I still remember the evening of January 10th, when I boarded a dhow cruise with my family from Dubai Marina. We'd heard mixed reviews about how kid-friendly these cruises were, so we decided to find out for ourselves. And, I have to say, it was an interesting experience.
Look, there aren't a ton of activities specifically designed for kids on a dhow cruise. But, you'll find a buffet with a variety of dishes, including some kid-friendly options like pasta and chicken nuggets — my niece loved the pasta. We paid AED 150 per adult and AED 120 per child for the cruise, which included the buffet and soft drinks.
Here's the thing: the views of the Dubai skyline from the cruise are stunning, especially at sunset. My nephew was fascinated by the ships and the city lights, and it was great to see him so engaged.
So, if you're planning to take a dhow cruise with kids, I'd recommend booking a cruise that offers a kids' buffet or entertainment options. Honestly, it can get a bit boring for kids if there's nothing to do. You can also consider booking a cruise that offers pickup from your hotel or a nearby metro station, like the Palm Deira metro station - our driver, Ali, was very helpful.
But, if a dhow cruise isn't your thing, there are plenty of other family-friendly activities in Dubai. You could check out the Real Madrid World Dubai or the Yas Island waterpark for a fun day out with the kids.
To book a dhow cruise, or to explore other family-friendly options in Dubai, you can check out Roamigo Trips. And, as a practical tip, be sure to book in advance to avoid sold-out cruises, especially on weekends or during peak season.
Written by
Sarah Mitchell is a travel writer at Roamigo Trips, based in Dubai. With first-hand experience across UAE destinations — from desert safaris to coastal escapes — every guide is written from real adventures.
Meet the team →