After Dark in Abu Dhabi: Uncovering the City’s Vibrant Bar Scene

Explore the ideal approach to unwinding. The highest bar in the capital, Ray’s Bar at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, serves creative drinks while you take in the sunset over the cityscape of Abu Dhabi. Sip some signature cocktails along with delectable snacks.  The nightlife vibe is on point with chic decor, smoking and non-smoking, making it a relaxed and premium destination to chat and collaborate with your friends and colleagues while enjoying stunning views around you. Additionally, elevate your refreshing night with live DJ sets performed every Thursday to Friday, making Ray’s Bar the perfect nightlife sport. 

• Location: Ray’s Bar is located on the 62nd floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers at Corniche Road, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi 

• Opening Hours:
  • Sunday to Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 11:45 PM.
  • Thursday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:30 AM

• Central Feature: USDA Prime Beef to Australian Master Kobe

Distinct from other bars, follow the wooden staircase that leads you to the underground cellar, where you can see seats for up to 12 people. Located in Rosewood, Abu Dhabi, La Cava is known for its wide and rare selection of wines and cosy atmosphere, with an exquisite blend of artisanal cheese and a variety of grapes. The seller’s ambience is incredible, with cool stone walls, shelves, and cabinets made of French oak and American walnut wood. It displays over 1000 varieties of wine, ranging from boutique to class.

• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAEmirates
• Opening: Tuesday to Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
• Central Feature: Wines and Whiskeys 

Another top and high-end bar lies on the incredible site at the Rosewood, The Hidden Bar, known for serving distinctive gin cocktails and light snacks. Relax and enjoy the paranoic view of Abu Dhabi’s skyline while enjoying the signature Gin O’Clock, the newest dine-and-drink experience featuring a selection of cold cuts, artisan cheese boards, seafood appetisers, succulent mains, and sweet desserts. You can sip on unlimited cocktails, bubbles, grapes, or hops to quench your thirst while savouring the menu that Chefs Tinto, Arwin, Jaka, and Remi have prepared.

• Location: Rosewood Hotel, Al Maryah Island,  Abu Dhabi 
• Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 6 PM to 3 AM; Friday and Saturday from  6 PM to 4 AM
• Central Feature: Gin O’Clock

Located in the Galleria Al Maryah Island, this bar is known for its Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere. Popular among residents and tourists alike, the Mexican restaurant and bar is considered a dining legend in and of itself, drawn by its signature tacos, guacamole, and fiesta atmosphere. Head chef Juan Flores, who is native to the area, has created its authentic Mexican menu.

• Location:  07 Hamouda Bin Ali Al Dhaheri Street, Al Maryah Island
• Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10 am to 10 pm; Friday  and Saturday: 10 am to 12 am
• Central Feature: Menxican Menu

Yet another stunning establishment from Rosewood, the Dragon Tooth, Kanoen, is renowned for its tiny, unique atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from the 1920 Shanghai Jazz Revolution, this bar is famous for its signature cocktails. The bar also offers a funny way of letting you indulge in the process of creating your drink as you can taste, stir, and shake with the bartender.  Sip your signature cocktail and unwind your night hours while savouring delicious dim sum by Dai Pai Dong.

• Location: Rosewood – Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi 
• Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 4 PM to 1 AM; Friday and Saturday from 4 PM to 2 AM.
• Center Feature: Private events, date nights, and signature cocktails.

Here, we have the perfect bar that suits your nightlife. The Annex, located in the Abu Dhabi edition, is a modern and unique space offering a wide selection of  The three-storied building offers unique and fun-filled nights on each floor. Dance the night away at the bottom floor, enjoy the elegant dining and drinks from the middle, and soak in the breathtaking scenery on the rooftop, complete with an elegantly adorned wooden terrace with comfy lounge furniture, a cosy firepit, and an abundance of greenery. 

• Location:  3rd floor, Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Opening Hours: Every Thursday from 5 pm-2 am, Fridays and Saturdays from 5 pm- 4 am 
• Center Feature: stunning selection of cocktails and spirits.

This Speakeasy bar, located in the Yas Island Marina, is a trendy European-style lounge with awesome artisan cocktails, smooth tunes, and great views from Yas Viceroy. To fill your evening with more excitement, indulge in the live band and other events, including the brunch happening every Friday. Additionally, Iris has a Tripst Tea collection of finger bites, sweet treats, and an array of elegantly crafted beverages. Some of the signature designs include Spicy Rock Chicken, Angus Beef Burger, and Summer Rolls. 

• Location: Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
• Opening Hours: Sunday to Saturday from 6 pm to 3 pm.
• Center Feature: Spicy Rock Chicken and  Angus Beef Burger.

• Be mindful and respectful of the local culture, and dress modestly.
• Reserve seats in advance to avoid cramped seats. Some of the bars accept only reserved seats.
• Beware of the age restriction, where some bars prohibit visitors under 21 years.  
• Take advantage of offers and events like ladies’ nights on weekdays.
• Understand the law regarding alcohol consumption and age restrictions.
• Use trusted travel services like Thrillark to explore high-end hotels and bars for a safe experience.
• Be aware of the opening and closing hours of the bars.
• Keep your belongings secure and safe.

Abu Dhabi’s night is a lot of happening! When you are exhausted and just carve the comfort of your home, the city’s vibrancy and tonnes of entertainment options never let you stay up at home. A city with some of the best bars and pubs becomes an excellent moodsetter for your day. From offering their signature recipes and drinks and breathtaking views from the roof longue is just enough to make your best moment and the best ending to the day. The city’s dynamic nightlife ensures staying up is never an option.  Abu Dhabi’s night is designed for unforgettable moments. 

Does Abu Dhabi have a good nightlife?

Yes, Abu Dhabi is one of the cities that offers you a variety of entertainment and exciting nightlife ranging from restaurants, and bars to nightclubs and more.

Can tourists drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi’s hotels and bars are perfect spots for tourists who seek libations. Despite this, there are strict rules imposed against consuming alcohol in public places. 

 Is alcohol expensive in Abu Dhabi?

The alcohol in Abu Dhabi is not cheap. But in some bars, there will be weekend events and ladies’ nights that give free drinks or heavily subsidized drinks. 

Can you walk around Abu Dhabi at night?

Yes, Abu Dhabi, with its rather extragenic and vibrant atmosphere, is one of the safest cities in the world. So you can roam around late at night as much as you want.

Is Abu Dhabi more fun than Dubai?

Because of its island location, Abu Dhabi boasts plenty of cruise and boat activities compared to Dubai. On the other hand, you will also find many high-end things in Dubai that offer you a top-notch experience.