Dubai, UAE – The skyline of Dubai served as the backdrop for a global gathering as Nobu One Za’abeel officially marked its grand opening. Founders Nobu Matsuhisa and Meir Teper hosted an array of international celebrities to celebrate the latest evolution of the iconic brand. The guest list included Lindsay Lohan, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Gunna, Jacqueline Fernandez and Bobby Deol, alongside regional icons like Nawal El Zoghbi and Karen Wazen, all gathered to witness the brand’s first urban late-night concept in the region.
The evening was centred around the kagami biraki ceremony, an ancient Japanese ritual dating back to the 15th century. This tradition involves the breaking of a round sake barrel lid to usher in harmony and good fortune. Founders and guests, including Kerzner International CEO Philippe Zuber, used wooden mallets to open the barrel, with the sake served in traditional masu cups to the sound of Japanese Taiko drummers.
Located within The Link, the striking 230-metre cantilevered sky concourse at One&Only One Za’abeel, the restaurant features a design by the acclaimed Rockwell Group. The architecture uses weaving geometries that act as a symbolic gesture of cross-cultural exchange between Japanese craft and Dubai’s scale. A custom lighting installation, created in collaboration with LASVIT, flows across the ceiling, inspired by the intersecting lines of the building’s façade to create a sense of fluidity throughout the space.
This new venue marks a first for the brand by transforming into a dedicated late-night destination. The bar and lounge are designed to come alive after dark with a curated soundtrack by leading DJs, including a set by Afro-house artist Francis Mercier during the opening night. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa highlighted the unique energy of the new location, stating: “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.”
