Where to Eat in Dubai at Night: Restaurants and Cafes Open After 11:00 PM (Including During Ramadan)

From luxurious panoramic lounges to authentic 24-hour cafés, we explore the city’s gastronomic life that comes alive after sunset and reveal the secrets of dining during Ramadan. What do a taxi driver from Karachi, a financial analyst from London, and an Arab family in Dubai have in common after midnight? They can all meet at a single 24-hour bakery in the Satwa district. Nighttime Dubai is not just about the neon-lit spires of skyscrapers; it’s also a vibrant melting pot of flavors available around the clock. The city that never sleeps offers unique culinary experiences precisely when other metropolises fall silent. To help you navigate this nocturnal kaleidoscope of tastes, we’ve created this guide. We’ve compiled a list of tried-and-true spots that stay open late, organized them for you, and are ready to share all the insider tips—from dress codes in a panoramic lounge to etiquette rules during Ramadan.

Two faces of the nighttime city: Choosing the right district for a late dinner

Nighttime gastronomic Dubai is geographically divided into two poles of experience. Choosing the right district essentially means choosing the atmosphere for your evening. On one side lies futuristic glamour; on the other, the soul of the old city.

Glamour and luxury: Dubai Marina, Downtown, and Business Bay

This is Dubai straight off the cover of a magazine—a world where every evening feels like a premiere. Imagine the clinking of glasses on a skyscraper terrace, the city lights reflected in floor-to-ceiling windows, impeccably dressed waiters, and that unmistakable feeling that the entire metropolis lies at your feet. Here, people don’t just seek food—they seek experiences that will become the highlight of their trip.

• For whom: Perfect for a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or if you want to feel the futuristic pulse of the city and capture unforgettable photos.
• What to expect: Fine-dining restaurants, conceptual rooftop lounges, menus curated by world-renowned chefs, and impeccable service.

The soul of the city: Deira, Al Seef, and Satwa

Here, the true heart of the city beats with energy. Forget the glossy sheen—instead, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of cardamom and sizzling meat, steam rising from huge pots of pilaf, and a buzz of voices blending with Arabic music playing from an old radio. These are the places where Dubai’s residents dine, where recipes are passed down through generations, and where the main adornment of each dish is its authentic, unforgettable flavor.

• For whom: For travelers who want to immerse themselves in local culture, sample authentic Middle Eastern, Persian, or Asian cuisine, and discover those “hidden gems” that aren’t featured in standard travel guides.
• What to expect: Authentic dishes prepared according to family recipes, generous portions, excellent value for money, and a unique opportunity to feel like a local.

How we selected: the criteria for our guide

To make this guide as useful as possible, we selected establishments based on four key criteria:

1. Opening hours: All listed venues are guaranteed to be open after 11:00 PM. 2. Quality: We relied on high ratings and positive reviews from real visitors. 3. Variety: The selection includes venues across different price ranges and concepts—from fine dining to budget-friendly cafés. 4. Ambiance: Each venue offers a unique experience—whether it’s a panoramic city view or a deep immersion in the local culture.

Luxury flagships: where to dine with a breathtaking view

If your goal is not just dinner but an unforgettable spectacle, these venues are made for you. Here, the food is just one part of the experience, complemented by stunning views and an impeccable atmosphere.

DUO Gastrobar

DUO is a place for quiet, thoughtful hedonism. This elegant gastrobar, featuring original European cuisine and a serene panoramic view of Dubai Creek Harbour, is the perfect choice if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis while still keeping it in sight. A menu crafted by a chef who has contributed to a Michelin-starred project, combined with a secluded, almost intimate atmosphere, makes this place a true gem for a romantic date or a relaxed evening with gourmet friends who appreciate the subtleties of flavor.

• Price range: $$$ (from 350 AED per person)

Amelia Restaurant & Lounge

Imagine stepping into a private "Great Gatsby"-themed party, but with a breathtaking view of the Burj Khalifa. That’s exactly the vibe created by Amelia—a trendy spot in the heart of Downtown, where Art Deco interiors meet the cutting-edge Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. It’s the perfect setting for a vibrant evening with friends or an unforgettable date, where everything from the stylish presentation of dishes to the panoramic night-time cityscape works to create a wow factor. If you keep up with gastronomic trends and love when dinner turns into a full-blown show, this is the place for you. Be prepared for a corresponding price tag.

• Price range: $$$ (from 350 AED per person)

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Hidden gems: in search of authentic flavor

To truly experience the taste of Dubai, you need to venture off the beaten tourist paths. These establishments are locals’ favorite spots, where the focus is on food prepared with passion and using time-tested recipes.

Asil Restaurant

If you’re tired of fusion cuisine and want to experience what people in the Emirates actually eat, head to Asil. Located in the Rixos Premium JBR hotel, this restaurant offers a rare opportunity to savor authentic, home-style Emirati cuisine based on the chef’s family recipes. Forget about tourist-friendly adaptations. Order the traditional lamb mansaf and prepare for deep, rich flavors of slow-cooked meat, aromatic spices, and tender rice. This is not just a meal—it’s a genuine cultural immersion for those who seek more than just satiation in food; they look for authentic stories told through every bite.

• Price range: $$ (150 - 350 AED per person)

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French Bakery (Satwa)

This isn’t just a bakery—it’s a 24-hour social hub and a living legend of the Satwa district. Forget polished waiters and designer interiors. Here, amid the hum of air conditioners and lively conversations, all layers of Dubai’s society come together. French Bakery is a place of absolute honesty: honest prices, the freshest croissants at three in the morning, and that unmistakable taste of “real” Dubai—unadorned by gloss or tourist markups. It’s perfect for a quick, tasty, and affordable snack that lets you feel the vibrant, unpolished rhythm of the city.

• Price range: $ (50 - 150 AED per person)

Planning the perfect evening: Practical tips

Now that you’ve been inspired by these ideas, let’s turn them into a real plan. Here’s everything you need to know to organize the perfect evening dinner in Dubai.

Reservations, dress code, and transportation

• Reservations: For popular premium venues such as DUO or Amelia, book a table online several days in advance—and even a week ahead on weekends. A deposit may sometimes be required.
• Dress Code: At panoramic restaurants like Amelia, you’re likely to be denied entry if you’re wearing shorts and flip-flops—Smart Casual is the accepted dress code here, helping to maintain the special atmosphere of the evening (for men, this means trousers and closed-toe shoes; for women, an elegant dress or suit). When heading to authentic cafés in Deira or Satwa, it’s best to opt for more modest attire (covering your shoulders and knees), this isn’t a strict rule but rather a simple sign of respect for the local culture that will help you feel more at home.
• Transportation: At night, the most convenient ways to get around are by taxi or via Uber/Careem apps. Most premium establishments in hotels offer valet parking services.

Planning your budget: from street food to fine dining

Cultural etiquette: how to fit in

• Tipping: A service charge (around 10%) is almost always included in the bill. However, if you are very satisfied with the service, it is customary to leave an additional 10–15% in upscale establishments and 5–10% in more casual venues.
• Photography: Using a flash in high-end restaurants is considered bad form. Be mindful of personal space and do not photograph other diners without their permission.

Bonus guide: Nighttime Dubai during Ramadan

Ramadan in Dubai is a time not of restrictions, but of amazing gastronomic discoveries. At night, the city transforms, and dinner becomes a true celebration of togetherness and hospitality, in which tourists can also participate. The main events of the evening are Iftar (the festive evening meal after sunset) and Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). Many restaurants and hotels set up special tents (Suhoor Tents) where, in a festive atmosphere accompanied by traditional music, guests are treated to luxurious buffet spreads featuring both Arabic and international cuisine. Believe us, this is not just a dinner—it’s a chance to see another side of Dubai: not the business-oriented, futuristic one, but a warm, family-friendly, and incredibly hospitable side—and to become part of this grand, shared celebration.

Example Suhoor venue: Asateer tent at Atlantis The Palm

Every year during Ramadan, the Asateer tent—a true palace straight out of an Eastern fairy tale—springs up on the grounds of the legendary Atlantis The Palm hotel. This is less of a dinner and more of a grand cultural event. Inside, under twinkling lights and the sounds of live Arabic music, you’ll find an incredible abundance: dozens of stations offering dishes from across the Middle East and around the world, mountains of fresh dates and sweets, and aromatic shisha. It’s the perfect place for families and large groups to experience the magic and hospitality of the holy month in a setting that is both luxurious and deeply intimate.

• Price range: $$$
• Note: The tent is open only during the Ramadan period. It is recommended to check the current dates, opening hours, and prices in advance on the hotel’s official website.

Your perfect nighttime dinner in Dubai

Nighttime Dubai offers two unique dining experiences-glamorous and futuristic, or authentic and heartwarming. The choice depends solely on your mood and what you’re looking for. Our top tip? Don’t settle for just one—combine them! Spend one evening enjoying a luxurious dinner with views of the metropolis’s lights, then head to the old town the next night to discover authentic flavors. It’s in this contrast that you’ll truly feel the multifaceted essence of Dubai, which comes alive after sunset.