What to Wear on a Dhow Cruise in Dubai

A dhow cruise in Dubai is one of the finest ways to enjoy Dubai's coastline and skyline in a romantic setting, while enjoying an international quality buffet meal. It can’t get better than that. So, if you're taking a dhow cruise, you're in for a treat. However, there are a few things you can do to further enhance your dhow cruise experience, like wearing the right things. So, to help you out, here is information on what to wear on a dhow cruise in Dubai.

What is a Dhow Cruise?

Let’s first start with what a dhow cruise is. Dubai used to be a fishing village before the oil and tourism boom, and the fishermen used to use large fishing vessels known as dhows. With time and development, the dhows became decommissioned. However, the industrious people of Dubai repurposed the dhows and turned them into cruise ships that go along the coastline, hosting dinners and shows. And that's what a dhow cruise is. It's a cruising experience that takes you to different locations on Dubai’s coast. The two most popular cruises are the Dubai Marina Cruise and the Dubai Creek Cruise.

What to Wear on a Dhow Cruise in Dubai

Though there is no specific dhow cruise Dubai dress code, what you should wear depends on the kind of cruise you have chosen. There are different dhow cruises ranging from daytime dhow cruises to night-time dinner cruises. Therefore, what you wear should reflect that.

Daytime Cruises

Daytime cruises are all about seeing the wonderful sights along the coastline. But you have to be mindful of the weather as well. So, the daytime dhow cruise outfit should be as follows:

For Men

A brightly colored long-sleeved shirt or a t-shirt that is loose-fitting and made from breathable materials like cotton or linen. These materials will keep your core temperature cool as daytime temperatures in Dubai can be hot. You can wear shorts, you can also wear long pants, but make sure the material is light, so avoid fabrics like denim.

Shoes are a good choice, but sandals are highly recommended. On the cruise, you will barely be moving around. Therefore, wear comfortable footwear that will keep you cool. Accessories like sunglasses and binoculars are helpful and will help you with viewing the coastline. However, avoid getting too many things. You want to be free to enjoy the dhow and the views.

For Women

Brightly colored blouses or summer dresses made from materials like linen and cotton are just perfect. Such clothes will keep you cool and let you feel and be comfortable. Shorts and capri pants are also a great option that will help you be comfortable and still look good.

For footwear, do not wear anything with heels as the dhow moves around, and it would be hard for you to have a strong footing. So, wear shoes, sandals, or even slippers. Just make sure you are comfortable and have good footing. You should bring in a scarf, sunglasses, and even a hat to protect yourself from the sun when you are on the viewing deck.

Dinner Cruises

Dinner cruises are all, of course, scheduled for the evening. So, the weather is much cooler. And since a romantic dinner is involved, all these factors should dictate your dinner dhow cruise outfit. Here is what you should wear:

For Men

An evening dinner cruise has great food, a small show, and stunning views, so you have to dress accordingly. A collared shirt or t-shirt would be ideal, paired with jeans, chinos, or khaki trousers. The evenings in Dubai are cold, so you don’t have to worry about temperatures. It could actually be cold, so make sure your clothes are made from warm materials. You can also bring along a cardigan.

Any closed-toe shoes are fine, including sneakers. Good shoes will also keep you warm. Do not wear sandals or slippers. You can slip as the dhow keeps moving. Cameras and binoculars are okay, but since modern smartphone cameras are good, you can just use that.

For Women

The dhow cruise Dubai dress code for women is smart casual. You can wear dresses or a skirt, even a jumpsuit, and trousers are fine, but do not wear shorts. Make sure you also bring something like a shawl, scarf, or cardigan that will help you keep warm, as Dubai’s evenings, especially along the coastline, can be quite chilly.

Regarding footwear, you have to avoid heels, but if you still want to wear something that gives you height, wear wedges. Shoes and sandals are also a great choice, but avoid wearing slippers as the atmosphere for an evening dhow cruise in Dubai is quite formal.

Additional Clothing Tips

• Though the dhow cruise is a fun experience, it is better to dress modestly as you will be in public.

• Avoid clothing that can offend someone. Be respectful of the local people and the culture.

• The weather during daytime cruises is hot, so stay hydrated and wear some sunscreen as well.

• The weather during dinner cruises is cool, so carry something warm that you can slip on in case it feels too cold.

• Carry your phone, wallet, or purse, and some water. That’s it. Do not carry too much.

Dress for your dhow cruise in Dubai according to the information given above, and you will be comfortable and happy throughout the cruise.