Cruising along the water in Dubai is one of the city’s most charming evening experiences. When you choose a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai with a buffet dinner, you’re treating your family to more than just a meal—you’re giving them an adventure on the water, a front-row seat to the skyline, and an atmosphere of relaxed elegance. At MEV Tours Dubai, I’ve seen families shift from sightseeing mode to “we’re enjoying this together” mode as soon as the dhow departs. In this guide, I’ll share everything you should know before Dhow Cruise so your outing is comfortable, enjoyable, and truly memorable.
Why Choose a Family-Friendly Dhow Cruise Dubai with Buffet Dinner?
Taking a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai with your loved ones means combining sightseeing, dining and entertainment in one seamless evening. Unlike a regular boat tour, these dinner cruises turn into floating restaurants where children can marvel at the city lights, parents can relax with ambient music and great food, and everyone is part of the same experience. I’ve seen families who worried about “will the kids get bored” walk away saying “that was such a good idea” after booking with MEV Tours Dubai. The key ingredients are: comfort, variety in food, and a setting that supports both excitement and relaxation.
Planning Essentials Before Dhow Cruise with the Family
When preparing before Dhow Cruise, especially with children in tow, it helps to pay attention to pickup times, seating choice, and food options. Most family-friendly cruises depart around 7:30-8:00 pm and return close to 10:00 pm. One provider notes boarding at 8:30 pm and return by 10:45 pm. Choose an operator that provides hotel-pickup, and select a deck that’s safe for young ones. At MEV Tours Dubai we recommend the lower air-conditioned deck if you have younger children who might prefer shade and stability. Also, ask about vegetarian or simple kids’-friendly dishes most Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai options serve both Arabic and international buffet selections.
Dining & Buffet Details on a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai
The highlight of your family outing is likely the buffet dinner, and on a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai this means a wide spread with something for everyone. Many cruises include starters, mains and desserts in a two‐hour cruise. For example, menus often list salads, dips, kebabs, rice, mixed grills, vegetarian fare and sweets. On our MEV Tours Dubai bookings we ensure children’s preferences are noted ahead (for example mild flavours, no very spicy items) so your buffet experience feels relaxed.
Here is a quick breakdown of what you might find:
| Course | Typical Items |
|---|---|
| Starters | Hummus, fattoush, mixed salads, Arabic bread |
| Main Course | Grilled chicken, mutton kebabs, vegetarian lasagne |
| Dessert | Fresh fruit, pastries, Arabic sweets |
This sort of variety means both young and old have choices and that’s a key reason families enjoy the Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai with buffet dinner so much: everyone can pick what they like.
Entertainment & Atmosphere on a Dhow Cruise
A great Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai doesn’t just stop at dinner. The evening typically features live shows most commonly a Tanoura dance (spinning dancer), live music or DJ sets, and sometimes children-friendly surprises. On one review the cruise included Tanoura and belly dance shows along the route through Dubai Marina. During my MEV Tours Dubai trips I’ve observed kids watching the dance wide-eyed, parents smiling, and everyone relaxed under the stars. The upper deck often has better views and a slightly more festive ambience, while the lower deck offers air conditioning and calmer seats ideal for little ones or older family members.
The Route & Scenic Highlights to Look Forward To
On a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai, the setting is as much part of the attraction as the food and service. Whether you depart from Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek you’ll glide past key landmarks. For instance in Marina you’ll view the dazzling skyline, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and Blue Water Island. On the Creek side you’ll have a more historic feel with older façades and traditional vibes. Choosing a family-friendly cruise means looking for comfortable boarding, lifeguards or safety railings (if children are on the deck), and good views. At MEV Tours Dubai I always mention photo timing sunset is magical and worth planning for.
Pricing & What’s Included on a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai
Understanding price ensures no surprises. Family-friendly Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai packages often bundle presence of international buffet, kid-friendly menus, hotel transfers, drinks (often soft drinks) and entertainment. One listing shows a two-hour Marina dinner cruise with international buffet, soft drinks and live show. Another shows prices starting at around AED 120-180 for adults and discounts for children. At MEV Tours Dubai we transparently explain what’s included: for example whether alcohol is extra, whether kids count as children under age 5 (sometimes free). Always ask: is there a dedicated table space, is the seating arrangement family friendly, and what time should we arrive?
Tips for Families to Maximise Comfort on the Cruise
When you’re travelling with your family it’s the little details that count. Here are some practical insights before Dhow Cruise that ensure comfort:
- Choose a boarding slot early (7:30-8:00) so younger children aren’t up too late.
- On hot evenings pick the lower deck with air-conditioning; on cooler nights the upper deck offers open-air fun.
- Carry a lightweight jacket or sweater for decks, as breeze on the open deck can feel cooler than on land.
- Mention any dietary preferences when booking kids might prefer pasta or grilled chicken rather than heavier Arabic dishes.
- Bring a camera or phone (waterproof phone bag optional) since the skyline views are spectacular—the reflection of marina lights on water is highlighted by many guests.
- Confirm shuttle or hotel pickup times late pickup can mean missing the scenic part of the cruise.
- If you aim for calm photos, move to the upper deck early before the live show begins, as decks often become livelier after dinner.
These practical steps help you and your family feel relaxed, safe and part of the scene on a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai.
Booking Considerations & Safety for Families
When booking your Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai with buffet dinner, make sure to check a few family-specific criteria: child seats or rails on decks, clear boarding instructions, age-appropriate menu availability, and cancellation policies. The listing from Klook emphasises this: “Perfect for friends and family… choose between a scenic dhow cruise … or lively dinner cruise” At MEV Tours Dubai we reserve family tables where children are in view of parents and always provide safety briefings. Ask about wheelchair access or stroller-friendly boarding if needed. Ensuring these details improves your comfort and prevents surprises after the boat departs.
Why MEV Tours Dubai Stands Out for Families
Choosing the right operator makes a big difference. At MEV Tours Dubai I’ve seen how attention to families sets us apart. We offer well-maintained vessels, reliable transfers, clear pricing, and staff who are experienced with guests travelling with kids. Many other providers focus on adults or couples; we specifically highlight family-friendly options. For instance when we book a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai, we ensure children’s portions, safe deck areas and manageable boarding. Guest feedback often mentions grateful parents who say “the kids loved it, and we actually relaxed.” That’s exactly the outcome we aim for.
Frequently Asked Questions Families Ask Before the Cruise
Here are common questions I field at MEV Tours Dubai, with answers that also help future guests prepare:
Is the buffet kid-friendly?
Yes: most international buffets include pasta, grilled chicken, fresh salads, desserts and vegetarian options. You can ask ahead for simpler meals if preferred.
Is there a separate kids’ table?
Some operators allow family-only tables or specify “children-friendly zone” ask when booking.
Can toddlers go on the upper deck?
Yes, but if you have toddlers it may be safer for them to remain on the lower deck where it’s enclosed and air-conditioned.
Is alcohol included?
Often not by default; usual inclusion is soft drinks, and alcohol may cost extra.
What happens if it rains or is windy?
Most cruises run year-round and boats are equipped for mild weather though upper decks may be swapped for lower deck if conditions change. It’s good to check cancellation or refund policies.
Is the cruise stroller-friendly?
Many operators enable stroller access but check in advance. MEV Tours Dubai confirms this on family bookings.
These FAQs reflect the real-world concerns families have and help you plan more confidently.
What Your Evening Looks Like on a Dhow Cruise
From our bookings at MEV Tours Dubai this typical timeline is helpful:
- 19:30 – Hotel pickup or arrive at marina dock
- 20:00 – Boarding begins, a welcome drink is served
- 20:15 – Boat departs, views of Dubai Marina or Creek begin
- 20:30-21:00 – Buffet opens; families dine while glazing skyline lights
- 21:00-21:30 – Live entertainment begins (Tanoura dance, live music)
- 21:30-22:00 – Free time on upper deck for photos and sunset views
- 22:15 – Return to dock; dropping off hotel transfers until approx. 22:45
This relaxed night out works well for families there’s space to enjoy, dine, watch and unwind, all in the setting of a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai with buffet dinner.
Final Thoughts & Family Booking Invitation
If you’re seeking an experience that balances elegance, ease and excitement for all ages, booking a Luxury Dhow Cruise Dubai with buffet dinner is a great choice. From gliding past skyscrapers to sharing dishes, from sunsets to live shows, families find moments they’ll reminisce about. Make sure you plan before the cruise by checking seating, timing, buffet inclusions and family needs.