New evening ferry will sail around Dubai's landmarks

The air-conditioned cruise takes in the Burj Khalifa, Al Seef, the Spice Souk and La Mer

Take a weekend evening cruise around some of Dubai's best landmarks on RTA's new ferry service. Courtesy RTA
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With summer upon us in Dubai, perhaps one of the nicest place to be is by the water. So it's good timing that the Roads and Transport Authority has launched a new evening ferry service to sail travellers around some of the emirate's best landmarks each weekend.

Cruising every Thursday and Friday evening, the ferry departs Sheikh Zayed Road Station on Dubai Water Canal then sails past the towering Burj Khalifa, giving passengers time to take in the epic light show at the world's tallest building. From there, it's on to Festival City to sail past its waterfront skyline.

Next, the ferry crosses to the old city, bobbing along next to age-old dhows and abras as it winds past Dubai Creek, the Old Souq, Al Seef and the Spice Souk.

The final point of the tour is La Mer in Jumeriah, before the ferry heads back to Dubai Water Canal.

The ferry operates on demand and requires a minimum of 21 adult passengers. With fares starting at Dh50 for silver class, or Dh75 for gold class, gather a bunch of your friends and family and you could all take a night-time ferry tour at a cost of just over Dh1,000 total, much cheaper than hiring a yacht. It offers indoor seating in a fully air-conditioned environment, making it a comfortable way to sight see during the summer months.

Tickets for children aged two to 10 years old are half price and infants under two sail free of charge.

Sailings are available at 9pm and 10pm on Thursday evenings, and from 4pm to 10pm ever Friday.

The route is launching on a trial base as a way to help tourists and residents explore Dubai’s visitor attractions while increasing the city’s marine tourism.

The RTA call centre (800 90 90) can give you more information about the new service.