The Hottest Bars in Dubai Right Now

Named after the floor number on which it’s located, Q43 has quickly become a staple in the Dubai nightlife scene. This effortlessly chic bar is reminiscent of New York loft-style bars. Q43 is known for being easy going and hosting events that are both fun and artsy.

Q43, Media One, Media City. Open every day from 12pm-2am except on Thursday, Friday and Saturday when doors close at 3am. +9714 431 0224

Chill out at this contemporary and quirky lounge. If you’re looking for interesting cocktails, tasty bites and soulful sounds, Iris is the place to go. Iris Dubai sits on the 27th floor of The Oberoi and comes complete with a rooftop terrace and live music.

Iris Dubai, The Oberoi Dubai, Business Bay. Open daily from 5pm-3am, except on Fridays when doors open at 12pm +97156 9511442

The Music Room is an urban bar that is known for its lively gigs. It regularly hosts international bands and also acts as a creative hub for local musicians of all genres. Get a taste of the underground talent in Dubai and then be impressed by the DJs; they like to have fun at this bar and go wild on stage.

The Music Room, The Majestic Hotel Tower Dubai, Bur Dubai. Open everyday from 6pm-3am +9714 501 2534

Cirque Le Soir comes with a warning: “not for the faint of heart”. This tantalising London brand boasts a style of amusement that can only be described as daring. Cirque Le Soir is known for its house music nights and unique entertainment.

Cirque Le Soir Dubai, Fairmont Hotel, SZR. Open Monday to Friday from 10.30pm-3am. +9714 332 4900

Put on your best outfit on and head to this opulent designer club for a glamorous night out. Cavalli is the club to go to if you want to impress and be impressed. Sit down to an avant-garde Italian meal, watch Cabaret dancers and then head to the Cavalli catwalk to strut your stuff.

Cavalli Club, The Fairmont Hotel, SZR. Open every day from 8.30pm-3am. +97150 991 0400

McGettigan’s is a favourite with the residents of Dubai. This charming Irish pub opened its first branch in Dubai in 2010 and now has four more venues here, as well as several others all over the world. This bar is a friendly place to hangout and watch your favourite footy team. After the match, dance and sing along with the live band as they perform one classic after another. McGettigan’s also hosts comedy nights, movie nights and pub quizzes.

McGettigan’s: JLT beside Bonnington Hotel; Dubai World Trade Center; DXB Airport; Madinat Jumeirah; and soon to be in Hilton JBR. +9714 378 0800

This hip new club brings an urban feel to Dubai’s nightclub scene. Get ready to get down and dirty on the dance floor: Lock, Stock & Barrel is known for hosting rocking local talent and famous hip hop artists. If you’re feeling hungry try the chicken wings; they might just be the best ones you’ve ever had.

Lock,Stock & Barrel, Grand Millennium Hotel, Tecom. Open Monday to Thursday from 4pm-3am and Friday to Sunday from 2pm-3am. +9714 514 9195

This funky bar is the hottest new venue in town. When you enter Stereo Arcade, you will find yourself in a vibrant room with classic arcade games. Turn left for a retro clubbing experience that makes you feel like you’ve been transported into an 80s game world. Turn right and enjoy live bands in the industrial pub. Be sure to get there early to beat the queues and don’t forget to dress appropriately for your chosen venue.

Stereo Arcade, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, JBR. The club is open Wednesday to Friday 10pm-3am. The arcade and pub are open daily from 6pm-3am. +97152 618 2424

This is one of the oldest and most recommended nightlife venues in Dubai. Barasti includes a beach bar, restaurant, classic live music, sports bar, shisha lounge and a beach stage with electronic DJs. All ages and dress codes can be found partying together at this bar (minors are allowed in the restaurant until 11pm). This is the spot to go to meet locals and travellers alike.

Barasti Beach Bar, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Hotel, Al Sufouh. Open every day from 11am-1.30am except on Thursdays and Fridays, when it closes at 2.30am +9714 318 1313

This bar continues to rise in popularity. Relax on the private beach or tan at the chic pool during the day. Then, at night, get ready for a total transformation. This club throws some of the hottest events in town. ‘Zero G’ is known for booking international sensations, throwing themed parties with hot special effects and hosting the popular beach festival DXBeach.

Zero Gravity, Skydive Dubai Drop Zone, Marina. Open everyday from 10am- 2am, except on Thursdays when it is open from 8am-3am. Sunday opening hours are 10am-12am +9714 399 0009