Contrary to popular belief about the Middle East, the nightlife in Abu Dhabi is thrilling and offers a wide variety of choices. Escape the monotonous routine of the day and dive into the vibrant nightlife of Abu Dhabi, especially on Wednesdays and Fridays when the venues are buzzing with crowds. From British-themed pubs to the most happening nightclubs with electrifying music, this city has it all!
Butcher & Still
Located in the Four Seasons, this steakhouse features a stunning speakeasy interior and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to linger. Known for their expertly prepared meats and Prohibition-era cocktails (some served with cracked ice and smoke), Butcher & Still offers an exceptional bar experience. While a dress code isn’t mandatory, smart casual attire is recommended.
Cost for two: AED 450
Timing: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Relax @ 12
This sleek rooftop bar at Aloft Hotel, near the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, offers an incredible city view. Along with great cocktails, it features a tempting sushi menu and hookah services. Relax @ 12 is the perfect spot to enjoy your nightlife in Abu Dhabi with drinks in the open air.
Cost for two: AED 350
Timing: 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
PJ O Reilley’s
Situated in Le Royal Meridien, this Irish-themed bar is known for its relaxed vibe. With a DJ at night and live music in the evenings, it sets the perfect mood for a good time. Their Friday family picnic brunches are particularly popular. Be sure to try their chicken wings and seafood.
Cost for two: AED 300
Timing: 12:00 PM to 1:30 AM
The Jazz Bar
The Jazz Bar and Dining, located in Hilton Abu Dhabi, won the Time Out Abu Dhabi Nightlife’s Best Live Music Venue award in 2017. Offering a fantastic menu of seafood and steak paired with chilled beers, this bar is perfect for food lovers. Stay for the lively music performed by the house band, DNA.
Cost for two: AED 400
Timing: 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Mood Indigo
Found in Novotel Hotel City Centre, Mood Indigo serves finger food and a wide range of enticing cocktails. This jazz bar is famous for its live music on Friday nights with a piano trio. It’s known for some of the most affordable beer prices in the city, all in a charming jazz ambiance highlighted by dark wood interiors and mood lighting.
Cost for two: AED 300
Timing: 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Oceana Restaurant and Grill
Best known for its seafood, Oceana Restaurant and Grill at Hilton Capital Grand offers a great breakfast buffet with panoramic city views. Featuring sleek interiors with a white-and-beige color scheme, it’s a popular spot for lunch and evening drinks. However, it’s not ideal for late-night outings.
Cost for two: AED 200
Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Stills
At Crowne Plaza, Stills offers men’s nights on Saturdays and Sundays, making it perfect for a boys’ night out. With a European menu and delicious grills to complement well-mixed cocktails, it’s a lively spot for an evening of drinks and dancing, thanks to the live DJ.
Cost for two: AED 500
Timing: 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Ray’s Bar
Located on the 62nd floor of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Ray’s Bar is a favorite for drinking and dancing with a breathtaking skyline view. It won the Time Out Award for ‘Best Bar With A View’ in 2017. Enjoy top-notch cocktails and a billiards table, but be sure to follow their dress code.
Cost for two: AED 400
Timing: 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Cooper’s
Styled like a British pub, Cooper’s at Park Rotana and Park Arjaan by Rotana is perfect for enjoying a beer and good conversation. Known for screening sporting events, it attracts large crowds on match days. Their finger food, including calamari, chicken wings, and curly fries, pairs well with chilled beers.
Cost for two: AED 350
Timing: 12:00 PM to 2:30 AM
Sax Club
Situated in Le Royal Meridien, Sax Club offers themed nights like Lebanese weekends, providing great music for dance enthusiasts. Renovated in 2012, it boasts an improved sound system and ambiance. Their legendary ladies’ nights on Mondays and Wednesdays and a smart-chic dress code make it a top choice.
Cost for two: AED 400
Timing: 7:00 PM to 3:30 AM
Blue Bar
True to its name, Blue Bar at Hilton Capital Grand features a neon blue aesthetic. With a long bar and a glass wall celebrating the city’s twinkling lights, it offers a delightful array of cocktails for a relaxed evening of dinner and drinks.
Cost for two: AED 250
Timing: 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Manhattan Lounge
This luxurious lounge at St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, located by Saadiyat Beach, offers a breezy, sophisticated drinking experience. It’s an excellent venue for groups, with late hours adding to its nightlife appeal. A pint of beer here costs AED 60.
Cost for two: AED 500
Timing: 5:00 PM to 2:30 AM
The Captain’s Arms
Located at Le Meridien Village, The Captain’s Arms offers a lively atmosphere with good music. Known for its burgers, pizzas, and British dishes like bangers and mash, service here can be slow, but the reasonably priced beer makes it worth the visit.
Cost for two: AED 250
Timing: 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Brauhaus
Brauhaus at Beach Rotana is celebrated for its German cuisine and a fantastic range of German draft beers. It’s perfect for casual dining, offering a laid-back pub feel. Don’t miss their German pork selections and sausage platter.
Cost for two: AED 350
Timing: 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Rock Bottom Café
Situated in Al Diar Capital Hotel on Mina Street, Rock Bottom Café delivers a great American drinking experience. With a menu featuring American fast food like hot dogs and classic American drinks, it’s a lively spot with live entertainment and a ladies’ night from 8 PM to 9:30 PM daily.
Cost for two: AED 300
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 AM
Things to Remember For Nightlife in Abu Dhabi
Non-Muslim residents need a liquor license to buy and consume alcohol, although this is rarely checked. Tourists on a visitor’s visa to the UAE are exempt from this requirement.
Many bars and nightclubs are in upscale hotels, leading to higher costs.
Dress codes are common, typically prohibiting sandals or flip-flops.
Public intoxication is illegal. It’s best to take a taxi directly to your hotel after leaving a bar, and never drink and drive.
Keep these tips in mind for a fantastic nightlife experience in Abu Dhabi!