Dubai Canal Dhow Cruise Packages
Cruise from Al Jaddaf through Business Bay and the Dubai Water Canal, past the Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai and the canal's illuminated bridges. Choose between two packages, AED 100 or AED 250 per person. Both include 2 hours on the water, a buffet dinner, drinks, music and a live Tanoura show.
- From AED 100
- 2 hours
- Boarding 8:00 PM
- Burj Khalifa views
Dubai Canal Cruise Packages & Prices
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- Dhow cruise dinner on Dubai Canal
- International buffet dinner
- 2 hours cruising with food and drinks
- Soft music and entertainment shows
- Child (4–10): AED 90
- Dhow cruise dinner on Dubai Canal
- 5-star international buffet dinner
- 2 hours cruising with food and drinks
- Soft music and entertainment shows
- Child (4–10): AED 200
Prices are per adult. Children aged 4 to 10 pay a reduced rate and children under 3 go free. Hotel transfers can be added when you book.
Dubai Canal dhow cruise guide
A Dinner Cruise Through the Heart of the City
A Dubai Canal dhow cruise is a 2-hour evening dinner cruise from Al Jaddaf along Business Bay and the Dubai Water Canal, with views of Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa and the canal's illuminated bridges. Packages cost AED 100 or AED 250 per adult and include a buffet dinner, soft drinks, music and a live Tanoura show. Boarding is at 8:00 PM and the cruise runs from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Dubai Water Canal is one of the city's newest waterways. Opened on 9 November 2016, the 3.2 km canal runs from Business Bay through Safa Park and Jumeirah to the sea, creating a continuous water route through the centre of Dubai. Its bridges and promenades light up after dark, which makes it the best route for anyone who wants Downtown and Burj Khalifa views from the water, without the crowds.
What You'll See on the Canal Cruise
The route starts on the Al Jaddaf side and heads into Business Bay and the canal. Expect city towers, landmark buildings and lit bridges rather than souks or beaches.
- Burj Khalifa & DowntownThe world's tallest building and the Downtown skyline
- Business BayGlass towers lining the water on both sides
- Illuminated canal bridgesIncluding the waterfall bridge and the Bridge of Tolerance
- Mohammed Bin Rashid LibraryThe book-shaped library on the Al Jaddaf waterfront
- Jaddaf Dhow YardWhere traditional wooden dhows are still built
- Dubai Design District & Al Habtoor CityModern creative and hotel landmarks along the route
Dubai Canal Cruise Packages Compared
Both Canal packages follow the same route and timings. The difference is the buffet and the level of service.
| Basic Dhow Cruise Canal | Premium Dhow Cruise Canal | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | AED 100 | AED 250 |
| Child (4–10) | AED 90 | AED 200 |
| Buffet | International buffet (veg and non-veg) | 5-star international buffet |
| Drinks | Welcome drink, soft drinks, tea and coffee | Unlimited soft drinks |
| Entertainment | Background music, live Tanoura show | Music on board, Tanoura dance show |
| Cruise | 2 hrs · 8:30–10:30 PM | 2 hrs · 8:30–10:30 PM |
| Best for | Families and value seekers | Couples and special occasions |
Children under 3 go free on both packages.
What's Included
- Cruise: 2 hours from Al Jaddaf through Business Bay and the Dubai Water Canal
- Dinner: buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes; 5-star on the Premium package
- Drinks: soft drinks on both packages, plus a welcome drink, tea and coffee on Basic
- Entertainment: music on board and a live Tanoura dance show
Not included: alcohol and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Transfers can be added when you book.
Canal, Marina or Creek?
Each route shows a different Dubai. The Canal is the quietest of the three and the closest to the Burj Khalifa.
| Dubai Canal | Dubai Marina | Dubai Creek | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scenery | Burj Khalifa, Business Bay, lit bridges | Skyscrapers, JBR, Ain Dubai | Souks, wind towers, Al Seef |
| Atmosphere | Quiet and scenic | Lively and glamorous | Relaxed and cultural |
| From | AED 100 | AED 120 | AED 60 |
More detail: Dubai Creek vs Marina and the ultimate guide to luxury dhow cruises in Dubai.
Who the Canal Cruise Suits
Burj Khalifa fans get the closest views of Downtown from the water. Couples enjoy the calm, scenic route and the Premium 5-star buffet; see our romantic dhow cruise guide. Families like the smooth water and the AED 100 Basic package. Repeat visitors who have already done the Marina or Creek get a new side of Dubai.
Best Time for a Canal Dhow Cruise
The Canal cruise sails every evening. November to March has the most comfortable evenings for the open deck. From May to September, enjoy the cooler indoor seating and step outside as you pass the lit bridges. Weekends fill fastest, so book a few days ahead. On New Year's Eve, Canal cruises are the best way to see the Burj Khalifa fireworks from the water; see our New Year cruises and New Year fireworks guide.
Tips Before You Board
- Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the 8:00 PM boarding. Your confirmation shows the exact pier at Al Jaddaf.
- Wear smart casual clothes and flat shoes. Bring a light layer from December to February.
- Have your phone ready as you pass the waterfall bridge and the Burj Khalifa.
- Mention dietary needs when you book.
For a full walkthrough of the evening, read what to expect on a dhow cruise in Dubai.
Dubai Canal Dhow Cruise FAQs
How much is a Dubai Canal dhow cruise?
The Basic Dhow Cruise Canal costs AED 100 per adult and AED 90 per child. The Premium Dhow Cruise Canal costs AED 250 per adult and AED 200 per child. Children under 3 go free.
How long is the Dubai Canal dhow cruise?
2 hours. Boarding is at 8:00 PM and the cruise runs from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
Where does the Dubai Canal dhow cruise start?
From Al Jaddaf. The exact pier is sent with your booking confirmation.
Can you see the Burj Khalifa from the Canal cruise?
Yes. The Canal route passes Business Bay and Downtown Dubai, giving you views of the Burj Khalifa from the water.
What is included in a Dubai Canal dhow cruise?
A buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes (5-star on Premium), soft drinks, music on board and a live Tanoura dance show. The Basic package also includes a welcome drink, tea and coffee.
Is alcohol served on the Canal cruise?
No. Alcohol is not included. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also not included but can be added when you book.
Which is better, the Canal, Marina or Creek cruise?
Choose the Canal for Burj Khalifa and Downtown views on a quieter route, the Marina for skyscrapers and a lively atmosphere, and the Creek for heritage at the lowest price.
Canal facts: Dubai Water Canal.