When the sun goes down, Dubai comes alive. Among the seven emirates, Dubai is famed for its nightlife. With a youthful population, large number of tourists, free drinks for the ladies and some of the best DJs in the world performing on a regular basis, you can usually find a great night out. Clubs are open until 3am, and given people eat late, things don’t usually get busy until around 11pm. The dress code for most places is smart casual to dressy, and some clubs may have a policy of 'no flat shoes' for women. Visitors also need to be aware of the ‘No dancing’ rule - it’s illegal to dance in a bar or lounge if they don’t have a dance licence, but don’t worry, the security staff will keep you informed. The legal drinking age in Dubai is 21, so take some form of photo ID to be granted access.
The Irish Village
It’s an institution. Named the best Irish pub in the world in 2016, the Garhoud venue offers a taste of Ireland in Dubai with its dark wood interiors, classic Irish stews and events including a Hop Fest and St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The pub hosts concerts and international gigs on a regular basis. Call 04-2824750.
Vault
The bar is spread across two floors (71st and 72nd) of the swanky JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Business Bay. Entrance to the stylish space is via massive doors of a 'vault'. Crafted concoctions and a fine selection of cigars are served alongside spectacular views of the city, including Dubai Water Canal. Call 04-4143000.
Cavalli Club Dubai
Designed in honour of Roberto Cavalli, the three-in-one space (bar, lounge and restaurant) is anything but dull. Massive suspended crystal chandeliers, waterfalls and leopard print chairs create a unique backdrop for those who like to sip in style. Call 04-3329260.
Champagne Lounge
Brocade curtains, dark sofas and cream walls make the lounge as opulent as the venue it sits in, the St. Regis Dubai. In addition to a selection of bubbles, guests can also enjoy mixed beverages, mocktails and bar bites. Call 04-4355577.
The Red Lion
Recognised as one of Dubai’s oldest pubs, Red Lion first opened in the 1970s, before it was demolished in 2012 to make way for Al Habtoor City. The pub is back, this time it’s located just off Sheikh Zayed Road in the new Metropolitan Hotel, with its original solid oak bar, new décor elements and a reasonably priced beverage menu. Call 04-5238824.
Apres Dubai
A night out at this casual bar-lounge will temporarily transport you to the Alps. Views of Ski Dubai’s slopes and penguins, deliciously addictive cocktails and a choice of bites that go a notch higher than your usual bar food are promised at this venue that embodies Alpine ski-lodge chic. Call 04-3412575.
Nippon Bottle Company
Initially touted as a speakeasy sort of venue because of its member-only access, Nippon is home to a fab and well-priced selection of Japanese beverages. Note: the entrance to the bar is concealed behind a bookshelf in the lobby of Dusit Thani hotel. Call 04-3570779.
101 Bar
There are few places more romantic and picturesque than this elevated deck on the far end of Palm Jumeirah. A part of One&Only The Palm, the over-water venue offers unmatched views of Dubai’s skyline, the Arabian sea and a menu of beverages inspired by exclusive marinas around the world. Call 04-4401030.
Treehouse
Renaissance décor and ornate trees define this rooftop oasis overlooking Burj Khalifa. Deep house tunes play in the background as bartenders whip up creative cocktails. In summer, the outdoor venue gets an airconditioned transparent tent and is decorated with starry string lights. Call 050-6483083.
Cocktail Kitchen
Passionate mixologists who pride themselves on the art of cocktail-making prepare your beverages at this gem of a venue located in JLT’s Armada BlueBay Hotel. A menu with dishes that complement beverages, weekly events including ladies’ and jazz nights and minimalist décor makes this venue a winner in every sense. Call 056-8280727.