The Best Bars to Visit in Dubai

With an expatriate population of over 2.7 million people, Dubai attracts people from all over the world. Because of this, its nightlife is particularly vibrant, with something to suit all tastes.

Many bars are upscale and glamorous, and some boast the most incredible views on Earth. Where else can you drink Champagne in the world's tallest building or overlooking a ski slope in the desert?

With new bars opening all the time, it can be difficult to know where the hotspots are. We've profiled Dubai's top bars below for you to find a new favourite.

1. For an unexpected underground vibe – Electric Pawn Shop

This haunt in the H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road is not your typical Dubai bar. It feels like you've been transported to Chinatown, New York on a sultry summer night.

The skilled bartenders mix up a variety of Asian-inspired drinks. And DJs in the metal booth provide a lively soundtrack that takes you from London to Tokyo via Berlin.

Grab a little booth, order some bar bites then enjoy the groove late into the night.

1. For bingo and chill – Garden on 8

If you love online bingo, then you'll adore playing it al fresco on an elevated garden deck. This doesn't feel like a dusty old bar – it's surrounded by towering skyscrapers.

Bingo takes place on Tuesday evenings from 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm. It's free entry and prizes include:

• Brunch
• Hotel stays
• Vouchers

They also do a tasty deal on chicken wings and drinks deals. In fact, it's a great place to come any time of the week for a casual evening.

You'll find it Dubai Media City

1. For Riviera vibes – Bar du Port

When you want to feel like you're on holiday in the south of France, come to this chic spot. The views over Dubai Harbour will entice you from the off.

Booking is required here as it's become popular with a younger crowd.  Leave the flip flops at home, don your elegant attire and strut into the venue like a high roller.

Then just order a glass of rosé and a plate of oysters to share and you'll fit right in.

Bar du Port is located in Dubai Marina.

1. For after dinner drinks – Blind Tiger

Come to Jumeirah Al Naseem's Turtle Lagoon for fine dining, and you'll take any excuse to stay. Your excuse is Blind Tiger.

Aesthetically, this place is gorgeous. The gold bar sunk into the navy panelled walls gives it the feeling of a private member's club.

Behind that bar, an attractive bar tender is waiting to make you the perfect thirst quencher. Order a Himachi or Jun from the Signature menu and enjoy the live jazz playing in the background.

1. For a vibrant night out – Salmon Guru

From the mind of Diego Cabrera, this colourful bar in Business Bay is renowned for its drinks. However, it's not just the amazing creations that are a draw here – every detail is memorable.

Drinks are served in all types of fascinating vessels and you are certain to find a surprise inside. The staff are playful and friendly and no one takes anything too seriously here.

Although everything is top notch, the emphasis is on fun, which you're sure to have.

Find Salmon Guru at The Opus by Omniyat.

1. For after work drinks – Ongaku

If you're working or staying near DIFC, you've probably heard of Ongaku. It used to be a reasonably kept secret, but the word is out.

It's a wonderful spot to drink on the terrace as the views of SZR and downtown are superb. Comfy chairs and creative drinks bring it up another notch on the bar-o-meter.

It's also attached to CLAP-Dubai so if you're craving sushi, it's one of best Japanese restaurants in the area.

1. For ostentatious glamour – Gilt

Gilt is located in the Burj Al Arab, the world's only seven-star hotel. So, it is anything but understated.

The 27^th floor venue offers marvellous views over the city and coast of Dubai. The lights are low, but crystal fairy lights highlight the gold leaf wallpaper.

Nab a private booth, furnished in the softest sapphire velvet for a quiet drink or two. The menu is as striking as the setting, though the flavours are more refined.

For those who come to play, Dubai certainly has plenty to offer. It may not be full of bingo nights, but there are certainly opportunities for lively entertainment.

If you're looking for casual nights with quiz and games, try some of the following areas:

• TECOM
• Dubai Media City
• Barsha
• Palm Shoreline Apartments

There are also a number of McGettigan's bars around the city, with live music and pub grub. These are always good for a night out.

Whatever kind of night you're looking for, Dubai has a bar to match.