Where to find the best rooftop BBQ spots in the UAE?

Dreaming of sizzling steaks, perfectly grilled seafood, or vibrant vegetarian skewers, all enjoyed under the starry Arabian sky with a breathtaking cityscape stretching before you? The United Arab Emirates, known for its lavish hospitality and stunning skylines, offers an impressive array of rooftop BBQ spots, providing a delightful blend of culinary artistry, chic ambiance, and panoramic views that make for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Charm of Rooftop Dining in the UAE

Rooftop dining has truly taken off in the UAE, especially in bustling cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It’s an irresistible combination of delicious food, often with an interactive grilling element, and spectacular vistas. Imagine enjoying cool evening breezes while gazing at architectural marvels, glittering city lights, or the serene expanse of the Arabian Gulf. These venues range from casual lounges offering BBQ platters to high-end restaurants with live grilling stations and expert chefs. The vibrant social scene and the desire for unique dining experiences have fueled the growth of these rooftop havens, catering to both locals and tourists seeking something truly special.

Top Rooftop BBQ Destinations in Dubai

Dubai, with its iconic skyscrapers and dynamic culinary scene, is a treasure trove of rooftop BBQ experiences.

Smoki Moto Dubai at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers a unique take on rooftop grilling with its Korean BBQ concept. While not strictly a “rooftop” in the traditional sense of being on the very top of a building, it provides an elevated, open-air dining experience with city views. Here, you get to grill your own premium cuts of meat, from succulent beef to flavorful lamb and venison, right at your table. It’s an interactive and social dining experience, perfect for groups, where the smoky aromas and sizzling sounds add to the lively atmosphere. The concept of “Smokin’ Soju” and their Butcher Shop showcasing various meats make it a distinctive choice for BBQ lovers.

While many rooftop bars in Dubai offer lounges and small bites, some upscale hotels frequently feature special BBQ nights or themed grilling stations on their outdoor terraces, especially during the cooler months. For instance, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai in JBR, while famous for its beachfront Amaseena restaurant, often utilizes its expansive outdoor spaces, including terraces, for special al fresco dining events that can include BBQ elements. Keep an eye on their seasonal promotions for such opportunities.

Many of Dubai’s high-rise hotels boast stunning rooftop lounges that, while not primarily BBQ restaurants, can be booked for private events where a BBQ setup can be arranged. Places like Level 43 Sky Lounge at Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road or Pure Sky Lounge & Dining at Hilton Dubai The Walk offer breathtaking views and could potentially host private BBQ gatherings with prior arrangement. These venues are renowned for their panoramic vistas of the cityscape, including landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.

For a more casual, yet still elevated, BBQ experience, some residential buildings or community clubs with shared rooftop amenities in areas like Dubai Marina or Jumeirah Lake Towers might have designated BBQ areas that residents can book. While not commercial venues, they offer a great private option for gatherings. For instance, some premium apartment complexes are built with communal rooftop terraces that include grilling stations, providing a fantastic space for residents to host their own BBQ parties with magnificent views.

Rooftop BBQ Delights in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s culinary landscape also features exquisite rooftop venues that offer a BBQ experience, often with a luxurious touch and serene backdrops.

BBQ Al Qasr at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, offers a truly luxurious al fresco dining experience. While it’s technically positioned beachside and between the hotel’s dining terrace and the Arabian Sea, its open-air setting and focus on exquisite grilled dishes give it a similar upscale vibe to a rooftop BBQ. You can enjoy an à la carte menu featuring perfectly grilled meats and seafood, all while taking in the idyllic beachside setting and often accompanied by aromatic shisha. It’s renowned for combining excellent cuisine with a breathtaking ambiance, making it a favorite for special occasions.

While not strictly a BBQ spot, many of Abu Dhabi’s high-end hotels, particularly those with impressive outdoor terraces and lounges, sometimes host seasonal BBQ events or live grilling stations. For example, the Southern Sun Abu Dhabi‘s Balcon Lounge & Terrace, known for its Middle Eastern mezze, occasionally integrates live cooking stations during special promotions or themed nights. It’s always a good idea to check with hotels like the Rosewood Abu Dhabi or the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers for their event calendars, especially during the cooler months when outdoor dining thrives. These venues often boast stunning views of the city skyline or the Arabian Gulf, enhancing the dining experience significantly.

For those looking for a more private rooftop BBQ, some of the newer residential towers in areas like Reem Island or Corniche often feature communal rooftop terraces with grilling facilities. These are typically accessible to residents and their guests, providing a fantastic opportunity for private gatherings with city views without the need for booking a commercial venue. It’s worth noting that the rules for using these communal spaces are usually managed by the building’s management.

BBQ Opportunities in Sharjah and the Northern Emirates

Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, while perhaps having fewer dedicated commercial rooftop BBQ restaurants, offer unique opportunities for grilling, often in public parks or within hotel properties.

In Sharjah, the focus for BBQ is typically on designated areas within public parks rather than high-rise rooftops. Parks like Sharjah National Park and Al Majaz Park are well-known for their barbecue facilities, offering sheltered and open-air picnic tables. While not on a rooftop, these provide a fantastic outdoor grilling experience for families and groups in a green setting. It’s advisable to bring your own charcoal for the grills. While commercial rooftop BBQ venues are less common, some hotels in Sharjah, especially those with larger outdoor spaces, might offer private event options where a BBQ setup could be arranged on a suitable terrace.

Similarly, in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, dedicated rooftop BBQ restaurants are rare. However, many beachfront resorts and hotels in these emirates feature outdoor dining areas that might offer BBQ buffets or live grilling stations, particularly during weekends or special events. For instance, hotels along the Corniche in Ajman or the resort areas in Ras Al Khaimah often have expansive outdoor terraces that are perfect for al fresco dining with grilled specialties. Always check their seasonal offerings.

For private gatherings, some of the newer residential developments in these emirates, particularly in towers that boast communal facilities, may include rooftop or high-floor terraces with BBQ equipment. These provide exclusive spaces for residents to host their own grilling parties, enjoying local views.

Key Considerations for Your Rooftop BBQ Experience

• Seasonality: The best time for rooftop BBQ in the UAE is during the cooler months, typically from October to April, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor dining. During the hotter summer months, many outdoor venues might operate with air-conditioned indoor sections or close for the season.
• Reservations: For popular restaurants and hotel venues, especially on weekends, making reservations well in advance is highly recommended.
• Dress Code: While some venues are casual, many rooftop restaurants and hotel terraces, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, adhere to a smart-casual or elegant dress code. Always check with the venue if unsure.
• Licensing: Most rooftop BBQ spots offering alcoholic beverages will be located within licensed hotels. Be mindful of alcohol regulations, especially if you’re venturing outside licensed premises.
• Views vs. Grilling: Decide if your priority is the panoramic view with prepared BBQ dishes, or if you want an interactive experience where you grill your own food. This will help narrow down your options.
• Private vs. Public: If you’re planning a private gathering, inquire with residential building management about communal BBQ areas or consider hiring a private event space that allows for a BBQ setup.
• Dietary Needs: Always communicate any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking to ensure the venue can accommodate your needs.

From the vibrant, interactive grills of Korean BBQ with city views to luxurious al fresco dining by the sea, the UAE offers a diverse and delightful selection of rooftop (or elevated outdoor) BBQ experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual evening out, these spots provide the perfect setting to savor delicious food under the open sky. This comprehensive guide was diligently crafted by the www.few.ae team, your trusted source for insights into the most captivating culinary and leisure experiences in the Emirates. Which rooftop BBQ spot will you visit first to fire up your taste buds?