If you’re in Dubai and looking for a fun, relaxed place to enjoy a pint of Guinness, traditional Irish food, and some live music, you’re in luck. Irish bars in Dubai offer a slice of Ireland’s famous pub culture right in the middle of the desert. Whether you’re an expat missing home, a tourist exploring nightlife, or just someone looking for good food and warm hospitality, Irish pubs here deliver that and more.
From traditional interiors with wooden beams and Gaelic signs to hearty dishes and a wide range of beers and whiskeys, Irish bars in Dubai stand out in the city’s diverse nightlife scene. This guide takes you through some of the best ones, what to expect, what to order, and why these pubs are loved by so many.
Why Irish Bars in Dubai Are So Popular
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and Irish pubs have carved out a special place for themselves. Here’s why they’re a hit
• Authentic Atmosphere: Most Irish bars are designed to look like a pub straight from Dublin, complete with cozy corners, traditional music, and sports on TV
• Great Food and Drinks: Think fish and chips, Irish stew, shepherd’s pie, and of course, cold Guinness on tap
• Live Entertainment: Many Irish bars in Dubai offer live bands, open mic nights, and even Irish dance performances
• Friendly Crowd: Irish pubs are known for being welcoming and social, making them great places to meet new people or catch up with friends
1. McGettigan’s JLT – The Pioneer of Irish Bars in Dubai
Location: Jumeirah Lake Towers
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 3 AM daily
McGettigan’s is one of the most famous Irish bars in Dubai. It has become a brand of its own with locations across the city. But the JLT branch remains a crowd favorite.
What Makes It Special
• Great for watching sports with multiple screens and live match screenings
• Regular live music performances and weekend DJs
• Daily happy hour deals and weekend brunches
Must Try: Guinness, Irish Breakfast, and the McGettigan’s Signature Burger
2. The Irish Village – A Slice of Dublin in Dubai
Location: Al Garhoud and Dubai Studio City
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 1 AM
The Irish Village is one of the oldest and most loved Irish pubs in Dubai. The Garhoud location has even hosted international musicians and celebrities.
Why People Love It
• Beautiful outdoor seating area with a garden style setup
• Dog friendly and family friendly atmosphere
• Hosts live music, festivals, and special Irish events
Must Try: Irish Lamb Stew, Chicken Wings, and Kilkenny beer
3. Fibber Magee’s – Dubai’s Hidden Irish Gem
Location: Behind the Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 2 AM
Fibber Magee’s is often called the most authentic Irish pub in Dubai. Tucked away in a quiet spot, it feels like a local pub back in Ireland.
What Makes It Unique
• One of the few pubs that opens early and serves breakfast
• Regular quiz nights and live music
• Cozy and unpretentious vibe
Must Try: Bangers and Mash, Cottage Pie, and Murphy’s Irish Stout
4. The Dubliners – A Classic Irish Pub Experience
Location: Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre, Garhoud
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 3 AM
Located inside a hotel, The Dubliners offers everything you’d expect from an Irish bar in Dubai. Rustic decor, hearty meals, and plenty of Irish drinks.
Why It Stands Out
• Great for after work drinks and group gatherings
• Brunches on Fridays with free flowing drinks
• Themed nights and live acoustic music
Must Try: Dublin Bay Prawns, Fish and Chips, and Jameson Irish Whiskey
5. Blarney Stone Irish Pub – Affordable and Fun
Location: Regent Palace Hotel, Bur Dubai
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 3 AM
If you’re looking for an affordable Irish pub with good vibes and hearty food, Blarney Stone is a top pick.
What Makes It Special
• Budget friendly prices on drinks and food
• Regular karaoke and DJ nights
• Great spot for a casual hangout
Must Try: Steak and Ale Pie, Roast of the Day, and House Lager
6. Crown and Lion – British Pub with Irish Charm
Location: Byblos Hotel, Barsha Heights
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 3 AM
Though technically a British pub, Crown and Lion brings in a fair bit of Irish influence and is a great alternative in the Tecom or Barsha area.
Why Visit
• Pool tables and dartboards for entertainment
• Reasonable prices and good happy hour
• Frequent expat crowd and lively weekends
Must Try: Sunday Roast, Beef and Guinness Pie, and Strongbow Cider
What to Eat at Irish Bars in Dubai
When visiting an Irish pub, it’s not just about the drinks. The food is a big part of the experience. Here’s what to try
• Irish Stew: A traditional lamb or beef stew with potatoes, carrots, and herbs
• Fish and Chips: Deep fried fish fillets with crispy fries and tartar sauce
• Shepherd’s Pie: Minced lamb with mashed potatoes and vegetables, baked to perfection
• Bangers and Mash: Sausages with mashed potatoes and onion gravy
• Full Irish Breakfast: Sausages, bacon, eggs, black pudding, beans, and toast
Top Drinks to Try
While Guinness is the star, Irish bars in Dubai serve a wide variety of beverages
• Guinness Draught – The iconic Irish stout
• Kilkenny – A smooth red ale with a creamy finish
• Jameson Whiskey – Ireland’s famous triple distilled whiskey
• Irish Coffee – Coffee with Irish whiskey and cream
• Baileys Irish Cream – A sweet and creamy liqueur
Events and Specials at Irish Bars in Dubai
Many Irish bars in Dubai host events and weekly specials that attract regulars and new visitors alike
• Live Music Nights: Often featuring Irish folk bands or acoustic performers
• Ladies’ Nights: Free drinks or discounts for women on certain days
• Quiz Nights: Team up with friends for some pub trivia fun
• Happy Hour Deals: Discounted drinks during early evening hours
• St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations: Big parties every March 17 with green beer and Irish dancers
Tips for Enjoying Irish Bars in Dubai
Here are a few things to keep in mind
• Dress Code: Most pubs are casual, but some hotel based ones may have smart casual rules
• Reservations: Book in advance for weekend nights or special events
• Alcohol Laws: Remember that you must be over 21 to drink in Dubai, and always carry valid ID
• Location Matters: Some bars are part of hotels or tucked in areas hard to find, so use Google Maps or Uber to avoid confusion
Conclusion: A Taste of Ireland in the Heart of Dubai
Irish bars in Dubai are more than just places to grab a drink. They offer a unique cultural experience with warm hospitality, comforting food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re catching up with friends, watching a sports match, or just unwinding after work, there’s an Irish bar for every occasion.
So next time you’re in Dubai and crave a laid back evening with an Irish twist, you know where to go. Sláinte
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