes, and desserts. The food provided can be anything from traditional Arabian meals to popular dishes from around the world, so there’s something for everyone.
What makes a Dhow supper so wonderful, some would ask. Dubai’s dinner cruises are more than just a great way to explore the city and have fun; they’re also some of the best restaurants at sea. A dinner dhow cruise in Dubai typically offers a diverse range of cuisines to cater to various tastes and preferences. The specific types of cuisine served may vary depending on the cruise provider and the dhow cruise you choose. However, here are some common types of cuisine that you can expect to find on a dinner dhow cruise:
Traditional Arabian cuisine is often a highlight of dinner dhow cruises. You can expect to find a variety of authentic Arabic dishes that showcase the flavors and culinary traditions of the region. This may include dishes like hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, kebabs, grilled meats, shawarma, freshly baked Arabic bread, and aromatic rice dishes.
Many dinner dhow cruises also offer a selection of international dishes to cater to a broader range of tastes. You may find a diverse array of options such as continental, Mediterranean, Asian, or fusion cuisine. This can include dishes like pasta, grilled seafood, sushi, stir-fried noodles, salads, and more.
Given Dubai’s coastal location, dinner dhow cruises often feature a selection of fresh seafood dishes. This can include a variety of fish, prawns, lobster, crab, and other delectable seafood delicacies prepared in different styles such as grilled, steamed, or marinated.
Many dinner dhow cruises offer vegetarian and vegan dishes to accommodate dietary preferences. These options can include an assortment of vegetable-based appetizers, salads, main courses, and desserts, providing a range of flavorful choices for vegetarian and vegan guests.
No dining experience is complete without desserts, and dinner dhow cruises certainly deliver on this front. You can expect a selection of sweet treats to indulge in, such as traditional Middle Eastern desserts like baklava, umm ali, or kunafa, as well as international favorites like cakes, pastries, and puddings.
Live entertainment is often part of a dinner dhow cruise in Dubai. This adds to the overall experience and makes the setting lively and interesting. Live entertainment may be different based on the ship company and the type of dhow cruise you choose. During a dinner dhow cruise, you may see or hear the following types of live entertainment:
A sunset dinner cruise is a really romantic African experience that combines all of the senses; you will witness the magnificent Zanzibari scenery, listen to evocative taarab music, and savor the taste of the island’s distinctive cuisine – all while enjoying the views of Zanzibar’s spectacular sunset.
During a sunset dhow cruise in Dubai, you can witness and admire several famous landmarks along the waterfront. Here are some of the notable landmarks you may encounter during your cruise:
The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, stands majestically in the heart of Dubai. As you sail along the waterways, you can catch glimpses of this iconic skyscraper, which becomes even more breathtaking as it glows in the colors of the setting sun.
Known as the symbol of luxury and opulence, the Burj Al Arab is a distinctive sail-shaped hotel. It stands on its own man-made island and is one of Dubai’s most recognizable landmarks. Admire its stunning architecture and capture memorable photos as the sun casts its golden rays on the iconic structure.
A man-made palm-shaped island, Palm Jumeirah is an engineering marvel visible from the water during your dhow cruise. Marvel at the luxury villas, hotels, and resorts that adorn the shoreline, creating a picturesque view against the backdrop of the setting sun.
As you cruise through the Dubai Marina, you’ll be surrounded by a stunning skyline of high-rise buildings and luxurious waterfront developments. The marina’s impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-see landmark during your sunset dhow cruise.
If you opt for a traditional dhow cruise along the historic Dubai Creek, you’ll pass by traditional dhow, bustling souks (markets), and traditional Arabian-style buildings. The traditional architecture and cultural heritage along the creek provide a charming contrast to the modern cityscape.
Situated at the tip of Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, The Palm is a renowned five-star resort and entertainment complex. The distinctive architecture and location make it a captivating sight, especially during a sunset dhow cruise.
This major highway is lined with impressive skyscrapers and architectural marvels, including the iconic Emirates Towers. As you sail along the water, you can enjoy panoramic views of these towering structures, which illuminate the cityscape as the sun sets.
Dubai has a wide variety of dhow cruises that appeal to different tastes and let guests see the city’s beauty and charm from the water. There is a dhow cruise for everyone, from traditional wooden dhows that show off the history and culture of the area to modern dhows with lots of amenities. Whether you choose a traditional dhow cruise with cultural shows and authentic food or a luxury dinner dhow cruise with beautiful views and gourmet food, each type offers a unique and unforgettable experience. So, go on a dhow cruise in Dubai and experience the enchanting mix of culture, luxury, and beautiful scenery that awaits you on the city’s waterways.
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