Go on now go, walk out the door... to the best karaoke bars in Dubai
What’s On loves karaoke. Not because we’re particularly tuneful, of course. But then again, the worse you are, the better the entertainment. So why not join us at one of these five havens for everyone’s guilty pleasure.
Rock Bottom Café
Warm up your vocal chords and head down to this legendary Dubai dive bar. Those who dare can grab a glass of their famous ‘Bull Frog’ cocktail for liquid courage, and belt out the house favourite, Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On A Prayer.
Regent Palace Hotel, Bur Dubai, Dubai
Tel: (04) 3963888. Metro: Khaled Bin Al Waleed.
Friday 7pm to midnight, free.
rameehotels.com
Harry Ghattos
While the Japanese restaurant takes up most of the space at Harry Ghattos, it’s the back room that sees all the action. It might be cramped and often crowded, but that just adds to the atmosphere. To snag a spot, arrive at 10pm on the dot.
The Boulevard, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai
Tel: (04) 3198088. Metro: Emirates Towers.
Daily 10pm to 3am, free.
jumeirah.com
Kung Korean
Those feeling shy about their singing skills can try this Tecom spot, where you can rent your own karaoke room. The rooms come with tasty snacks, booth seating, microphone, speakers, lyrics screen and, most importantly, closed-off partitions to seal you away from others.
Byblos Hotel, Tecom, Dubai
Daily 7pm to 2.30am, Dhs150 per hour.
Tel: (04) 4488000. Metro: Internet City.
bybloshoteldubai.com
Time Café
Rowdy is the best way to describe a Friday night at this sports bar. The atmosphere here is un-pretentious and it’s just the spot to show off your musical talents. Those not in the singing mood can try the decent pub grub and enjoy a game of pool.
Ramee Royal Hotel, Karama, Dubai
Tel: (04) 3344088. Metro: Oud Metha.
Friday 10pm to 1am, free.
rameehotels.com
Hibiki Lounge
Bust out your best Mariah rendition at Hibiki, the region’s first ever karaoke venue and a title they hold with pride. Book ahead for a private room or, if you’re feeling confident, croon in front of the crowd. They also offer daily happy hour deals, starting from 7.30pm.
Hyatt Regency, Deira, Dubai
Tel: (04) 2091234. Metro: Palm Deira.
Monday to Saturday 7.30pm to 3am, free.
dubai.regency.hyatt.com