Guided Pearl History Cruise in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Arabian Gulf has a rich pearling heritage, with pearl diving serving as a mainstay of its economy for centuries. This educational 2-hour Abu Dhabi experience focuses on this historical trade, with a cruise on a traditional pearling boat around the city’s mangroves and islands. Discover the history and art of pearl diving, watch as pearls are revealed in oyster shells, and find your own pearl as a souvenir. Arabic coffee and dates included.

Make your own way to the departure pier at the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Spa, overlooking Abu Dhabi’s mangroves, to arrive for about 10am.

Meet your Emirati guide, and begin your shared cruise experience by boarding an authentic jalboot, a type of wooden dhow (Arabian sail boat) traditionally used for pearling.

Settle into the traditional Arabian floor cushions, and enjoy some locally made Arabian coffee and fresh dates as your guide sheds light on the history of pearling in the Arabian Gulf.

Believed to date to pre-Roman times and to have grown from the 12th century onward, the industry was a mainstay of the area’s economy before the oil boom. Every summer, thousands of men would take to their pearling boats and free-dive down to the Gulf’s pearl beds. The treasured pearls were then traded to merchants or crafted into jewelry.

Set off on a leisurely cruise, admiring the views of the wild mangroves and watching for seabirds and other wildlife on the water.

Glide along the peaceful channel between Abu Dhabi and the Al Hudayriat islands, and as you sail, watch an oyster opening demonstration. See how the shells are deftly opened with an oyster knife, learn how to search for the hidden treasure inside, and then look for your own beautiful pearl to keep as souvenir.

While you sail and drink in the views, listen as a crew member performs some authentic Emirati seafaring songs. 

Lastly, dock back at the starting pier, and say your goodbyes to the guide and crew, bringing your approximately 2-hour experience to an end.