With the international tournament closing in, patriots and football lovers alike are getting the old face paint out and getting ready to support their countries in the World Cup. Kick off in Qatar is set for November 20th, with an opening match up of Qatar versus Ecuador.

While many are anxious for the quadrennial event to begin, our excitement doesn’t necessarily justify the ultra expensive tickets and expenses of making it to witness the matches in person. For those who want a viewing experience a little more exciting than a standard couch viewing in the old living room, we’ve curated a list of what we think are the top bars and venues to watch the World Cup this year. So read on and take your pick.
Barasti Beach

With November really marking the beginning of Dubai’s “winter weather”, why not take advantage of one of the city’s many bustling outdoor venues? Located in Le Meridien Mina Syahi Beach Resort & Marina, this spot has maintained a reputation as an iconic social venue in Dubai for years. Regularly broadcasting Premier League games on giant screens, this is sure to be a lively spot to enjoy a few drinks by the pool and enjoy some international Football.
Qube Sports Bar

If you fancy a quick round of darts or billiards at half time, Qube at The Meydan Hotel has you covered. The pub experience is made complete with their bar bites menu featuring pub classics and signature burgers. With 16 screens and four projectors, you and your friends wont miss any of the action.
Ernst Biergarten

The eccentrically designed 25hours Hotel Dubai houses a traditional Bavarian bar/beer garden where you can enjoy some football, bratwurst, and other German beverages and bites. With indoor and outdoor seating you can take advantage of the good weather, or the buzzing vibe of a bar packed with lively fans. There is no doubt, particularly when Germany is playing, this is gonna be the place to be. The venue seats up to 429 people.
Goose Island Tap House

This Chicago brewery is an award winning pub is a must visit for connoisseurs of craft beer and sport lovers. The Tap house features a collection of artisinal ales, a barrel and tasting room, and perhaps most importantly, a series of screens displaying live sports. If you and your mates want a truly special experience, Goose Island is turning their barrel room into a private screening room just for the World Cup, complete with a 123 inch screen, private bar, and personal waiter, it’s a truly luxurious way to enjoy a match. If you’re thinking about checking out the award winning venue, book today.
Bedrock

Tired of the same old take on the quintessential pub experience? Bedrock, situated in Pier 7 Marina, sports a modern aesthetic that doesn’t abandon the hallmarks of a good pub, having over 20 screens for viewing all the games you could watch. Setting this venue apart from others is “The Bunker”, a state of the art set of dart boards and a golf simulator that allows patrons to compete against each other. Beyond what you would expect from a sports bar Bedrock also offers a selection of high quality gourmet menu options to choose from. If you fancy stepping up your World Cup experience, Bedrock won’t disappoint.