Dubai: New Year's Eve Luxury Canal Dinner Cruise

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Dubai offers countless options, but few experiences combine luxury, stunning views, and authentic flavors quite like a canal dinner cruise. Although we haven’t personally taken this cruise, reviews from travelers suggest it’s an elegant way to ring in the new year—especially if you’re looking for a memorable night with a touch of glamor.

What we love about this experience? The spectacular fireworks view of Burj Khalifa, the delicious Arabic buffet, and the live saxophone performance that adds a romantic, jazzy vibe. But, it’s worth noting that the price point of around $470 per person** might feel steep for some, especially if you’re not keen on spending a full evening on the water.

This cruise is an excellent pick for couples seeking a romantic night, families wanting a special celebration, or anyone eager to enjoy Dubai’s skyline from a unique vantage point. If you’re after a lively party atmosphere or a more casual celebration, you might prefer other options. But for those craving style, food, and fireworks, this cruise could be just what you’re after.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: Offers an unbeatable vantage point for Dubai’s iconic fireworks.
Authentic Cuisine: Features a high-quality Arabic buffet with grilled meats, salads, and sweets.
Live Entertainment: A saxophonist elevates the evening with lively performances.
Flexible Seating: Indoor and outdoor options give you a choice of ambiance.
Comfort & Style: Contemporary glass-enclosed dhow with a glass roof for panoramic views.
Cost & Value: At $470, it’s a splurge, but reviews show the experience justifies the price for many travelers.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Departure and Location

The cruise begins at Al Faris Floating Restaurant, managed by Amazon Tours UAE, next to Dubai Festival City Mall. This convenient spot is easy to reach, especially if you’re already exploring Dubai’s Festival City area. The departure time typically aligns with evening hours to maximize the fireworks viewing, although the exact timing varies depending on the schedule.

The Journey Along Dubai Water Canal

Once onboard, you’re greeted with welcome drinks—a mix of traditional Arabic coffee, kahwah, and chilled refreshments, along with dates. This touches on the authentic hospitality Dubai is known for and sets a warm tone for the evening.

Traveling along the Dubai Water Canal, the cruise provides both indoor and outdoor seating, offering different ways to enjoy the views. Travelers have noted the glass-enclosed design is effective at giving panoramic vistas without feeling exposed to the elements, making it comfortable regardless of the weather.

The Food Experience

The centerpiece of the cruise is undoubtedly the 5-star Gala buffet dinner. Reviewers praise the high quality and variety—it includes Arabic appetizers, grilled meats, fresh salads, and sweets. One traveler, Laetitia, commented on the “amazing saxophone performance” and the delicious food, which helped create a very festive atmosphere.

Many reviews mention that the buffet includes hot beverages, and some appreciated the well-curated selection that offers something for every taste. However, a few guests noted that hot food was no longer served hot later in the evening, which might be a downside if you’re expecting a steaming meal throughout.

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Live Entertainment & Ambiance

Adding to the evening’s charm is a live saxophonist, whose jazzy tunes lend a relaxed, romantic vibe. Guests have described the performance as “amazing”, with reviews emphasizing how the music lifted the experience. It’s a small but impactful detail that transforms the cruise from just dinner to a memorable event.

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Fireworks & Views

The highlight? Watching Dubai’s famed New Year fireworks light up the sky over Burj Khalifa and Dubai Festival City Mall. Reviewers consistently mention how spectacular the fireworks are from the canal, offering a close-up view that’s hard to match from land or other vantage points.

One guest, Corinna, shared that seeing the big fireworks from the canal “made the evening perfect”. The combination of a luxurious setting, delicious food, and stunning fireworks makes this cruise a popular choice for a special celebration.

Duration & Group Size

The cruise typically lasts a few hours, providing ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The group size is usually moderate, allowing for an intimate experience, but enough to create a lively atmosphere.

Transfers & Additional Costs

Options often include return shared transfers, adding convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Dubai. Be aware that house beverages are included only for 90 minutes if you select the drinks package, and extra drinks or souvenirs are available for purchase. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on board, aligning with local regulations.

Real Traveler Insights

Corinna’s review highlights how attentive the crew, especially Kamal, was during her trip—she appreciated the high-quality buffet and the attentive service. Laetitia shared that even her 5-year-old son enjoyed the cruise, noting the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views.

Other guests appreciated the organization and smooth flow of the evening, with one reviewer describing the buffet as “super great” and the organization as excellent. A few mentioned that the fireworks display was the main highlight, but some felt the overall celebration was not as lively as a party—more of a sophisticated, romantic experience.

Practical Details & Tips

Price & Value

At $470 per person, this cruise is certainly a splurge, but reviews suggest many find it worth the cost due to the quality of food, views, and ambiance. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a memorable way to usher in the new year, this could be a worthwhile investment.

Best For

This experience suits couples, families with older children, or anyone seeking a luxurious, scenic way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. It’s ideal if you appreciate good food, live music, and stunning fireworks—without the hustle and bustle of crowded land-based festivities.

When to Book

Since New Year’s Eve is a busy time, booking in advance is highly recommended. The option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility if your plans aren’t set in stone yet.

The Sum Up

A luxury canal dinner cruise on Dubai’s Water Canal offers a blend of elegance, authentic cuisine, and unforgettable views of the city’s fireworks. It’s a curated experience that turns a special night into a relaxed, stylish celebration. The live saxophone performance, beautiful buffet, and panoramic fireworks display make it stand out as a memorable way to ring in the new year.

While it’s on the pricier side, many travelers agree that the experience delivers in terms of quality, ambiance, and exclusivity. It’s best suited for those who want a romantic or family-friendly celebration in a refined setting, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Dubai’s breathtaking skyline from the water.

If you’re after an elegant, scenic, and delicious way to welcome 2025, this cruise could be exactly what you’re looking for—just remember to book early, arrive prepared, and enjoy the magic of Dubai at night.

FAQ

What is included in the cruise?
The cruise includes the boat ride along Dubai Water Canal, a pre-recorded commentary, a five-star buffet dinner, and a 90-minute drinks package with selected house beverages (if you opt for the drinks option). Return shared transfers are also available if selected.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins at Al Faris Floating Restaurant near Dubai Festival City Mall and returns to the same location at the end of the evening.

Can I purchase extra drinks or souvenirs?
Yes, additional house beverages and photo souvenirs are available for purchase on board.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly specified, a smart-casual or elegant dress code is advisable to match the luxury atmosphere.

Are children allowed?
Yes, families can enjoy the cruise, and review mentions children, including a 5-year-old, having a good time.

Is the fireworks show visible from the boat?
Absolutely. The cruise offers a prime spot to see Dubai’s famous fireworks lighting up the skyline, making for a truly special moment.

This cruise promises an elegant, scenic, and festive way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai—an experience that combines great food, stunning views, and an atmosphere of celebration that’s hard to beat.