Business Bay is one of Dubai’s fastest-rising districts — a cluster of canal-side towers just south of Downtown that has grown from a pure business hub into one of the city’s liveliest dining and nightlife strips, strung along the Dubai Water Canal.
Central, walkable and superbly connected, Business Bay is increasingly where residents come to eat, drink and unwind. Here is how to make the most of it, as part of our main Dubai guide.
Getting your bearings in Business Bay
The Dubai Water Canal runs the length of the district, with a walking-and-cycling promenade and a landmark waterfall on the road bridge. Bay Avenue and its park anchor the retail-and-dining side, and Downtown and DIFC sit right next door, making Business Bay an easy base for exploring the centre of the city.
Where to eat in Business Bay
Bay Avenue and the canal-front are dense with restaurants and cafes, from casual brunch spots to genuine standouts, and new openings arrive almost monthly. Start with the best restaurants in Dubai and find a deal in the best dining offers before you book.
Where to drink
Business Bay has quietly become one of the city’s big rooftop-and-lounge destinations, with sky-high terraces looking back at the Downtown skyline. Head to the best rooftop happy hours, plan around Dubai happy hours, and see the wider UAE nightlife guide.
Things to do in Business Bay
The Dubai Water Canal is the district’s playground: walk, run or cycle the promenade, take a boat along the water, or catch the illuminated waterfall after dark. Much of it is free, so browse free things to do and things to do in Dubai for more nearby.
Where to stay
A deep supply of business and canal-view hotels — from smart four-stars to designer five-stars — makes it a convenient, central place to stay, with Downtown a five-minute drive away.
Getting to Business Bay and around
The Metro (Business Bay station on the Red Line) serves the district directly, and the core is walkable along the canal. Taxis and ride-hailing are plentiful, and Downtown, DIFC and the beaches are all a short hop.
Best time to visit
Evenings are when the canal promenade and the rooftops come alive; the cooler months from October to April are best for the waterside walk and outdoor dining.
Explore more of Dubai
Next door: Downtown Dubai and DIFC. Or head back to the main Dubai guide.