Dubai's nightlife is as lively as the rest of the emirate and there are many clubs and bars to choose from. Most nightclubs and bars are located in the vicinity of large hotels, as these establishments have liquor licenses.
The nightlife in Dubai is not unlike what we're used to back home in Sweden - you'll meet locals and tourists alike, you can drink alcohol and the clubs are open until late. But there are a few things to keep in mind.
Good to know about nightlife in Dubai
Thursday and Friday are popular days to go out. Thursday is the last working day of the week and many people are off on Fridays and Saturdays.
Many people go out around 10pm, most nightclubs stay open until 3am and bars close around 1am.
Nightclubs have a dress code for men - no jeans, flip-flops, shorts or too casual attire. There is no dress code for women. In the posh clubs of Jumeirah, it's common for women to wear short dresses, but you should cover up more if you're going out in Deira or Bur Dubai.
Tuesdays are "Ladies Night", many clubs have free entry for women and sometimes even free drinks. Some clubs also have Ladies Night on Saturdays.
World-renowned DJs and artists often play at Dubai clubs and it's not uncommon for admission to be around AED 200, about SEK 500, which sometimes includes a drink.
Some clubs have an age limit of 25, so check in advance what the rules are for the place you want to visit.
Clubs in Dubai
Dubai has a wide range of nightclubs - from elegant and expensive to more relaxed and budget-friendly. Here we list our favourites.
White Dubai
Dubai's biggest nightclub has been named "Nightclub of the Year" by Time Out Dubai for three years running. White Dubai is open during the winter, when the worst of the heat is off, and offers live performances, DJs and thumping music.
Arrive before midnight, or book a table, and dress up to the teeth to increase your chances of getting in.
Address: Meydan Racecourse Grandstand Rooftop, Nad Al Sheba 1
Web: www.whitedubai.com
Cavalli Club
One of the most classic of Dubai's clubs. The Cavalli Club was here even before Dubai's party scene took off.
The low-hanging chandeliers add to the elegant atmosphere and the staff can even set up a dinner table in the middle of the dance floor if you wish. And yes, designer Roberto Cavalli has been involved in the launch of the club.
Address: Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
Web: dubai.cavalliclub.com
Barasti Beach
Unlike many clubs in Dubai, Barasti Beach has neither a strict dress code nor an expensive price tag on food and drinks.
Old and young, tourists and locals gather to dance barefoot in the sand on the beach to the tunes of old classics and new hits alike.
Address: Le Meridien Mina Syahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Marina
Web: www.barastibeach.com
Boudoir Club
At Club Boudoir, you can party Lebanese style amidst well-dressed people and grand decor. The nightclub has ladies night several days a week when they offer women champagne until midnight. The doormen give priority to dressed-up people and couples.
Address: Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeirah Rd
Web: clubboudoirdubai.com
Sensation Club
At the popular Sensation Club, you'll experience a classic nightclub vibe with great dance music and neon lights. The nightclub is open every day except Sunday and has different theme nights every day. Persian night, Bollywood, R&B, reggaeton, Latino - Sensation Club has it all.
Address: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Rd
Web: www.sensationclub.com
Bars in Dubai
Maybe you're not the nightclub type who stands on a table and sprays champagne until dawn? No problem, besides clubs there are plenty of bars in Dubai too. Nice places where you can sit back and sip a drink.
El Chiringuito
The atmosphere is reminiscent of a tropical island and El Chiringuito is actually located on a palm tree - at one end of The Palm Jumeirah.
The sunbeds, pool and beach really bring out the holiday spirit. Forget your worries and enjoy total relaxation.
Address: Rixos The Palm
Web: thepalmdubai.rixos.com/El-Chiringuito
Jetty Lounge
The beachfront Jetty Lounge is located at the One & Only Royal Mirage and has both an outdoor and indoor section. Comfortable sofas, beanbags, palm trees and cosy lighting make the atmosphere relaxed.
Arrive before sunset to really enjoy the surroundings, the meze and the drinks - the Jetty Lounge is popular and fills up quickly.
Address: One&Only Royal Mirage, Jumeirah Beach Al Sufouh Road
Web: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/jetty-lounge
Stereo Arcade
This unique combination of club, pub and arcade is like no other. There are old arcade games like Pacman and Street Fighter to pass the time before moving on to either the club section or the rock bar.
Sip sweet drinks, chug beers or eat fast food to 80s music blaring from the speakers.
Address: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Jumeirah Beach Residence
Web: www.facebook.com/StereoArcade
