Beirut's world-famous bunker nightclub B018 is opening in Dubai Marina

B018 The Sequel is set to open in early 2021

Dubai’s B018 The Sequel will feature two rooms – the main space and a smaller, tropical-themed cocktail bar. Supplied

Beirut’s nightlife is famous the world over thanks to its lively bars and underground clubs.

And a slice of the city’s after-dark scene will be coming to Dubai, as legendary club B018 has announced a new venue on the outskirts of the Marina.

Established in 1998, B018 was named the “Berghain of Beirut” (after the renowned Berlin superclub) thanks to its revolution of the underground music scene in Lebanon.

Set in an underground bunker, the club is known as one of the world’s best and has welcomed some of the industry’s most well-known DJs in its 22-year history.

Now the concept is expanding in the region, with the launch of Dubai’s B018 The Sequel in early 2021.

The UAE outpost will be made up of two contrasting spaces: the first, a tropical-themed cocktail bar; the second, an industrial-themed main room that mimics the feel and spirit of the Beirut original.

Designed by Rabih Geha, the main room will include the club’s traditional moon bar and coffin-shaped tables, in keeping with the interior style of B018 Beirut.

The venue will also feature a rooftop lighting system that will welcome the morning at the end of the night – a signature of the original club – as well as a state-of-the-art sound system.

“The refined space will cater to music and art lovers across all nationalities, and celebrate Lebanon’s rich culture and history, which is more important to us now than ever before,” said Rabih Fakhreddine, chief executive of Seven Management.

Hassan Ballout, its chief growth officer, said: “B018 The Sequel has a dualistic approach – our aim is to maintain the spirit of the original venue while facilitating its growth. It is vintage yet futuristic, tropical yet industrial, connected yet disconnected, iconic yet simple, and welcoming yet exclusive. The imbalanced balance.

“We plan to use B018 as a platform for regional talent, to endorse young creators and help them grow. This is something that started in Beirut, and that we plan to continue across the Middle East. In life, there is no 2.0.”