The best gaming lounges and cafes in the UAE

Gaming cafes and lounges form a lively community where players gather to compete and connect. Each venue buzzes with activity, showcasing the latest esports tournaments on large screens. Friends huddle around gaming rigs, while newcomers explore their interests over coffee and snacks. Here, diverse cultures converge, creating a unique atmosphere where competition and friendship thrive in the fast-paced world of gaming. For gamers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, there is a diverse choice of places to go. From board games to competitive online tournaments, here are the best gaming lounges and cafes to visit. Pixoul Gaming in Al Qana is a futuristic gaming complex covering 4,500 square metres across four floors. The venue features vibrant fluorescent lighting and includes a rotating cubed room that narrates its story. Catering to all gaming types, Pixoul offers computer and console games, virtual reality experiences, and is home to the region's first Esports Academy. The ground floor is dedicated to VR games, where players can engage in an overarching story about saving Pixoul Planet. Other games include CryoGenesis and Para Shift . For players not into VR, the third floor has retro games such as Pac-Man and Street Fighter , while comfortable console seating is available as well. An esports bar offers snacks and drinks. General manager Paul Hamilton told The Nationa l that Pixoul aims to be the "home of gaming" in Abu Dhabi. Located in Khalidiya's Montazah Tower, Abu Dhabi, DNA Board Game Cafe offers a cosy atmosphere with striking navy blue and red decor, complemented by natural light and greenery. Founded by Delilah Celik and Abdulaziz Alyassi, the cafe features more than 200 board games, ranging from family-friendly to strategic titles such as Sequence, Risk, and Catan. The couple’s passion for gaming inspired them to create a welcoming space where visitors can enjoy competition and connection. The cafe also serves a limited food menu, including breakfast items and a truffle burger, alongside a dedicated cake basement for desserts, reflecting Celik's love for baking. Since opening in December, the cafe has received positive feedback, although parking can be a challenge. With plans for expansion to Ras Al Khaimah and upcoming cake decorating classes, Celik aims to foster a familial environment where everyone feels at home. Located in the emirate's Muwaileh area, this gaming lounge hosts serious competitions across some of the most beloved online games. Titan is split into two different locations, the centre and the arena, each offering a different experience. The centre houses different PC stations and some consoles, allowing for a more casual experience. The arena, on the other hand, is where the competitive tournaments take place, giving teams of gamers an opportunity to battle it out for prizes and bragging rights. Titan is also home to a cafe named The Kitchen, which offers several different culinary choices. For those who want to make Titan their home away from home, the venue offers subscription packages that allow for regular visits. Board game lovers in Dubai love to frequent this venue, located in Jumeirah Village Circle, for hours of fun spent competing against each other. Dice Board Game Cafe’s high ceiling and wall of board games make for a very inviting setting to sit down with friends. The cafe emphasises the educational benefits of playing board games, promoting social and cognitive development for players of all ages. Guests can enjoy a menu that includes shareable appetisers, pizzas, burgers and healthy options. The establishment also has large tables, which make it perfect for some board games that need extra space for pieces and maps. The cafe also offers birthday packages for large groups, making it an ideal location for children's parties. With 10 dedicated PCs in team rooms for professional tournaments and four PlayStation 5s in separate console areas, players can enjoy a focused environment at True Gamers in Dubai Mall. The club also features two racing simulators for both casual and competitive gamers. Advanced HVAC systems maintain a comfortable atmosphere. Players can engage with peers to discuss the latest gaming trends and strategies, fostering a community spirit. True Gamers also guarantees a stable internet connection, minimising lag and interruptions during gameplay, making it an ideal spot for gamers looking to enhance their skills and connect with others while enjoying their time at the mall.

The best gaming lounges and cafes in the UAE

These venues across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah promise a good time for people of all ages