Dubai’s sports bar scene has grown up. Forget sticky floors and tinny sound — the city now boasts a run of genuinely great spots where you can catch live football, rugby, F1 and more in seriously stylish surroundings. Whether you’re after an ice-cold Guinness in an authentic Irish pub or a craft IPA with a waterfront view, this list has you covered.
1. Goose Island Tap House
Location: Five Luxe, JBR
Where upscale sports bar energy meets genuine craft beer credentials. Goose Island Tap House blends classic comfort food with waterfront views that make it one of the best spots in JBR for a game night. Expect a rotating selection of craft hops alongside the live sports action — a cut above your average sports venue.
2. McCafferty’s
Location: Circle Mall, Jumeirah Village Circle
One of Dubai’s best-loved Irish pubs and a reliable first port of call for GAA fans, rugby devotees and football faithful alike. McCafferty’s runs live music seven nights a week, serves hearty pub classics and keeps giant screens trained on all the biggest sporting events. A community hub with serious atmosphere on match days.
3. Fibber Magee’s
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai’s oldest Irish pub and a true institution on Sheikh Zayed Road. Fibber Magee’s built its reputation on a lively sports atmosphere, multiple screens covering everything from football and rugby to F1 and horse racing, all enjoyed alongside pints and proper pub classics. A heritage venue with serious sporting pedigree that has stood the test of time.
4. Double Decker
Location: Swissôtel Al Murooj, Downtown Dubai
A long-standing Downtown favourite with a retro London-inspired interior that sets it apart from the crowd. Double Decker is renowned for one of the city’s most popular happy hours and reliably packed screens for live sports. The British pub aesthetic is executed with real charm — a great shout if you’re already in the Downtown area.
5. Coterie Social
Location: Ibn Battuta Mall
A stylish homegrown concept that brings British-inspired hospitality to Ibn Battuta Mall with a fresh, community-driven twist. Coterie Social offers live sports on multiple screens, elevated comfort food and a laid-back energy that makes it one of the more welcoming spots in the city for a long afternoon of watching the match.
6. McGettigan’s JLT
Location: Jumeirah Lakes Towers
Few venues in Dubai carry the same weight as McGettigan’s when it comes to match day atmosphere. The JLT outpost is beloved for its lively crowds, classic pub grub and a packed sports calendar that runs year-round. Live music adds to a setting that has earned iconic status among Dubai’s expat sporting community.
Always check with venues directly for match day schedules, bookings, and current opening hours — programming can change with the sporting calendar.
