With Dubai’s nightlife being populated with world-class mixologists, it should come as no surprise to any that cocktails are the preferred drink of choice for a night out. But, the wine list in Dubai is getting better with age. 

Now more than ever, wine is shaking up Dubai’s cocktail scene, bringing more choice to the oenophiles who live and visit Dubai.

Established names in the wine business have now come to call Dubai home. Today, Dubai has a rich variety of wine grapes, from the traditional white and red to other growing trends such as sparkling and rosé wines. The move towards a finer and varied selection of wine stems from the growing number of tourists visiting from around the world.

The increasing demand for a crisp glass of wine with great food means an increase of food and beverage programs throughout the city. With such a demand for growth, it may be hard for some to keep up. As such, this article seeks to provide the insider tips needed to find a varietal grape worth raising a glass to.

Here are three top insider tips for wine connoisseurs looking to make the most out of every pour.

1. Local Laws and Customs

Recent visitors to the city of gold may have noticed that one simply cannot buy wine at the local supermarket. For one, local law dictates that only licensed liquor stores may carry and sell alcohol. This means that only venues with a liquor license may be able to sell alcohol. In Dubai, there are only two establishments that may sell alcohol.

Non-Muslim residents will also be required to carry an alcohol license to purchase liquor. A night out to mark a momentous occasion will require a Dubai liquor license. Fortunately, the process is simple and convenient. Residents can apply for a liquor license online or visit one of the establishments processing the licenses.

2. Top Dubai Wine Bars

Bars in Dubai come by the dozen. And with so many opening annually, it’s hard to keep up. Wining and dining in Dubai is as much of a sport as it is a casual dining experience.

But, not all bars are created equally, and as such, not every establishment will cater to the selective palate of wine connoisseurs. To those looking for an ever-changing selection of wines, whether by style or region, then the wine bars below are sure to pour the perfect glass.

1. The first stop for any visitor should be Oscar’s Vine Society. A regular haunt for local expatriates, Oscar’s Vine Society features some fantastic Old World favorites, particularly from the Bordeaux region.  Located in the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road, the moment one enters, it’ll feel like time has been turned back to the famed French city.

2. Eponymously named, Oeno is the best wine bar for those looking to delight in wines by the bottle. Their fantastic selection extends beyond traditional grapes. Oeno also features vintage champagnes to delectable sweet Sauternes, just to name a few. Visit for the wine menu but stay for their sampling cheese. Not only is it wonderfully well-stocked, but with experienced sommeliers ready to take the helm, the perfect wine and cheese pairing awaits.

3. Prefer an ambient setting that’s cozy, comfortable, and relaxing? Then, Vintage is the place to be. The low lights and comfy armchairs definitely set the mood, but its exquisite wine selection definitely sets the tone. Make sure to pop in throughout the week to make the most out of their great menu deals and excellent cheese selection.

3. The Tasting Experience

For those looking for a wine experience beyond the table and bar, Dubai’s wine tasting sessions allow an exploration of the world of grapes under the guidance of an experienced sommelier. 

Not only do these tasting experiences give a useful wine know-how for the next time a bottle is opened, but the sessions are also a great way to learn about wine when one doesn’t know where to start.

There are several wine tasting experiences offered in Dubai; Two of the most prominent events are hosted by the Dubai Wine Club and The Tasting Class. Both offer fun & interactive experiences to widen one’s wine knowledge. The Tasting Class also offers several event packages to cater to desired learning experience. Whether the preference is for wine and cheese pairings or Spanish wine 101.

From hidden cellars that give the feeling of stepping back in time, to casual, chic drinking, Dubai’s wine scene hosts a selection of fine and rare wines to discover and taste. Dubai’s wine range has come a long way and only sees continued growth. In time, visitors and non-Muslim residents can expect a wine culture in Dubai that rivals that of other major cities.

Got a favourite spot for wine tasting in Dubai that’s worth sharing? Sound off in the comments.