Mahiki

Is London club really a 'rich man's Rock Bottom'? 48 Reviews

Drink Deal

Retro Rewind

Celebrate the past with a night of 80's & 90's 'Desert Island Discs' and 'Guilty Pleasures' Timings: 10pm (Saturday)

Tropical drinks

Mahiki is the ultimate destination for mixed drinks lovers. Delicious Polynesian inspired tropical mixed drinks and Island Grill menu served from 7pm til late (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)

Pin-Up Ladies Night

There's a pop-up beauty salon from 7pm, free canapés from 8pm and mixed drinks from 9pm until 11pm Timings: 7pm-11pm (Tuesday)

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In London, its the infamous haunt of royalty, with heirs to the throne Wills and Harry regularly spotted enjoying a late-night relaxant. In Dubai, it’s the latest high-end UK nightspot to transplant its brand here in a bid to recreate the same exclusivity among the Middle East’s most moneyed; other recent arrivals include Cirque du Soir, Embassy and Movida.

Mahiki’s unique selling point is a Polynesian theme and notorious mixed drinks, the latter a theatrical affair of flaming glasses and juggled bottles. But for all the flash, we’ve heard murmurs from many that they’d rather a simpler, speedier service to combat queues.

The bar’s geographical theme is manifested in the most beguiling way: a totem-style wooden figure holds a vigil over the (decent) dancefloor and straw lines the ceiling. On one wall a window-shaped hole has actually been painted with the view of a tropical sunset. It’s not immediately clear if the décor is misjudged, or an impressive stab at irony. The music policy, however, gives it away – lurching from ’80s soft rock to trance in a matter of moments, Mahiki simply can’t be taking itself too seriously– a quality we admire in Dubai's at times pompous VVVIP nightlife scene. We’ve overheard the phrase ‘a rich man’s Rock Bottom’, and it seems to be sticking.

By Rob Garratt
Time Out Dubai, 18 January 2012

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Time Out reviews bars anonymously and pays for meals. Of course, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or independence of user reviews.

User reviews:

Posted by: moe on 08 Apr ' 13 at 19:56

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

I recently visited Mahiki during a business trip to Dubai. I took some high end clients, and reserved a table in the club area. I must say we were all thoroughly impressed by the impeccable service. Our waitress attended to our every need, and we were able to relax and enjoy the evening. I will definitely be visiting Mahiki again on my net visit to the UAE.

Posted by: Momi on 22 Feb ' 13 at 15:39

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

Visited on Valentine's.Disappointed by the DJ and his choice of music....played too many old numbers,felt as if in a Karaoke club.
Too hyped and as mentioned above,'dressed up Trader's Vic'.

Posted by: Mia Muse on 30 Jan ' 13 at 20:36

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Edited by TimeOutDubai.com

Myself and some of my girlfriends went to Mahiki's Ladies Night, last Tuesday and we had such a good time! There were free cocktails from 9pm for ladies and they wernt cheap nasty ones either! We arrived just after 11, there was a little que at the front but we didn't have to wait too long. The music was really good, combination of old stuff and new tracks. We had a right old giggle and a good dance! Staff were really friendly and they looked like they were enjoying themselves which was nice to see! We are staying out in Dubai for a month so we will definitely be coming back as we also want to try the food! Thanks Mahiki :)

Posted by: Dan Mack on 21 Jan ' 13 at 19:25

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: Food served
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Went to Mahiki last Wednesday with my partner and another couple. We booked a table fairly early in the evening because we wanted to try the food.
I must say for a club their food is really good. I had their salmon and chips were delicious and I didn't expect the food to be served so nicely!
My wife is vegetarian and found they did a lovely Bruschetta which she said was amazing.
We had such a nice night as our group are all over 40 and were worried it would be too dancy and loud but the music was great and their were other people that looked to be around our age! (something you don't normally find when you get older!!)
Will be visiting again as there's more on the menu I would like to try.

Posted by: Mike Glenn on 21 Jan ' 13 at 18:05

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

After a very bad first experience 9 months ago I revisited on Friday night last, and boy has this place pulled its socks up. We were lucky to get in at midnight, large queues outside, so we took a table to get priority entry. I wasnt too confident, but I'm glad I did. Lets hope my good experiences continue. Mike

Posted by: Jo Parker on 21 Jan ' 13 at 17:54

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

What a treat! Refreshingly different. Somehow managed to combine great service with a dash of fun. Admittedly, I'm a bit of a snob, I like hotel bars and clubs. When a friend suggested we try something different I was sceptical, but I'm now a Mahiki convert. High class drinks, good service and alot of fun. I adored the music. <3

Posted by: Abbey on 14 Dec ' 12 at 05:53

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

No customer service at all..... There is communication gap between staff...gal who attends the call confirm us to come...we have gone all the way....n the RUDE door staff they will try to pitch you for table reservation if you not willing to reserve the table they won't allow to enter.Drover stree Mahiki is far better....Dubai Mahiki is WORST cuz of the staff or management......

Posted by: aska on 27 Oct ' 12 at 08:03

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

did not like it at all.

keep this place for celebrities, they will have more respect

if you cant serve ordinary people , go home and rest

i value my time and spend it for other places rather than for you

you cant make business, shut it down . when you know how to treat people and respect them, then come back to your business.

Posted by: Mike on 19 Oct ' 12 at 16:28

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

awful place, they don't know even the basics of customer service

Posted by: Goulding on 16 Oct ' 12 at 08:04

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MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

The worst CLUB ever! RUDE staff all over this place!!! I was really disappointed esp. door staff. The staff asking for guestlist, ! wht the hell means of "open Door! Very poor service! I swear i'll never go back there again!!!

Posted by: Al on 04 Oct ' 12 at 10:12

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

When I arrived to Mahiki, I asked the bouncer how long the wait would be, he replied “I don’t know”. I asked him again if it is a 10 min wait or 2hr wait and he yelled at me saying “Don’t you listen, I said I don’t know”. Well, we decided to wait in line. After about 10-15min of waiting, the head of security came up to me while I was in line and asked me to step out. He advised that the bouncers will not let me in because I had a beard, he said you’ll waste your time if you go back in that line. I was very embarrassed, everyone was looking at me as I was walking away with my head down. I left in tears.

Posted by: Sean Eagles on 31 May ' 12 at 23:50

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

Edited by TimeOutDubai.com

Great place. Shame about power trip girl. What is her problem. Even wouldn't let a group of hot girls in. She jealous?

Posted by: yahyaellhag on 16 May ' 12 at 16:01

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

amazy

Posted by: Garret on 20 Mar ' 12 at 00:11

I went to Mahiki last night for the first time. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised, the door staff were really welcoming and the interior theme quirky and fun. Very different to the other strutting self important clubs currently popping up in Dubai. Bar staff were well trained and the drinks were amazing. Good crowd, Mahiki will definitely be a place I will be going back to on a regular basis.

Posted by: Alijo on 21 Feb ' 12 at 19:41

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

I went with two friends on ladies' night and was refused entry by extremely arrogant and rude door staff. Apparently we had to spend AED3000 on a table?! I think the concept of ladies' night has been missed perhaps?? People behind us in the queue who also said they had no table were then given entry, while others were turned away for no apparent good reason. When I enquired as to why this should be, the door staff were dismissive and rude.
I have never experienced such an attitude in Dubai. Perhaps the management of Mahiki could explain their entry criteria for ladies' night as it seems odd that three ladies, (and others), are turned away for no good reason. I also read with interest the Jumeirah Group website for Mahiki which makes special mention of their "open and friendly door policy". Could someone update their door staff please?

Posted by: Marcus Anon on 15 Feb ' 12 at 07:25

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

Went for the traffic light party on valentines day, "Singles welcome" as the sign said, when I got to the door, it was couples only and the lady was unbelievably rude as if she was the most important person in the world.

Extremely disappointed and I won't be returning to Mahiki and neither will any of my friends (who are regulars) as they are completely disgusted with the way the staff treated us.

As many people have said, this club treats its customers like garbage with the attitude of "if u don't like it, don't come" but I do hope one day they realize that the mindset they adopt will only ruin their business.

Posted by: Harriet on 11 Feb ' 12 at 13:40

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• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Always guaranteed such a great night!!!

Posted by: Aline on 09 Feb ' 12 at 12:13

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

For the ones that have already experience in hi-end clubbing / restaurants or lounges, this place is really not worth it a 2nd time visit!
The lowest service possible, arrogance and fuss for nothing....
And if someone is posting a bad review on their Facebook page, they have the aroggance to delete it...so much for thei complain management...
Highly disappointed that such place has such a low-level service, communication skills, etc.....they shoul learn a bit for their Dover Stree sister...

Posted by: Dave on 07 Feb ' 12 at 15:32

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

LOVE LOVE LOVE. Completely unique, just what Dubai needed..!!

Posted by: Kathryn on 06 Feb ' 12 at 07:13

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

A great venue that guarantees a great night every time! I can't recommend it highly enough. The spacious dance floor is an added bonus.

Posted by: Dancing Doug on 02 Feb ' 12 at 05:09

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Seriously fun night out

Posted by: Olivia on 02 Feb ' 12 at 05:08

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Mahiki is a great night out! If you are looking for an upmarket but casual place to have a few cocktails and dance the night away then this is a great spot. I recently took my sister there whilst on holiday and she loved it! And if you feel like splashing out then try the Treausre Chest- its amazing!

Posted by: Jaimie on 01 Feb ' 12 at 14:31

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

WELL DONE MAHIKI!! This is exactly what Dubai needed - fantasic venue, fun and friendly staff - and a GREAT night out.

Highly recommend this place but make sure you get there early, it is becoming more and more popular by the day!!

If in doubt, go for a Treasure Chest!!

Posted by: Ben on 01 Feb ' 12 at 10:07

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Absolutely love it, there's nowhere like it in Dubai where you can let your hair down for some fun times, without the pretention found in most clubs at the moment. And on the door policy - it's Dubai's most popular club at the moment, did you expect to be able to waltz in with no queue? Great place.

Posted by: Hayley on 31 Jan ' 12 at 18:21

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

This is the place to be seen in Dubai...and the place to boogie the night away and have a good time with friends...It's by far my favourite place in Dubai so far! And best of all, the drinks are scrumptious!

Posted by: Bobby Shafto on 31 Jan ' 12 at 16:05

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

You won't be keeping me away from the place, Rob Garratt. Rich man's Rock Bottom? Since when has that been a problem? I'll follow the Mahiki brand the world over. A welcome addition to the Dubai club scene and THE place to go every weekend (and occasionally in the week if I'm feeling particularly naughty). Keep it up! Get this man another Treasure Chest...

Posted by: Natasha on 31 Jan ' 12 at 15:28

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Love Mahiki!! Great music, vibrant atmosphere, lush cocktails!! The best place in Dubai to dance the night away.... every night I have been.... during the week or on the week end has been a blast! Its all about the treasure chests :-) x

Posted by: Jamie on 31 Jan ' 12 at 13:57

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Posted by: Jamie on 31 Jan ' 12 at 13:57

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Posted by: Jamie on 31 Jan ' 12 at 13:57

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Posted by: Charlotte T on 31 Jan ' 12 at 13:28

OverallDecorService

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• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

A really good time!

Posted by: Jez on 31 Jan ' 12 at 12:53

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Posted by: Sarah Appleton on 31 Jan ' 12 at 12:18

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Great music, great venue.

Love it every time.

Posted by: Niki on 31 Jan ' 12 at 12:04

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

I love Mahiki - best music in Dubai, treasure chests of alcohol and amazing cocktails! What more could you want? The flaming bar tenders and live drums just add to the experience! I've definitely always had amazing nights there so would highly recommend it.

Posted by: Pretty on 31 Jan ' 12 at 11:32

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

we gone there and we where asked if we have a table reservation or our name is included in the guestlist, guestlist during ladies night? Some excuses from the front desk staff... very disappointing place to visit...

Posted by: Walter Paice on 31 Jan ' 12 at 11:10

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Dubai has been crying out for venue like this. A place where the average age range is 21 to 40 rather than 21 and 40+. The drinks menu begs discovery though certain cocktails should come with a health warning. The music has a good range and looks to cater for the hedonist majority. If you are strictly urban progressive house this place isn't probably for you. One tip: Get. There. Early.

Posted by: George on 31 Jan ' 12 at 11:04

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Signature sharing cocktails are amazing! Definitely the way forward!
Its impossible not to dance thanks to the amazing music! Finally a club which wants it's clientele to have fun and forget who's watching!
Can't wait to go back!

Posted by: Rusty on 31 Jan ' 12 at 10:56

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

I have been to Mahiki a couple of times since opening and cannot fault a single visit, mainly at weekends when the place is jumping its a great atmosphere to be enjoyed with good friends and delicious cocktails. I have made a rare Monday appearance and really enjoyed the Music with a laid back party feel, do not for one second think that this means any less dancing............

Posted by: Niki on 31 Jan ' 12 at 10:54

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

I love Mahiki - best music in Dubai, treasure chests of alcohol and amazing cocktails! What more could you want? The flaming bar tenders and live drums just add to the experience! I've definitely always had amazing nights there so would highly recommend it.

Posted by: Steph on 31 Jan ' 12 at 10:53

OverallDecorService

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• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Posted by: A on 30 Jan ' 12 at 18:06

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

Posted by: angry on 28 Jan ' 12 at 09:57

• Would you go back to this bar/club? No

Hated it, awful music and worse service. It's Trader vics with better dressed customers. Can't figure out what all the fuss is about.

Posted by: Leah on 23 Jan ' 12 at 18:46

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Mahiki is my new number 1 spot in Dubai, absolutely LOVE it, and judging from the energy and vibe every time I go there, everyone else is loving it too! From the amazing cocktails, fun loving staff, and beautiful decor, its an unbeatable venue! The queues can be pretty big, but should hopefullly die down over time. Mahiki brings to Dubai what was so desperately needed, somewhere people can go to have fun and be relaxed, without the pretention that is so typical of clubs here. Keep doing what you are doing Mahiki, the people of Dubai LOVE you!!

Posted by: James on 23 Jan ' 12 at 12:50

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Went to Mahiki on Monday last week (16th Jan) with friends in town from Lon. They have been to the original, which I haven't. Although it was just the lounge side open that night, we had a wkd time. The bar staff were amazing - they told us to come the nxt night when the club side was open too - Ladies Night. Loved it even more, great music and a less snobby attitude to what I'm used to out here. As you say the dance floor is very decent...definitely heading back soon.

Cheers

Posted by: James King on 22 Jan ' 12 at 08:12

OverallDecorService

MusicAmbience

• Best for: DJ
• Would you go back to this bar/club? Yes

Great Music.. Great Place..

I keep going back because it never gets boring...

People who cant get in will just have to get there early next time as its almost full by 10pm..

Posted by: Wisam on 04 Jan ' 12 at 12:46

Amazing! good music, good drinks, and very lively!

Posted by: Jenny Edwards on 29 Dec ' 11 at 10:44

Hi Time Out,

Was down at Mahiki yesterday and had one of the best nights I've ever had in Dubai!! The bar staff were so much fun and the cocktails were delicious. Haven't danced that much in ages!

Posted by: HICHEM MEKKI on 21 Dec ' 11 at 13:15

Hi Time Out! Really looking forward for your review in Mahiki.
Just for information, I have received some comments from people who tried to go there for the opening and have been asked if they were on the guestlist whereas they were claiming that it's gone be "open door"...
I guess that opening launch was not that "open"....very disapointing for such good place I use to visit in London..Let's hope they improve their communication skills..