Jazz, soul, cabaret shows and hidden bars worth adding to your list.
Dubai’s live music scene goes far beyond major concerts and touring artists. Across the city, you’ll find jazz lounges, speakeasies, cabaret venues and restaurants where the performances are just as important as the food and drinks.
We’ve rounded up seven spots for everything from jazz and soul to acoustic sessions and theatrical productions. Perfect for your next date night, celebration or spontaneous evening out.
The Theater
Fairmont Hotel, Trade Centre First
Part restaurant, part live show, part theatrical spectacle. The Theater brings together live vocals, dancers, acrobats and musicians in a production that evolves throughout the evening. The performances change regularly, so no two visits feel exactly the same.
You’ll be having dinner one moment and watching singers fly across the stage the next. There’s always something happening, whether it’s a new act, a costume change or an unexpected performance.
The Theater. Photo credit: Instagram @thetheaterdubai
1920
ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC
Hidden inside ICD Brookfield Place, 1920 feels like stepping into another era. The venue blends live jazz, soul and swing performances with an intimate speakeasy atmosphere, low lighting and classic cocktails.
The music is the main attraction here, with local and international musicians performing throughout the week. A good pick if you’re looking for a more relaxed evening that revolves around live music rather than a full-scale show.
1920. Photo credit: Instagram @1920dubai
La Table du MusicHall
SLS Dubai, Business Bay
La Table du MusicHall pairs dinner with a rotating lineup of singers, musicians and performers, creating an atmosphere that feels closer to a cabaret night than a traditional restaurant. The programme changes regularly, so you might catch anything from jazz and soul to international acts and themed performances.
La Table du MusicHall. Photo credit: Instagram @latabledumusichall
Mimi Kakushi
Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach
Mimi Kakushi is best known for its Japanese-inspired interiors and restaurant concept, but live music plays a big role in the experience too. Several nights a week, the venue hosts jazz, soul and contemporary live performances that fit perfectly with its 1920s Osaka-inspired atmosphere.
The setting feels elegant without being overly formal, making it a popular choice for date nights and celebrations.
Jumeirah Al Naseem, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim 3
Hidden behind an unmarked entrance inside Jumeirah Al Naseem, Blind Tiger is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. The speakeasy-style bar regularly hosts live jazz, blues and acoustic performances, with musicians playing just a few metres from the tables.
Low lighting, classic cocktails and a small stage create a setting that’s far removed from Dubai’s larger entertainment venues.
One of the few venues in Dubai dedicated entirely to live jazz. Jass Lounge hosts local and international musicians performing everything from classic standards to contemporary jazz, soul and blues throughout the week. The venue keeps the focus firmly on the music, with tables positioned close to the stage and performances at the centre of the experience.
Jass Lounge. Photo credit: Instagram @jasslounge
Nola Eatery & Social House
JLT Cluster P, Jumeirah Lakes Towers
Inspired by the music and culture of New Orleans, Nola combines live performances, comfort food and a lively social atmosphere under one roof. The venue regularly hosts jazz, soul, funk and acoustic sets that fit perfectly with its laid-back, Louisiana-inspired vibe. Compared to some of the city’s more formal live music spots, Nola feels more casual and energetic.
Nola Eatery & Social House. Photo credit: Instagram @noladubai