Even night owls will find plenty of interesting things to do and see in Dubai. But if you prefer a classic night out in a bar, there are still many interesting options for you to choose from, from the beach bar and restaurant options to Irish Pubs with an authentic vibe.
This article reviews the top bars and lounges in Dubai, including iconic spots on the Palm Jumeirah, perfect for both locals and tourists.
Everything You Need to Know About Nightlife Before You Go Out
When enjoying the nightlife in Dubai, you must follow some basic rules. The first thing you must know is that the alcohol-related regulations in the emirate are quite strict, meaning that drinks can only be served in licensed and authorized establishments.
Additionally, visitors in their early twenties should bring their identification documents, as alcohol is only served to those who are at least 21. It is common for bars and pubs in downtown Dubai to require this proof of age.
Another rule for foreign visitors is that alcohol is not permitted in public spaces. Bars won’t serve drinks to go, so if you order bottled beer, be sure to finish it before stepping outside.
And finally, Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy regarding drunk driving. Even though renting a car is essential for getting around the city comfortably, you should ensure there is no alcohol in your system before starting the engine.
Emirate Gems: Top Bars and Pubs to Visit in Dubai
There are hundreds of bars, pubs, and such establishments throughout the city, so we’ll focus only on the most outstanding, prestigious, and luxurious spots you can visit in Dubai.
Goose Island Tap House
Goose Island Tap House is one of the most reputable spots in Dubai. Well-known for its selection of craft beers, this establishment also hosts amazing after-work sports-watching evenings and has a kitchen with delicious burgers, starters, and snacks.
The pub also hosts regular events such as the Sunday Roast & Happy Hour, where you can either save some dirhams on a meal or enjoy some exclusive dishes and cocktails that are not available during normal hours.
Location
Goose Island tap houses are located in the Five Luxe JBR branch in the Dubai Marina neighborhood, and the Five Jumeirah Village branch in Jumeirah Village Circle.
LookUp Rooftop Lounge Bar
Rooftop nightlife places are incredibly popular in Dubai for their stunning city views. While most of them are clubs with high-energy parties, several bars also offer a more relaxed atmosphere. LookUp is an excellent example of this, as it’s a perfect place for a chill night out.
In addition to offering fantastic views of the city’s skyline, LookUp features a beautiful pool, a wide selection of meals, and an exquisite assortment of cocktails.
Location
LookUP rooftop bar is located on Al Multaqa Street, Level 5, La Ville Hotel & Suites, City Walk, Dubai.
Fibber Magee’s
If you’re seeking a more authentic experience, the oldest Irish pub in Dubai is definitely worth visiting. A classic selection of drinks and meals is complemented by a diverse entertainment calendar, featuring live music events planned for every night of the week.
This Fibber Magee’s pub ranks highly in most ratings and is among the first results on Google. It is self-described as “Dubai’s best-kept secret”, and even though the statement is clearly outdated, the venue definitely deserves your attention.
It is worth noting that the place tends to get rather crowded in the evenings, which may be either an advantage or a downside, depending on your mood and vibes. Compared to other pubs and bars in Dubai, Fibber Magee’s also has much longer operating hours, as it closes its doors at 3 am.
Location
Fibber Magee’s is situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, almost directly across from the Dubai World Trade Centre.
McGettigan’s JLT
Continuing the subject of Irish pubs, McGettigan’s JLT is a great alternative to the previous venue on our list. While offering a similar set of meals and drinks, this pub has an entirely different atmosphere.
Here, you can also enjoy some live music and a DJ booth, but the events organized by the venue tend to be more thrilling and interactive. They host special Halloween parties, retro-style disco nights, quizzes, and other types of entertaining activities. The selection of drinks is quite broad, encompassing signature and classic cocktails, shooters, mocktails, and other specialty beverages.
Location
McGettigan’s JLT is situated in the Jumeirah Lake Towers development, adjacent to the Dubai Marina neighborhood and near the famous Palm Island.
Monkey Bar
If you’re up for a more lively experience instead of classic Irish pubs, Monkey Bar would be a great place to consider. It is a venue with a rather universal appeal, as it features both a seating area and a dance floor.
Monkey Bar hosts local DJs and various parties every night, welcoming visitors to its rooftop jungle. Although it is not the most luxurious or prestigious establishment in the city, its combination of greenery and stunning views creates a unique ambiance, allowing this bar to stand out among its competitors in the area.
Location
Monkey Bar is situated in the Trade Center area, right next to the Jumeirah Emirates Towers. The neighborhood is quite densely populated, so we recommend using a map app to locate the entrance and avoid any confusion.
Lolita Pool Bar and Lounge
Cocktails, stunning Burj Khalifa views, unlimited tacos every Tuesday, and ladies’ night every Wednesday. Here, you can enjoy food, drinks, a DJ, and live music. If you’re a pool party fan, this place will satisfy all your needs.
Location
Lolita Pool Bar and Lounge is situated in Pullman Dubai Downtown, in the lively Business Bay area. Located on Marasi Drive, it provides convenient access from Downtown Dubai and nearby neighborhoods. The venue boasts a stylish rooftop environment with breathtaking views, ideal for relaxing evenings, savoring cocktails by the pool, or lively nights out. The bar remains open until the early hours, although special occasions, such as Mawlid, may alter its hours.
The Black Sheep
The Black Sheep, a well-known British gastropub in Dubai, offers a cozy atmosphere and a nice bar menu. Although the venue occasionally hosts special events, most visitors come here for its impressive selection of drinks, bar bites, and meals.
The Black Sheep offers a diverse menu of beverages to suit any taste, featuring wines, beers, ciders, gins, classic and specialty cocktails, as well as a selection of stronger spirits, including bourbon, rum, and tequila. It operates from 12 pm until 2 am with no days off, making it both a great place for a night out and a decent option for a tasty lunch.
Location
The Black Sheep is situated in the Jumeirah Lake Towers area, directly across from the Dubai Marina neighborhood. The pub is conveniently positioned in Cluster T, making it easy to reach by car via Al Sarayat Street.
JB’s Gastropub, Amwaj Rotana
JB’s is another gastropub you could visit in the same area. It combines dishes from British and American cuisines, so that everyone will find something they like.
Compared to The Black Sheep, JB’s Gastropub has a wider selection of beverages. This is especially true for wines, cocktails, and beers, as the assortment is truly impressive here.
Location
JB’s Gastropub is situated in a prime location within the Dubai Marina neighborhood. The place is equally great for a dedicated visit and a casual stopping by while exploring the area.
McCafferty’s
McCafferty’s is another classic Irish pub in Dubai with all the features you would expect from a venue with such high ratings and reviews. It hosts electric sports-watching evenings, vibe-setting live music performances, and interesting parties with local and international performers.
The establishment is renowned for its diverse menu, high tables, featuring delicious snacks and classic dinner options. The assortment of cocktails is rather limited here, but a rich selection of stronger drinks compensates for it.
Location
McCafferty’s has three different branches in Dubai: one in the Jumeirah Village area, one in the Al Furjan neighborhood, and another one in the Wafi City Mall. The service at all three branches is virtually the same so that you can choose the closest one for a visit.
Pure Sky Lounge & Dining
Perched on the 35th floor of Hilton Dubai The Walk, Pure Sky Lounge & Dining is one of JBR’s most stylish rooftop spots, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, Ain Dubai, Dubai Marina, and the Palm Jumeirah, alongside a sleek atmosphere, signature cocktails, and refined dining. Guests can enjoy daily Happy Hour from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with special two-for-one drink deals, Ladies & Gents Night every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 PM to midnight with packages starting at AED 99 for ladies and AED 149 for gents, plus 35% off food, as well as the popular Sunset Brunch, returning after the summer season. With two open-air terraces and a vibrant setting, Pure Sky is the perfect venue for sunset drinks, social evenings, or late-night lounging, open daily until 2:00 AM.
Location
Pure Sky Lounge & Dining is located at Hilton Dubai The Walk, Tower B, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, UAE. The venue boasts a prime location along the lively JBR waterfront, offering easy access from Dubai Marina, Bluewaters Island, and Sheikh Zayed Road. While Hilton Dubai Jumeirah is currently undergoing renovation, Pure Sky Lounge, along with Hartisan and McGettigan’s JBR, remains fully open and continues to welcome guests without interruption.
Reform Social & Grill: Outdoor Terrace
Just like the other venues in this niche, Reform Social & Grill (also known as RSG) offers a calm atmosphere that is perfect for lunches, relaxed evenings, and even a date night.
With RSG, we recommend checking up with the event calendar, as the vibe of this place changes dramatically throughout the week. Its assortment of, as they call it, “Happenings” includes schnitzel nights, quizzes, cocktail nights for ladies, and even curry nights.
Location
Reform Social & Grill is located in The Lakes, within the Emirates Living District, right between The Emirates Hills and Emirates Hills 2.
Treehouse Dubai: Spectacular View
Treehouse Dubai is an open-air lounge situated in Dubai’s Business Bay. This prestigious venue, located on a rooftop, offers stunning views of the city and downtown skyline that complement the exquisite decor of the bar.
Unlike most other pubs and bars on our list, Treehouse features a dynamic menu with great food, meaning the assortment of drinks and meals offered here changes almost daily. The selection of bites and beverages might be rather limited, but it is compensated for by the electric parties hosted here. This place opens after 6 PM, making it perfect for watching the sun set over the city while enjoying your evening drinks.
Location
As we have already mentioned, Treehouse Dubai is situated in the Business Bay area, adjacent to Dubai Opera and close to Burj Khalifa.
SoBe Rooftop Lounge
SoBe is a glamorous rooftop bar overlooking stunning views of the pool and the sea. You will find some of the most breathtaking views of Dubai. Imagine a panorama from the Arabian Gulf and Palm Jumeirah to the Marina skyline and sunset horizon. This adults-only urban oasis blends South Beach Miami glamour with stylish Art Deco and street-art decor, set against the backdrop of sultry Afro-Latin and house beats. The menu features Latin-American style small plates and unique signature cocktails.
SoBe hosts weekly nightlife events, including Sunset Hour with daily Happy Hour from 5 PM, Scandalous Ladies Night, and lively Latin nights featuring live DJs. As the only rooftop bar on Palm Jumeirah with uninterrupted sunsets, it’s a top social hotspot.
Location
SoBe Rooftop Lounge is on the 5th floor of W Dubai – The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE.
Exploring Downtown And Beyond: High Society Nightlife
Legendary places like the Burj Al Arab and Four Seasons Hotel offer customers glamorous evenings. At the same time, Palm West Beach, Madinat, and Jumeirah Beach are perfect for relaxing evenings by the Arabian Gulf.
For example, DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) is a business district in Dubai. Still, even here, you can find upscale bars, lounges, and fine-dining restaurants (like Four Seasons Hotel Dubai). The Dubai Harbour area features W Dubai – The Palm and Hyatt Dubai.
Visitors can explore Japanese Cuisine at Buddha-Bar, Barfly, Opus by Omniyat, and other stylish asian bar venues. Boutique Hotels in Dubai, such as the Royal Mirage and Four Points by Sheraton, offer excellent nightlife options. At the same time, areas like Dubai Creek and Al Barsha feature more casual yet vibrant settings.
