In Dubai, the nightlife scene is energetic, and the dining options are plentiful. But when you're after a little bit of both, lounges step in as the perfect choice. These spots, scattered throughout the city, offer a refined setting coupled with lively vibes that create an atmosphere perfect for unwinding and socialising.
The 10 Best Lounges in Dubai
In this guide, we have curated a collection of the best lounges in Dubai that are ideal for a night out with friends or a romantic date. Explore refined establishments that capture the essence of Dubai's social scene, inviting you to a memorable night.
1. Mercury Lounge
Perched atop the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Mercury Lounge showcases stunning views of both the Burj Khalifa and the Arabian Gulf, earning its reputation as one of Dubai's top rooftop bars and lounges. Guests are offered seasonal dishes ideal for sharing and hand-crafted signature cocktails, beneath the starlit Dubai sky. They also offer exclusive majlises available for VIPs and private dining. Mercury Lounge brings guests an elevated social dining experience, featuring a combination of Mediterranean flavours, a temari sushi selection, and a fine selection of wine, beer, and shisha. This coupled with South of France-inspired interiors make it one of the best lounges in Dubai for unforgettable after-dark revelry.
2. Zuma
Zuma Dubai stands out among its global counterparts, celebrated for its exceptional cocktails and service. The modern Japanese izakaya offers versatile seating options, including a main dining area, informal lounge, sushi and robata counters, and a square bar where guests can witness expert shaking and mixing. The drink menu, divided into categories like Nomikai and Zuma Heritage, showcases a blend of Japanese-inspired and classic cocktails crafted with premium spirits. Since its establishment in Dubai's DIFC in 2009, Zuma has garnered widespread acclaim, consistently earning recognition among the 50 Best Bars in the World and the 50 Best Restaurants in the World.
3. The Penthouse Dubai
The Penthouse Dubai is an ultra-stylish lounge and nightclub that is a favourite among Dubai's residents and tourists. The venue is positioned on the 16th floor of the FIVE Palm Jumeirah with indoor and outdoor spaces that frame panoramic views of the private beach and the Dubai Marina skyline. The venue is the perfect setting for dining, drinking, and dancing, winning multiple awards for its exceptional menus and events. Guests can savour contemporary Japanese cuisine paired with creative cocktails while enjoying live music from top local and international DJs. The Penthouse is not only a place for an unforgettable night but also turns into a laid-back café-style experience during the day offering some of the best brunch in town. As night falls, the terrace lounge comes alive and is one of the best spots in Dubai to experience sunset in style.
4. Clap, DIFC
Despite the city's abundance of sushi and robatayaki options, Clap stands out as a chic and modern venue with a buzzing atmosphere. Since its opening, this Beirut-born restaurant and lounge has become a social hotspot, drawing in crowds with its vibrant interiors, attentive service, and lively ambience. Clap is also one of the few rooftop restaurants and lounges in DIFC, offering stunning city views. The venue integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, comprising a restaurant, terrace, bar, and lounge. Its interiors have been thoughtfully designed featuring bold elements like a show-stopping chandelier made from action figures and a central bar adorned with beloved video game and anime characters. This combination of quirky design elements and natural materials creates an inviting atmosphere, making Clap the perfect spot to enjoy great food, drinks, and socialising.
5. Q’s Bar and Lounge
Q’s Bar and Lounge is legendary producer and songwriter Quincy Jones's venture into Dubai's nightlife scene. It has often been referred to as one of the best live music bars in Dubai and presents curated performances by emerging artists, handpicked by the legend himself. This jazz bar features an intimate setting graced with Versace-designed furnishings and impeccable acoustics. Guests can enjoy fine cigars, delectable bar bites, and a beverage selection inspired by Quincy Jones' iconic achievements. The lounge located in Palazzo Versace Dubai is the perfect late-night retreat for an unforgettable experience.
6. Garden of Dream
If you are looking for that perfect lounge experience with unmatched views of Ain Dubai and the Arabian Gulf, Garden of Dream is a boutique spot that is worth trying out. It provides a tranquil escape from city life, inviting guests to enjoy natural, fresh cocktails amidst a sophisticated yet playful ambience. The venue is perfect for private events, offering Mediterranean bites, rich cocktails, and top-quality Hookah. Situated at Address Beach Resort hotel, it exudes a St. Tropez beach club vibe, promising a non-pretentious yet upscale experience. It serves as the ideal spot for stylish sundowners or nightcaps with its lush greenery and panoramic views of the sea.
7. Blind Tiger
Embracing the allure of a bygone era, Blind Tiger at Dubai's Jumeirah Al Naseem invites patrons with its enigmatic charm and exquisite offerings. Situated beside the Turtle Lagoon, its discreet entrance adds an air of mystery reminiscent of Prohibition-era speakeasies that this venue draws inspiration from. Inside, guests are greeted by a sophisticated ambience with bronze and gold accents and an open-air terrace showcasing scenic views. Guests are treated to a curated experience where handcrafted cocktails, live jazz tunes, and impeccable service converge to provide a classy experience. Despite its upscale vibe, Blind Tiger maintains a welcoming atmosphere, inviting guests to relish the vibes amidst art deco-inspired decor and vintage touches.
8. Luna Dubai
Luna Dubai brings a seductive vibe to the busy Dubai skyline, offering a unique experience with Asian-inspired food, fancy drinks, and an energetic atmosphere. Designed by the renowned architect Adam Tihany, Luna's allure showcases a bar with a mesmerising moon installation suspended above it, casting a spellbinding glow over the venue. Located on the 8th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, Luna Sky Bar offers a sophisticated rooftop retreat with panoramic views of the city skyline, including the Burj Khalifa. With its stylish interior lounge, outdoor terrace, and celestial-themed cocktails, Luna Sky Bar promises a distinctive experience for its guests seeking a memorable night out.
9. Above Eleven
Above Eleven in Dubai brings the exquisite flavours of its Bangkok counterpart to the city, offering sweeping views of Palm West Beach and the Dubai Marina skyline. With an indoor lounge, sushi area, and expansive terrace, guests can enjoy exquisite Asian food while taking in the sweeping views and the chic ambience. The interior has a jungle vibe, sporting lush foliage, and Mesoamerican motifs, setting it apart from typical rooftop bars. Head chef Luis Gavancho's Nikkei brings Peruvian and Japanese influences, with his innovative dishes. Here guests can enjoy delectable food and curated beverages, ensuring an amazing experience heightened by the scenic setting and sophisticated charm that Above Eleven offers.
10. Jass Lounge
Jass Lounge is a hidden gem in the corner of the Gate 2 district in DIFC, exuding an effortlessly elegant ambience and hosting exceptional jazz performances. It is one of the best live music venues in the city and is everything one would expect from a jazz lounge. The lounge presents a dimly lit, sultry atmosphere, with a phenomenal hand-painted Renaissance-style ceiling mural. All tables face the band area, providing an intimate setting to enjoy the talented musicians gracing the stage. It's not uncommon for fellow musicians to join in, enhancing the eclectic vibe of the place. Visitors can savour expertly crafted cocktails while tapping along to the rhythm and enjoy a night of classic tunes and entertainment.
With upscale rooftop escapes offering panoramic views and intimate urban retreats, these venues cater to every taste and mood. From savouring a cocktail with friends or enjoying a romantic evening, Dubai's lounges set the stage for an amazing time. Next time you find yourself craving a night out in the city, consider experiencing the chic and contemporary atmospheres of one of these spots.
