We all love al fresco dining, and Dubai certainly offers an abundance of restaurants to suit every budget and a diverse array of cuisines. However, the UAE—and the wider Middle East—are currently in the midst of summer. With temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius, dining al fresco might mean your meat is served medium rare and ends up well done by the time you’re halfway through. Not ideal, but you get the point.
From brunches—a beloved Dubai weekend tradition—to lunch and dinner menus, there are plenty of offerings that allow you to enjoy a perfect meal with stunning city views, all while staying cool. Whether sky-high or at ground level, these restaurants are worth trying this summer:
Located on the 27th floor of the luxurious Burj Al Arab, Al Muntaha welcomes both hotel guests and outside visitors. This fine-dining restaurant, led by acclaimed chef Saverio Sbaragli, offers exquisite French and Italian cuisine with unrivalled views of the Arabian Gulf. From Beluga caviar to wild turbot, foie gras, and truffle, prepare for an elevated culinary experience.
Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim
When it comes to views, few places can compete with At.mosphere. Perched on the 122nd floor of the world’s tallest building, it features floor-to-ceiling windows and sits 442 metres above ground. Despite the height, you can still enjoy delicacies from the ocean depths. The cold seafood tower or hot seafood platter come highly recommended. For meat lovers, the lamb loin served with croquette, pumpkin, and tonka bean gravy is a standout.
Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
Situated in Dubai Marina, Asia Asia offers stunning views—especially in the evening when the Marina lights begin to shimmer. This popular venue has earned its reputation as one of the city’s top Asian restaurants, serving everything from sushi and seafood to small plates and hearty mains.
Pier 7, Dubai Marina Mall
One of only two restaurants in Dubai awarded three Michelin stars—and the first Indian restaurant to achieve this—Trèsind Studio is helmed by Chef Himanshu Saini. Located at St. Regis Gardens on Palm Jumeirah, the restaurant reimagines Indian cuisine through artistry and innovation. The multi-course menu focuses on seasonal ingredients and diverse Indian flavours, with seating limited to just 20 guests for an intimate experience.
St. Regis, Palm Jumeirah
If you’re seeking faultless sophistication, FZN by Björn Frantzén is the place to be. Located at Atlantis The Palm, this restaurant offers a true immersion into the world of fine dining. Centred around an impressive open kitchen, chefs prepare a variety of dishes blending Asian and Scandinavian influences, using only the finest luxury ingredients.
Atlantis The Palm
From the group behind Hakkasan, Ling Ling at Atlantis The Royal is the perfect escape from the summer heat. Enjoy late-night bites or indulge in the signature Kobe Kaiseki—a four-course tasting menu—before heading to the Ultra Lounge, where DJs and guests keep the party going into the early hours.
Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah
