DUBAI – Last night, Nobu founders Nobu Matsuhisa and Meir Teper celebrated the grand opening of Nobu One Za’abeel with a spectacular event, marking an exciting new chapter for the iconic Nobu brand. The celebration welcomed A-listers from around the world, including Lindsay Lohan, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Gunna, Jacqueline Fernandez, Bobby Deol, Rema, Chanel Iman, Nawal El Zoghbi, Dorra Zarrouk, Noha Nabil, Nicolas Mouawad, Hassan El Raddad, Amy Samir Ghanem, Nader Al Atat, Lojain Omran, Nelly Karim, Karen Wazen, AP Dhillon, and Rayanne Harake.
Following a red-carpet arrival, guests were invited to discover the venue for the very first time. The expansive space reveals a captivating design by internationally acclaimed architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, breathtaking skyline views, and Nobu’s signature world-class atmosphere, elevated further by the infectious energy of Francis Mercier, one of the world’s most celebrated Afro-house and melodic house DJs.
The VIP guests joined Nobu Founders Nobu Matsuhisa and Meir Teper, Hiro Tahara, COO of Nobu, Lindsay Lohan, Philippe Zuber, CEO of Kerzner International, for the kagami biraki ceremony – an ancient Japanese ritual dating back to the 15th century that involves the breaking and opening (biraki) of the round sake barrel lid (kagami), ushering in harmony and good fortune for the years ahead. Each of the founders took a wooden mallet and, counting down from three, broke open the lid of an enormous barrel of sake, which was served to revellers in traditional masu cups. Japanese Taiko drummers kicked off the festivities as Nobu Matsuhisa took to the stage to welcome guests.
Throughout the evening, guests indulged in an array of exquisitely crafted bite-sized dishes, showcasing Nobu’s renowned culinary artistry through its iconic dishes including, Black Cod Butter Lettuce, Wagyu Short Rib with Wasabi Salsa, Yellowtail Jalapeño, as well as a selection of Nobu’s world-famous sushi.
Nobu One Za’abeel marks a first for the brand, transforming into an electric late-night destination where the bar and lounge come alive after dark. With extended opening hours and a carefully curated soundtrack by leading DJs, the venue introduces a bold after-hours expression that redefines the Nobu experience.
Philippe Zuber, CEO of Kerzner International commented, “Kerzner’s partnership with Nobu is one of the most enduring and creatively aligned relationships in global hospitality. From our initial venture with Nobu at Atlantis, The Palm in 2008, to the world’s first Nobu by the Beach at Atlantis The Royal, and the celebrated Nobu at One&Only Cape Town, each destination has reflected a distinct expression of the brand within our portfolio. Nobu One Za’abeel marks the next evolution of that journey, an urban interpretation set at the heart of One&Only One Za’abeel, where dining, design and nightlife converge to capture the energy, connectivity and cultural dynamism of Dubai. Together, we continue to push boundaries, creating experiences that are globally relevant yet deeply rooted in their setting.”
Nobu Matsuhisa, commented: “I love Dubai, and I am very proud to be opening our third Nobu here. Nobu One Za’abeel reflects the energy of the city with its late-night atmosphere. This is a new Nobu experience with food at the heart, and I can’t wait to see everyone enjoying themselves at Nobu One Za’abeel.”
The design of Nobu One Za’abeel is nothing short of a masterpiece. Rockwell Group, the global architecture and design firm of choice for the Nobu brand, fused Japanese sensibilities of craft and precision with Dubai’s opulent grandeur to create a multifaceted atmosphere for dining and entertainment. Defined by an architecture of weaving and crisscrossing geometries, the firm’s design embraces layered connections from the outside in, serving as both a physical bridge between two skyscrapers and a symbolic gesture of cross-cultural exchange.
A monumental custom lighting system designed by Rockwell Group in collaboration with LASVIT flows throughout the restaurant, inspired by the intersecting lines found in the building’s façade. Suspended above guests, the continuous ceiling installation unifies the venue, seamlessly connecting the experience from arrival to the private dining room. Bent metal and varying opacities of resin diffuse the light, creating definition, rhythm, and a sense of fluidity.
Founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa alongside Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, Nobu has become one of the most globally recognised names in dining. Spanning 58 restaurants worldwide, from Dallas to Dubai, the brand is celebrated for its modern Japanese cuisine infused with Peruvian influences, understated luxury and an unmistakable dining experience.
High above the city, One&Only One Za’abeel sets the stage for global tastemakers and innovators. A place for those who shape the world to move at their own pace in the heart of Dubai’s cityscape. Located within The Link, One Za’abeel’s striking 230-metre cantilevered sky concourse, Nobu joins an exceptional line-up of globally celebrated dining concepts. Neighbours include Tapasake featuring the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool, Culinara Social Dining, a refined food hall experience, La Dame de Pic Dubai by Anne-Sophie Pic, and the Riviera-inspired Aelia.
Nobu One Za’abeel will open to the public on 17 January 2026. Reservations are now open.
Opening Times & Age Policy
Bar & Lounge:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Restaurant:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:30 AM
Age Policy:
- Restaurant: Family seating from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Bar & Lounge: 21+ only
