The 9 Most Popular Drinking Tours In Dubai

Dubai’s reputation as a global hub of luxury and innovation extends to its nightlife scene. With a mix of upscale dinner cruises, energetic pub crawls, and exclusive private events, Dubai offers a wide variety of ways to enjoy a drink and meet new people.

We especially like the Sunset or Dinner Cruise (at number 1), which combines breathtaking views of Dubai Marina with a romantic atmosphere and live music, making it perfect for a relaxed evening.

Meanwhile, the Pub Crawl Dubai (at number 2) stands out for those wanting to dive into the city’s trendiest bars with a lively guide and new friends in tow.

Whether you’re after an elegant cruise or a rowdy night on the town, Dubai’s drinking tours deliver memorable experiences.

Quick Overview

The list below covers a range of options: from luxury dinner cruises with live entertainment and open bars to group pub crawls that take you through Dubai’s hottest nightlife spots.

You’ll find unique experiences like Dubai: Sunset or Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar, which emphasizes scenic views and romantic ambiance, and Pub Crawl Dubai: Nightlife Tours, perfect for socializing and discovering local bars.

For more personalized nights, there’s the Private Pub Crawl (at number 6), ideal for birthdays or corporate events. Read on for detailed descriptions to help you pick your perfect Dubai night out.

1. Dubai: Sunset or Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar

This evening boat cruise is a standout for its stunning views of Dubai Marina’s illuminated skyline. For just $49 per person, you get to relax on a boat that offers free Wi-Fi, live melodic music, and an international buffet with a live station. Sunset views here are particularly spectacular, with the Dubai skyline glowing as the sun dips below the horizon.

This cruise isn’t just about scenery—it’s also about soaking up the electric atmosphere of the city as you glide past iconic landmarks.

The buffet is generous, with a good selection of international dishes, and the music adds a romantic touch, making it ideal for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed yet refined experience.

What makes this cruise special is its blend of comfort and scenic beauty, all at an accessible price point. Guests consistently praise the romantic vibe and the quality of the buffet. With free Wi-Fi onboard, you can share your photos in real-time or catch up on social media.

This tour is perfect if you want to combine sightseeing, dining, and a bit of romance on the water. Bottom line: a comfortable, well-rated cruise that’s great for a memorable evening without breaking the bank.

2. Pub Crawl Dubai: Nightlife Tours

For about $65.59, the Pub Crawl Dubai takes you on a 5.5-hour journey through some of Dubai’s trendiest bars. It’s a lively, social tour designed for those who want to experience the city’s night scene in a fun, budget-friendly way.

The tour kicks off with a welcoming rooftop bar in Downtown or Marina, offering spectacular views and a great atmosphere to warm up. The guide arranges free shots at each bar, plus drinking games and the chance to take lots of photos.

The itinerary continues through venues in Al Barsha and Al Barsha Heights, where live bands, DJs, and vibrant crowds keep the energy high. The night culminates at a large club, open until around 3 AM, with a party vibe and live music often in the mix. Guests love how smoothly the guide handles everything, especially the bus transfers between venues.

One reviewer commented, “Our guide Lovely was amazing, and the bus transfer was a surprise I really enjoyed.” This tour is best suited for groups wanting a lively, organized night out with new friends and a lot of fun.

Bottom line: perfect for social butterflies and first-timers eager to explore Dubai’s bar scene in a relaxed, organized setting. It’s a fantastic value for the lively experience it offers.

3. Dubai: Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour

This pub crawl offers a curated visit to four trendy venues, including bars and clubs, over a night that promises fun and socializing.

For $61, you’ll visit a rooftop bar in Downtown Dubai, a lively live band venue in Al Barsha, an energetic nightclub in Dubai Marina, and a final stop in Downtown with live music or DJ sets. The tour features priority access, so you skip lines, and you get a free shot at each venue.

The tour is perfect for those who want to experience Dubai’s nightlife scene with a guide who knows the city’s hotspots.

Guests rave about the energy and the vibe, with reviews highlighting the friendly hosts and the mix of locals and travelers. The tour’s mix of venues ensures a variety of experiences, from relaxed lounges to dance-heavy clubs. It’s a convenient way to see different parts of Dubai after dark. For travelers who want a comprehensive night out without worrying about logistics, this pub crawl hits the mark.

Bottom line: a great choice for social travelers eager for a full night of exploring Dubai’s bar scene with great company and efficient organization.

4. Dubai Secret Food Tours with Access to Burj Khalifa Bar

Combine Dubai’s culinary delights with a touch of luxury on this walking food tour, priced at $150 per person. It starts at the Armani Lounge, with a visit to the highest bar in the world—Atmosphere at Burj Khalifa—where you’ll enjoy canapes and mocktails on the 122nd floor.

The tour continues with food stops inside Dubai Mall, including Chinatown and the Dubai Aquarium, ending with a secret dish at Souk Al Bahar.

Each stop offers a taste of local and international flavors, giving you a full sensory experience of Dubai’s high-end food scene.

What sets this tour apart is its access to the Burj Khalifa bar, offering spectacular city views and a refined drinking experience. Reviewers mention the food is delicious, and the highlight is the panoramic view from Atmosphere.

It’s perfect for food lovers who want an upscale experience and to explore Dubai’s food scene in an engaging way. The tour also offers insight into Emirati culture through its diverse stops.

Bottom line: an excellent choice for food aficionados and those wanting a more elegant, cultural night out with stunning skyline views.

5. Dubai Marina: Luxury Dinner Cruise, Live Show, Open Bar & DJ

At number 5, this luxury dinner cruise offers an impressive blend of gourmet dining, live entertainment, and scenic views for about $48 per person. Departing from Dubai Marina, the cruise features a 5-star buffet by the Copthorne Hotel, with options for soft drinks included.

The atmosphere is vibrant, with live Tanura dancing, a DJ, and open-air or indoor seating. As you glide past iconic landmarks like Ain Dubai and the Dubai skyline, the views are truly breathtaking.

Guests praise the quality of the food and the lively entertainment, with many noting the excellent value for money. The cruise suits those looking for a classy yet fun night out, with plenty of photo ops and a chance to unwind after a day in Dubai. The open bar option elevates the experience, allowing you to toast to a perfect evening.

Bottom line: this cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a stylish, scenic dinner with good entertainment at a reasonable price.

6. Dubai: Private Pub Crawl for Birthdays & Corporate Events

For a truly personalized experience, this private pub crawl starts at $110.26 per person and is tailored for birthdays, corporate outings, or any special occasion. Your host crafts a custom itinerary through Dubai’s top venues, including Dubai Marina, JBR, JLT, and Al Barsha, with transportation provided.

The tour features drinking games, photo opportunities, and exclusive access to venues, ensuring a night that’s both fun and private.

Guests love the flexibility and the personal touch, with reviews mentioning the friendly guides and the social atmosphere. It’s suitable for groups wanting a customizable, hassle-free night out. The tour ends with lively vibes, great company, and plenty of memorable moments.

Bottom line: perfect for those who want a fully tailored night out with friends or colleagues, and who value exclusivity and flexibility.

7. Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise – Live Show, AC & Open Bar

This dinner cruise offers a balanced package, combining a sumptuous international buffet with live music and an open bar. Starting at around $48, the cruise departs from Dubai Marina, sailing past impressive skyline views. The live performances add a lively touch, and the choice of indoor or outdoor seating allows you to customize your experience.

Guests frequently mention the quality of the food and the ambiance, with some praising the friendly staff. It’s suitable for those who want a relaxing yet lively evening, enjoying good food, entertainment, and views of Dubai’s waterfront. The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable but memorable night out.

Bottom line: a well-priced, enjoyable dinner cruise for those wanting a classic Dubai experience on the water with live entertainment.

8. Dubai NYE Party Boat with Live DJ, Buffet, and Bar On Board

Ring in the New Year in style aboard this party boat with unlimited buffet, drinks, and a live DJ. For around $685, it’s an investment, but the fireworks display from JBR is unmatched. The boat is decked out for celebration, and the atmosphere is festive. Guests enjoy unlimited alcohol, a hearty buffet, and the chance to dance the night away while the city lights and fireworks illuminate the sky.

It’s ideal for travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, especially on New Year’s Eve. Reviews highlight the fantastic view of the firework display and the lively environment onboard. This tour is best booked early, as space fills up fast for this iconic celebration.

Bottom line: an unforgettable way to celebrate New Year’s in Dubai if you want a luxurious, all-inclusive party with a front-row view of the fireworks.

9. Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar

This award-winning dinner cruise is a favorite for its combination of live acoustic music, open bar, and scenic sailing through Dubai Marina.

For just $47 per person, you’ll enjoy a seated dinner in a pre-assigned area, either outdoors or inside, along with a live musician providing a relaxed, sophisticated soundtrack. The cruise lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, passing landmarks like Skydiving Dubai and JBR.

Reviewers consistently praise the fresh and tasty food and the friendly service, along with the relaxing ambiance. It’s perfect if you want a peaceful yet engaging evening with a bit of sightseeing and good music.

Bottom line: an excellent, affordable option for those seeking a relaxed, scenic dinner cruise with live music.

How to Choose the Right Dubai Drinking Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, timing, and what kind of experience you seek. For a romantic, scenic evening, the Sunset or Dinner Cruise offers the best views, while the Luxury Dinner Cruise combines fine dining with lively entertainment.

If you’re a social butterfly and want to explore Dubai’s bar scene, the pub crawls or private pub crawl are perfect for a fun, organized night out. For a unique twist, the Secret Food Tour combines culinary delights with stunning skyline views, ideal for food lovers.

Booking early is especially important for iconic experiences like the NYE Party Boat or popular cruises during peak seasons. Think about your preferred vibe—relaxed and scenic or energetic and social—and match that to the tour that best fits your style.

Final Thoughts

Dubai offers a diverse array of drinking tours that cater to different tastes, whether you’re after a peaceful cruise with beautiful views or an energetic pub crawl with friends.

For a romantic sunset, the first cruise on our list is hard to beat, while the lively pub crawls are perfect for spontaneous nights out. If you want a more upscale, cultural experience, the food tour with access to the Burj Khalifa bar is excellent.

Whatever your choice, booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Dubai’s vibrant nightlife scene is waiting—so pick your tour and get ready for a night to remember in this dazzling city.