The Cigar Bar
The Fairmont Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road
A setting with rich mahogany, elegant accents, and dimmed lighting makes this a fine place to sit back and light up, and there’s a wide selection of premium cigars from prestigious brands for high-end users. The Cigar Bar also has limited private hand-crafted cigar lockers within its walk-in humidor available to the “most distinguished” guests. All the lockers are temperature and humidity controlled, and an in-house cigar sommelier ensures your cigars are checked, cleaned and rotated. As you’d expect, the drinks on offer are ideal to go with your cigar, and it’s open until 3 am, so it’s perfect for a long session after an evening meal.
Above 21
For those looking to impress clients, becoming a member of the exclusive Above 21 Cigar and Whisky Lounge at the stunning Five Palm Jumeirah Hotel is a classy way. The whisky menu covers all the main classics, including a rumbunctious Macallan 30-year-old that should help seal any deal and drinks from Ireland, Japan, America and Taiwan. The humidors are fully stocked with a wide range of cigars, and staff can help you find the ideal combination of cigars and whisky to make an event of it. Get a seat facing the window as the nighttime views of the Dubai Skyline are an impressive visual backdrop to your evening.
Cigar Lounge
Situated on the 13th level of The Address Hotel in Downtown Dubai, this classy space offers a refined smoking experience, allowing you to indulge in the art of creating perfect smoke rings. With its stunning panoramic view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, the Cigar Lounge, complete with low lighting and deep leather armchairs reminiscent of a gentleman’s club, is more than just a bar. Whiskies from around the globe, including rare and limited-edition bottlings, grace the impressive drinks list, and the humidor is a who’s who of what the modern gentleman should be smoking.
The Churchill Club
In the Four Seasons in DIFC is a cigar bar and a sanctuary for those who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind the world’s finest cigars. It is a place where time slows down, allowing you to savour every moment and indulge in the pleasures of the cigar culture. The interior design reflects a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, with plush leather seating, dim lighting, and a meticulously curated collection of Cuban cigars that adorn the walls. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, creating a welcoming and exclusive environment.
The Vault
The Vault at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai caters to those who appreciate all life’s finer things. With its luxurious ambience, an extensive collection of cigars, spirits, and live entertainment, it’s somewhere to sink into a haven of luxury. Their walk-in humidor has 18 refined and exclusive brands, from limited edition pieces to crowned cigars, including Montecristo Grand Edmundo and Punch Robusto UAE, to more standard brands like Churchills. Knowledgeable and skilled staff can help you pair smoke and drink for an optimal experience.
The Ultimate Humidor For Watch Lovers
Imperiali Geneve unveiled its Emperador cigar chest for someone with a bank balance with five or six commas. It is touted as the world’s most prestigious cigar chest, comprising 2,675 components, several international patents and state-of-the-art technology, including the world’s first self-regulating humidity system.
Entirely manufactured in Switzerland, it combines haute horlogerie with the craftsmanship of the cigar industry. Masters of traditional crafts, engineers, watchmakers and designers, Emperador took 18,000 hours of work from nearly one hundred professionals from 27 trades.
The Imperiali flying tourbillon timepiece, placed at the centre of the stage, is made from 323 components, comes with a power reserve of 80 hours and was made entirely by master watchmakers from the Swiss Jura, featuring exceptional finishes such as a delicate “Clous de Paris guilloché” dial.
Perhaps the only thing that is more of a “wow” is that it costs one million Swiss francs.
Embrace the Ritual of Band Removal
Removing the band from a cigar before lighting it is more than just a practical step – it’s a crucial ritual for any cigar smoker. It prevents the band from affecting the burn and altering the flavour and signifies respect for the craftsmanship of creating that cigar. Removing it allows you to fully engage with the cigar’s unique characteristics, savouring its aromas and complexities without distractions. It’s a small act that elevates the smoking experience, ensuring you can truly appreciate the artistry and essence of the cigar in its purest form. Also, remember that etiquette dictates that it should be removed before smoking. After all, it is somewhat vulgar to let everyone around you know that your cigar is better than theirs. This applies everywhere in the world except in the U.S., where leaving it on is acceptable. We’re saying nothing…
Four to try
Hoyo de Monterrey No.2
The Hoyo de Monterrey No.2 is a classic Cuban cigar catering to beginners and experts alike. With its light and ethereal charm, this Robusto-sized (4 7/8 inches x 50 Ring Gauge) cigar strikes the perfect balance. It offers a “proper cigar” experience without being overwhelming or showy. Its appeal lies in its approachability and elegant construction.
Dunhill 1907
Crafted by Dunhill of St James’s Street, a subsidiary of the esteemed British American Tobacco, the Dunhill 1907 is a delightful New World cigar. It boasts depth, character, and a hint of sweetness derived from the Brazilian filler leaf. Not only does it offer a satisfying smoking experience, but it also provides excellent value for its quality. This Robusto-sized cigar is highly recommended for those seeking a rewarding and flavourful smoke.
Montecristo No.2
For aficionados of Cuban cigars, the Montecristo No.2 holds an esteemed position as a classic choice. Its Piramide shape and substantial dimensions (6 1/8 inches x 52 Ring Gauge) make it a powerful contender. Prepare yourself for bold, leathery flavours and a long-lasting, gratifying smoke. This cigar embodies the essence of Cuban craftsmanship and delivers an experience that is cherished by many.
Ashton VSG Illusion
The Ashton VSG Illusion presents a slender and elongated alternative to its plumper counterpart. This New World cigar, enriched by sun-grown Ecuadorian tobacco, offers a depth of flavour and an experience to savour. Additionally, it carries the allure of enjoying a cigar from a lesser-known country, adding a touch of uniqueness to your smoking repertoire. The Ashton VSG Illusion perfectly balances elegance and richness, making it a preferred choice for discerning smokers seeking an exceptional cigar.
