For those looking to catch the highly anticipated Euro 2024 final between England and Spain, it may seem difficult to find a seat as many places are fully booked.
However, popular sports bars such as Hemingway's in Abu Dhabi and The Underground Pub in Dubai, which offer large screens and a lively atmosphere, are some of the places that are still welcoming football fans.
So, if you're still undecided about where to go, here are some places in the UAE that are allowing walk-ins.
In Abu Dhabi
Bridges Bar
The English-style bar at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr offers a cozy yet vibrant ambiance. There are screens dotted throughout the venue, meaning that everyone should have good seat to watch the match. There’s also a happy hour offer from 4pm to 8pm on select beverages.
4pm to 2pm; Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Rabdan, Abu Dhabi; 02 654 3333
Broadway
The modern American brasserie and bar has a live music venue and theatrical experience, and will be showing the big match on TVs. There is also an a la carte menu that includes dishes such as lobster bisque, wild mushroom ravioli and lamb cutlets.
3pm to 1am; Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi; 02 690 7999
Hemingway’s
The authentic English pub on the Abu Dhabi corniche will be showing the game on several big screens. The space is adorned with vintage memorabilia and framed photographs, creating a nostalgic ambiance. There is also outdoor seating.
Noon to 2am; Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi; 02 692 4999
In Dubai
The Stables
Located behind Sheikh Zayed Road, the British gastropub will be showing the match with one very large screen and other TVs all over. Although it’s walk-in, there are two exclusive VIP areas that can accommodate up to 12 people. It’s priced at Dh200 per person and there is a minimum booking requirement of six people.
Noon to 3am; 31 Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre 1, Dubai; 054 417 7028
Mercedes-Benz Brand Centre
Football fans and their little ones can head to the family-friendly watch zone for the match. The centre, which opened in January, will have a large 6m x 3m full HD screen with English commentary. There is a minimum spend of Dh50 per person from the centre’s cafe AMG Kaffeehaus.
Walk-ins are welcome but it will be a first come, first serve basis with limited seats available. Prior registration online is preferred.
11pm; 1 D3 Street, Za’abeel, Dubai Design District, Dubai; mercedesbenzbrandcenter.ae
The Underground Pub
The pub will transform to offer an arena-like ambiance compete with indoor and air-conditioned outdoor seating to mimic being in a stadium. There will also be raffles for prizes such as tickets to the Rugby 7s or Formula One weekend in Abu Dhabi.
Noon to 3am; Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai; 04 408 4257
Spartan Sports Bar
The bar, inspired by the first woman to win a gold medal at the Olympics in 396 BC, will be screening all the action on its TVs. There’s also a special promotion of 20 per cent off the entire bill for fans who wear an England or Spain jersey for the occasion.
11am to 2am; Sheraton Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Dubai; 04 377 2356
In Ras Al Khaimah
The Bay Sport Bar
The Bay Fanzone, located at Al Hamra Golf Club, is preparing to host fans for the big game on their giant sports screens. Visitors will also have the chance to wear prizes such as hotel stays or food and beverage vouchers.
6am to midnight; Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah; 07 244 7274, ext 2
Boons Brasserie and Bar
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, football fans will be able to watch the finals at the chic neighbourhood bistro. There is also the option for indoor or outdoor seating as there will also be screens set up outside.
4pm to 12.45am; Al Marjan, Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah; 050 601 3537
What time is the final in the UAE?
The final of the Uefa European Championship between England vs Spain begins at 11pm UAE time on Sunday.
England defeated the Netherlands in a close 2-1 match-up, while Spain toppled France, 2-1, to advance to the final.
Spain last won the Euros in 2012, while England are looking for their first title in the team’s history since they first qualified for the tournament in 1968. They lost to Italy in the finals of Euro 2020.
