There are countless exceptional cigar lounges around the world—Pair in Dubai, Taboo in Miami, Malt Lounge on the MSC Europa, and Authentic Bar Salon De Shimaji in Tokyo, to name just a few. After visiting these renowned lounges, I thought I knew what it took for a lounge to be considered truly extraordinary. But after my second visit to Dubai this year, I found myself at a lounge unlike any other—a lounge that feels ahead of its time. So far beyond expectations that you might mistake it for a luxury resort.
Vintage Cigars Lounge by Amer Tamimi Lounge is Dubai's #1 lounge in 2025 and the new standard for cigar lounges. Many of the premium lounges share some things in common. Fine cigars, fine drinks, friendly staff, great location and good atmosphere. The luxury lounges will top that with vintage rare cigars, vintage rare drinks, excellent service, posh location and the atmosphere of class. Vintage Cigars not only delivers these elements but has redefined the cigar lounge experience, creating an entirely new level of luxury and excellence.
Picture Credit: Alejandro Diaz
View of the humidor
The Humidor - One of my main critics about Dubai is that it doesn't have many places were the cigar selection is great. Thankfully, Vintage Cigars is in Dubai to save the day. As you can see in the picture above their walk-in humidor is a work of art. From the amazing chandelier to their gorgeous cigar display, you'll feel like you are walking inside a luxury fashion boutique. As you can see below, not only do they have Limited Edition Cohiba, Opus X 20th Anniversary, Tatuaje & My Father La Union but they had a box of Fuente y Padron Legends. I don't think many of you would realize how bizarre it is to find that box there. If this is just in the shelves and public display, can you imagine what they have in stock for their VIPs?
Picture Credit: Alejandro Diaz
View inside the humidor
Open 8 am - 12 AM every day
📍 Umm Suqeim St - Al Barsha - Al Barsha 2 - Dubai
Quince Restaurant & Cafe, Um Suqeim St, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Private Cigar Label - What does a luxury cigar lounge need? A signature cigar brand, of course. Enter Amarati Cigars, Dubai's newest premium cigar brand. Founded by Amer Al-Tamimi, a seasoned professional with a background in the food and beverage industry, Amarati is the culmination of Al-Tamimi's lifelong passion for cigars. A regular at his own private cigar lounge, he cultivated a deep appreciation for the art of fine cigars. This passion led to the creation of Vintage Cigar Lounge in Dubai, a haven for cigar enthusiasts. Now, expanding his vision even further, Al-Tamimi has launched Amarati Cigars, bringing his personal touch to the world of premium cigars. All cigars in the lineup feature an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, though the binder and filler blends vary between each cigar. The binder and fillers, however, all hail from Nicaragua, sourced from renowned tobacco-growing regions including Estelí, Jalapa, Pueblo Nuevo, and Somoto.
One of the key lines is Letter to a Father, which draws inspiration from a poignant letter dated January 25, 1902. In this letter, a daughter writes to her father, who is away from home, sharing family news and updates, including information about the family's tobacco harvest. The Letter to a Father blend uses an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, a binder from Somoto, and a filler mix from Condega, Jalapa, and Somoto. Described as medium-full in body, it offers a balanced yet complex smoking experience. If you a a real cigar snob, I encourage you to learn about the history of this brand and the famous letter.
The OG line, another standout in the collection, features an Ecuadorian Habano 2000 wrapper, with a binder from Jalapa and a filler blend sourced from Condega, Estelí, and Jalapa. Like Letter to a Father, the OG is also considered medium-full in body, delivering a rich yet approachable profile.
Although the company is keeping the name of the factory that manufactures the cigars under wraps, it’s known that Al-Tamimi made more than half a dozen trips to Nicaragua to personally oversee the development and refinement of these blends in close collaboration with the factory.
Thankfully you do not have to travel to Dubai (but you should!) to try them as they will be participating in PCA 2025 in New Orleans (USA) where they will also be unveiling a very special cigar collaboration. They didn’t share much information about it but I'm it will be something every cigar aficionado will truly enjoy!
The Restaurant + Coffee Shop! - Now we start to justify the hype beyond cigars. The lounge is attached Quince, a 5 stars restaurant with a very posh coffee shop. If you are a foodie you know how hard it is for a restaurant to earn 5 stars. The restaurant offers a refined dining experience with modern Mediterranean cuisine. The menu blends Italian, Spanish, and Middle Eastern influences, showcasing seasonal ingredients and high-quality meats and seafood. The elegant, contemporary interior complements the sophisticated atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a fine-dining experience. Its innovative presentations and exceptional service, Quince is a standout destination for food lovers in Dubai. Just look at the cigar shaped chocolate! Everything tasted as good as it looked.
Although, I only had one drink - It was the best non-alcoholic drink I've ever had.
Picture Credit: Alejandro Diaz
View inside the restaurant
(+971) 56 418 4244
Gym, Showers, Sauna, Padel Tennis, Cycling, Yoga, What?! - Remember I told you at the beginning this lounge was above and beyond? Want to work out before smoking or breakfast? Maybe shower after smoking? You don't have to leave the building. Vintage Cigar Lounge happened to be collocated with a fitness club. 700 Padel and Fitness Hub is a premier sports and fitness destination that combines the excitement of padel tennis with a full range of fitness facilities. The club offers state-of-the-art padel courts along with top-notch fitness amenities, including a well-equipped gym, group exercise classes, and wellness services. The club caters to players of all levels, from beginners to advanced, with professional coaching and a vibrant community atmosphere. In addition to its focus on padel, 700 Padel and Fitness Club provides a variety of fitness options, such as personal training, yoga, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The modern, sleek design of the club creates an inviting environment for both sports enthusiasts and those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, making it one of the go-to places for fitness and recreation in Dubai.
Picture Credit: Alejandro Diaz
View inside the fitness club
+971 56 626 2020
The Lounge - I saved the best for last: this luxury lounge is currently undergoing major renovations, and I was fortunate enough to visit during this exciting transformation. Even while construction is ongoing, it still outshines most lounges in the USA and EU. The lounge remains open and continues to offer comfortable seating, large-screen TVs, exceptional customer service, and everything you would expect from a five-star venue.
One standout feature is the ample space for seating. While many luxury lounges in Dubai can accommodate only 20 to 40 guests max, Vintage Cigar can easily host over 100 people. This makes it an excellent choice for large events.
Open 8 am - 12 AM every day
📍 Umm Suqeim St - Al Barsha - Al Barsha 2 - Dubai
Quince Restaurant & Cafe, Um Suqeim St, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Summary - Vintage Cigars Lounge stands as a remarkable testament to the future of luxury cigar lounges, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with cutting-edge sophistication. It is not simply a lounge—it represents a lifestyle, where refinement and self-care come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a premium cigar, enjoy a morning workout, or indulge in a delicious meal, Vintage Cigars Lounge offers an exceptional experience for every occasion. Come for an invigorating workout and stay for a gourmet breakfast, or savor a fine cigar before enjoying a decadent dinner. Whatever your mood or desire, this lounge goes above and beyond to exceed your expectations, offering a sanctuary where every detail has been meticulously curated to enhance your experience. It is truly a must-visit destination for any cigar aficionado or those seeking a blend of luxury, relaxation, and first-class service.
A special thanks to Amer Al-Tamimi and the incredible team at Vintage Cigars Lounge and Amarati Cigars for the opportunity to visit. It was a truly remarkable evening, and I look forward to returning soon.
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