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Dubai has an excellent number of bars with a good variety of different styles. Most are located in hotels, and while many bars come and go, the more popular ones stick around and are always busy. In addition to the bars reviewed here, there are plenty of others (usually in the smaller hotels), which do not attract the regular crowds of the more popular venues. If you're looking for somewhere different... get out there and explore! The city's more upmarket locations range from terminally hip cocktail lounges to decadent wine bars, from jazz bars to cigar bars - all providing salubrious surroundings for those opulent and self-indulgent moments.
Door Policy
Even with the mix of nationalities that makes up the cultural melting pot of Dubai, there are certain bars and nightclubs that have a selective entry `policy'. Sometimes the `Members Only' sign on the entrance needs a bit of explaining. Membership is usually introduced to control the clientele frequenting the establishment, but is often only enforced during busy periods. At quieter times, nonmembers may have no problems getting in, even if not accompanied by a member. Basically, the management uses the rule to disallow entry if they don't like the look of you or your group, and they will point to their sign and say `Sorry'. Large groups (especially all males), single men and certain nationalities are normally the target, You can avoid the inconvenience, and the embarrassment, by breaking the group up or by going in a mixed gender group.
If you find yourself being discriminated against, don't get mad - get even! In most cases it's not worth trying to discuss this rationally with the doorman - it won't work. Most companies hate bad publicity - try taking the issue up with some of the local media. Other possible solutions include taking out membership for that particular club, shamelessly trying to bribe the doorman, getting there early (around 19:oo), going with Kylie Minogue, or staying at home. Dress Code
Most bars have a reasonably relaxed attitude to their customers' dress sense. Some places, however, insist on no shorts or sandals, while others require at least a shirt with a collar and no jeans. Nightclubs generally have a dressier approach, so dress to impress. As Dubai is well on its way to becoming a trendy tourist destination, the dress code will continue to lean towards the fancy. Specials
Many places hold occasional promotions with different themes and offers. These run alongside special nights, such as Ladies' Night, which are usually held weekly. For the promotions, you can find out what's coming up in the weekly and monthly entertainment publications and from the venues concerned. Special nights (such as the popular quiz nights), are mainly promoted in the bar or pub, and many attract quite a following. As a bonus, the prizes are often quite good.
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