Dubai Nightlife

Print our full travel guide to Dubai

City Guide

Activities

Maps

Weather:

Weather Today
Hi 28°C
Lo 23°C
See 5-day forecast
Dubai Weather

Time

Dubai travel Forum

Nightlife

Known for its nightlife, Dubai's clubs and bars are found mostly in hotels because of the city's strict liquor laws. In 2008 the New York Times listed Dubai as its travel choice for partying. But in Dubai all nightclubs must close at 3am by law, the legal drinking age is 21 and you must be 25 to enter a nightclub. For this reason it is wise to carry some form of identification with you when checking out the local scene.

Due to the strict liquor laws you will not find nightclubs and bars dotted along the streets, but rather inside this shopping paradise's 4- and 5-star hotels. It is not uncommon to see foreigners and expatriates hanging around at hotel bars until last rounds have been called.

Within the hotels, Buddha Bar is a destination in itself. A gigantic area opens onto views of the Arabian Gulf, on two levels, with three different atmospheres, a restaurant, a bar and a lounge. Situated in the Grosvenor House Hotel complex at Dubai Marina, Buddha Bar is the place to see and be seen by the Dubai glitterati. However, there are areas outside of hotels that sell alcohol, such as the Irish Village next to the Aviation Club of Dubai. With a name like that, there's no guessing what type of debauchery goes on here at the main Irish style Pub. This is a favourite watering hole with tourists and non-Muslim residents.

Arabic nightclubs are popular with locals and tourists alike, Kasbar Royal Mirage Hotel, being a firm favourite and one of the busiest by far. Built up on three levels and set to an Arabic soundtrack, played by some of the best DJs, the entire club is decorated with Arabic décor. A must when in Dubai!

For an alcohol-free option, Dubai Creek Park is a popular place to spend an evening. The atmosphere at night is wonderful and very festive and the park is never crowded due its sheer size. It is worth noting that in Dubai homosexuality, drugs and the theory of revolution are considered taboo and visitors should remain respectful when in Dubai.