Rooftops in the United Arab Emirates: the desert and the sea seen from above
A young federation between two gulfs
Founded in 1971, the United Arab Emirates brings together seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Sharjah, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain. Located on the Arabian Peninsula, between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the country borders Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman. Its federal capital is Abu Dhabi, but its largest city is Dubai. The territory, covering around 83,000 km², is almost entirely desert: in the south, the great dunes of the Rub' al Khali stretch around the Liwa Oasis, while mountains occupy the east and the north.
Long focused on pearling and maritime trade, the Emirates have become one of the world's major oil producers. Dubai, for its part, bet on trade, free ports and tourism, to the point of becoming the federation's economic capital.
Why head up to the rooftops
Few countries have built so high in so little time. In Dubai, the top floors of towers are home to bars, restaurants and even swimming pools, with views stretching over the sea, the artificial islands and the skyscrapers of the centre. In the evening, when the heat eases, these perched terraces become the best place to enjoy the breeze and the sunset over the Gulf.
Dubai, the first stop
A city of records
With the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest tower, Palm Jumeirah and the towers of Dubai Marina, Dubai boasts an extraordinary range of rooftops: sky bars above the 40th floor, an open-air restaurant on the 77th floor next to a record-breaking infinity pool, festive lounges on the Palm and seafront terraces. Most are located in hotels and remain open to outside visitors.
Practical tips
Season, alcohol and dress code
The best time to enjoy the terraces is from October to April; in the height of summer, the heat is such that some terraces close or shorten their opening hours. Alcohol is only served in licensed venues, most often hotels, and only to people aged 21 and over: ID may be requested at the door. Most rooftops require smart dress in the evening, with no shorts, sportswear or flip-flops, and many apply a minimum spend for the best tables. During Ramadan, opening hours and entertainment may change: check before booking.
