6 Best Nightlife in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Music Room

The South Bank Fodor's choice
This place is exactly what it says on the cover, no pretense or broken promises. It's a laid-back venue, full of grunge princesses and old rockers from all nationalities. There is a menu, but most come later for the music. Rather than being mainstream, the lineup usually consists of the best artists from their respective cities, and loyal fans will fill the room.

Chic

The South Bank

This Arabesque nightclub is a huge hit with the local crowd, with a range of music that is both contemporary and decidedly Khaliji (Emirati). The large space is lined with leather booths and benches, and although there is a packed dance floor, most like to hole up at one of the VIP tables (which always have a minimum spend). The crowd is Arab and Eastern European in the main, well dressed, and ready to party.

Live Music
Sheikh Rashid Rd., Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
50-851--3373-Reservations
www.chicdubai.com
Nightlife Details
Rate Includes: Varies. Usually free for ladies.

Estrella's Skyline Lounge

The South Bank
Until Meliá opened in Bur Dubai, it was hard to find any semblance of "new Dubai" within this venerable district. Estrella’s might be in Old Dubai, but it definitely looks forward, and even has the new Dubai view of spiky skyscrapers to complete the image. The lounge centers on the rooftop pool, and is bathed in pink ambient light. Come for a sundowner, enjoy tunes mixed by a DJ, (often with a subcontinental flavor), and stay for some very decent bar food and shisha.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Goan Shack

The South Bank
Come early and tuck into some of the best vindaloo in the city, and watch the crowds fill in as it gets later in the evening. This place draws all types: expect couples and families, young and old, and for music, Bollywood tunes or '80s anthems. The venue has a ramshackle feel, but the food is decent, the drinks well-priced, and it has a singular atmosphere.

Rock Bottom

The South Bank
Definitely a Dubai original, many overlook Karama Rock Bottom for its newer sibling in Barsha Heights. It's completely shabby and dated, but still well patronized due to the happy hours, ladies' nights that involve free drinks all evening, and half-priced drinks offered to Emirates staff. For most, Rock Bottom's draw is its simplicity; it lacks the pretension of the rest of Dubai. There is a pool table, live music, and basic pub grub with a Tex Mex leaning.

Seville's

The South Bank
As with most of the popular bars in this part of the city, Seville's is no newcomer. Luckily the decor has held up well over the years, and the whole space exudes rustic Iberian charm, paired with a menu that sticks with Spanish classics. Most come here for the sangria however, which is downed by the pitcher by a convivial and laid-back crowd. There are happy hours most nights (around 4--7 pm), and the rooftop is a lovely place to have a couple of quiet beverages before the entertainment starts (usually salsa classes or live music).