A dhow is the traditional wooden sailing vessel of the Gulf, used for centuries by traders and pearl divers, and a dhow cruise is a gentle way to see Abu Dhabi's modern side from the water. Cruises from Yas Island glide around the marina and the waterfront, passing the illuminated W hotel built over the track, the red roof of Ferrari World, the lights of the Yas Marina Circuit and the yachts moored in the harbour. The pace is unhurried, with comfortable seating on deck, an open-air upper level, and soft music and traditional Arabic touches. Daytime sailings give a bright view of the skyline and the mangroves, while evening cruises are especially pretty as the buildings light up against the dusk. Some departures are sightseeing only, lasting an hour or so, while others include a buffet dinner and entertainment. It is an easy, low-effort way to spend an evening, and it is popular with families, couples and groups of friends who want a break from the parks.
How it works
Cruises depart from the Yas Island marina area at set times, usually in the late afternoon and evening, with sightseeing and dinner options. Check whether your ticket includes food and drinks, and whether it covers hotel transfers. The sailing is short, so it fits easily between park days or before a late dinner. Book ahead for weekends, holidays and Formula One season, when departures fill up and prices tend to rise.
What to expect
The dhow is stable and the water inside the bay is usually calm, so seasickness is rarely a problem. Expect a mix of interior and open-air seating, with the upper deck the best place for photographs and a sea breeze. Dress is relaxed, although a light layer is useful on winter evenings, and sun protection helps on daytime departures.
Dinner cruises usually serve a buffet with international and Arabic dishes, with vegetarian options, and some include live music or a show. Alcohol policies depend on the vessel, so check with the operator if that matters to you.
Making the most of it
Choose a sunset departure to see the city in daylight and then in lights, and arrive early to grab a seat on the top deck. Combine the cruise with a day at Ferrari World or Warner Bros. World, since the boat leaves from the same island and many travellers like to end a day of rides with something calm. Families with young children may prefer the shorter sightseeing option, while couples might opt for a dinner sailing to turn the evening into a celebration.
If you want more of the water, you can pair the cruise with mangrove kayaking earlier in your stay, which shows the quieter side of the same coastline. Either way, the dhow is a simple, affordable pleasure, and a fitting way to see the island from the sea.
Good to know
Sailings can be rescheduled for wind or private charters, so check your departure time the day before. Most dhows have toilets and shaded seating, and staff can usually help with prams and mobility needs. On race weekend and during major events, the harbour is busy and the views are even more spectacular, but prices rise and departures sell out early, so plan well ahead.
What to expect
The experience
A relaxed sailing on a traditional wooden dhow around the Yas Island marina and waterfront, as a sightseeing cruise or with dinner and entertainment.
Best time
Late afternoon or evening, from October to April, to see the skyline in daylight and then in lights.
How long
From about an hour for sightseeing to two hours with dinner.
Tips
Check what is included, arrive early for a top-deck seat, bring a light layer for winter evenings and book ahead for weekends.
Quick picks
- Best for
- An easy, scenic evening after a day at the parks.
- Families
- Short sightseeing sailings suit younger children; dinner cruises suit older ones.
- Couples
- A dinner sailing at dusk is a pleasant and affordable romantic touch.
- Pair with
- A day at Ferrari World or Warner Bros. World, or dinner at Yas Bay.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
What is a dhow?+
It is a traditional wooden sailing vessel used for trade and pearling in the Gulf. Modern dhow cruises use boats built in that style.
Does the cruise include dinner?+
Some departures include a buffet dinner and entertainment, while sightseeing cruises are shorter and do not. Check your ticket.
How long is the cruise?+
Sightseeing cruises are around an hour, and dinner cruises are usually about two hours.
What should I wear?+
Relaxed, comfortable clothing, with a light layer on winter evenings and sun protection in the daytime.
Is the dhow suitable for children?+
Yes, the bay is calm and the dhow is stable. Shorter sightseeing sailings suit younger children best.
