Dubai is a bustling city known for its luxury lifestyle, fine dining, and year-round sunshine.
With its numerous outdoor dining options, it’s easy to enjoy a meal al fresco while taking in the stunning views of the city.
However, with the extreme heat during the summer months and occasional sandstorms, many people wonder if it’s possible to eat outside in Dubai.
In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities of outdoor dining in Dubai, including the best times to do so and some popular venues offering outdoor seating.
Can You Eat Outside In Dubai?
Yes, it is possible to eat outside in Dubai.
The city offers a variety of outdoor dining options, from rooftop bars and cafes to beachside restaurants and street food vendors.
However, the ability to dine outside comfortably can depend on several factors, including the time of year and weather conditions.
During the summer months (June to September), the heat and humidity can be intense, making it uncomfortable to dine outside during the day.
Many outdoor venues have misting systems and air conditioning to make outdoor dining more comfortable.
However, dining outside during the early morning, late afternoon, or evening hours is still advisable when the temperatures are cooler.
On the other hand, the winter months (December to February) in Dubai are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor dining.
The city’s many parks and beaches offer great picnic spots and barbecue areas.
Overall, while it’s important to consider the weather conditions and time of year, there are plenty of outdoor dining options in Dubai that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s stunning scenery while indulging in delicious food.
Best Outdoor Dining Places In Dubai
Dubai has many restaurants and cafes offering outdoor dining experiences, from rooftop bars with city views to beachside restaurants with ocean vistas.
Here are some of the best outdoor dining places in Dubai:
Pierchic – located at the end of a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Pierchic offers a romantic and elegant dining experience.
La Serre – this French restaurant in Downtown Dubai has a charming outdoor terrace that offers a view of the Burj Khalifa and the city’s skyline.
Treehouse – located on the rooftop of the Taj Dubai hotel, Treehouse offers stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.
Zuma – this Japanese restaurant in Dubai International Financial Centre has an outdoor terrace overlooking the city skyline.
The Beach House – situated on the beach at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, The Beach House offers an idyllic setting for outdoor dining with views of the Palm Jumeirah.
Tips to consider while outdoor dining in Dubai
While outdoor dining in Dubai can be a delightful experience, there are some important tips to consider to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable time.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when dining outdoors in Dubai:
Check the weather: Dubai is known for its hot and humid weather, so it’s important to check the weather forecast before heading out.
If the temperature is too high, it’s best to dine outside during the early morning, late afternoon, or evening hours when the temperatures are cooler.
Dress appropriately: With Dubai’s hot weather, it’s important to dress appropriately. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to keep cool, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Stay hydrated: With the heat and humidity in Dubai, it’s important to stay hydrated while dining outside. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
Choose a shaded area: When choosing a restaurant or café for outdoor dining, look for a shaded area.
Many outdoor venues have umbrellas or shaded seating areas that provide relief from the sun.
Watch out for insects: Insects like flies and mosquitoes can be a problem during outdoor dining in Dubai.
Wear insect repellent and choose a restaurant with mosquito netting or screens.
Book ahead: Popular outdoor dining places in Dubai can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking a table in advance is a good idea to avoid disappointment.
Rules & Regulations to Remember while eating outside in Dubai
When dining outside in Dubai, visitors must remember certain rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Here are some of the key rules and regulations to keep in mind:
Dress code: Dubai has a strict dress code, and visitors should dress modestly in public areas.
Beachwear, swimwear, and revealing clothing are prohibited in public areas, including outdoor dining areas.
Alcohol consumption: Alcohol is permitted in licensed venues, but it is illegal to consume alcohol in public areas.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in public areas, including outdoor dining areas. Many restaurants have designated smoking areas.
Food hygiene: Restaurants and cafes in Dubai are subject to strict food hygiene regulations.
Visitors should choose restaurants with a good hygiene reputation and avoid street vendors.
Waste disposal: Littering is prohibited in public areas. Visitors should dispose of their waste in the designated bins.
Following these rules and regulations allows visitors to enjoy a safe and pleasant outdoor dining experience in Dubai.
It is important to remember that failure to comply with these rules and regulations may result in fines or legal action.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dining outside in Dubai can be a delightful experience, thanks to the city’s warm weather, beautiful scenery, and excellent food.
However, it is important to remember the rules and regulations governing outdoor dining in the city.
Visitors should dress modestly, avoid alcohol and smoking in public areas, choose reputable restaurants with good hygiene, dispose of their waste properly, and respect other diners.
By following these guidelines, visitors can fully appreciate the outdoor dining experience in Dubai and make lasting memories of their time in this vibrant and cosmopolitan city.
Reference
- Makhlouf, F. (2022, April 3). Dubai Residents Are Confused Regarding The Rules Of Eating In Public During Ramadan. Lovin Dubai. https://lovin.co/dubai/en/community/dubai-residents-are-confused-regarding-the-rules-of-eating-in-public-during-ramadan
- Is eating in public during the day over Ramadan a crime in the UAE? | BSA Middle East Law Firm. (n.d.). BSA Middle East Law Firm. https://bsabh.com/is-eating-in-public-during-the-day-over-ramadan-a-crime-in-the-uae
- Tips for Eating Out in Dubai – Mapping Megan. (2015, January 19). Mapping Megan. https://www.mappingmegan.com/tips-for-eating-out-in-dubai/
- Clarke, K. (2023, March 22). Explained: where in Dubai you can eat during Ramada and where you can’t. The National. https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/government/explained-where-in-dubai-you-can-eat-during-ramada-and-where-you-can-t-1.1207486
