For centuries, the dhow was the Gulf’s workhorse at sea: carrying goods, supporting pearl diving, and connecting coastal communities through trade and travel. Today, dhows still represent heritage, craftsmanship, and identity across the region.
What is a dhow?
A dhow is a traditional Arab sailing vessel, commonly seen historically in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, often rigged with lateen (triangular) sails. Many dhows are known for a sharp bow and a high stern on larger builds.
Why dhows matter in Gulf history
Dhows were not only boats, they were economic infrastructure. They enabled long coastal routes, regional trade networks, and the maritime activities that shaped Gulf livelihoods, including pearling and fishing.
How dhows were built and why they sailed so well
Traditional dhows were built for warm waters and long distances, relying on:
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Wooden hulls shaped for stability and cargo
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Lateen sails that handle changing wind directions effectively
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Practical layouts for crew, storage, and long voyages
The most famous dhow types in the Gulf
Below are the dhow types you will see most often in Gulf heritage discussions and dhow model collections.
1) Boom (Boum)
The Boom is among the best known large dhows in the Arabian Gulf, traditionally used for transport and trade. Some references describe it operating widely in the southern Arabian Gulf and being used for carrying passengers and goods.
How to recognize it: a prominent prow and a balanced, practical profile made for longer journeys.
2) Sambuk (Sambuq)
The Sambuk is one of the most successful and recognizable dhow forms in the Gulf, often associated with fishing and coastal work, with a distinctive curved prow profile.
3) Baghlah
The Baghlah is often described as a heavy, deep sea dhow historically used for longer distance routes and large loads.
4) Ghanjah
The Ghanjah is a large dhow type, often described as similar in scale to baghlah forms, noted for an elegant curved stem and decorative transom in some traditional builds.
5) Jalboot (Jelbut)
The Jalboot is commonly described as a small to medium dhow that evolved into modern working versions and is often fitted with engines today.
6) Shu’ai
The Shu’ai is frequently described as a medium sized dhow historically common in the Gulf, used for fishing and coastal trade.
What dhows were used for
Dhows were designed around real needs, and different types served different purposes:
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Trade and transport across ports and coastal towns
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Pearl diving support including carrying crews and supplies
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Fishing and coastal work especially for medium sized and smaller dhows
Dhows today: heritage, tourism, and craftsmanship
Many dhows are now used for cultural festivals, waterfront experiences, and heritage celebrations. At the same time, traditional boatbuilding remains a living craft in parts of the wider Indian Ocean dhow world, facing modern pressures but still valued as cultural heritage.
Choosing a dhow model for décor or gifting (Nokhada tip)
When you are buying a handcrafted dhow model, use this checklist:
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Choose the dhow type (Boom for “grand trade heritage”, Sambuk for “coastal life”).
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Match size to space (desk, shelf, reception, boardroom).
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Look for clean symmetry and fine detailing (rigging alignment, smooth finishing).
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Ask about story and authenticity (type name, region inspiration, use case).
Are dhows only Gulf boats?
The term is broadly used for traditional lateen rigged boats across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean regions.
What is the easiest dhow type to recognize?
Many people recognize the Sambuk by its distinctive prow profile, while the Boom is often referenced as a major large trade dhow in the Gulf context.
Which dhow type is best as a premium heritage display piece?
Larger forms like Boom or Ghanjah often present a strong “statement” silhouette for offices and reception areas.
