A Night Owl's Guide to the Most Happening Nightlife in Abu Dhabi
Aug, 3 2023
Laying the Groundwork: Setting the Tone for an Exhilarating Night
Strap in, young night owls, because we're about to embark on an electrifying nocturnal journey in the city of Abu Dhabi. Renowned as the wealthiest city in the UAE and with an opulence that few cities can match, Abu Dhabi doesn't just sleep when the sun takes a bow; instead, it morphs into a vibrant nightlife hub that is bound to leave you spellbound.
Remarkable skyscrapers that glisten under the starlit sky, thrilling beach clubs with heart-pounding music, cloud-touching rooftop bars that provide panoramic views of the cityscape, and cosy cafes on bustling streets, every bit of this city comes alive when the day turns dark.
There's more to Abu Dhabi nightlife than meets the eye. Behind the visibly lavish offerings, there's a marvellous rhapsody of music, food, dance, alcohol and more that keeps the city awake. The night in Abu Dhabi is young forever, and I am here to unravel the most riveting destinations that will make your Arab nights unforgettable.
Finding Your Rhythm: Dance Floors that Ignite the Night
The first requirement for any nightlife enthusiast is to find the perfect dance floor that reverberates with your heartbeat. Look no further as Abu Dhabi has an array of imposing clubs and lounges that guarantee high-vibrance and deliver scintillating music.
Club MAD on Yas Island, with its hi-tech giant LED screens and an electrifying dance floor, offers an unmatchable party atmosphere. Whether it's international pop, hip-hop or local Arab hits, Club MAD hits the right note every time. On that note, Stills at the Crowne Plaza is yet another oozing magnet for party-goers. It's the longest bar in the Middle East, offering a wide selection of beers and a beer garden that strikes a chord with everyone.
But, if you wish to party with a view, Ray’s Bar at Jumeirah Towers is your go-to option. With skilled mixologists creating cocktail wonderlands and the DJ spinning groovy tunes, this bar gives you the perfect platform to dance the night away with the glimmering city skyline in the backdrop.
Tip: If you want to avoid the crowd, avoid Thursday nights. That's when everyone comes out to let loose.
Savour the Night: Gastronomic Delights under the Stars
After letting your hair down on the dance floor, you're bound to work up an appetite. Abu Dhabi won't disappoint you as it boasts a plethora of cuisines and gastronomic experiences that will satiate your late-night gastronomic quests.
The culinary scene in this city is as diverse as its residents. You can enjoy exotic everything from traditional Emirati cuisine to international delicacies during your nocturnal encounters. Rozanah serves mouth-watering Lebanese cuisine with a contemporary twist. Their Fattoush salad and mixed-grill platter are fan-favourites. Then there’s La Petite Maison that serves Nicoise-inspired dishes. Don’t pass up their Escargots de Bourgogne or Beef Tenderloin. Trust me, your taste-buds will have a fiesta!
If you wish to enjoy a romantic dinner under the gleaming moon, Le Vendome Brasserie is a must-visit. Overlooking the marina, this restaurant offers an elegant setting for an unforgettable nocturnal gourmet experience.
Tip: Always book your tables in advance as these restaurants tend to be chock-full, especially during the weekends.
Silent Nights: Cosy Corners for Peaceful Solitude
Of course, not every night owl is looking for pulsating music or flamboyant dance floors. Some prefer a quiet, peaceful solitude, and Abu Dhabi, despite its vibrant and loud image, has something for them too.
The Corniche, a splendid beachfront with its perfectly maintained manicured waterfronts and tranquil seascapes provide a serene environment for peaceful rendezvous. You can stroll down the promenade or even indulge in a quiet bike ride. Alternatively, take a dhow cruise along Abu Dhabi's coastline. The gentle swaying of the boat coupled with the rhythm of the gently lapping waves is both calming and invigorating, offering a perfect recipe for solitude and reflection.
Moreover, for the bibliophiles who love coffee, finding a nice quaint corner might be the best way to spend their evening. Breathe Cafe in Al Bateen is an excellent place to curl up with a good book. Imagine sipping on a steaming cup of green tea, flipping through the pages of your favourite book, while outside, the dazzling city continues to dance.
Tip: Don't forget to carry a light sweater during winter evenings as the seaside can get a tad bit chilly.
In Vibrant Shadows: Underrated Night Experiences
The real pleasure kicks in when you decipher the hidden nightlife gems that don't make it into every travel guide. Stepping off the beaten track is where you find some of the best experiences that Abu Dhabi has to offer its night owls.
Visit the local shisha bars for an authentic Arabic experience. Shisha, or hookah, is an integral part of the Middle Eastern culture and indulging in a session amidst colourful cushions, aromatic incense and traditional Arabic music can be very memorable.
Abu Dhabi also houses an array of independent art galleries that open their doors to art enthusiasts even late into the night. The Salwa Zeidan Gallery hosts a diverse range of contemporary and classical art pieces that can evoke deep conversations and contemplation.
In the end, all I can say is that Abu Dhabi's nightlife is like Aladdin's magic carpet, mysterious yet exciting, and it's ready to take you on a spectacular journey. So, buckle up, fellow night owls - the night is young, and there's so much to explore!