Sunset Abra Cruise on the Dubai Water Canal with Emirati High Tea and Transfers

An abra is a traditional wooden boat that is also used in Dubai as a water taxi. It is a simple, intimate boat that recalls the days of old and combines features of a raft and a deck boat. It holds about 20 passengers, so the atmosphere on board is relaxed and personal.

In this experience you sail for one hour on an abra along the Dubai Water Canal, a waterway that cuts through the heart of the city. The cruise takes place at sunset, and lets you see the city in the light of the end of the day. During the cruise you can see landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa. When you book you choose a specific time slot. One hour is a relatively short time, which can be combined with other plans the same evening.

The commentary: recorded commentary plays on board during the cruise. The small boat makes the commentary more interesting.

What is and is not included: the ticket covers a 60-minute cruise, recorded commentary, Emirati high tea and transfers. The list of what is included has no dinner, so anyone looking for a meal needs to plan it separately.

Emirati high tea: the option on this page is the sunset cruise with Emirati high tea and transfers. The tea comes with traditional Emirati snacks served on board (chebab, khan faroush, vegetable samboosa, duqan legemat). It is a chance to taste local cuisine while you sail.

Transfers: the transfer is included in the ticket. The pickup point and the exact time are arranged with us.

Good to know: arrive at least 15 minutes before your time, so you can get through the entry procedures. You show a photo ID. Modest, comfortable clothing suits the cruise, in keeping with local customs and the weather. It is important to follow the instructions of the staff on site, so that the cruise is safe and pleasant.

Weather: timings may change because of weather or operating conditions, so it is worth keeping some flexibility around the time of the cruise.

Ages: adults from age 13 and children up to age 12. You can join as a couple, with family or with friends, and children up to age 12 join on a child ticket.

Cancellation: this option is not cancellable, so it is worth confirming the date before you book.

In short: an hour on a traditional abra at sunset, recorded commentary, Emirati high tea and transfers, on a small boat of about 20 passengers. Adults from age 13 on an adult ticket, and children up to age 12 on a child ticket.

Who is it for? Couples who want a calm hour on the water at the end of the day, families with children, and anyone who prefers a small, personal cruise to a large boat. It is a relaxed way to see Dubai from the water, with a local taste. Anyone looking for a longer experience or a full meal should look at another option.

The history of the abra: the name abra comes from the Arabic verb meaning to cross. For many years this wooden boat was the usual way to get between the two banks of Dubai Creek. It carried residents, traders, workers and tourists, and to this day it is regarded as a symbol of the city's heritage.