Finding a wedding venue in Dubai sounds easy – until you actually start looking.

Between breathtaking photos on Instagram, endless hotel options, and wildly different pricing structures, most couples feel overwhelmed within the first week of searching. And we get it – choosing a venue is the most important decision you’ll make, because everything else (budget, guest list, style, suppliers) depends on it.

After planning weddings across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we’re sharing exactly how to approach venue selection – and our top 10 favourite wedding venues that consistently deliver unforgettable celebrations.

🌸 Step 1: Start With the Style

Before looking at numbers or availability, decide on the overall atmosphere you want. In Dubai, venues usually fall into a few main categories:

• Beachfront – relaxed, sunset vibes, ocean views
• Desert – intimate, romantic, nature-driven, very atmospheric
• Lawn & Garden – elegant, green, perfect for outdoor dinners
• Skyline / Rooftop – iconic Dubai views, statement locations
• Ballroom – classic, weather-safe, ideal for larger guest counts

Knowing your preferred style immediately eliminates 50% of unsuitable venues.

🕊️ Step 2: How Many Guests Are You Really Inviting?

Guest count is a dealbreaker.

• Up to 30 guests – intimate terraces, villas, private dining spaces
• 50–120 guests – beach clubs, lawns, smaller ballrooms
• 150–300+ guests – large ballrooms, resorts, destination-style venues

Many venues look intimate online but require large minimum spends, while others can host big weddings very efficiently. Always match guest count + layout, not just capacity.

💎 Step 3: Understanding Minimum Spend (Very Important)

This is where most couples get confused.

Minimum spend is not the same as venue rental.

• A minimum spend means you must spend at least that amount on food & beverages
• It often includes basic furniture, service staff, and standard setup
• It does not usually include décor, entertainment, flowers, AV, or styling

Some venues have:

• Minimum spend only
• Rental fee + minimum spend
• Or full buyouts (especially beach clubs)

Two venues can look similar but differ by AED 100,000+ once everything is added – this is why guidance matters.

💌 Want Expert Help?

Planning a wedding in Dubai doesn’t have to be overwhelming — you just need the right team by your side.

We’ve created a Dubai Venue Guide (25+ Best Venues) to help you choose the best venues for your dream day.

👉 Get it here

Or if you’re ready to start planning —
✨ Schedule a free consultation call here
💬 Send us a WhatsApp message here

We’d love to hear your story, understand your vision, and help you make it reality — beautifully, stress-free, and true to you.