Dubai, the second-largest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates in the Persian Gulf, has its capital in Dubai, which is the most populous city in the federation. The most significant economic boost for Dubai came in the 1960s with the discovery of massive oil reserves in the region. However, contrary to popular belief that the emirate’s economy relies heavily on oil, oil revenue now accounts for less than six percent of its economy. The majority of income is derived from trade, finance, tourism, international sports events, and more.
Dubai boasts the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the largest number of skyscrapers globally, and luxury hotels with renowned reputations, including the Burj Al Arab, which has become an iconic symbol of Dubai. The hotel’s helipad was famously used for a 2005 exhibition match between Roger Federer and Andre Agassi. Its leisure culture is abundant with countless thrilling attractions (such as an indoor ski resort operating year-round within one of the world’s largest shopping malls), restaurants, and more. Unsurprisingly, cigar culture holds a prominent place in Dubai’s clubs, and you will not have trouble finding a cigar lounge to enjoy your time. There are several, each offering a different experience. Here are four of them.
Above 21
Located on the 14th floor of the luxurious Five Hotel on the Palm Jumeirah (the first of Dubai’s famous artificial islands shaped like palm trees), the Above 21 whiskey and cigar lounge features its own two levels.
Guests are invited to relax with a stunning view of the marina while enjoying an exclusive selection of cigars, notably from Cuba and the Dominican Republic, accompanied by the expertise of cigar sommelier Felipe Rojas Bruna. The drink menu at Above 21 is carefully curated, offering a wide range of options—including cocktails designed to pair with cigars, hundreds of single malt whiskies from Scotland categorized by region, blended Scotch, American and Japanese whiskies, fine rums, and cognacs like Louis XIII from Rémy Martin.
A trip one level down via the internal elevator transports visitors back a century—from the businesslike and polished atmosphere of the upper level to the early 20th-century American bar ambiance of the lower level, styled in Art Deco. This lower level is the true gem of the venue.
Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai, No. 1, Palm Jumeirah
Phone: (+971) 4455 9999
https://palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com/nightlife/above-21
Room 108
Located on the lobby level of the Majestic City Retreat Hotel—rated as a four-star deluxe property—Room 108 Cigar Lounge is well-positioned in the heart of Dubai’s historic Bur Dubai district. Its central location and immediate access to major transportation options make it a particularly good accommodation choice.
The lounge offers a selection of popular cigars, accompanied by a range of alcoholic beverages and small “finger food” dishes to complement the experience. Regularly playing Cuban music in the background, with plush seating and a decor that is both sophisticated and calming, Room 108 provides a perfect escape from the bustling surroundings, allowing guests to unwind comfortably.
Majestic City Retreat Hotel, Mankhool Road, Mankhool
Phone: (+971) 420 359 8888
https://moonshineapp.com/listing/room-108-cigar-lounge/
Cooz Bar
Located in the Grand Hyatt Dubai, which sits on the banks of the Dubai Creek (with two other Hyatt hotels on the same bank and a Hyatt golf resort across the creek), Cooz Bar offers an upscale setting. This luxurious area also includes the former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Ahmed bin Ali Al Thani’s palace.
In the lobby of the Grand Hyatt, Cooz Bar features a jazz club and cigar lounge. Each evening, the resident pianist plays soothing music, sometimes accompanied by a jazz singer. Guests can enjoy premium cigars (you’re welcome to bring your own), a selection of whiskies, cognacs, and rums, tapas, and an ideal ambiance for a relaxing night out, all complemented by excellent service from the bar staff.
Grand Hyatt Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Oud Metha, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai
Phone: (+971) 4317 2221
http://www.yattrestaurants.com/en/dining/uae/dubai/international-restaurant-in-garhoud-cooz-bar
Churchill Club
Adjacent to Dubai International Financial Centre, the Four Seasons Hotel DIFC offers a “boutique retreat for urban escapes.” The hotel provides a blend of homey and luxurious ambiance, with high-quality restaurants and bars. Guests of the DIFC property also have complimentary access to the facilities of the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, just a 15-minute drive away, which includes another fantastic cigar lounge—Hendricks Bar.
The cigar bar at DIFC, Churchill Club, lives up to its name with its classic English design, featuring rich mahogany wood and leather upholstery. The selection of cigars is extensive, and you won’t have trouble finding a suitable drink to accompany them. The gentleman’s club atmosphere creates an exclusive setting for a refined experience.
Gate Village, Building 9, Unit GV09, Level GF, DIFC
Phone: (+971) 4506 0000
Cigar Lounge Dubai | Churchill Club at Four Seasons Dubai, DIFC
