Taj Dubai’s Treehouse. Credit: Taj Dubai
If you love modern architecture and dizzying heights, Dubai promises to keep you as entertained as a child in Disneyland. Even locals confess to finding the larger-than-life buildings and the accompanying views awe-inspiring.
What better way to experience the skyscraper-studded skyline than by sipping cool cocktails from a rooftop bar while watching the sun go down on the City of Gold? These are some of the most scenic spots around the UAE’s mesmerizing metropolis for a sundowner.
Treehouse
Get up close to the Burj Khalifa and admire its perfect lines from the sanctuary-like rooftop lounge of the Four-Star Taj Dubai. Unwind with craft cocktails amid Renaissance décor and comfortable furnishings in the lush, green space that transports you away from the bustling city life below.
From the herb-infused cocktails and shisha to the Mediterranean-Asian-inspired food, there’s certainly something for everyone at this laidback lair.
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Iris Dubai
Perched on the 27th floor of Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Oberoi, Dubai, this trendy bar is one of the hottest nightspots in the city thanks to its lively ambiance, contemporary art collection and fantastic skyline views.
The sleek décor, edgy vibe and live music (two nights a week) make this a great place to enjoy a sundowner or welcome in the weekend.
You’ll be spoiled for choice with an extensive drink menu featuring creative cocktails expertly crafted by the bar’s mixologists. Try the Vaso de Oro for a refreshing blend of rum, fresh plums and honey.
In addition to the well-rounded beverage — don’t miss the selection of sakes — and cigar menus, you’ll also encounter an array of bar bites, including sushi, tacos, salads and flavorful mains such as artichoke risotto.
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Skyview Bar
For the ultimate Dubai-style luxury experience, glam up and head to the 27th floor of the iconic Five-Star Burj Al Arab Jumeirah to for libations and unparalleled looks onto the coastline and towering cityscape.
Sample signature tipples such as the Itzy Milo (rum, lemon and pineapple juices; kaffir lime leaves; and passion fruit syrup) and nibble on tapas like Royal Balik smoked salmon.
The vibe is just right for intimate conversation. Try to arrive a little before sunset so you can soak up the city and the blue of the Arabian Sea, and stay after to see how it all looks up when lit up under the night sky.
Don’t forget to dress smartly; after all, this is one of the most opulent hotels in Dubai.
Dawn & Dusk
Sit back and relax with drinks, grilled goodies and lounge music at this casual poolside bar on the 54th floor of Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai. Take in the skyscraper-filled vistas over Sheikh Zayed Road while noshing on international fare — think lamb chops, Vietnamese shrimp noodle salad and a tandoori chicken wrap — or savoring a variety of shisha.
In addition to a classic cocktail menu, the scenic venue also serves a selection of fresh smoothies and mocktails.
Or, if you’ve had a night on the town elsewhere, stop by Dawn & Dusk for a golden morning view — the spot opens at 9 a.m. — and a Recharge, a refreshing blend of lemonade with watermelon, peach and grapefruit juices.
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Koubba Bar
Though not technically a rooftop bar, the terrace lounge of Four-Star Jumeirah Al Qasr deserves an honorable mention for its breathtaking sunset views over the romantic canals of Madinat Jumeirah and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab.
Pair the picture-perfect vistas with one of 15 gin and tonic variations or another cocktail, such as the Lotus Dragon (vodka with lychee and orange juices) or the French Passion (gin, passion fruit liqueur and prosecco).
A selection of Asian favorites, like the spicy dynamite shrimp or the fragrant chicken pandan, ensures that you won’t go hungry.
With its plush lounge ambience and Old World, arabesque glamour, Koubba Bar is wonderful for an evening of conversation, laughs with friends or a date with that special someone.
