Must-Try Foods In Dhow Cruise (Dubai) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Dhow Cruise, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Dhow Cruise in Dubai is a popular tourist attraction, known for providing a unique dining experience on traditional Arabian boats called dhows. Historically, these boats were used for fishing and pearl diving as well as for trading routes between the Middle East, India, and East Africa. Over time, with Dubai's transformation into a global city, Dhows have become synonymous with leisure and recreation.

The dinner aboard these vessels traditionally reflects the rich blend of Middle Eastern, Asian, and African cuisines, a testament to the trade routes and the cultural melting pot that Dubai represents. The food served encapsulates the region's history, providing guests with an array of traditional Arabic dishes, often infused with spices and ingredients from South Asia and elsewhere.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes on Dhow Cruise, Dubai

• Hummus (Vegetarian): A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, often served with warm pita bread.
• Tabbouleh (Vegetarian): A refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
• Fattoush (Vegetarian): A Levantine bread salad made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread combined with mixed greens and other vegetables, such as radishes and tomatoes.
• Grilled Halloumi (Vegetarian): Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened brined cheese that's perfect for grilling, creating a delicious appetizer or side dish.
• Baba Ganoush (Vegetarian): A dish of roasted eggplant mixed with onions, tomatoes, olive oil, and various seasonings.
• Shish Tawook (Non-Veg): A traditional marinated chicken kebab that is grilled to perfection and served with garlic paste and fries.
• Grilled Shrimp (Non-Veg): Freshly caught shrimp seasoned and grilled, often served with a side of spiced rice or vegetables.
• Lamb Kebab (Non-Veg): Ground lamb mixed with spices and grilled on skewers, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.
• Umm Ali (Vegetarian): A delicious bread pudding dessert, made with pastry or bread soaked in milk and sugar, mixed with nuts and sometimes coconut flakes.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma) (Vegetarian): Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and aromatic herbs, often served as an appetizer.

Top Famous Restaurants in Dhow Cruise, Dubai

Bateaux Dubai

Address: Al Seef Street, Opposite the Consulate of Kuwait, Bur Dubai - Dubai

Famous Dish: Grilled Shrimp (Non-Veg)

Al Mansour Dhow

Address: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, Bani Yas Road - Dubai

Famous Dish: Lamb Ouzi (Non-Veg) - Note: Ouzi is a traditional Middle Eastern dish often made with lamb or beef, but can also be prepared without using cow meat.

Dhow Star Floating Restaurant

Address: Dubai Creek, Creek-side - Dubai

Famous Dish: Mixed Grill Platter (Non-Veg), which typically includes a variety of grilled meats such as chicken and lamb.

Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe - Dhow Wharfage

Address: Al Fahidi Street, Bastakiya Opposite Musalla Post Office - Dubai

Famous Dish: Traditional Emirati Platter (both Veg and Non-Veg options available)

Al Faris Floating Restaurant - Managed by Amazon Tours

Address: Opposite Rolex Twin Towers, Baniyas Road - Dubai

Famous Dish: Seafood Platter (Non-Veg), which may include fish, shrimp, and other seafood items.

Please note, the addresses and dishes listed are subject to change and it's always best to verify with the restaurant or dhow cruise company before making plans to ensure the most current offerings and locations.