Because if there’s a Donald Duck Day and a chilli hot dog day, Friendship Day can definitely be a thing, right?

We rarely need a reason to celebrate, so when we heard that today is International Friendship Day we swiftly decided it required a fiesta.

Here, it’s very common for your Dubai friends to become your Dubai family. You bond over homesickness, your complete inability to dress for the summer weather (how can it be so hot AND so cold), and that time at that brunch.

So round up your mates and head to one of these friend-friendly spots…

1. McGettigans DWTC

The happiest hours are spent with friends, and to celebrate International Friendship Day today, McGettigans DWTC are offering an all-day happy hour. Right until closing, enjoy selected beverage from Dhs29. Just on the edge of Sheikh Zayed Road and DIFC, this spot is conveniently located for a swift pint after work.

Perfect for: Drinks with your work mates

Dubai World Trade Center, Dubai, Daily 12pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 378 0800. More info on website

2. W Lounge

A chic 30th floor lounge is the setting for the W Hotel’s ladies’ night, Social Sundays. Enjoy stunning views across the Dubai Canal and beyond, commercial pop beats from their resident DJ plus three free drinks for the girls from 8pm. If you’re coming a little earlier, be sure to grab a spot by the window and take in the Arabian sunset with two-for-one happy hour drinks.

Perfect for: Sunset cocktails with the girls on Sundays

30th Floor, W Hotel, Al Habtoor City, Daily 12pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 436 6666. More info on website.

3. Mr. Miyagi’s

This brand new Asian street food joint is a kitsch addition to Dubai’s casual dining scene. Complete with beer pong, sandcastle bucket cocktails and a menu of snackable street food designed to be shared, this is a great day-to-night watering hole for gathering all your mates together.

Perfect for: Sunday Funday with your extended group of pals

9th Floor, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Daily 12pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 420 7489. More info on website

4. Folly by Nick & Scott

There’s a new weekday dinner deal at this idyllic Madinat Jumeirah restaurant that’s perfect for sharing. Every Sunday to Thursday from 7pm to 9pm sample 400g of Australian grass-fed rib eye of beef, with hand cut chips, béarnaise sauce, button mushroom compote and vine tomato chutney and a bottle of wine for Dhs350 per pair.

Perfect for: Dinner with your best friend

Madinat Jumeirah, Daily 5pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 430 8535. More info on website

5. Lucky Voice

There’s never a dull day at this Karaoke hot spot, and Sunday is no exception with Rebel Rebel industry night. There’s a 2 for 1 happy hour until midnight, and the Jukebox band keep the party mood ramped up until the early hours. Or you can rent a private karaoke booth, because what better way to celebrate friendship than through song?

Perfect for: Big groups in the mood to party

6th Floor, Grand Millenium, Tecom, daily 2pm to 3am. Tel: 800-58259. More info on website

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