Where every glass comes with a wink
Let’s skip the usual orders for a second. World Cocktail Day is your excuse to try the drinks that sound a little… questionable at first, but hit in all the right ways. Dubai’s bars are really leaning into the fun right now – we’re talking parmesan grated on top of sweet wine, dark rum softened with vanilla, lifted by ginger, green apple and lime, and sake, bergamot and lychee doing things together that just work. If you’re up for it, here’s your cheat sheet to the most creative cocktails around town. Weird? Maybe. Delicious? Absolutely. Here are 6 creative cocktails to sip around Dubai this World Cocktail Day.
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Kira
The Parmigiano Hour
A relaxed after-work moment built around Kira’s signature Parmigiano Sour — savoury, a little unexpected, and really moreish. You’re welcomed with a complimentary serve at the bar, alongside a short story behind the drink and how it came together. It’s an easy, social way to ease into the evening over good cocktails and conversation.
Where: Kira, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai
When: Wednesday, May 13; 7pm to 9pm
Contact: @kirarestaurant
Sutēki
Tokyo Sgroppino
A Japanese take on the Venetian classic, this one swaps prosecco for sake, giving the lemon sorbet a softer, more layered edge. Bergamot lifts the citrus, while lychee adds a light floral sweetness that keeps it fresh. It’s cold, crisp and just the right side of indulgent – made for golden hour sipping or a pre-dinner reset.
Where: Sutēki, ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, Dubai
When: Sunday to Wednesday, 6pm to 12am
Contact: @sutekidubai
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Iris
Drunk and Stormy
A darker, moodier spin on the classic, this one brings together dark rum, ginger, green apple and lime for a mix that’s spicy, citrusy and smooth. A touch of vanilla softens the edges, while bergamot keeps it lifted. It’s the kind of drink that settles in slowly and matches the late-night energy at Iris perfectly.
Where: Dubai Harbour Pier Club, Dubai
When: Wednesday 4pm to 2am, Thursday to Friday 4pm to 3am, Saturday 1pm to 3am, Sunday 4pm to 2am
Contact: @iris.harbour
Cocktail Week
ICD Brookfield Place
From May 11 to 17, ICD Brookfield Place turns into the city’s cocktail playground. Seven top venues are serving up exclusive drinks, masterclasses, and curated experiences – all in one building. Try a Negroni Masterclass at Il Gattopardo, a guest shift at The Guild, or a live DJ and cocktail pairing at Lulu & The Beanstalk. One ticket (Dhs85) includes a complimentary drink, a wristband for discounted cocktails, and access to workshops throughout the week.
Where: ICD Brookfield Place, Al Mustaqbal Street, Dubai International Financial Centre
When: May 11 to 17
Cost: Dhs85
Contact: @icdbrookfieldplace
CÉ LA VI
The Ruby Leaf
Raise a glass for World Cocktail Day with CÉ LA VI’s exclusive 2-for-1 offer on selected cocktails. One highlight? The Ruby Leaf – gin infused with fresh coriander, topped with floral elderflower tonic. Herbaceous, citrusy, and effortlessly drinkable, it’s a fresh way to toast the evening.
Where: CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai
When: Wednesday, May 13, 8pm to 12 am
Contact: @celavidubai
RARE Brasserie & Bar
No Summer Like 2016
For World Cocktail Week, RARE Brasserie & Bar is bringing back the carefree summer energy of 2016 – think Drake on the speakers, old-school selfies, and rounds with friends that last way longer than planned. From May 13 to 16, all cocktails are just Dhs36, all day, making it the perfect excuse to gather your crew and relive the vibe.
Where: RARE Brasserie & Bar, City Walk, Dubai
When: May 13 to 16, all day
Offer: All cocktails Dhs36
Contact: @theraredxb
Images: Provided
