Al Wasl Dhow, the biggest dhow in Dubai Marina, was launched on Monday and began welcoming guests on board for cruise dinners.

Dhows, an integral part of Arabic life over centuries, are now popular as floating restaurants.

"Generally, dhows in Dubai emerge from alterations in existing structures of other sea vessels. We have always aimed at having a new and purpose-built dhow in Dubai. Al Wasl Dhow is conceptualised and built to offer a unique dining experience on a floating restaurant," said Ishrat Ali Khan, group managing director of Al Wasl Dhow, Al Wasl Yachts, Asia Pacific Travel and Tourism and Oasis Palm Tourism.

Al Wasl Dhow is an addition to the group's existing fleet of luxury and sports yachts, safari vehicles and campsite which can accommodate around 1,000 guests.

The 95-feet-long and 28-feet-wide Al Wasl Dhow consists of two decks: an air-conditioned lower deck and an upper deck.

With a capacity to accommodate more than 200 people, state-of-the-art design, well-trained crew, latest safety standards, modern audio-visual equipment and a five-star dining experience, Al Wasl Dhow aims to provide guests an unforgettable experience of cruising along Dubai Marina.

Khan said the Al Wasl Dhow was manufactured in Pakistan and sailed through the Arabian Sea to reach Dubai Marina this month.

"We are planning to launch four dhows. This dhow is the first to arrive, the second one will come in two months and two more will be added within two years," he said.

Guests on board the inaugural cruise admired Al Wasl Dhow's concept and design. "It took more than two years to bring the dhow to this shape. It is a masterpiece by dhow-making experts in Pakistan and a result of team efforts by 45 professionals from 10 fields of dhow manufacturing," Khan added.

Al Wasl Dhow promises exceptional service at reasonable rates. The dhow offers a distinctive experience for family get-togethers, parties, weddings and business events. With good food, exquisite views, entertainment facilities and abundant space, Al Wasl Dhow is bound to impress.

Al Wasl Dhow is operated on a daily basis in the evening.

"I have been to many dhows in Dubai, but the variety of food served here is exceptionally good. I would love to come again," said Zeeshan Malik, who came with his wife and two sons to experience the dining cruise aboard Al Wasl Dhow.