Dirndls and lederhosen at the ready, Bavaria is coming to the UAE this autumn. While Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest welcomes more than six million visitors each year and pours around seven million litres of beer, the UAE has carved out its own vibrant version of the festival so you don’t need to fly to Germany (and rack up the carbon footprint of a long-haul trip) to join the fun. Think clinking steins, oompah bands, shared platters, and live entertainment all with the flair of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
And because The Ethicalist is all about living well without costing the Earth, we’ve sifted through the celebrations to spotlight not just the best Bavarian bashes, but also the ones weaving in more sustainable choices. From Green Key certified hotels to Green Globe Gold champions, Oktoberfest in the UAE is shaping up to be as eco-conscious as it is exuberant.
Here’s your guide to the best spots to raise a sustainable stein!
Garden on 8, Media One Hotel, Dubai
An outdoor fête where Oktoberfest meets green living: garden on 8 pairs steins and Bavarian-style shared sides (think pretzels, dips, sauerkraut, potatoes) with Bundesliga screenings (Bayern vs Frankfurt on 4th October), DJs and giveaways. Expect a lively brunch, quiz night, and plenty of communal tables to share the fun.
Why go? Ideal for eco-conscious party lovers who want the Oktoberfest energy but with a lighter, footprint and minimal waste. The venue’s home, Media One Hotel, is Green Key certified (among the top 3 per cent of hotels in Dubai) and runs composting, food waste partnerships, free filtered water stations and digital/paperless guest services. So, you can enjoy your festival stein guilt-free. Running from 1st to 4th October with an Oktoberfest Brunch on 4th Oct from 1PM to 4PM.
Ernst at 25hours Hotel One Central, Dubai
Back for its fourth year running, from September 18th Ernst will transform into Dubai’s liveliest biergarten, complete with Bavarian brass bands, stein-holding competitions, and sharing platters piled high with traditional sides like pretzels, potato dishes and tangy sauerkraut. Perfect for groups, the sharing pan and giant beer towers are a highlight, while brunches and roasts keep the festival going all weekend.
Why go? Ernst is the closest you’ll get to Munich without leaving Dubai. With its authentic entertainment line-up and bustling communal tables, it’s perfect for groups of friends seeking a full-on Oktoberfest blowout. Plus, its focus on shared platters makes it a clever way to reduce food waste while embracing the convivial spirit of the season. Running every Thursday to Saturday from 5pm till late, and Sundays from 12pm till 7pm until October 26th.
The Copperhead, Marriott Marquis Dubai Creek
Set within the new Jewel of the Creek, The Copperhead gastropub is rolling out daily ‘Bavarian Nights’ from September to October. Guests can tuck into fresh pretzels with cheese dip, crispy potato dishes and plenty of vegetarian-friendly nibbles, all washed down with authentic German brews.
Why go? This one’s for those who prefer a cosy and casual Oktoberfest. It’s less about loud brass bands and more about soaking up a friendly, pub-style atmosphere. Ideal for families or after-work gatherings, with plant-based bites that don’t compromise. Running from 18th September to the 19th October from1PM onwards
Mr Toad’s (various Dubai locations)
For a wallet-friendly way to toast Oktoberfest, Mr Toad’s has gone all in with fondue, cheesy potato sides, Camembert bites, and giant pretzel burgers (yes, all available in vegetarian versions). Beer promos start at just AED 39, or you can opt for a litre stein at AED 69.
Why go? This is the no-fuss, great-value neighbourhood choice. With outlets scattered across the city, it’s perfect if you want to pop in with friends for a quick pint and pretzel without trekking too far. Running from 20th September to 5th October 2025.
Replay Lounge, Bla Bla Dubai, JBR
Beer not your thing? Replay has you covered with its Anti-Oktoberfest. Swap the steins for prosecco, cocktails, or alcohol-free options, all served with buy-one-get-one deals. Add in a karaoke library of 800 German tracks and you’ve got the most unconventional Oktoberfest celebration in town.
Why go? Perfect for groups where not everyone drinks beer, this is the inclusive, playful twist on tradition. It also cuts down on waste by keeping drinks streamlined and portion-controlled, so nothing goes to waste. Running from September 20th to October 5th from Tuesday to Thursday 8pm till 11pm and Fridays 8pm till 10pm
Crafty Fox Gastropub, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai
Nestled in leafy surroundings, Crafty Fox offers a slightly more polished Oktoberfest escape. Running on the 3rd – 5th October and 10th -12th October, from 12pm until closing, expect freshly baked Brezn, flammkuchen, vegetarian schnitzels, and abundant sharing platters. The Group Package (AED 220 for a pretzel, one main and three pints) is designed for gatherings.
Why go? The weekend escape option that has a festival feel but with more space and greenery. Bonus: those sharing platters help reduce food waste by encouraging guests to order together. And since Jumeirah Golf Estates has pledged to go plastic-free across its courses and venues, you can raise a stein knowing your celebration takes place in a community already working to cut single-use plastics.
Stills, Yas Plaza Hotels, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s premier Oktoberfest is back at Stills, Crowne Plaza Yas Island, with three nights of live German music, festive games, and frothy steins. On 17 October, the festivities spill into brunch, complete with Champagne and house packages, alongside Bavarian-inspired vegetarian dishes. Entry is AED 150, fully redeemable on food and drinks, while kids under 12 join free.
Why go? This is the must-visit Oktoberfest in the capital. Family-friendly and fun, it welcomes little ones as well as grown-ups. Yas Plaza Hotels has been expanding its eco initiatives in line with IHG’s wider sustainability commitments, from reducing single-use plastics to energy management, making this a celebration that fits Abu Dhabi’s growing green pulse.
