Rooftop views
The rooftop gives clear views of the Museum of the Future, with some reviews also spotting Burj Khalifa and Downtown.
Monkey Bar Dubai
Trade Centre
Monkey Bar is a rooftop bar at 25hours Hotel One Central in Trade Centre, known for its Museum of the Future views, creative cocktails and Latin American-inspired bites. Reviews make it especially appealing for an evening of empanadas, shared snacks and DJ or live-music atmosphere.
Reputation Score
4.2
★★★★☆
1,248 ratings
Source: Google Maps
The Good Stuff
Creative drinks
Cocktails are repeatedly described as balanced and inventive, with bartenders helping guests choose what to order.
Empanadas
Empanadas were the standout dish for one recent guest, who praised the quality and care in the food.
Lively music
DJ sets, live bands and vinyl sessions create an energetic evening atmosphere, while one review said the music still allowed conversation.
Outdoor setting
The terrace and outdoor area are especially attractive in Dubai’s cooler winter weather, pairing fresh air with skyline views.
Valet parking
Valet parking is available, which is useful when visiting the rooftop bar at the hotel.
Tips for a Better Visit
Try happy hour. Check whether happy hour is running; one visit turned a quick drink into a longer stay after guests enjoyed the offers.
Expect crowds. Peak hours can be busy, so allow for a livelier setting and consider arriving earlier if you want a calmer table.
Use valet. If you are driving, look for the hotel’s valet service; guests specifically mention it as an available convenience.
Allow arrival time. Give yourself extra time to locate the entrance, as one visitor found it difficult to find on arrival.
Choose the terrace. For cooler months, favour the outdoor area to make the most of the ambience and views.
Plan the visit
Practical details
Trade Center St - off Sheikh Zayed Road
Trade Center Second, Dubai
| Mon | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Tue | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Wed | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Thu | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Fri | 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM |
| Sat | 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM |
| Sun | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
Popular Mentions
Crispy salmon rolls
Crispy salmon rolls are a specifically recommended order from a guest who enjoyed the food and drinks.
Truffle croquettes
The truffle croquettes were praised for a creamy, flavorful texture and also appeared among a guest’s favourite dishes.
Pavlova dessert
The pavlova dessert received especially strong praise from a guest who enjoyed the cocktails and overall atmosphere.
Guacamole
Fresh guacamole with chips is mentioned as part of a relaxed evening alongside tacos and cocktails.
Gin basil drink
The gin basil drink was a favourite in a review praising the bar’s drink selection for a social or date night.
Common Concerns
Inconsistent service
Several guests reported rude or rushed service, including bills arriving before they had finished ordering.
Small portions
One unhappy review described the food portions as very small and did not find the food worthwhile.
Difficult entrance
Finding the entrance can be confusing, although one visitor said staff helped them reach the bar.
Prayer-call music
One review objected that the music continued during the prayer call after the guest raised the issue with staff and management.
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The Bottom Line
Monkey Bar is a rooftop bar at 25hours Hotel One Central in Trade Centre, with the Museum of the Future as its defining backdrop. It suits drinks with friends, a date or a longer evening built around music. The terrace and rooftop views are the main draw, with several reviews also mentioning Burj Khalifa and the wider Downtown skyline.
There is enough food to make a night of it rather than just order drinks. Reviews mention standout empanadas, truffle croquettes, crispy salmon rolls, tacos, guacamole with chips and truffle fries. Cocktails are described as creative and balanced; the gin basil drink, New York Sour and passionfruit-foam cocktail each received specific praise.
The mood leans lively, with DJs, live bands and even a vinyl-playing session, though one guest said the music was still comfortable for conversation. Winter is a good time to use the outdoor area. Valet parking is mentioned, but the entrance can be difficult to find.
Service is not entirely consistent: many guests found staff warm and attentive, while others reported rushed bill presentation, rude behaviour and small portions. It can also get busy during peak hours, so this is better suited to an energetic night than a reliably quiet one.