Dubai nightlife is the best I've tried so far in the Persian/Arab Gulf region.
Compared to that of Doha, Abu Dhabi, or Muscat, it is less conservative and far more foreigner-friendly.
Even though drinking alcohol is restricted, you can find nearly a hundred bars and nightclubs, some of which are busy even on weekdays.
There is a huge diversity of venues: Jazz lounges, rooftop bars, expat pubs, open-air nightclubs, beach cafés, speakeasies, etc. There is even a brand-new warehouse with Berlin-style techno parties once a month.
However, not everything is perfect. The major problem with Dubai nightlife is that to enter most of the major nightclubs, single men are required to book a table. Often, this means you will need to spend over US$500 just for to visit one place.
I will talk more about this review. If you still have questions after reading it, please leave me a comment at the end of the article!
Hotels Near Dubai Nightlife
You can click on this map of Dubai nightlife to visualize where all the most important nightclubs, bars, and beach clubs are located.
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As you can see, there are 3 best party areas:
1) Between Downtown Dubai and the World Trade Center:
This area, in the heart of the business district, has many expensive bars that are popular with expats and executives. Most can be found in the 5-star hotels on Sheikh Zayed Road (Fairmont, Sheraton, Crowne Plaza or Conrad). This is also an interesting location to reach Dubai's best nightclubs like Boa, Base, White, and Soho Garden.
The recommended hotels there are:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Fairmont (rated 8.5/10, US$140 per night) - It has 4 bars and clubs, including Cavalli Club, Bagatelle and Cin Cin.
⭐⭐⭐⭐Carlton Downtown (rated 8.4/10, US$84 per night) - Best value option in this location.
2) Around the Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Resort (JBR):
This is a more touristy part of town with many popular beach clubs (like Zero Gravity or Barasti). There are several bars as well which tends to be a bit less sophisticated and exclusive than the ones on Sheikh Zayed Road. This is the best location for those who are visiting Dubai for the holidays.
The recommended hotels there are:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Sofitel Jumeirah Beach (rated 8.7/10, US$232 per night) - Bordering The Walk, near many bars and the beach.
⭐⭐⭐⭐Rose Park Al Barsha (rated 8.9/10, US$73 per night) - Best value option in this location
3) In Deira and Bur Dubai:
This is the older part of Dubai, starting at the north of Sheikh Rashid Road. There are dozens of bars there, most of which have live music, affordable prices, and.... prostitutes. Each venue targets a different crowd: Filipinos, Indians, Blacks, Westerners, etc. Hotels in this area are generally cheaper than elsewhere.
The recommended hotels there are:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Al Bandar Rotana (rated 9/10, US$135 per night) - No bars there but it is deemed girl-friendly.
⭐⭐⭐⭐Flora Grand Hotel (rated 8.3/10, US$58 per night) - Best value option in this location
You can click on this map of Dubai nightlife to visualize where all the most important nightclubs, bars, and beach clubs are located.
1) Between Downtown Dubai and the World Trade Center:
This area, in the heart of the business district, has many expensive bars that are popular with expats and executives. Most can be found in the 5-star hotels on Sheikh Zayed Road (Fairmont, Sheraton, Crowne Plaza or Conrad). This is also an interesting location to reach Dubai's best nightclubs like Boa, Base, White, and Soho Garden.
The recommended hotels there are:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Fairmont (rated 8.5/10, US$140 per night) - It has 4 bars and clubs, including Cavalli Club, Bagatelle and Cin Cin.
⭐⭐⭐⭐Carlton Downtown (rated 8.4/10, US$84 per night) - Best value option in this location.
2) Around the Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Resort (JBR):
This is a more touristy part of town with many popular beach clubs (like Zero Gravity or Barasti). There are several bars as well which tends to be a bit less sophisticated and exclusive than the ones on Sheikh Zayed Road. This is the best location for those who are visiting Dubai for the holidays.
The recommended hotels there are:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Sofitel Jumeirah Beach (rated 8.7/10, US$232 per night) - Bordering The Walk, near many bars and the beach.
⭐⭐⭐⭐Rose Park Al Barsha (rated 8.9/10, US$73 per night) - Best value option in this location
3) In Deira and Bur Dubai:
This is the older part of Dubai, starting at the north of Sheikh Rashid Road. There are dozens of bars there, most of which have live music, affordable prices, and.... prostitutes. Each venue targets a different crowd: Filipinos, Indians, Blacks, Westerners, etc. Hotels in this area are generally cheaper than elsewhere.
The recommended hotels there are:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Al Bandar Rotana (rated 9/10, US$135 per night) - No bars there but it is deemed girl-friendly.
⭐⭐⭐⭐Flora Grand Hotel (rated 8.3/10, US$58 per night) - Best value option in this location
Dating in Dubai
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As elsewhere in the Middle-east, it is almost impossible to date a local girl. They rarely go out, and if they do, they don't mingle with foreigners (too conservative, too rich, and too protected). It is not very important anyway since they only represent a fraction of the women staying in Dubai (over 90% of the population is foreign).
There are women from every single nationality on earth in Dubai, but you could split them into just a few groups:
- Staff workers (waitresses, shopkeepers, maids, receptionists, etc) are mostly from developing countries of Asia and Africa. They are the easiest to meet, either online on Tinder or in bars/clubs during ladies' nights. In particular, there are many Filipinas.
- Mid-to-upper level expatriates: They aren't as numerous as men, but there are still plenty of them, from various nationalities (Indians would be the number one nationality). They are usually educated, ambitious and hard-working. Many English teachers too. The single ones are usually looking for expats, so they can be hard to date if you are only passing by.
- Flight attendants working for Emirates. There are thousands of them, usually young, pretty, and single. They are in high demand, so you'll be able to date them only if you are good-looking, confident, and reasonably wealthy. It will really help if you are living in Dubai as well.
- Short-term visitors: Dubai welcomes a fair number of tourists, especially from the nearby countries that are more conservative. You'll find them in places such as Pier 7 or Barasti Beach Club.
- Hookers and "professional girlfriends": There is an incredible number of prostitutes in Dubai, from low-end to high-class. They can be found everywhere: In clubs, in the streets, or online (for instance on the sugar baby websites Seeking.com).
Expat bars to meet people in Dubai
If you want friendly bars in Dubai where you can meet new people, these are my recommendations:
→ Lock Stock and Barrel - Best on Tuesday for their busy ladies' night. 2 locations in Dubai (Jumeirah Beach Resort and Grand Millenium Hotel)
→ The Stables: Equestrian-themed British pub
→ Rodeo Drive: Vintage restaurant and bar with live music and authentic American food
→ Double Decker - British pub with outdoor garden
→ McGettigan's - Irish pub, part of an international chain, with 5 different locations in Dubai
→ Fibber Magee's - Discreet Irish pub in the financial district with quiz nights and live music
→ The Irish Village - 3 branches in Dubai for this Irish pub, full of regulars
→ The Stables: Equestrian-themed British pub
→ Rodeo Drive: Vintage restaurant and bar with live music and authentic American food
→ Double Decker - British pub with outdoor garden
→ McGettigan's - Irish pub, part of an international chain, with 5 different locations in Dubai
→ Fibber Magee's - Discreet Irish pub in the financial district with quiz nights and live music
→ The Irish Village - 3 branches in Dubai for this Irish pub, full of regulars
Dubai Nightlife Tips
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Here are a few things you should know to prepare for your nights out in Dubai
Drinking Alcohol
You can drink alcohol in licensed venues (bars and clubs) only if you are over 21. Bouncers will check your ID, so bring your passport with you. If you get tipsy, be discreet as public drunkenness is officially illegal.
If you want to purchase alcohol in a shop (or at the duty-free), you will need a special license. As a visitor, it is quite easy to get one, just go to any of the MMI shops with your passport, and you'll get one for 30 days.
You can drink alcohol in licensed venues (bars and clubs) only if you are over 21. Bouncers will check your ID, so bring your passport with you. If you get tipsy, be discreet as public drunkenness is officially illegal.
If you want to purchase alcohol in a shop (or at the duty-free), you will need a special license. As a visitor, it is quite easy to get one, just go to any of the MMI shops with your passport, and you'll get one for 30 days.
Price of Clubbing
It can be very expensive to party in Dubai, especially if you are a single guy. Indeed, most high-end clubs will force men to book a table, with a minimum spend between AED1,500 (US$410) and AED3000 (US$820).
Generally speaking, in the best nightlife venues, you can expect to pay AED45-55 for a beer (or US$12-15), AED60-80 for a cocktail (or US$16-22), and AED1200 for a cheap bottle of liquor (or US$325).
If you go partying in Deira or Bur Dubai, the prices will often be lower (about 30% less).
Another good way to save money is to check for happy hours. Almost every bar has some, usually between 4 PM and 8 PM. Typically, you will get a buy 1 get 1 promo on selected drinks.
Generally speaking, in the best nightlife venues, you can expect to pay AED45-55 for a beer (or US$12-15), AED60-80 for a cocktail (or US$16-22), and AED1200 for a cheap bottle of liquor (or US$325).
If you go partying in Deira or Bur Dubai, the prices will often be lower (about 30% less).
Another good way to save money is to check for happy hours. Almost every bar has some, usually between 4 PM and 8 PM. Typically, you will get a buy 1 get 1 promo on selected drinks.
Dress Code
All the upscale bars and clubs will require you to dress well: No shorts, no sandals, no caps, etc. If you are a woman, it is better to wear high heels and a skirt.
Racism
There is a lot of racism in Dubai, much like in the UAE in general. You will be judged based on your ethnicity or skin color.
It is very common to be denied entry at a club in Dubai, especially if you are African, Indian, or Southeast Asian.
Racism
There is a lot of racism in Dubai, much like in the UAE in general. You will be judged based on your ethnicity or skin color.
It is very common to be denied entry at a club in Dubai, especially if you are African, Indian, or Southeast Asian.
When to Party
Dubai's nightlife is at its best during the cooler months, basically from November to May. In fact, during summer (July to August), most of the open-air venues are closed because the heat and humidity are unbearable (for instance, Soho Garden, White, or 40 Kong). Avoid Dubai during that time if you can.
Another thing to keep in mind is that weekends in Dubai are on Fridays and Saturdays. This means that Thursday nights are the best to go out, and Saturday nights are the worst.
Most clubs will close at 3 AM, but a few stay open until 4 AM (like Toy Room or Base).
Dubai's nightlife is at its best during the cooler months, basically from November to May. In fact, during summer (July to August), most of the open-air venues are closed because the heat and humidity are unbearable (for instance, Soho Garden, White, or 40 Kong). Avoid Dubai during that time if you can.
Another thing to keep in mind is that weekends in Dubai are on Fridays and Saturdays. This means that Thursday nights are the best to go out, and Saturday nights are the worst.
Most clubs will close at 3 AM, but a few stay open until 4 AM (like Toy Room or Base).
Finally, if you visit Dubai during Ramadan, don't worry too much. Most bars and clubs are open, but only after sunset. They can be less crowded, but you can still have fun.
Ladies' Nights
Ladies' nights in Dubai are a big deal. Since girls are rare, the best clubs and bars compete fiercely to attract them. If you are a woman, you will probably never have to pay for any drinks while in the city.
Currently, most of the best ladies' nights happen on Tuesday (at the Pier7, at Gravity Zero). You can check Ladies Night Dubai for an updated list.
Ladies' Nights
Ladies' nights in Dubai are a big deal. Since girls are rare, the best clubs and bars compete fiercely to attract them. If you are a woman, you will probably never have to pay for any drinks while in the city.
Currently, most of the best ladies' nights happen on Tuesday (at the Pier7, at Gravity Zero). You can check Ladies Night Dubai for an updated list.
Weekly and monthly events:
For a general list of events, you can follow the social media accounts of DubaiNight and Luvevents (trendy parties).
For techno and rave parties, check @ducksoupseries and @raversindubai.
Internet Censorship in Dubai
Porn websites, as well as any websites that are deemed anti-religious, anti-Islam, or critical of the UAE, will be blocked by the government. Also, you cannot use WA, Skype or Messenger to make calls (only messaging is allowed).
As a result of this censorship, it is common for expats and visitors to use a VPN. If you don't know what it is, you can read this article: Why Porn Websites are Blocked in Dubai (and How to Unblock Them)?
Lately, I've been using PureVPN and it works great. They are currently having a sale with their 2-year plan costing less than 1.99$ per month (use my coupon "Jakarta100bars" to get an extra 10% off).
Porn websites, as well as any websites that are deemed anti-religious, anti-Islam, or critical of the UAE, will be blocked by the government. Also, you cannot use WA, Skype or Messenger to make calls (only messaging is allowed).
As a result of this censorship, it is common for expats and visitors to use a VPN. If you don't know what it is, you can read this article: Why Porn Websites are Blocked in Dubai (and How to Unblock Them)?
Lately, I've been using PureVPN and it works great. They are currently having a sale with their 2-year plan costing less than 1.99$ per month (use my coupon "Jakarta100bars" to get an extra 10% off).
This is the only place in Dubai where you can enjoy a more underground nightlife experience. They have techno on Thursday and Friday nights, often from guest DJs. The venue is not as professionally managed as its bigger competitors in terms of facilities, sound system, lighting, but you'll also find it more welcoming. It is usually free if you come before midnight, and AED 100 after that.
Soho Garden (in Meydan Hotel)
This complex about 15 minutes from the city center is the top nightlife destination in Dubai at the moment. This is where you have the best clubs, the best events, and the best crowd.
The main space, Soho Garden, is only open during the cooler months (September to June). They have famous DJs regularly, for instance: Agoria, Joris Voorn, Tiga, Mark Knight, etc. If you manage to pass the strict door policy, expect to spend money (as a single man, it may be difficult to enter without booking a sofa). Drinks cost at least US15-20$ and the minimum spending for a table is US700$ during special events.
On the same location, you can also find:
Black is a big indoor nightclub, presumably the largest in Dubai, that focuses on RnB. It is open from Thursday to Saturday, featuring both DJs and bands. Ladies night on Thursdays before 1AM.
Playroom is a techno/electronic music club with a minimalist design and an underground atmosphere (even though it is expensive and upmarket). Recently, they guest artists like Âme, Dubfire and Sébastien Léger.
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| Main space in Soho Garden |
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| Soho Beach |
The main space, Soho Garden, is only open during the cooler months (September to June). They have famous DJs regularly, for instance: Agoria, Joris Voorn, Tiga, Mark Knight, etc. If you manage to pass the strict door policy, expect to spend money (as a single man, it may be difficult to enter without booking a sofa). Drinks cost at least US15-20$ and the minimum spending for a table is US700$ during special events.
On the same location, you can also find:
Black is a big indoor nightclub, presumably the largest in Dubai, that focuses on RnB. It is open from Thursday to Saturday, featuring both DJs and bands. Ladies night on Thursdays before 1AM.
Playroom is a techno/electronic music club with a minimalist design and an underground atmosphere (even though it is expensive and upmarket). Recently, they guest artists like Âme, Dubfire and Sébastien Léger.
NEW: There is now also a Soho Garden nightlife complex in Palm Jumeirah.
White (in Meydan Hotel)
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Voted #16 best club in the world by DJ Mag, this is the most famous nightclub in Dubai, and maybe even in the Middle East.
It is a huge venue on the rooftop of the Meydan Racecourse Grandstand, which opens yearly starting mid-September until May. They have various kinds of events, from EDM parties to live hip-hop, each time with different décors. It is a bit pretentious and overrated in my opinion, but still worth checking. Expect a mixed crowd of expats and tourists.
Entry is free for girls and couples. For single guys, you need to spend at least AED2,000 (US$550) at a table. The best time to go is on Thursday or Saturday (ladies' night until 1 AM).
It is a huge venue on the rooftop of the Meydan Racecourse Grandstand, which opens yearly starting mid-September until May. They have various kinds of events, from EDM parties to live hip-hop, each time with different décors. It is a bit pretentious and overrated in my opinion, but still worth checking. Expect a mixed crowd of expats and tourists.
Entry is free for girls and couples. For single guys, you need to spend at least AED2,000 (US$550) at a table. The best time to go is on Thursday or Saturday (ladies' night until 1 AM).
Vii in Conrad Hotel
Armani/Privé in Armani Hotel
The dance floor is large enough to dance, and there is plenty of space near the bar for those who don't want to book a table. Some pretty girls.
On the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa, there is also a panoramic bar/restaurant called Atmosphere. It is supposedly the highest in the world.
Mantis in Emirates Financial Center
Other Dubai Nightlife Recommendations:
Outdoor lounges and rooftops:
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→ Penthouse - In Five Palm Jumeirah, it offers one of the best views of the city. Chic and elitist. Best to go on Thursdays only.
→ Iris - Managed by the same group as White, this open-air bar is on the 27th floor of The Oberoi hotel. Cool crowd, good cocktails and live music on Tuesday and Sunday.
→ SKY5 - Hip rooftop on the 40th floor of the H Hotel. One of the top bars among younger expats in Dubai.
→ Seven Sisters - Chic bar with an open-air terrace. 5 free drinks for their Tuesday's ladies night. Their Sunday Brunch, organized by Sundown Brunch, is quite spectacular.
Ethnic Bar and Clubs:
→ Filipinos: Boracay or Club 7 (all great to try if you want to meet Filipinas and spend less money on drinks).
→ Russians: Luna, Club5, Muscovites, Regal, Rasputin, Amadeus, El Barrio, Red Square (a prostitution place)
The beach clubs in Dubai are a nightlife destination of their own. You can go there in the afternoon for a brunch (with free-flow drinks), then stay until late for partying. Beware as most of them are closed during summer months. Here are the best ones:
→ Zero Gravity - Huge and crowded beach club. I recommend their brunch on Thursday and Friday with 4 hours of free-flow alcohol and food.
→ Barasti Beach - Legendary beach club among the party crowd. A bit touristy and tacky, but perfect for those who want to mingle and flirt. Free entrance.
In the latter, prostitution is rather discreet. You will see some young women, from every part of the world (but mostly from Eastern Europe and Russia), sitting by themselves at a bar and enjoying drinks. If you smile at them, they will approach you and reveal who they are.
In Deira, things are more straightforward. In the hotel bars of that area, 100% of girls are prostitutes, and they will go straight to your table.
Here are some of those infamous clubs (most of them have a DJ/live band and a dance floor).
→ Premier Bar in Hyatt Regency - Famous spot with over a hundred girls from every ethnicity. Pricier than elsewhere. AED200 for entrance after midnight.
→ Ratsky in Fortune Karama Hotel - Bar full of Filipinas
→ Jules in Le Méridien Centre: Lots of Vietnamese and Chinese girls. The entry fee is AED65 on a weekday.