Attention all Formula 1 enthusiasts! If you’re not making your way to Abu Dhabi this weekend, you’ll want to find the perfect spot to catch the thrilling Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While the drivers’ championship has already been decided, the constructors’ championship title is still up for grabs. The final race of the season kicks off at 5 PM on Sunday, December 8, and you can catch all the action on screens throughout Dubai. Be sure to reserve your table at one of these fantastic sports bars for a front-row seat to the excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard McLaren fan or rooting for Ferrari, here are some of the best venues to watch the race this weekend.
Bridgewater Tavern
Credit: Bridgewater Tavern
Located in Business Bay, this lively sports bar draws a large crowd for various sporting events. With a spacious outdoor area featuring picnic benches, an outdoor bar, and breathtaking views of the Dubai Water Canal, it’s the perfect setting for enjoying the balmy winter evenings. Don’t miss their happy hour, which runs daily from 4 PM to 7 PM, offering fantastic drink deals alongside the weekend sports. This venue is committed to showcasing all major events.
Sun-Thu 4 PM-1 AM, Sat-Sun 4 PM-2 AM. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @bridgewatertavern (04 414 3000).
Coterie Social
Credit: Coterie Social
This trendy newcomer has quickly made a name for itself since opening in April 2023, known for its delicious roast dinners and live sports coverage. As Sunday approaches, you can watch the race on multiple screens positioned throughout the bar. The central bar area offers enticing drink deals, while the kitchen serves up classic pub fare, including Marmite roasties, scotch eggs, fish and chips, and hearty pies.
Daily 8 AM-2 AM. Ibn Battuta Mall, coteriegroup.com (04 570 8072).
Double Decker
Credit: Instagram @doubledeckerme
A long-standing favorite in Downtown Dubai, Double Decker is a go-to destination, especially when a significant race is about to begin. With an astroturfed outdoor area and a classic pub interior, it embodies the spirit of a true sports pub, complete with pool tables and an impressive eight-hour happy hour. This vibrant venue is ideal for enjoying the Formula 1 action while indulging in excellent drinks and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Daily noon-3 AM. Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai, @doubledeckerme (04 321 1111).
Fibber Magee’s Sheikh Zayed Road
Credit: ITP Staff Photographer
With a pint of Guinness in hand, surrounded by friends and numerous screens, Fibber Magee’s offers an unbeatable atmosphere for watching sports. Known for its fantastic drink deals and friendly vibe, this venue is regarded as one of the best sports bars in Dubai.
Daily 8 AM-3 AM. Saeed Tower One, Sheikh Zayed Road, fibbersdubai.com (04 332 2400).
Goose Island Tap House JVC
Credit: Goose Island Tap House
Not just a place for sports viewing, Goose Island is also a favorite for those seeking some friendly competition while awaiting the checkered flag. Featuring pool tables and even a golf simulator, this venue has plenty of screens for your viewing pleasure. Plus, with over 20 types of hops on tap, a generous happy hour, and a menu filled with tasty dishes, it’s a fantastic spot to cheer for your favorite team.
Sun-Wed noon-2 AM, Thu-Sat noon-3 AM. FIVE Jumeirah Village, JVC, gooseislanddubai.com (04 455 9989).
ICON Bar & Lounge
Credit: ICON Bar & Lounge
A well-loved venue in Dubai’s Media City, ICON is the perfect place for after-work drinks and catching a wide variety of sports. Recently revamped, this bar features numerous screens, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the race. Make sure to request the race coverage from the staff upon your arrival, and they’ll ensure that your favorite drivers are up on the screen.
Daily noon-3 AM. Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City, radissonhotels.com (04 366 9111).
McGettigan’s JLT
Credit: McGettigan’s JLT
A previous winner of Time Out Dubai’s Best Sports Bar award, McGettigan’s is a fantastic place to catch the racing action. With an electric atmosphere and a loyal fan following, you’ll feel right at home here. The solid pub grub menu makes it one of the go-to locations for sports fans in JLT and beyond.
Mon-Thu noon-2 AM, Fri-Sun noon-3 AM. Cluster J, JLT, mcgettigans.com (04 356 0470).
Offside
Tucked away inside the JA Ocean View Hotel, Offside is the ultimate destination to enjoy the F1 race. With over 32 high-definition TV screens, you’ll have the best viewing experience imaginable. This lively sports bar also features fantastic pre-game drink deals and live entertainment from talented bands and DJs. Indulge in delicious bites like bao buns with pulled beef, half-meter hot dogs, BBQ chicken wings, and smoked brisket sandwiches.
Daily noon-3 AM. JA Ocean View Hotel, The Walk, JBR (056 522 0219).
Looking for Things to Do in Dubai?
- The Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024: Everything you need to know – Where to go, what to do, and who’s performing at the concerts.
- All the Best Concerts and Gigs: Coming to Dubai this month and beyond – There’s a show for every taste.
- 50 Free Things to Do in Dubai in December: You won’t believe what you can do.
