The 10 Best Bars in Dubai

Securing its place at number 50 on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars list, Bulgari Bar epitomizes unabated elegance within the Bulgari Resort Dubai. The libations offered here are nothing short of a high-class affair. Positioned behind a dazzling oval-shaped bar adorned with elaborate floral displays, Italian Bar Director Dario Schiavoni orchestrates a menu that draws inspiration from the vibrant colours and flavours of nature. The outcome is a collection of aromatic and invigorating cocktails, crafted with unconventional flavour pairings that harmonize seamlessly with the breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Bulgari Bar is one of the best bars in Dubai standing as a pinnacle of sophistication, where every sip is an artful celebration of nature's palette.

In the opulent realm of Dubai's self-proclaimed seven-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab, extravagance knows no bounds. Gilt, the celestial skybar perched on the 27th floor, epitomizes this unapologetic grandeur. A symphony of low lighting dances with cascades of crystal fairy lights, casting an ethereal glow upon the gold leaf wallpaper, while reflections play upon the opulent gold-fringed bar and ceiling.

Mastering the alchemy of mixology, Thibault Méquignon, the head mixologist, orchestrates a menu that plays with smoky, bitter, and sweet flavours. His adept team stands ready, eager to guide patrons through this gustatory journey making Gilt one of the best bars in Dubai.

The vibe at the bar, absorbing the craftsmanship firsthand, or chill within plush sapphire velvet booths for a discreet rendezvous. The ambience at the Gilt is amplified by an ambient soundtrack, emanating from a DJ subtly concealed within a foliage-filled booth.

Hidden behind a discreet door in the recesses of a small vinyl shop within the Pullman Hotel Downtown, you’ll find one of the best bars in Dubai - Honeycomb Hi-Fi. Founded by Varun Khemaney and Khalil Dahmash, the masterminds behind iconic New York City exports like Miss Lily's and Indochine, this spot is Dubai's first listening bar. An oasis for audiophiles, high-fidelity speakers and insulated ceilings ensure that every note resonates with unparalleled clarity.

Honeycomb Hi-Fi isn't just a haven for music enthusiasts; it's a sensory experience where artisanal cocktails and craft beer harmonize with tunes you might not have encountered before. The izakaya-style menu perfectly complements the ambience, while beverages take on a Japanese twist, with sake playing a prominent role in the symphony of melody-inspired drinks. Venture through the hidden door, and you'll find yourself in a realm where music isn't just heard but felt, making Honeycomb Hi-Fi a unique and captivating addition to Dubai's nightlife scene.

Heralded as the "One to Watch" by the World's 50 Best Bars in 2020 and landing triumphantly at number 45 on the list in 2021 the Galaxy Bar is undoubtedly one of the best bars in Dubai. While it captivates a global audience, in Dubai, it has long been the well-kept secret of the discerning few. It is in a discreet corner of Gate Village within DIFC, drawing inspiration from the cosmos itself.

Stepping into this intimate bar, guests are enveloped in intentional cosiness, a deliberate embrace of exclusivity. The ambience is cloaked in darkness, with the arched marble bar taking centre stage, illuminated like a cosmic spectacle. Here, skilled mixologists orchestrate nightly performances. The room features inky blue seating, and transforms into a celestial haven, as the indigo ceiling decorated with twinkling spotlights, mirrors the allure of a star-studded night sky.

Zuma Dubai's bar, perched atop its DIFC venue, commands attention as the highest-ranked Middle Eastern entry on the World's 50 Best Bars list. Renowned for its culinary prowess, Zuma's bar is a distinct destination, buzzing with activity every night. Inspired by Japanese roots, the cocktail menu is a blend of sophistication and casual charm. Specialist spirits, Zuma Heritage drinks, and a Japanese-infused aperitivo list contribute to an unparalleled drinking experience. The panoramic views from the top floor complement the expertly crafted beverages, creating an immersive ambience.

What sets Zuma apart is not just its ranking but the personalized touch from attentive bartenders. Ready to turn requests into bespoke delights, they elevate the experience. Zuma Dubai's bar isn't just a spot; it's a rendezvous with excellence, where sophistication meets a casual vibe in the heart of Dubai.

Since the inception of 25Hours Hotel One Central at the dawn of 2022, a new wave of cool has swept through the city, anchored by the dynamic Monkey Bar. Originating in Berlin, this rooftop bar derives its name from its German counterpart, overlooking the monkey enclosure at the city's zoo. While Dubai's edition may lack monkeys, it compensates with a stunning view of the Museum of the Future from its jungle-inspired terrace.

Monkey Bar Dubai channels Berlin's underground vibe, particularly evident during themed nights that draw the city's cool crowd to groove to sets from emerging regional DJs. The drinks are a delightful fusion of fun and flavour, with classics receiving a tantalizing twist – a prime example being the Espresso Martini by Martin Hudak, featuring plantation pineapple rum. Here at Monkey Bar, the pulse of Berlin meets the glitzy atmosphere of the city giving rise to one of the best bars in Dubai.

In Dubai's vibrant cocktail scene, Salmon Guru emerges as the mad scientist, captivating patrons with neon lights, surreal serving methods, and whimsical creations. Born in Madrid and brought to life by the visionary Diego Cabrera in 2022, this groundbreaking bar beckons with its avant-garde charm. Resting on the ground floor of The Opus by Omniyat in Business Bay, Salmon Guru is a burst of colour in a cosy setting.

Diego's masterful creations take centre stage, showcased in a menu meticulously divided by flavours – from the sweet and strong to the refreshing, fruity, and sour. The bar's surreal atmosphere is complemented by regularly changing specials, catering to the inquisitive palates of those seeking an ever-evolving adventure in mixology. Salmon Guru is undoubtedly one of the best bars in Dubai, where the boundary between cocktail and art blurs, and each sip is a journey into the extraordinary.

In the world of Dubai's burgeoning speakeasy-style bars, Ly-La emerges as a hidden gem sitting beneath the fine-dine Alaya restaurant. An enchanting staircase whisks patrons from the elegant white-tablecloth ambience to a plush cave adorned with velvet, tasselled Art Deco furnishings. The pièce de résistance? A Bedouin-inspired ruby-red tented ceiling that sets the stage for an intimate and alluring experience.

Ly-La's cocktail menu stands out, paying homage to the Middle East by infusing regional flavours and spices into imaginative concoctions. The dimly lit space is not only a feast for the senses but also a melodic tribute to the region. Local DJs curate the soundtrack, blending house beats with the soulful resonance of Arabic instruments. In the heart of Dubai, Ly-La beckons those in the know to savour a night where mystery meets Middle Eastern allure.

In Jumeirah Al Naseem's Turtle Lagoon, Blind Tiger emerges as the latest player, joining the ranks of culinary heavyweights like Il Borro, Mayabay, and Beefbar. Positioned perfectly for a pre-or post-dinner rendezvous, the ambiance exudes timeless elegance. Velvet armchairs, mirrored ceilings, navy-paneled walls, and an ornate gold bar against the back wall create a luxurious setting.

A haven for aficionados of refined mixology, Blind Tiger's sharply dressed bartenders stand poised to offer recommendations from a menu that unveils a curated fusion of complex flavours and daring concoctions. The space comes alive with the melodious notes of live jazz music, adding a sophisticated layer to the overall experience. Here, in the heart of Turtle Lagoon, Blind Tiger beckons with an invitation to savour exquisite cocktails in an atmosphere where every detail is a testament to the art of elevated indulgence.

Embracing the vibrant culture of 1970s Chinatown in New York City, Electric Pawn Shop stands out as a grungy bar in The H Hotel, a stark departure from Dubai's customary glitz. The brainchild of Lynn Lin, renowned for her stint at the acclaimed Beirut nightspot Electric Bing Sutt, and the celebrated Spanish DJ Lobito Brigante, this joint venture has given birth to one of Dubai's most thrilling underground spots.

In this unassuming haven, the menu offers Asian bar bites, a nod to the fusion of influences that define the space. The beat of global tunes, curated by a regular lineup of DJs, emanates from a metal booth that gradually becomes the focal point as the night unfolds. At the heart of the action, a large square bar commands attention, where bartenders skillfully craft drinks with a pronounced Asian influence. Each concoction comes with its own personality, complemented by a playful one-line quote on the menu. Electric Pawn Shop is more than a bar; it's a rendezvous with an era and a vibe that pulsates with the raw energy of 1970s Chinatown.

In this dazzling city, where every night holds the promise of unforgettable moments, these bars are not only the best bars in Dubai but are portals to unique experiences. Whether you find yourself atop a roof bar, immersed in the chic elegance of hidden gems, or savouring cocktails with a side of cultural flair, Dubai's bar scene is a symphony of flavours and atmospheres.