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Where to listen to live music in Dubai
Fri, June 16, 2023
Here are some top venues that tap into the city's thriving music community.
Here are some top venues that tap into the city's thriving music community.
Celebrity performers at Q’s Lounge
Relive the glory days at music legend Quincy Jones’ first ever jazz lounge. Virtuoso musicians, hand-picked by Jones himself, perform five nights a week at the venue's intimate yet elegant living room setting. Previous headlining acts at Q's included American Idol runner-up Clark Beckham and Dancing with the Stars singer Rogelio Douglas Jr., and you'll always find new artists stepping onto the stage and keeping the night alive.
All that jazz at Nola
Revel in the lively New Orleans vibe and chic décor as you dig into Southern American soul food at Nola Eatery & Social House. The Nuvo Soul trio, performing their funk, soul and jazz tunes, present the perfect soundtrack to your night. The resident band takes to the stage on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9pm to midnight, though we'd recommend arriving early as this hotspot fills up fast, especially post-brunch on Saturdays.
Electric entertainment at Jazz@PizzaExpress
The Dubai outpost of Jazz@PizzaExpress has quickly become a popular home of live music (and not just jazz), served with a side of authentic Italian food. Choose from a a plethora of pizzas including the restaurant's classic thin and crisp Leggera base, which has stayed true to its recipe since 1965. With world-class musicians taking centrestage daily and delicious food to order, this place is a surefire hit. Book a table in advance, especially on weekends, to avoid disappointment.
Rock out at Hard Rock Cafe
An international juggernaut, Hard Rock Cafe has a good live band every night, mostly playing covers. Sing along to your favourite hits, with a wide variety of historic rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, from vintage instruments to iconic stage attire. Enjoy front-seat entertainment inside, or head to the quieter outdoor terrace for laidback conversations under the stars.
Get up and dance at La Casa del Tango
This Argentinian hotspot in the heart of DIFC promises dancing, dinner and live music. As well as settling down to enjoy some mouthwatering steak, guests can also get front row seats as performers strut their stuff to upbeat music from the talented musicians in the house band. The eatery also has its own dance studio, so if you're feeling inspired, you can book some lessons and pick up tips from world-class teachers.
Prepare to be wowed at Billionaire Dubai
There's always something different on offer at Billionaire, which provides guests with dinner and a show every evening. Get comfortable at one of the round tables dotted across the venue, and watch a host of live performers from all over the world take to the stage to entertain the crowds. From singers and dancers to musicians and impressive acrobats, there's a lot to take in, with upbeat music from the DJ in between the acts.
Groove on at Lock, Stock & Barrel
Lock, Stock & Barrel is one of Dubai's most dynamic live music venues. With venues on The Walk at JBR and in Barsha Heights, the high-fidelity lounges have spacious, quirky aesthetics, including warehouse-style exposed brick and industrial materials. Always keeping true to its live music roots, bands grace the stage on frequent occasions where you can sing along to your heart’s content. The menu on offer lets you enjoy hearty meals such as large nachos, burgers and steaks.
See local stars at McGettigan's
The Irish-themed venue McGettigan's has venues all over Dubai, including Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai World Trade Centre and Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Guests can enjoy live performances every night of the week. Head down there to catch Dubai-based artists including Chad Sycamore, Kara Grey, Leanna Kerry and Matt Grieves. They also host occasional performances from international acts.
World-beating acts at The Theater
The creative force behind this hotspot is Lebanese-Armenian composer Guy Manoukian. Showcasing an immersive experience, The Theater Dubai at Fairmont Dubai takes its inspiration from both Western and Eastern influences. Performers from all over the world, including singers, musicians and acrobats, will be providing the entertainment, and no matter where you're sitting you'll enjoy the show, as every seat in the house offers up great views of all the action.
Soulful vibes at Bagatelle Dubai
As well as serving up sumptuous Mediterranean food and French classics, this bistro comes alive every Sunday evening, from 8pm till late, thanks to the Bagatelle Unplugged music sessions. A roster of live musicians are on-hand to entertain diners with their vocals and uptempo tunes, as they play their trademark blend of blues and jazz. The venue also regularly hosts musical performances throughout the year, attracting DJs, singers and bands near and far.
Trumpet the greats at Sola Jazz Lounge
Asian and Mediterranean finger food will fuel your music-powered night at Sola Jazz Lounge, a sultry spot situated at the opulent Raffles The Palm. Rising stars and noted international names share stage space five days a week, with a live DJ ensuring things stay upbeat during sets. From Latin and pop jazz to the blues and a smattering of soul, you'll find a vibe that suits every taste.
Sing along to French cabaret at Josette
Opulent DIFC hotspot Josette has a weekly roster of live shows and entertainment for evening guests to enjoy. Running from Wednesdays to Saturdays, the entertainment includes a live pianist and French cabaret singers. For daytime shows, Josette’s afternoon tea offering is complemented by an impressive string quartet, playing your favourite movie soundtracks and classic songs through the decades.
Step back in time to Flashback
Flashback Speakeasy Bar & Lounge in Paramount Hotel Dubai, Business Bay is a 1920s-inspired venue which hosts live singers and jazz musicians every week. There’s also a Murder Mystery Immersive Musical Show every Thursday, which combines live singing and dancing with theatre, and encourages guests to use clues to solve the mystery. This intimate venue is great for those looking for an alternative evening filled with live music.
Rock out at Bla Bla
The Tent at Bla Bla is a large venue with different themed areas surrounding a large stage. Fans of live bands can enjoy the sounds of About Last Night on Mondays and Thursdays, and The Tasty Biscuits on Wednesday nights. Weekends are for DJ performances and the occasional international act, such as Razorlight and The Script. Bla Bla also hosts a huge annual Rewind Festival, which see stars from the '80s and '90s belt out their best hits.
Listen to live beats at Time Out Market
Souk Al Bahar’s fun food hall Time Out Market regularly hosts live music. The line-up includes local jazz legends Salt & Pepper, as well as Dubai-based band 4TheMusic and acoustic singer and musician Carl La’Frenais. Keep an eye on their official website for the updated schedule each week.
Feel the bass at Jass Lounge
Jazz is the star of the show at this intimate venue in DIFC. With only a few tables available, the space quickly fills up, creating an atmospheric buzz every night of the week. The musical roster changes regularly, offering a broad spectrum of jazz sub-genres to enjoy daily. Jass Lounge has 1920s-inspired interiors that feel opulent yet welcoming, and the cosy space offers an exclusive feel for true jazz fans.
Discover up and coming artists at Introducing
If you love discovering new talent, Introducing is the event for you. Their monthly nights at One Life Kitchen and Café host unsigned and up-and-coming artists for live performances. With a variety of talent on the line-up, you can listen to everything from acoustic sets to poetry readings and much more.
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