Here's where to watch the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Dubai
The year’s biggest sporting tournament is here and it’s time to pick your perch…
World Cup mania has reached fever pitch in Dubai, as evidenced by the mammoth list of venues we’ve compiled that are not only showing every single game live from Russia, but throwing some pretty cracking F&B deals into the bargain.
So, whether you want to soak up the frenzied atmosphere of a mega fan zone, relax in the cool climes of a football-themed cinema, or just hit up your local with some mates, there are plenty enough options that you won’t miss out on any of the action.
The fun (and inevitable frustration) all kicks off at 7pm on Thursday, June 14. Better pick your perch now, then…
Partners
The 44
Outside of being at the stadium itself, a classic sports bar is high on the ranking for the perfect place to catch every game of the tournament. The 44, at The Westin Al Habtoor City, offers up the proper atmosphere to immerse yourself in all the drama of the beautiful game as its broadcast live on 11 screens for an uncompromised view of all the action. There are also plenty of F&B deals to keep you happy during the tournament including, buy two get one free during matches, Dhs175 for a bucket of 5 hops, and a 30-minute shot clock for more adventurous sorts. Plus you can enter competitions to win awesome staycation and brunch deals.
The 44, Al Habtoor City, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 4581 1758. the44dubai.com
DOME
Not only will this cracking nightclub located at The Westin in Al Habtoor City be screening every single match of the tournament as it happens on a huge screen, but it will also be holding post-game after parties every Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday night. That means you can live it large if your team secures a victory, or forget the loss if fortune isn’t on your side. Either way, it’s going to be a party, especially thanks to a lineup of excellent F&B deals including buy two get one drinks during matches, a beer and a hot dog for Dhs65, and daily Happy Hours until 6pm.
Dome, The Westin, Al Habtoor City, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 6992 6774. domeclubdubai.com
XL Dubai
If you’re looking for a little luxury with your footie, then XL Dubai has your covered. The 400 pax fully-air conditioned club will be showing every game of the tournament on two massive screens, with an additional six plasma tellys dotted about the venue. International and local DJs will be spinning for all the big games, and you can expect drinks deals on buckets of hops, as well as a special World Cup-friendly menu.
XL Dubai, Habtoor Grand, Dubai Marina, daily June 14 to July 15, Dhs70 plus 2 drinks, Dhs100 plus 3 drinks. Tel: (04) 454 2927. xldubai.com
Al Forsan Lounge
The desert-bound Bab Al Shams hotel is certainly one of the most unique places to catch the World Cup in Dubai. Its excellent Al Forsan restaurant is cranking up the footie fever, too, offering 30 percent off on dual happy hours between 6pm to 7pm and 9pm to 10pm, with a tournament-themed menu starting at just Dhs25.
Al Forsan Lounge, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Al Qurda Road, opposite Endurance City, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 809 6100. babalshams.com
Aloft Me’aisam
If you work out in Production City and want to catch a game after office hours, then the Aloft Me’aisam is your best bet. They’re running food and drink promotions for the entirety of the tournament including a special main course (and a pint of hops) for Dhs89, or a nacho platter and a drink from Dhs59. There’s a minimum spend of Dhs100, however, so you can top it off with pool access for an additional Dhs49.
Aloft Me’aisam, Production City, daily June 14 – July 15, Dhs100 min per person. Tel: (04) 248 7070 aloftmeaisamdubai.com
Ambar
Jumeirah Al Naseem’s rooftop bar is great for those who want to watch all the action in an intimate venue with friends. The games take over five screens at the bar, with tasty food options like chickpea falafel, crispy fried calamari and chicken shawarma wraps to tuck into.
Ambar, Jumeirah Al Naseem, Madinat Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 432 3232. jumeirah.com
Armani Hotel Dubai
Armani Hotel Dubai, Downtown Dubai, daily 14 June to 15 July, Dhs100 minimum spend per game per person. Tel: (04) 888 3666. armanihotels.com
Atelier M
Pier 7 hotspot Atelier M in Dubai Marina is transforming its lounge into the ultimate World Cup fan zone. Take advantage of special food and beverage packages starting at just Dhs136 and participate in competitions in daily competitions to win jerseys from al the teams participating in the tournament.
Atelier M, Pier 7, Dubai Marina, daily 6pm to 3am, 14 June to 15 July. Tel: (04) 450 7766. atelierm.ae
Atlantis
Atlantis is going big for the World Cup this year with a massive tent that can hold a whopping 2,000 fans in what it’s calling the Atlantis World Cup Fan Zone. From the tournament kick-off until the last whistle blows at the final, you can experience every goal, tackle and dodgy referee call on a giant 28 square metre screen as it happens, live from Russia. Hardcore fans can hang out in “The Stadium” to immerse themselves in the action, while “The Beach” area offers a more chilled-out vibe complete with a gaming corner. Stadium-style snacks, hops buckets and drinks specials will be available, with a minimum Dhs100 spend for guys (including two drinks), while ladies get in free.
Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, daily 14 June to 15 July, Dhs100 for guys, free for ladies. Tel: (04) 426 1000 atlantisthepalm.com
Barasti
The Barasti Superdome is back. Spread across two massive levels at Dubai’s most popular beachside bar, the city’s most ambitious football venue can accommodate up to 8,000 punters per game and will feature two ‘Fan Zones’ – a purpose-built dome on the beach, as well as an air-conditioned middle deck. If you’re looking to party with like-minded football fanatics, then it won’t likely get much rowdier than here.
Barasti Beach, Le Meridien Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, daily June 14 – July 15, free entry. Tel:(04) 318 1313 barastibeach.com
Belgian Beer Cafe
Want to cheer on Belgium down by the water at Festival City? Then the Belgian Beer Cafe has a great World Cup offer on: you get a loaded burger, hot dog, corn dog, chicken wings and two house beverages for Dhs220. That should about load you up with the requisite team spirit.
Belgian Beer Cafe, Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 701 1111. intercontinental.com
The Belgian Cafe
Whether you support Belgium, or just want to enjoy the tournament in the picturesque setting of the Madinat Jumeirah, the Belgian Cafe makes a strong case for your support. Firstly, they’re kicking off the cup with a party on Thursday June 14 with two kegs of hops, completely free. If that’s not enough, for the rest of the night you can enjoy 50-per cent discount on all specialty Belgian hops. Then it’s Dhs25 for selected bottles throughout the tournament, and for every Belgium game, the bar will open up another complimentary keg after the game.
The Belgian Cafe, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, daily June 14 – July 15. Tel (04) 447 0227 belgianbeercafejumeirah.com
Bidi Bondi
This beachside bar on the Palm Jumeirah has some cracking promotions running throughout the tournament. Season ticket packages for Dhs155 per person, giving footie fans deals on either five or four drinks and a meal from the à la carte menu. With every season ticket purchased, sport-lovers will automatically be entered into a draw to win Dhs10,000 worth of travel vouchers. Score!
Bidi Bondi, Clubhouse Al Manhal, Shoreline Apartments, Palm Jumeirah, daily from 10am, 15 June to 15 July. Tel (04) 427 0515.
Biggles
Biggles, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, Garhoud, daily 12pm to 2am, 14 June to 15 July. Tel: (04) 702 8888. millenniumhotels.com
BLASSA
This colourful and comfortable City Walk lounge is offering themed packages based on what country is playing. Think tapas and sangria for Spain, cheese and wine for France, or a selection of Arabic mezze for Egypt. Packages start at Dhs99, with a la carte options also available.
BLASSA, La Ville Hotel & Suites, City Walk, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 4309 5948. autographhotels.com
Breeze Beach Grill
If you love the vibe of Club Vista Mare on the Palm, then head down to Breeze Beach Grill where a dedicated fan zone and big screen await you. There’s also a live DJ, quiz competitions, pool table tournaments and football-themed prizes awith special deals starting from Dhs140 on food and drink packaged.
Breeze Beach Grill, Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 14. Tel: (04) 568 3000.
Bridgewater Tavern
Brothaus Cafe & Bakery
Ok, Germany fans, this one’s for you. Der Brothaus Sommergarten is the place to catch Die Mannschaft pave their way to World Cup victory while you indulge in a selection of proper German beverages and bites. Should the German national side fail to deliver, the covered air-conditioned terrace will still be an excellent spot for fans of other teams to enjoy the rest of the tournament.
Brothaus Cafe & Bakery, Steigenberger, Downtown Dubai, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 369 0000. steigenberger.com
Burger & Lobster
DIFC’s Burger & Lobster are kicking off football season with a champion offering: Dhs195 will net you a ‘World Cup Package’ that includes crispy Panko popcorn, two mini burgers, a mini shrimp roll and delicious truffle fries, all of which you can wash down with two bottle of hops. How’s that for footie value?
Burger & Lobster, Burj Daman Building, DIFC, Sat to Wed 12pm to 12am, Thur and Fri 12pm to 2am, 14 June to 14 July (during matches). burgerandlobster.com
Capital Club Dubai
Dubai’s leading private Members’ Club is opening its doors for the first time to DIFC Card Holders during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. If you’ve got one of the aforementioned coveted cards, you’ll get access to the Capital Club’s Private Members Bar, where all the matches will be streamed live. There are also great F&B deals like buckets of hops and wings for just Dhs99, and a two-for-one menu of signature dishes and house pours. Reservation is essential – what else did you expect from one of the most exclusive venues in town?
Capital Club Dubai, Building 3, Gate Village, DIFC, daily June 14 to July 15, free with DIFC card and reservation. Tel: (04) 363 0111. capitalclubdubai.com
Cave
Cave at the Conrad hotel is offering a private viewing experience for you and your mates, appropriately named the ‘Man Cave’ For Dhs225 per person, you can watch key matches in your own private room kitted out with an 84-inch screen and unlimited beverages and bar bites. They’ll also be hold daily happy hours and food offers, and broadcasting matches in the main bar.
Cave, Conrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 444 7111.
The Courtyard
Crossroads
Want to watch your favourite team surrounded in some Dubai-style opulence? Then this chic cocktail bar at the Raffles hotel is just the ticket. All games will be screened live from russian and they have a rather lavish deal for six beers and three food choices from their extensive snack menu for Dhs299 per person.
Crossroads Cocktail Bar & Terrace, Raffles, Dubai Healthcare City, daily 14 June to 15 July. Tel (04) 324 8888. raffles.com
The Dubliners
Garhoud’s other favourite Irish pub will be broadcasting all the World Cup action live, complete with some excellent deals. All beverages will be just Dhs30 during games, and you can nab a bucket of five hops for only Dhs150. And whether your team wins or loses, there’ll still be reason to celebrate thanks to BOGO deals for 30 minutes after every match.
The Dubliners, Warehouse, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 217 000. thedubliners-dubai.com
The Dome
The Last Stand Football Fan Park has set up shop for the entirety of the tournament in The Dome at Dubai Sports City, for the ultimate is stadium-rivalling atmosphere. Tickets start at Dhs120 per match including Dhs100 in F&B vouchers from the various outlets scattered around the park. There’s a family-friendly, non-smoking area if you want to bring the kiddos, and group packages available for those wanting to marathon up to three games on the same day.
The Last Stand Football Fan Park, The Dome, Dubai Sports City, daily June 14 to July 15, from Dhs120 per match. Tel: (05) 4778 8842. laststanddubai.com
Drai’s
Meydan’s other posh nightclub, Drai’s, is getting a World Cup revamp with daily games and activations as it screens matches throughout the tournament. You’ll be able to enjoy all the action in an air-conditioned venue replete with lounges, jacuzzis and a pool, amongst some of the swankiest clientele the city has to offer.
Drai’s DXB, Meydan, Nad Al Sheba, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 2388 8857. draisdxb.com
Eloquent Elephant
The lively, yet laid-back atmosphere at this Downtown watering hole is a perfect setting to cheer your team on to football glory. Throughout the month, fans can enjoy a choice of EE’s classic Fish ‘n’ Chips or a curry accompanied by a pint of hops for just Dhs119. Prefer a burger or a nacho platter? That’ll be only Dhs99 and comes with two pints of hops all through the tournament.
Eloquent Elephant, Taj Dubai, Downtown Dubai, daily June 14 to June 15. Tel: (04) 438 3100. tajhotels.com
The Els Club
Sports fans have two options when hitting up this swanky Sports City golf club. Catch all the action, either on the air-conditioned terrace or indoors, at 261 bar, or gather your friends for a more private viewing at The Big Easy’s Overlook Lounge. Deals include buckets of hops from Dhs99 at 261, to all inclusive packages during the final tournament stages with selected beverages and game-day snacks.
The Els Club, Dubai Sports City, 6am to 11.30pm, June 14 to July 15, from Dhs125. Tel:(04) 425 1000 elsclubdubai.com
Emirates Golf Club
The greens of the Emirates Golf Club are transforming into Football Central for the duration of the World Cup. If you’re not hopping on a plane to Russia, then you’ll want to catch all the action from this purpose-built two-storey lounge with one giant and 12 extra-large screens. Snack platters including eight beverage vouchers start at Dhs474, while teams of 10 can feast on two snack platters with 20 beverage vouchers.
Football Central, Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills, daily 14 June to 15 July. Tel: (04) 417 9999. dubaigolf.com
Fairmont The Palm
The lavish Fairmont hotel on the Palm is hosting its own dedicated World Cup tent with all the trimmings. Fully air-conditioned with a stocked beverages and bites menu, there’s a giant screen centre stage with multiple TVs dotted about so you never miss any action. Themed to perfection, expect referee-dressed bartenders, and special offers on food and beverages all night.
Palm Courtyard, Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15, Dhs 95 per person. Tel: (04) 457 3457 fairmont.com
Garden On 8
If you’re an England supporter then heading down to Garden On 8 makes all the sense in the world. Why? Because they will be exclusively spotlighting every England game (plus the Saudi Arabia vs Russia opener) throughout the tournament, so you can be certain of being surrounded by other The Three Lions faithful. Don’t worry, even if Gareth and the lads don’t make it to the second round, you’ll still be able to catch the final stages of the cup and enjoy deals on drinks and nosh.
Garden on 8, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Thur June 14, Mon June 18, Sun June 24, Thurs June 28 (plus later tournament stages). Tables from Dhs1,500. Tel: (04) 427 1000. mediaonehotel.com
Girders Garden
Kick off and enjoy some lively bants with your mates on a 103-inch screen and six 42-inch TVs around this popular JBR sports bar. There’s a special football-themed menu and happy hours running during the games, with a mini football tournament area and brunch vouchers to be awarded to the best-dressed fans.
Girders Garden, JA Ocean View Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Residences, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 814 5590. jaresortshotels.com
The Huddle Sports Bar & Grill – Al Barsha
The Huddle Sports Bar & Grill – Bur Dubai
HQ’s 459
Want to enjoy a hearty breakfast with your football? At this La Mer outlet, the most important meal of the day takes centre stage, with a tasty spread of fresh and healthy treats. Football fans can enjoy free-flowing snacks when ordering any beverage throughout the tournament.
HQ’s 459, La Mer South, La Mer, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 345 9000. lamerdubai.com
The Irish Village
JB’s Gastropub
You won’t miss a moment of the action at JBR’s Gastropub thanks to seven strategically-placed screens that are always visible from anywhere in the venue. This JBR restaurant will be holding special food and drink promotions by the bottle and bucket as well as offering a 25 percent cashback redeemable during the month.
JB’s Gastropub, Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach Residence, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel (04) 434 3666. rotana.com
Jebel Ali Recreation Club
The Clubhouse at JARC is airing matches on a big screen with its own fan zone complete with games and quizzes where fans can test their knowledge and win on-the-spot prizes. You also can tuck into an F&B selection with dinner and drink deals from Dhs75 and plenty of BOGO offers throughout the tournament.
The Clubhouse, Jebel Ali Recreation Club, Jebel Ali, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 459 5100
Jekyll & Hyde
Your favourite DIFC local has been closed for a summer break, but now it’s back and bringing some cracking World Cup cheer with it. All the games will be beamed live from Russia, with BOGO deals on drinks happening all day, every day. Fancy lifting some of your own silverware? You can scoff down some proper pub grub for three bar bites for just Dhs99 – again, all day, every day.
Jekyll & Hyde, Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 343 5518. jekyllandhydedubai.com
Kickers
This Sports City sports bar has some cracking F&B deals on during the World Cup, including buckets of six brews for Dhs150, and 50 per cent off on happy hour from 12pm to 7pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 1pm to 7pm from Sunday to Wednesday. Plus, they’ve installed a massive new 4 metre LED screen on the terrace especially for the tournament.
Kickers, Football Academy Building, Dubai Sports City, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 488 1001. kickerssportsbar.ae
La Baie
Lakeview
Providing the ideal viewing location with multiple LED screens dotted through the venue, plus a massive 90-inch screen streaming all the action live from Russia. Football fans can tuck into a succulent burger, washed down by a bottle of hops for just Dhs90, or opt for two bottles of hops for Dhs50.
Lakeview, Dubai Creek & Yacht Club, Deira, daily 6.30am to 2am, 14 June to 15 July. Tel: (04) 295 6000. dubaigolf.com
Le Petit Belge
The quintessentially Belgian pub has a strong squad of food and bevvie options at both its JLT and newly opened Motor City outlets. Selected hops will be just Dhs30 throughout World Cup games, with buckets of five hops and five mini hotdogs a great sharing option at Dhs250. Only a fancy a snack between halves? Then you can grab a portion of Smothered Fries for a steal at only Dhs25.
Le Petit Belge, Pullman Hotel, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 242 7794 lepetitbelge.com
Le Petit Belge, Park Inn by Radisson, Motor City, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 242 7794 lepetitbelge.com
Links
The Lion by Nick & Scott
The newly rebranded British pub will be running a host of World Cup offers including hops buckets and G&T barrels from Dhs150 and the classic burger and a pint combo for Dhs99. The team at The Lion have also created a special world cup drink called ‘The Ice Russian Lion” available at Dhs40. And if that’s not enough every time a team scores a goal there will be shooters available for just Dhs10.
The Lion by Nick & Scott, H Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Sun to Thurs 8am to 3pm, Fri and Sat 11am to 3am. Tel: (04) 359 2366. theliondubai.ae
Lock, Stock & Barrel – Barsha Heights
The boisterous Barsha Heights bar is transforming its massive mezzanine into a grassed footie fan zone with screena and World Cup accoutrement to match. Starting Friday, 15 June, you’ll be able to nab six bottles of selected hops for the price of four all throughout the tournament – that should help wash down the bitter taste of your team’s inevitable defeat.
Lock, Stock & Barrel, Grand Millenium Hotel, Barsha Heights, Sun to Fri 4pm to 8pm, Sat 2pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 514 919 lsbdubai.com
Lock, Stock & Barrel – JBR The Walk
Rather head to Lock, Stock & Barrel JBR? No problem. The secret garden is your dedicated FIFA zone with private bar and fantastic offers on finger lickin’ food. Every Monday, join the Curry Club for just Dhs79 and receive any curry accompanied by naan and rice, with a house beverage to wash it all down. Or check out the Chopstick Wednesday’s, with any main Chopsticks menu dish for Dhs79, inclusive of house bevvie. Don’t worry, the same buy six bottles of hops for the price of four is on offer at JBR, too.
Lock, Stock & Barrel, Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR The Walk, Sun to Fri 4pm to 8pm, Sat 2pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 514 919 lsbdubai.com
Long’s Bar
This classic Dubai watering hole has seen many a World Cup tournament come and go, and with 20 screens dotted about its lengthy bar, you’ll be able to catch all the action in a fan-friendly atmosphere. A tasty international menu will stave off hunger in between games, while a daily happy hour runs 12pm to 8pm with 30 per cent off house drinks.
Long’s Bar, Towers Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 343 8000. rotana.com/towersrotana
The Lotus Lounge
The Lotus Lounge will be screening every game of the tournament on a 100-inch screen so you can cheer on your home team in epic, high-def glory, with gorgeous Palm views in the background. Wear your team’s colours and you’ll receive a complementary pint every time they score – here’s hoping for a hat trick!
The Lotus Lounge, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, Palm Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 567 8304. anantara.com
Maison Mathis
Arabian Ranches residents don’t have to travel too far to catch all the action, as chic European bistro Maison Mathis has some cracking World Cup deals on. Kick things off with a hotdog and hops combo for just Dhs69, or indulge in a massive WC Platter for Dhs199. If you bring 10 friends, they’ll even give you a 3 litre towers of selected hops on the house. How’s that for team spirit?
Maison Mathis, Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Arabian Ranches, daily, June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 450 1313 mm-argc.com
Makan
With Saudi Arabia and Egypt still in the tournament you might want to take the opportunity to enjoy this La Mer hotspot’s extensive menu of Middle Eastern classics done modern. Footie faithful can catch all the action on big screens and stand a chance to win 20 per cent off their total bill by guessing the winning score of the game that’s on.
Makan, La Mer North, La Mer, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 385 5525. lamerdubai.ae
McGettigan’s – Dubai World Trade Centre
Ireland may not have made it into the tournament, but that’s not going to stop Dubai’s preeminent Irish pub getting in on the action. With a total of 24 TV’s, two big screens and one giant one in the garden, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to look. But don’t let that take your eye off the ball when it comes to happy hour deals, of which there are plenty: from Sunday to Wednesday 2pm to 7pm and Thursday 2pm to 9pm drinks in the main bar start from Dhs29, while Happy Hour from Sunday to Wednesday in The Den runs 3pm to 7pm at the same prices.
McGettigan’s, next to Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, daily 12pm to 2am. Tel: 800 6247 mcgettigans.com
McGettigan’s – JLT
McGettigan’s in JLT is hosting a special World Cup-themed brunch between 1pm to 6pm on Friday, June 15 to celebrate the kick-off of the tournament. For Dhs269 per person you’ll get great a international buffet of cuisine from around the globe and free flowing refreshments. Make sure to dress in you country’s team colours for a chance to in prizes. The rest of the tournament will see the pubs regular happy hour of noon-8pm with drinks starting from Dhs20 from Saturday to Wednesday, and until 9pm on Thursdays.
McGettigan’s, Bonnington Hotel, Cluster J, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Sun to Fri 12pm to 3 am and Sat 11am to 3am. Tel: 800 6247 mcgettigans.com
McGettigan’s – Souk Madinat Jumeirah
If you’d prefer your Irish-style World Cup brunch set a little closer to Jumeirah, then McGettigan’s has you covered there, too. Settle down for five hours of footie festivities between 12pm to 5pm on Friday, 15 June, complete with an international buffet, free-flowing bevvies and live World Cup sing-a-longs, all across 18 screens. Then you can enjoy Happy Hour from Saturday to Thursday from 2pm to 8pm with drinks from Dhs29 and on Fridays from 2pm to 5pm and 9pm to 3am.
McGettigan’s, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Sun to Wed 12pm to 2am, Thurs 12pm to 3am and Sat 9am to 3am. Tel: 800 6247 mcgettigans.com
Mina A’Salam
The ballroom at one of the Jumeirah Group’s most lavish hotels, Mina A’Salam, has received a World Cup makeover with purpose-built large screens showing all the action and a sampling of the best menus the hotel has to offer. Football fans can enjoy food at mini stations from The Hide, Zheng He’s, Khaymat Al Bahar and Tortuga so there’s no shortage of worldly cuisine to sample along with your football.
Ballroom, Mina A’Salam, Madinat Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 432 3232. jumeirah.com
Molecule
D3’s hip, design-led dining hotspot Molecule is offering a delectable tapas menu for hungry World Cup fans that features hot and cold options such as the delicious cheese spread and Spanish crispy cod fritters. There are also more traditional options on offer like a beer buckets from Dhs95 during happy hour, and a burger or calamari and a brew for Dhs75.
Molecule, Building 6, Dubai Design District, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 2949 2202. molecule.restaurant
Morgan’s Gastropub
Dubai Creek’s newest gastropub is putting on a proper World Cup spread with a special menu showcasing signature dishes from each of the participating nations. You can also wash down the bitter taste of defeat (because, let’s face it, Costa Rica aren’t going to win the tournament) with a bottle of craft beer for Dhs25, or a bucket and sharing platter for Dhs225.
Morgan’s Gastropub, Al Bandar Rotana, Dubai Creek, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 704 2331. rotana.com
Nezesaussi Grill Dubai Marina
Nezesaussi Grill Downtown Dubai
Novo Cinemas
Novo Cinemas are offering a ‘Game Day Bundle’ with every ticket bought for those looking to catch the World Cup on a massive screen at its Ibn Battuta Mall and Festival City Mall locations in Dubai. Starting from Dhs90 you can net yourself a small popcorn and a soft drink, or chose from other standard cinema fare including hot dogs and nachos.
Novo Cinemas, Megaplex Ibn Battuta Mall and Festival City Mall, daily June 14 to July 15, from Dhs90 (includes small popcorn and a soft drink). novocinemas.com
The Penthouse
FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s stylish rooftop bar and lounge will transform into a transparent air-conditioned tent with breathtaking views of Dubai and plenty of screens to watch all the matches on. There will be live DJs and percussionists on hand to recreate a proper stadium atmosphere, with chances to win tickets to the tournament itself. And if the action gets too hot, you can take a dip in one of the chilled rooftop swimming pools and cool down at what is undoubtedly one of the city’s premiere VIP World Cup experiences.
The Penthouse, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15, free (minimum spend on VIP bookings). Tel: (04) 455 9989. fivehotelsandresorts.com
Perry & Blackwelder’s
Pomme de Pain
This La Mer French bakery-cafe is celebrating the football season by offering two special menus priced at Dhs89 each. Book ahead and you’ll be entitled to a discount off your total bill – 15 per cent for couples, 20 per cent for groups of up to eight, and 25 per cent on parties of nine or more.
Pomme de Pain, Laguna, La Mer, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 6992 0095. pommedepain.me
Porterhouse
Catch all the games on any of the five screens dotted about this Palm-side steakhouse. There’s a Dh75 minimum spend, but with the excellent selection of football-themed grub on offer, you’ll soon find something to satisfy you. Either a plate of nachos for Dhs80 or Dhs79 mini burgers should fit the bill, both of which can be washed down with a trio of beers for just Dhs99. Score!
Porterhouse, Sofitel The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, daily June 15 to July 16, Dhs75 minimum spend. Tel: (04) 455 5656. sofitel.com
QE2
The QE2’s Pavilion Stadium offers punters an air-conditioned tent with giant screens, comfy seating and state-of-the-art surround sound. There are plenty of excellent F&B deals on offer, too, including Dhs80 for a pint and a curry or Dhs110 for four beers. Otherwise you can step back in time to the sixties in The Golden Lion pub to relive the glory days for England’s world cup-winning decade. Either way, there’s probably no better place to watch the current England squad mess up a penalty shootout than standing on the deck of a piece of British history.
QE2, Port Rashid, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 526 8888. qe2.com
QD’s
Creekside World Cup viewing doesn’t get much better than Dubai stalwart QD’s. Fans can opt for a variety of platters while the watch every goal on eight LED screens with the Dubai skyline for a backdrop. Prices start at Dhs380 for four including a vegetarian snack platter, two pizzas and soft drinks, all the way up to Dhs1,500 for 10 guests for two snack platters and 30 drink vouchers.
QD’s, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel (04) 205 4500. dubaigolf.com
Qube Sports Bar
Catching all the World Cup action is easy at Qube thanks to its massive four-screen centrepiece that makes it one of the best sports bars in the city. But trust Qube’s management to not rest on their laurels as they offer up an additional 16 screens broadcasting every game live. And if that wasn’t enough you’ll be able to feast on a Russian-inspired menu that includes Beef Pellmini, Piroshki, Russian Pan Cake, Varineki, cabbage salads and Zapekanka dessert to special Russian house beverage deals – all presented in a special World Cup themed atmosphere.
Qube Sports Bar, Meydan Hotel, Nad Al Sheba, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 381 3780. themeydanhotel.com
RED Bar
Do you live out International City way? Then you’ve still got options when it comes to catching the footie. RED Bar at the Desert Palm resort will be screening every match of the tournament live and has some cracking F&B deals on offer, to boot. That includes a burger and a pint for Dhs95 or a bucket of 5 + 1 beers for just Dhs150. Plus, during the finals and the semis, you can pay Dhs245 and have free-flow bottles for the duration of the game.
RED Bar, Desert Palm, daily June 14 to July 14. Tel: (04) 323 8888. desertpalm.ae
Reel Cinemas
Fancy catching all the World Cup action on the biggest screens in town? Reel Cinemas are broadcasting every game of the tournament live at their Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Jebel Ali Recreation Club outlets. Tickets are just Dhs70 per game, and if you book in advance you could stand the chance to win an all-inclusive trip to catch either the Saudi Arabia vs Egypt or South Korea vs Germany game, live in Russia. Plus, you’ll also get to chow down on all your favourite cinema grub like popcorn, nachos and the like.
Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, Jebel Ali Recreation Club, daily June 14 to July 15, Dhs70 per game. reelcinemas.ae
Reem Al Bawadi – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel
Fancy an Arabic twist to your World Cup viewing? Then you’ll want to head down to Reem Al Bawadi at the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel in Garhoud. The popular Arabic restaurant’s Ramadan tent will be transformed into a football fanzone where eager punters can enjoy a shisha while they watch their favourite team. The tent can seat up to 320 people, so expect things to get rowdy (especially during the Saudi Arabia and Egypt matches) and a complimentary valet service will be available.
Reem Al Bawadi, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, Garhoud, 12pm to 2am, June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 259 6111 reemalbawadi.com
Reform Social & Grill
Reform Social & Grill have launched ‘Your Local Fanzone’, offering live match coverage and happy hour prices throughout the tournament. There’s a special World Cup menu available at Dhs99, picking from the famous Reform Burger and Chips, Battered Fish & Chips or a British Balti Curry – all including a pint. Plus a Dhs255 three-hour package that includes mini beef burgers, pies, scotch eggs, crackling, fries plus five beers.
Reform Social & Grill, The Lakes, daily 12pm to 7pm, June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 454 2638. reformsocialgrill.ae
The Scene
The Scene has launched an indoor summer garden complete with five huge screens to watch all the action live from Russia. You can enjoy five bevvies for just Dhs175, or head to the WAG (Women and Gin) area where ladies can opt for unlimited drinks for a match’s 90-minute duration including two courses for just Dhs149. Plus, the more matches you watch at The Scene, the bigger chance you’ll enter into the running to win sweet World Cup-related merch like signed jerseys from Ronaldo and Michael Owen.
The Scene, Pier 7, Dubai Marina, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel (04) 422 2328. thescenedubai.com
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort
Pile into the World Cup fan tent at the Sheraton at JBR for end-to-end football madness. Screening all 64 games live from Russia on a massive screen, fans will be treated to great deals on food and beverages, plus an artificial grass pitch underfoot to get you as close to the action as possible without flying there yourself.
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort, Jumeirah Beach Residence, daily 14 June to 15 July. Tel: (04) 399 5533. sheraton.com
Soho Garden
From opening game kick-off, to the final whistle of the final, Soho Garden will be bringing you every second of the action live and in stereo. Grab a bucket of hops or tuck into our World Cup Bar Menu with 3 dishes for Dhs120 because you can’t watch the footie without snacks. And after the games, Dubai’s best DJs will be spinning every night for post-match parties until 2am.
Soho Garden, Meydan Racecourse, daily 4pm to 2am, June 14 to July 15. Tel: (05) 6822 2559. sohogardendxb.com
Stars’N’Bars
This all-American sports bar located at uber-chic seaside development La Mer may not be able to cheer on its home nation (the US didn’t qualify this time), but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying their delicious diner-style menu. Enjoy the game whilst guzzling down a burger and a beverage for just Dhs99, and receive Dhs50 of vending machine credit for beverages when ordering four items from a selection.
Stars’N’Bars, La Mer North, La Mer, daily June 14 to July 14. Tel: (04) 349 9903. lamerdubai.com
The Tap House
The Palm’s premier gastropub has launched the Tap House Rewards Passport just in time for this next month’s World Cup. Simply spend Dhs200 any time after May 14 and you’ll nab yourself a passport that will reward with up to 50 special offers throughout the tournament. There will also be live commentary, quiz rounds and on-the-house drinks whenever a player scores a hat-trick.
The Tap House, Club Vista Mare, The Palm Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 514 3778. thetaphouse.ae
Toro + KO
This Barcelona-inspired tapas bar and restaurant has signed a goldfish named Klaus to predict World Cup match results. Zany stuff, but we like it. One thing we don’t need Klaus to help predict is that Toro + KO’s Dhs120 for a bucket of five beers is a smart bet for anyone wanting to catch the tournament down at City Walk.
Toro + KO, The Square, City Walk, Sat to Wed 12pm to 1am, Thurs and Fri 12pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 590 5433. torodubai.com
Tribeca
Tribeca won’t actually be showing any of the World Cup games next month (you can head next door to Girders for that), but that isn’t stopping them from getting in on the action. The hipper-than-thou New York-themed JBR restaurant is offering a complimentary house beverage to anyone who’s team wins a match that day. All you need to do to collect is bring along ID to prove you’re from the winning country.
Tribeca, JA Ocean View Hotel, JBR, June 14 to 28. Tel: (050) 345 6067. tribeca.ae
TRYP by Wyndham Dubai
This uber hip hotel in Barsha Heights will be screening games at LOCAL Social Kitchen and Bar with no entry fees and no minimum charge. Plus they’re offering special room rates and membership deals at co-working space NEST, in addition to both day and evening brunches and happy hours and ladies nights.
TRYP by Wyndham Dubai, Barsha Heights, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 247 6666. trypwyndhamdubai.com
Uber Fan Van
Looking for the most unconventional way to catch a World Cup match? Then the Uber “Fan Van” should top your list. Specially themed for the footie, the vehicle has been repurposed with a 48-inch TV, sound and light system, bean bags and a menu from Uber Eats. You simply need to enter the promo code UberFanVan into the Uber app and wait to see if you’ve won. Uber will be in touch by phone if you have, and then you and two friends can enjoy the ultimate match day experience.
Uber Fan Van, across Dubai, daily June 14 to July 14. uber.com
[u]bk
With 19 TVs and two large projector screens, there are no shortage of options when it comes to watching your team duke it out at this laid back, popular urban destination in JLT. Spread over four zones – the marquee, the bar, semi-private booths and a dining section – [u]bk is kicking off the tournament with a two-hour long beverage package on Thursday, June 14 that includes selected house beverages, hops and spirits for just Dhs99.
[u]bk, Movenpick Hotel, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 438 0000 movenpick.com/jumeirah-lakes-towers
View
Normally a cool outdoor terrace nestled between the skyscrapers of Sheikh Zayed Road, View has transformed itself into an air-conditioned tent for a month of football fun. Fully licenced with shihsa on tap and serving a menu from the delicious Jones the Grocer, pick this for your World Cup viewing perch and you won’t be disappointed.
View, Dusit Thani Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 317 4457. dusit.com
Wavebreaker Beach & Grill
Popular Dubai beach bar, Wavebreakers, has erected a ‘Beach Stadium’ to capture the atmosphere of the World Cup. This non-smoking, cosy air-conditioned beach tent will screen all the highly anticipated football games of the year with a range of incredible food and beverage offerings.
Wavebreaker Beach Stadium, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Residence, daily from 10am, 14 June to 15 July. Tel (04) 399 1111. hilton.com
West 14th
This Palm Jumeirah steakhouse is on your side this World Cup season with a range of great deals on selected food and beverages. Drinks start at Dhs35, with buckets of five beers just Dhs160. Feeling hungry between halves? Tuck into a bucket (yes, a bucket) of tasty chicken wings for just Dhs45.
West 14th, Dukes Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 455 1101. dukeshotel.com
Zero Gravity
Dubai’s What’s On award-winning day-to-night beach club makes a compelling case for you to watch the entire tournament at its free-entry indoor venue. During big matches, they’ll be holding a special World Cup Brunch (Dhs250 pp) including unlimited food and beverages served 15 minutes ahead of kick off and until fill-time. There’s also be drinks deals on throughout each match and plenty of tasty food you’d expect at the stadium itself like pies, burgers hot dogs and more.
Zero Gravity, Skydive Dubai Drop Zone, Dubai Marina, daily June 14 to July 15. Tel: (04) 399 0009. 0-gravity.ae
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