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Barasti when it first opened in the mid-1990s. Photo: Barasti
Barasti when it first opened in the mid-1990s. Photo: Barasti

A look back at 30 years of Barasti, as the Dubai beach bar prepares to close

Popular venue is due to reopen in 2027 after a major renovation

Farah Andrews
Farah Andrews

June 21, 2026

Barasti has been a fixture of the Dubai nightlife scene since 1995, but the popular beach bar and club is preparing to temporarily close its doors on Sunday.

The venue at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark is closing for a major renovation. It is set to reopen in 2027.

During its three decades of operation, the beachside venue has been popular with UAE residents and tourists alike.

Barasti's beach-front site under construction in the 1990s. Photo: Barasti
Barasti's beach-front site under construction in the 1990s. Photo: Barasti

The bar originated as a beachfront, shack-style spot, featuring a pool and direct beach access.

In the years since, it has changed several times. It has grown into a venue with multiple bars, a beach club, a restaurant and space to host live music.

The swimming pool was removed during a 2014 renovation, but in 2017, a 1,200-square-meter pool deck was added.

A view of the Barasti beach before Dubai Harbour was built. Photo: Barasti
A view of the Barasti beach before Dubai Harbour was built. Photo: Barasti

“Barasti is more than a venue; it is part of Dubai's story,” said Ugur Lee Kanbur, multi-property general manager of Destination Mina Seyahi.

“For 30 years, it has brought people together and created memories for generations of residents and visitors. We are creating a destination that will honour that legacy while taking it to an entirely new level.”

  • Beachside Dubai venue Barasti is closing for refurbishment on June 22. All photos: Chris Whiteoak / The National
    Beachside Dubai venue Barasti is closing for refurbishment on June 22. All photos: Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • Barasti has been a fixture of the Dubai nightlife scene since 1995
    Barasti has been a fixture of the Dubai nightlife scene since 1995
  • The venue at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark is closing for a major renovation
    The venue at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark is closing for a major renovation
  • It is set to reopen in 2027
    It is set to reopen in 2027
  • During its three decades of operation, the beachside venue has been popular with residents and tourists alike
    During its three decades of operation, the beachside venue has been popular with residents and tourists alike
  • In the years since, it has grown into a venue with multiple bars, a beach club, a restaurant and a space to host live music
    In the years since, it has grown into a venue with multiple bars, a beach club, a restaurant and a space to host live music
  • The swimming pool was removed during a 2014 renovation, but a 1,200-square-meter pool deck was added in 2017
    The swimming pool was removed during a 2014 renovation, but a 1,200-square-meter pool deck was added in 2017
  • Redevelopment plans include zones catering to different audiences and occasions, redesigned interiors and an expanded food offering
    Redevelopment plans include zones catering to different audiences and occasions, redesigned interiors and an expanded food offering
  • On June 21, people gathered at the venue for Barasti: Last Orders, an all-day closing celebration
    On June 21, people gathered at the venue for Barasti: Last Orders, an all-day closing celebration

Redevelopment plans include several zones catering to different audiences and occasions, redesigned interiors and an expanded food and drink offering.

Organisers say the new-look venue will be designed to serve both visitors and the growing residential communities in Dubai Marina and Dubai Harbour.

Updated: June 22, 2026, 5:50 AM
Dubai