Dubai is not only the home of record-setting architectural marvels, but it is also a place with a bustling nightlife. There are dozens of nightclubs operating in the city, each offering a unique vibe and theme. Today, we will showcase some of the most popular venues and highlight some of the rules you should follow when partying in Dubai.
Nightlife Rules in Dubai
Dubai is an international tourism center that is incredibly welcoming to all cultures. Nevertheless, it is still an emirate in the Middle East, which means that there are some rules that you as a visitor should respect. Here is a quick overview of what to keep in mind:
- Alcohol is only served at licensed venues and it cannot be drank in public;
- The legal drinking age is 21 in the United Arab Emirates;
- Night clubs might allow revealing clothes inside, but the dress code guidelines should still be followed in public;
- Public displays of affection such as kissing or holding hands are not allowed in Dubai;
- Smoking is allowed only in designated areas.
We have already covered nightlife-related rules in a separate article, so if you wish to learn more about how to act in Dubai, make sure to check it out.
The Best Clubs to Visit in the City
If you’re looking for a nightclub in Dubai, you will probably find one in the close vicinity of your residence, no matter which part of the city you’re staying at. But even though there are hundreds of such venues in this emirate, some of them manage to stand out. Let us take a closer look at all the popular nightclubs you can attend in Dubai.
SOT Dubai
SOT Dubai is a luxury venue that you will find on almost any top-list of the best nightclubs in Dubai. SOT stands for sound in Arabic, but it might as well have been an abbreviation for Source of Thrills, as the club offers an absolutely electric atmosphere.
This venue is definitely aiming at active partygoers, as the high energy techno beats and dark decorations with dynamic lighting create a perfect setting for dancing. SOT Dubai also has a bar with some premium drinks, and if you’re looking for an even more luxurious experience, you can make a private reservation for a regular table or a VIP room.
Location
SOT Dubai is situated in Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf. It is located in the north-eastern part of the city, right next to Dubai Creek. It takes a 15-minute drive to reach this club from Dubai Mall.
Google Maps – https://maps.app.goo.gl/pj2qe8dwXyVqnmMs8
Events
SOT Dubai is known for its underground events. The venue frequently hosts closed VIP parties, and it also commonly features internationally known DJs and artists.
Unlike many other nightclubs on this list, SOT Dubai does not have an event schedule. Sometimes, the events may be announced on the venue’s official Instagram page, but in most cases, you need to be invited in order to find out about a party here.
Sky 2.0
Sky 2.0 is an iconic open-air club known by any vivid partygoer in Dubai. Its unique design with a sophisticated lighting system sets a perfect vibe for high-energy parties that are hosted here all the time.
The venue features various genres of music ranging from house to techno, and the top-end sound systems make it an ideal place for performances of world-class DJs and other artists. Of course, the main appeal of Sky 2.0 is its combination of outstanding event hosting and stunning views of the city that are available from its location. Even though the club is not actually situated in the sky, it is built in an open space that offers views of Dubai Creek and the city’s skyline in the distance.
Location
Sky 2.0 is located in the Dubai Design District in the eastern part of the city. The Dubai Mall, which is a great anchoring position to better understand the locations of nightclubs, is only an 11-minute drive from Sky 2.0.
Events
Sky 2.0 has a diverse and rich event program that includes both various kinds of parties and some celebrity performances. Its themed nights might range from hip top to techno, offering something for partygoers with any music preferences.
The club has a weekly event schedule that you can check out on its official website. Additionally, it is possible to contact the management directly and organize a private party that will be professionally hosted by the staff members of Sky 2.0.
Iris Dubai
Next on the list we have Iris Dubai, which is a venue that includes both a rooftop lounge and a nightclub. It is situated on the roof of Meydan Hotel, allowing you to enjoy some breathtaking views of the city skyline.
The main appeal of Iris Dubai is its combination of a sophisticated laid-back atmosphere of the lounge and an energetic partying vibe of the nightclub. Its menu features some exquisite meals and cocktails with regular special deals such as the Ladies’ Package with two starters and four beverages for AED 150.
Location
Iris Dubai is situated on the rooftop of Meydan Hotel located in between the Meydan Racecourse and the Al Meydan Road. It is an 18-minute drive from the Dubai Mall, and the slight remoteness of the location allows the venue to offer some incredible views of the city.
Events
Iris Dubai hosts a very diverse set of events, where almost any visitor can find something to match their taste. The list includes branches, food-tasting sessions, á la carte menu nights, tranquil sunsets, and high-energy R&B parties with popular DJs.
You can always check the event schedule on the official website of Iris Dubai. The site also supports a booking feature, and offers you an option to arrange a private event.
BLU Dubai
BLU Dubai is another popular rooftop nightclub next to the Dubai Water Canal. It is well-known for its luxury interior design, state-of-the-art sound equipment, and the electrifying energy of its parties.
Since it is one of the most prestigious venues in the city, it regularly hosts performances by major celebrities. Some of the artists who have previously been featured here include Kanye West, Chris Brown, Travis Scott, Jason Derulo, and Busta Rhymes.
Location
BLU Dubai is built on top of V Hotel Dubai in the Al Habtoor City development. It is a ten-minute drive from the Dubai Mall.
Events
On top of top-tier celebrity performances, BLU Dubai also offers regular themed parties and features of less well-known DJs. For example, on Tuesdays, it hosts its famous Pinky parties that offer the ultimate girls’ night out experience.
You can make reservations and check up with the event schedule on the official website of BLU Dubai.
1 OAK Dubai
1 OAK Dubai is situated right across the Dubai Water Canal from the previous nightclub on our list, but despite a similar location, it offers a vastly different experience. 1 OAK has a much sleeker décor and an upscale setting with an energetic atmosphere.
1 OAK is known for its themed parties as well as features from famous DJs. It offers a range of additional services including VIP sections or even private parties.
Location
1 OAK Dubai operates in the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in the southern part of the Business Bay area. If you decide to come here after a visit to the Dubai Mall, it will only take an eight-minute drive to travel.
Events
1 OAK has a carefully curated event schedule with regular themed parties for every single day of the week. It includes Urban Thursdays, Spaced Out Saturdays, Takeover Sundays, and other exclusive receptions.
You can learn more about these events on the official website of 1 OAK Dubai. There, you will also be able to book a table and even arrange a private party with features like CO2 jets, stadium confetti blowers, and more.
Soho Garden
Soho Garden is a vibrant nightlife and entertainment hub in Dubai. This multi-concept venue combines a nightclub, cocktail bar, and lounge, offering a dynamic space for partygoers with any preferences.
Soho Garden is known for its lush outdoor garden setting and contemporary design and it regularly hosts international DJs and live acts, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and expats. The venue offers a mix of music genres ranging from deep house to urban beats, and caters to both relaxed lounge vibes and high-energy clubbing, making it a popular destination for Dubai’s night owls.
Location
Soho Garden is situated on the famous Palm Jumeirah island, and you can enjoy some amazing views of the city skyline from its location.
Events
Soho Garden hosts a variety of events for all tastes and preferences. The assortment includes Queen B Ladies nights with exquisite cocktails and delicious starters, Club Nights with features from local and international artists, and the Green Room with upscale dining experiences.
You can follow the schedule on the website of the venue, which also has a feature to subscribe to its newsletter. Additionally, it supports online bookings, although it is important to choose the correct reservation option when filling out the form.
Club Seven
Club Seven is a stylish and lively nightclub that is known for its energetic atmosphere, vibrant dance floor, and a mix of international and local DJs spinning a variety of music genres. The music you will be able to enjoy here includes house, R&B, and techno.
The club is popular among a diverse crowd and offers themed nights and exciting entertainment. It has a spacious dance floor, exclusive VIP sections, and a rich assortment of drinks. Club Seven is perfect for those looking for an exhilarating night out in a more relaxed yet vibrant setting. It is also labeled as the number-one Filipino nightclub in Dubai.
Location
Club Seven is located in the Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel in the Bur Dubai district. It is fairly close to the Dubai Creek, and it is an 11-minute drive from the Dubai Mall.
Events
Club Seven has a diverse lineup of themed and DJ-driven events. The club hosts lively weekend events, including Ladies’ Nights, live DJ sets, and themed parties such as the Halloween Party or the anniversary of the club’s launch. No bookings are needed to attend the venue, and you can learn about the upcoming events on the social media pages of Club Seven.
Magnum Dubai
Magnum Dubai is an upscale nightclub that offers a luxurious nightlife experience. This venue is known for its rich décor, exquisite VIP sections, and high-energy atmosphere of its parties and theme nights.
The club features a world-class sound system, top-tier DJs, and live performances, creating an immersive party vibe. It also offers a premium bottle service and an exclusive guest list, making it a go-to spot for those seeking a high-end, chic night out in Dubai’s dynamic nightlife scene.
Location
Magnum Dubai is situated in the Al Hudaiba area near Port Rashid. A cab ride from the Dubai Mall would only last twelve minutes, implying fairly close proximity to other attractions in the city.
Events
Magnum Dubai hosts upscale, high-energy nightlife events with a focus on house music, electronic beats, and luxury experiences. It regularly invites top DJs to spin at private events or high-profile parties. Themed nights, such as “Luxury Saturdays” or “Champagne Fridays,” cater to Dubai’s elite crowd with extravagant shows, bottle service, and performances.
Provocateur Night Club
Provocateur Night Club is another sophisticated nightlife destination located at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai. It has a rather intimate setting and a New York-inspired design, offering an unmatched nightlife experience with a focus on electronic music.
The club attracts an elite crowd with its luxury atmosphere, world-renowned DJs, and premium bottle service. Its sleek, modern design and luxurious ambiance make it a perfect spot for those who appreciate high-end nightlife.
Location
As we have mentioned, Provocateur is situated in Four Seasons Resort Dubai next to the Jumeirah Bay. Much like most other venues on this list, it is within a 15-minute ride from the Dubai Mall.
Events
Provocateur is famous for its upscale events featuring a distinctly sophisticated international vibe. The club hosts intimate, exclusive parties, often headlined by DJs from the underground electronic scene.
It regularly hosts four different themed nights. On Wednesdays, the guests can enjoy a mix of Hip Hop and R&B music. Fridays and Saturdays focus on deep house music, while Thursdays offer a mix of popular commercial music of various genres.
Summary
Summing up, Dubai has an extremely active nightlife with numerous clubs you can visit. While we have highlighted the most luxurious and well-known venues, it is fair to say we have only scratched the surface, as there are infinite opportunities for parties and nights out available in the city.