Looking down on the world is hardly a new experience in Dubai. But at The H Hotel you’ll soon be able to do it from outside as 40Kong, the highest contemporary open-air rooftop cocktail lounge and restaurant in the Emirate opens its doors.

Situated on the 40th floor at One Sheikh Zayed Road, the new hotspot claims to take guests on a ‘an audio journey from sunset to the early hours’, catering for everyone from post-work drinkers to late-night revellers. Food with an international theme will also be served.

“We envisioned a venue where Dubai’s elegant crowds can meet to take in the spectacular views of this cosmopolitan city,” Philippe d’Amat, General Manager of the lounge explains. “We then made that a reality on the highest rooftop there is. 40Kong was born out of the idea to create something new, through everything from its signature drinks and food to the design of the space and interiors – and the end result is a space unique not only in location but in what we are adding to the Dubai scene.”

In a statement announcing the opening, 40Kong says: “With options of low lounge seating to capture the sunset or sat up high at the bar to gain uninterrupted access to the stunning views, all whilst listening to the smooth tunes or live sounds of 40Kong, this urban space will not fail to impress.”

Accessed by an exclusive panoramic glass elevator, the experience of 40Kong starts from the moment you arrive at The H Hotel. 

The official date of launch is yet to be announced, but it is expected to be by the end of January.

40Kong, Floor 40 The H Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (05) 0297 2097. Metro: World Trade Centre. Taxi: The H Hotel. 5pm–3am, Sunday–Saturday. facebook.com/40kong

FIVE MORE SKY HIGH BARS IN DUBAI 

Q43, Media One HotelQ43
The fact that What’s On HQ is in the same building as Q43 instantly gives it some clout, but the 360 degree views of the Palm, Marina and Burj Al Arab, make it Media City’s new hotspot.
Media One Hotel, Media City, Dubai, opening hours to be announced. Tel: (04) 4271000. Metro: Nakheel. mediaonehotel.com

Estrellas at MeliaESTRELLAS
Delicious gazpacho, Manchego cheese bites and yellowfin tuna cones are among the tapas treats at Melia Dubai’s new rooftop bar. The mojitos and sangria go down nicely too. Sink into a poolside beanbag and take in the great city view.
Melia Dubai, 23 Kuwait Street, Port Rashid, Dubai. Tel: (04) 386 8111. Taxi: Kuwait Street.  7pm to 12am. melia.com

Neos, The Address Hotel, Downtown DubaiNEOS
The Dubai Fountains are pretty impressive from the ground level, but hoist yourself up 63 floors and they become mind-blowing. The view of the Burj Khalifa isn’t half bad either. You’ll have to take two lifts to reach it, but once you do, the twinkling city views and art deco-inspired interiors will ensure you stay for more than just the one.
The Address Downtown, Dubai, daily 6pm to 2.30am. Tel: (04) 4368888. Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall. theaddress.com 

People by Crystal at Raffles HotelPEOPLE BY CRYSTAL
Drink in the 360-degree view at this glitzy bar and club on the 17th floor of Raffle’s in Wafi City – which, for those who are new to town, is Dubai’s take on ancient Egypt. Think imposing pyramids, gold pillars and giant pharaoh statues, complete with a host of five-star restaurants, bars and a sprawling mall. It’s Disneyland for adults and well worth a trip.
Raffles Hotel, Wafi City, Dubai. Tel: (050) 2972097. Taxi: Wafi. 11pm to 3am. peopleofdubai.com

Eclipse Bar, Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival CityECLIPSE
The décor might be a tad ’80s for our taste, but the views are some of the best the city has to offer. Overlooking Dubai’s creek and beyond, this upmarket spot, set on the 26th floor, offers gourmet bar snacks and perfectly mixed cocktails. If you’re feeling flush, opt for a glass of something sparkly.
Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City, Dubai. Tel: (04) 7011111. Metro: Emirates Station. 6pm to 2am. Ihg.com