Top Rooftop Bars in Dubai with the Best Craft Beer Selection

The Dubai skyline at sunset does something to you. Maybe it’s the gold light bouncing off the Burj Khalifa or that ridiculous blue of the Gulf. Picture this: a perfectly chilled pint in hand, good company, the city humming far below you. Dubai’s rooftop bars are pure magic for anyone with even half an interest in craft beer. This city isn’t just about medal-winning skyscrapers and lavish brunches; it’s about the flavor, the energy, and that thrill of finding something new above the city’s noise. And right now, there’s a buzz around craft beer you can’t ignore. Here’s what you need to know about rooftop bars in Dubai serving up the best selection of hoppy, malty, and entirely unforgettable craft beers.

Why Dubai’s Craft Beer Scene Is Gaining Altitude

There’s no denying it—Dubai rooftop bars are getting serious about their craft beer selections. Ten years ago, your options were limited; imported lagers were as fancy as it got. Now, things are different. Dubai’s own craft beer scene is bubbling up, helped along by changing regulations and a curious mix of residents craving more than the standard fare. Dubai did what it always does: it watched the world, brought in the best bits, and gave it a local twist. Some local hospitality giants, like MMI and African + Eastern, played a big part—pushing to widen what’s available and working with importers to bring rare brews and exclusive collaborations to market.

To give you a clearer picture on the jump in craft beer popularity, here’s a handy table showing the growth since 2020.

The city’s craft beer range isn’t just about imports, either. You’ll find creative collaborations (like Le Clos’ tie-ups or special-edition brews at Barrel 12) and seasonal events popping up on those rooftops. Note: Dubai’s alcohol licensing laws mean the breweries themselves are usually international, but there’s a big focus on region-friendly selections from India, Europe, Australia, and the States—think smartly curated, not just big brands.

Of course, craft beer in Dubai is also about style. Many bars invest heavily in temperature-controlled taps, knowledgeable bar staff, and a no-nonsense approach to freshness. You’ll see menus rotating as fast as European football managers, all to ensure regulars and visitors have reasons to keep coming back. There’s a bit of a friendly rivalry, too: which spot pours the boldest IPA, or hosts the wildest tap takeover? That’s where rooftop bars really shine. Their altitude puts you above the usual—and their beer lists, just the same.

Rooftop Bars With Show-Stopping Craft Beer Menus

If you’re after the best rooftop bars with craft beer in Dubai, you can skip the guesswork—these spots regularly top the lists for a reason. What sets them apart isn’t just their view—it’s the way they champion limited-run kegs, rare bottles, and modern takes on grilling and bites to pair. Starting with Soho Garden (Meydan): they don’t just have the city’s flashiest parties but pour some of the freshest pints, from citrusy pale ales to barrel-aged stouts. They hit the sweet spot between a wild night out and a true beer geek’s haven.

Zero Gravity is the place for sunset rituals and sand-between-your-toes lounging. Here, craft beer goes beachside—expect well-chilled brews, flights, and clever pairing events with small bites. They run frequent promotions with big names like BrewDog, Beavertown, and Brooklyn Brewery, and this year, they rolled out a ‘Dubai Summer Tasting Fest’ with over 15 rare craft labels available by glass or sampler tray.

And then there’s Folly by Nick & Scott. Up on Madinat Jumeirah, their rooftop terrace is prime for quiet nights, gentle breezes, and a sophisticated craft beer selection. This is where staff actually know the difference between a saison and a wheat beer—expect exclusive collaborations with Belgian and British craft houses, plus thoughtful in-house pairing menus.

Look out for Iris at Meydan and The Penthouse at FIVE Palm Jumeirah too. Both champion small-batch crafts (think Almanac, 961, and Thornbridge) along with rotating UAE exclusives. Bars like these elevate the beer experience—you get a flawless pour, a curious backstory, and the kind of view that makes every pint taste better.

What To Expect: Beer Styles, Pairings, and Atmosphere

First thing to know: Dubai’s rooftop bars take their beer menus seriously. While big-name lagers are everywhere, rooftop crews are betting big on rotating taps. That means you can try a cloudy New England IPA one week, a tart Berliner Weisse the next, and maybe even a double chocolate porter when the temp dips in January. Popular local pours tend to come from Australia, the UK, and Belgium. Don’t be shy about asking staff what’s new—they love to talk shop and give recommendations tailored to your tastes. Even if you think you’re a dedicated IPA drinker, you might discover a wild saison or a session Czech pilsner that nails your mood on a hot night.

Bar food at these height-defying venues matches the beer. Forget limp fries—think miso-slathered chicken wings, tacos with a Dubai twist (like shawarma spicing), or even Japanese-style gyoza. Some places go further, offering tasting menus with dedicated beer pairings, matching that zesty pale ale to citrus-marinated tuna or a caramel-forward stout to sticky date pudding. Since Dubai hospitality moves fast, check seasonal specials and pop-up events—February’s Dubai Craft Beer Weekend at The Rooftop in La Ville City Walk, for example, has become essential for those chasing rare kegs or first tastes of new imports.

The social scene? Laid-back, international, and equal parts after-work cool and big-night-out. Dress codes lean toward smart-casual. Technically, you don’t need a suit, but you won’t look out of place wearing one—these spots attract the full range, from post-office expats to locals celebrating with family, and business pros winding down after a relentless week. Booking tables is wise for groups, especially on weekends or during big sports nights. Ladies’ nights, happy hours, and themed tasting nights are common—keep an eye on websites and local listings so you don’t miss a seasonal keg launch or discount pint night.

Navigating Culture and Etiquette: Drinking in Dubai

You’re probably wondering—how does it all work in a city where alcohol (and drinking culture) is subject to stricter rules than most? Dubai is refreshingly straightforward as long as you respect local laws and traditions. All rooftop bars that serve alcohol are attached to hotels or licensed venues. Only non-Muslims are allowed to drink, and you’ll need to be over 21 (ID checks are the norm). Drinking in public, outside licensed spaces, is strictly forbidden—so save your pints for sanctioned venues.

During Ramadan, rules get even tighter. Bars limit or adjust opening hours, and while some venues get exemption to serve alcohol discreetly, there’s a bigger focus on quiet, respect, and modesty. Dress well, avoid drunken loudness, and never try to sneak a drink outside the venue. Taxis, Careem, and Uber are widely available and smart for getting home safely after a few too many tasting flights.

Here’s a tip: Rooftop bars usually offer private event packages—brilliant if you want to throw a birthday, corporate shindig, or reunion without any worry about etiquette slips. Staff guide you through what’s appropriate, so you can kick back and focus on sampling the city’s best hops and malts.

Service tends to be top-tier in Dubai: expect cold towels, endless glassware rotation, and enthusiastic staff keen to share tasting notes or food pairing tips. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but throwing 10-15% the server’s way is always appreciated, especially if you get expert recommendations or table service all night.

Couples and families are more than welcome—many venues cater to parents with chill lounge seating and shareable food menus. That said, stuffy venues are rare at altitude. The best ones know how to blend party buzz with family-friendly energy.

Insider Tips For Craft Beer Lovers in Dubai Rooftops

Want to get the most out of Dubai’s rooftop craft beer scene? Here’s a rundown of tips that’ll make your next sky-high pint even better:

• Ask about seasonal beer menus before you visit. Many venues quietly rotate in rare imports or test new suppliers, keeping regulars happy and giving you bragging rights at the next gathering.
• Book for sunset. The best tables get snatched early, especially from October to March when temps are perfect for open-air evenings (for context, those months are Dubai’s outdoor season—the humidity and heat drop to manageable levels, and the views go golden by 5:30pm).
• Follow your favorite bars on Instagram or Facebook. Places like Soho Garden, Iris, and The Penthouse tease limited drops, afterhours events, tasting trunks, and live DJ sets. A lot happens at short notice—FOMO is very real.
• Don’t just stick to bottled brews. Rooftop bars with dedicated draft taps (like those at Lock Stock & Barrel or Brew House) are best for the freshest pours. If you’re not sure about a brew, ask for a tiny taster first—staff are nearly always happy to oblige.
• Pair tastings with food. Even die-hard beer lovers get surprised at how much flavor you unlock with the right match. Ask servers for pairing bites or opt for a flight-and-light-bites deal when available.
• Watch for local brand collaborations. From one-off stouts to guest beers brewed for Dubai’s foodie festivals, these are worth chasing.
• Be mindful after midnight. Taxis are standby at hotels, but Friday and Saturday nights can mean a longer wait for rides or parking. Don’t risk walking home—local laws are strict about public drunkenness, and hotel security will not hesitate to call you a cab.

One last thing: Dubai’s craft beer scene is about discovery. The city’s bartenders are passionate, guests are curious, and the views are unforgettable. So when you’re high above the city with the lights stretching for miles, order that local collaboration, chat with the bartender, and toast to a city mixing old rules with new tastes—one pint at a time.