Oktoberfest, that glorious Bavarian tradition, has officially landed in Dubai, and it’s bringing along its delightful mishmash of German hops, sausages, and more! But before we dive into where to find the best bratwurst in town, let’s take a step back and understand why, exactly, people don lederhosen and guzzle beer like there’s no tomorrow.
Back in 1810, the grand celebration that would become Oktoberfest kicked off with the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Instead of a simple reception, they threw a citywide bash with horse racing and, of course, copious amounts of beer. It was such a hit that the party was turned into an annual festival, now known as Oktoberfest. Today, it’s become a global phenomenon, with cities worldwide replicating the magic—yes, even in the heart of the desert!
Barasti Beach Bar: Where the Beach Meets Bavaria
Barasti isn’t just bringing the heat—it’s also bringing the hops. From September 21 until October 6, this iconic beach bar will be transforming its tent into a little slice of Munich. Along with traditional German hops, you can dive into their selection of wursts. And after a few bratwursts, you might want to work them off by hitting the dance floor. Austrian band Trio Megamix will be there to serve up some toe-tapping tunes that’ll have you yodeling in no time.
Address: Le Meridien Mina Syahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 511 7373
Emirates: Oktoberfest at 35,000 Feet
Who says you need to be on the ground to enjoy Oktoberfest? If you’re flying with Emirates in the coming weeks, they’re taking the Bavarian party to the skies. Picture this: cruising through the clouds while munching on sauerkraut and watching one of the 45 German movies available on the in-flight entertainment system. From economy to first class, everyone’s invited to this high-altitude Oktoberfest celebration.
Ongoing on selected Emirates flights.
Ernst Biergarten: Bavarian Shenanigans Galore
If you’re after an authentic Bavarian experience, Ernst Biergarten is pulling out all the stops from September 19 to October 27. Every Thursday through Sunday, indulge in a festival that offers more than just food and drink—it’s a full-on cultural extravaganza. Fancy a Saturday brunch or a Sunday roast with a German twist? Ernst has you covered. They’re even flying in bands straight from Germany to keep the oompah beats going all night long. Lederhosen optional, fun mandatory.
Address: 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, Trade Center St, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 210 2511
Garden on 8: Rooftop Oktoberfest Madness
For a slightly later Oktoberfest fix, head to Garden on 8 from October 25 to 29. This rooftop bar is transforming its space into a Bavarian wonderland complete with quizzes, German football (because what’s Oktoberfest without some Bayern Munich action?), and bratwursts with sauerkraut for just AED 55. Whether you’re there for the beers, the footy, or the wurst, Garden on 8 is where you want to be.
Address: Media One, Al Sufouh, Dubai Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 52 144 7438
Grand Hyatt Dubai: The Grand Daddy of Oktoberfest
If you want to go big or go home, the Grand Hyatt has the largest Oktoberfest setup in Dubai. From October 10 to 27, they’re hosting Oktoberfest Nights with all-you-can-eat Bavarian dishes, table dancing, and more. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays are reserved for the adults, but Sundays are all about the family-friendly Bavarian brunch, complete with activities for the little ones. Grab your crew, chow down on schnitzels, and channel your inner German with some raucous singing.
Address: Grand Hyatt Dubai Oud Metha Road, Dubai Healthcare City Riyadh Street, Near Sheikh Rashid Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 317 1234
Saffron at Atlantis: Brunch, Bavarian Style
Known for their iconic brunches, Saffron is going all out with an Oktoberfest twist this year. Expect an endless buffet of currywurst, schnitzels, and the best German hops Dubai has to offer. And, of course, you can’t miss the lederhosen-clad dancers ready to liven up the celebration with a bit of oom-pah action. A brunch with a Bavarian flair? Sign us up!
Address: Atlantis, The Palm, Ground Level, West Tower, Atlantis, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 426 2626
The Stables: Where Britain Meets Bavaria
The Stables may be a British gastro-pub, but for two weeks, it’s trading fish and chips for schnitzels and sauerkraut. From September 21 to October 6, this spot will be serving up pints of German hops for just AED 45, along with some fun bar games like giant Jenga. It’s the perfect place to stop in for a casual Oktoberfest celebration with a British twist.
Address: 32 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Trade Centre, Trade Centre 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 54 417 7028
Wavehouse: Arcade Meets Oktoberfest
At Wavehouse, you can bowl, munch on Bavarian food, and dance all in one go. From October 4 to 20, the venue is offering up Bavarian delights like roasted meats and sauerkraut, while live bands keep the Oktoberfest energy going strong. It’s the perfect place to blend a bit of fun and festivity in one go.
Address: Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Ground Floor, Crescent Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 426 2626
