Forget vertigo and get to Dubai's best sky-high bars
Vertigo simply isn’t an option for Dubai dwellers. But if you are afraid of heights, what better way to help get over it than in one of the city’s swankiest sky-high bars. Here’s the best of the bunch…
Eclipse
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
Neos
While away an evening at this cloud-scraping lounge, perched on the 63rd floor of The Address. 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 Hotel, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown, Dubai
Tel: (04) 4368888. Metro: The Dubai Mall.
6pm to 2.30am.
theaddress.com
People 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
Bar 44
This swanky bar has unobstructed views of The Palm and an in-house pianist, which sets a chilled, speakeasy tone. Prices are steep, but the plush, retro setting – all cowhide, lacquered wood and cream leather armchairs – is inviting and cosy. The especially friendly bartenders will whip you up a delicious cocktail.
Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai
Tel: (04) 3998888. Metro: Dubai Marina.
6pm to 2am.
grosvenorhouse-dubai.com
Skyview
Soaring 200 metres above the sea, on the 27th floor, this lavish bar is a must-visit, if only to gawp at the Burj Al Arab’s OTT decor. A night at this ‘seven-star’ hotel might cost more than three months’ rent, but a cocktail or two should be within reach. There’s a minimum spend of Dhs250 per person.
Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai
Tel: (04) 3017600, reservations only. Taxi: Burj Al Arab.
7pm to 2am,
jumeirah.com