Nightlife in Abu Dhabi

- Qasr Al Hosn

Qasr Al Hosn is one of the historic buildings of this rich city, wherein people flock to witness the traditions, culture and ruling history of Abu Dhabi. You should include this place to experience the nightlife in Abu Dhabi and watch the palace ignite with multiple lights creating a mesmerizing structure to look at and click. Take a walk inside the fort and palace and watch the collectables and some remains on display in their open museum.

Location: Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street (2nd Street)

Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. 

- The Lobby Lounge at the Etihad Towers

The Lobby Lounge opens only in the evening and serves customers until the early morning hours and is one of the best places to visit if you want to indulge in some urbane delicacies. You must try one of their cupcakes from the wide range and mix that up with a hot or cold beverage. The interiors of this lounge and the music played here is very sophisticated to suit the late nighters looking for a cool place to hang out. 

Location: Podium Level 3, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers

Timings: 06.30 p.m. to 03.00 a.m.

- Emirates Heritage Club Heritage Village

Drop down to this man-made heritage village run by the Emirates where you can smell the rustic mud of this land with its outlook resembling a typical UAE village. You can visit the in-house mosque, walk around the souk and buy some native items to take back home, watch some of the best workers on duty going about their day with weaving, pottery, etc. and just sit to look around at this age-old settlement in modern Abu Dhabi. If you are exploring the nightlife of Abu Dhabi on a Friday, then make sure to visit this place when the craftsmen are available for longer hours; you can see designing their best work, learn more about their skills and also try your hand at it if it interests you. 

Location: Near Marina Mall

Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 04.00 p.m. and 03.30 p.m. to 09.00 p.m. on Fridays

- Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace is one of the finest hotels in Abu Dhabi that surely is an architectural wonder standing tall by the Arabian Gulf overlooking the calm waters. The entire palace is not open to visitors to avoid inconvenience to the guests staying; it does allow tourists to take a peek inside, adore the exhibitions and have a lavish meal at their up-scale restaurant. The state-of-the-art structures with massive chandeliers, night lighting, and culturally famous domes make this place worth exploring within the nightlife in Abu Dhabi. 

Location: West Corniche Road

Timings: Open twenty-four hours

- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque under the natural moonlight and with its own blue light is a spectacle that is not worth missing. One can spend hours staring at the beauty of this fine structure which is amongst the ace erections of Abu Dhabi. This religious destination is a delight to watch for every tourist owing to its very traditional design, huge identical chandeliers. It houses the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet within its premise in front of which you can click a memorable picture. The reflection of this well-lit mosque on the water is a mystical sight to watch! 

Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street

Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m.

Also Read: Places to Visit and Things to Do in Abu Dhabi at Night

- MAD Yas Island - Nightclub Abu Dhabi

Looking for an upscale place to party in Abu Dhabi? Gallop straight to MAD Yas Island- Nightclub Abu Dhabi to get an enriched clubbing experience. Every corner of this excellently lit club is swarming with people dancing to the DJ’s international tunes.

With strict admission restrictions and dress codes, it is one of the best places to visit to enjoy the nightlife in Abu Dhabi. This club is most famous for its opulent VIP areas, 360-degree projection designs, and the huge screens! Get the best of your attires ready to set the dance floor on fire in this club.

Location: Leisure drive, Near Yas tunnel, Yas Island

Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 04.00 p.m.

- Relax@12

With a mix of the top international tracks played by the DJ to the live musicians who play on this roof-top club, Relax@12 is surely one of the best hangout places to unwind. Make sure to order some Oriental dishes along with your drinks for a more extravagant experience; sushi is one of the most famous dishes you can try here. As the night progresses, shift indoors to dive into the whole party mood that engulfs the aura. It is an amazing place to watch the sleeping city in the night lights along with foot-tapping music. 

Location: Aloft Hotel

Timings: 05.00 p.m. to 02.00 a.m. from Saturday to Wednesday; up to 03.00 a.m. on Thursday and Friday

- Hysteria Abu Dhabi

Setting a strong foot amongst the other Abu Dhabi nightlife pubs and bars, Hysteria has managed to bring in a huge turnout of people swaying to their music. A feature that has hit off well is the variant themes across the week, viz a viz, Arabic nights (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday) and English nights (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday).

Once on the dance floor, you are sure to swing with the stimulating music and light shows that sparkle this party place. They’re known for their will to innovate to keep the party-mongers coming, and always put up something different every now and then to keep people on their toes! 

Location: Hilton Capital Grand

Timings: 10.00 p.m. to 03.30 a.m.

-Loca

Every girl gang holidaying in Abu Dhabi must definitely hit Loca on a Wednesday night for a princess-like treatment along with the non-stop margaritas that you cannot say no to. What’s even better is, these are available in varied flavors which you can try as per your liking until you can handle them! Loca in Abu Dhabi has the best crowd and ambiance to spend a chilled out evening with friends, amazing music and scrumptious food. The Mexican cuisine served here sure complement their drinks and the essence of the evening! 

Location: Level 1, Galleria Mall

Timings: 12.00 p.m. to 02.00 a.m. 

- SAX Club, Le Royal Meridien

With alternating DJ’s every few days, live musical performances, Ladies night specials, especially themed cuisine weekends, and feet stomping music, SAX Club has surely made its presence felt in the nightlife in Abu Dhabi. People who visit here cannot stop raving about the delicious food, drinks and the sprightly aura that engulfs one to have a delightful time. Since their drinks are priced at affordable rates between 50 to 200 AED, you can have a great time without burning a big hole in your pocket!

Location: Le Royal Meridien Hotel, Khalifa Bin Zayed The First

Timings: 07.00 p.m. to 03.30 a.m. (Monday to Friday)

Also Check Out: Popular Bars of Abu Dhabi

- Finz Restaurant

A haven for seafood lovers, Finz Restaurant has people coming over to try their eccentric dishes. With one of the most scenic backdrops in the city by the shore, this eatery has one of the most lavish settings where people can enjoy the freshness of the sea.

Most of the dishes served here get their flavours after an amalgamation of Mediterranean and Moorish style. That said, it also serves the best of vegetarian and health food for those who do not wish to indulge in their non-vegetarian menu. 

Location: Beach Rotana

Timings: 12.30 p.m. to 03.30 p.m. (lunch) and 07.00 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. (dinner)

- Imago Restaurant and Bar

You can carry out a late-night binge on exotic dishes at the Imago Restaurant and Bar that is open until late; if you are done eating and not drinking, then stay longer for the bar doesn’t close until 02.00 a.m. Mostly famous for serving the best dishes from Japanese cuisine, this restaurant has people wowed by its lighting and cocoon theme. It is a fun place to grab drinks along with international cuisine food; visit between the happy hours to get up to half off on many of their beverages. 

Location: Le Royal Meridien Hotel 

Timings: 05.00 p.m. to 02.00 p.m.

- Zuma

Another arena for trying out the best of the Japanese cuisine, Zuma has managed to bag the Restaurant of the Year Award twice now owing to its all-round experience. The view of the waterfront, the exquisite seating area, the location and the grilled food put together make Zuma worth a visit when exploring the nightlife in Abu Dhabi.

Their style of izakaya, which means to order food that suits your taste is a run-away hit concept amongst food lovers. You can opt for a private dining option for a more intimate setting with friends, colleagues or family! Their four seating areas, Main Dining area, Bar & Lounge, Wine and Sake Cellar and Sushi Robata Counter have a very welcoming and inviting ambience. 

Location: Global Market

Timings: 12.00 p.m. to 03.30 p.m. and 07.00 p.m. to 01.00 a.m. (up to 02.00 a.m. on Thursday and Friday)

- Cho Gao Restaurant

Cho Gao Restaurant is your go-to place to pander in lip-smacking Asian food within a five-star setting, décor, and hospitality. You will find people dressed in smart and classy casuals tapping into this lounge restaurant to enjoy some of the best dishes and drinks in Abu Dhabi. Some dishes we urge you to try here are the Thai curries and the Vietnamese Salads along with the most interesting combinations of cocktails. Sitting by the waterside that sends a refreshing breeze to your table only to blend with the hip music of the place makes for an amazing dining experience. 

Location: Lobby Level, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street

Timings: 12.00 p.m. to 01.00 a.m. (up to 02.00 a.m. on Thursday and Friday)

- Vasco's

Vasco’s serves food from almost all International cuisines like Tandoori, Indian, Asian, Mediterranean, Seafood, Middle Eastern, etc. For those who want a more romantic set-up can opt a table out on the deck that overlooks the Arabian shore, the sound of which is amazing combined with the tasty food. If you are a fan of seafood, then you should order their signature dishes from the Goan cuisine, the taste of which is exceptional. This high-end restaurant surely qualifies as amongst the best of nightlife in Abu Dhabi. 

Location: Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort

Timings: Lunch from 12.00 p.m. to 03.00 p.m. (up to 04.00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday) and dinner from 07.00 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.

- B B Q Night Restaurant

Much like their tagline, ‘every night is BBQ night’ at this casual restaurant open until the wee hours selling the best-barbecue food in town! Its outside seating keeps the excitement alive with the sound of the city amidst the bustle post evening time. Considering it is open for the entire day, it makes it a perfect place to grab a quick bite in-between your sightseeing or shopping hours. With steaks being their signature dishes along with plenty of other items across their wide-spread menu, B B Q Night Restaurant is a must-try place from the Abu Dhabi Nightlife.

Location: Mussafah Shabiya

Timings: 08.00 a.m. to 01.00 a.m. 

- Byblos Sur Mer

Byblos Sur Mer is an amazing fine-dining restaurant that has gained popularity for its Lebanese food served with top-notch eccentric presentations which are all delicious visual treats. You must try at least one of the items from the Mezze section, preferably the Hendbeh, which is amongst their most artistic dishes. You can spend some time with the availability of Shisha while you look at the view from this terrace restaurant until the food is served. The hospitality and treatment at this restaurant are quite appreciable.

Location: InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Timings: 12.30 p.m. to 01.30 a.m. (up to 03.00 a.m. on Thursday and Friday)

- Hakkasan

With one of the most fashionable appearances in all of Abu Dhabi, Hakkasan has claimed its name to fame with its flavoursome dishes and world-class service. Every corner of the décor and every minute in indoor scent will remind you that you are in for the best dishes from Chinese cuisine. The Stir fry mix nut lettuce wrap, senpai chicken clay pot and vanilla crème Brulee with apple sorbet are some of the best dishes to try when you visit this place amongst the Abu Dhabi nightlife places. 

Location: Emirates Palace

Timings: 12.00 p.m. to 03.00 p.m. for lunch and 06.00 p.m. to 12.00 a.m. for dinner

Suggested Read: Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

- Souk Central Market

This is one of the most charming markets in this city open for several hours of the day until late in the night with people hoarding for all their shopping needs. Some things that Souk Central Market is famous for are perfumes and handicrafts made by the locals. This market that looks like an exquisite building on the outside, is one of the most authentic places in town with a number of shops selling the best of Abu Dhabi items. Women have a delightful time here with some extraordinary manicure and pedicure services in the studios here.

Location: Zone 1 Abu Dhabi

Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 02.00 a.m.

- Yas Mall

This is one of the largest shopping malls on Yas island and operates for long hours; this justifies its inclusion in the best places of nightlife in Abu Dhabi. Yas Mall houses a collection of the best of international brands all sold under one roof that sells and display the latest fashion trends. There is practically nothing that you cannot find here, including entertainment for the non-shoppers. The restaurants, game rooms, multiplexes and the vastness of the mall with over 400 retail shops keep everyone on their toes when here. 

Location: Yas Leisure Drive

Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 12.00 a.m.

- World Trade Center Abu Dhabi

What was just a historic building for conducting trade has now transformed into a skyscraper mall in Abu Dhabi where one can spend hours picking the best items. Even though it has been designed with modernity, it still maintains its traditional souk like experience to give people the foolproof feel of being in this affluent city. Some things that you should pick up from this market are the locally produced perfumes, handicraft souvenirs, hand-made jewellery and of course, spices for an authentic taste. 

Location: Garden Tower

Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 10.0 p.m. (up to 11.00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday

- Galleria’s

Living in a hotel that leads you to an amazingly built enormous mall with the best collection of world-class brands is surely a dream come true for many. This luxurious mall is a one-stop-shop for a day filled with fun where you can undertake many activities. Having a lavish meal at the fine-dining restaurant, staring at the waterfront with a city view, and shopping till you have your hands full are things that put Galleria on the list of every tourist who wishes to experience the nightlife in Abu Dhabi. 

Location: Al Falah Street

Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m.

- Souk Al Zafarana

If you want to get into the real Abu Dhabi culture and spend hours witnessing its marvellous traditions, then you should go shopping at Souk AL Zafarana. This market is a beautiful merger of smells that come from the spices and perfumes sold here. The large colourful piles of various flavours, the Arabic scents, some henna and a couple of traditional clothes are the things you can buy from the stores here that are open till late in the night. Inside this market is a little street called Mubdia Village that is run by the women and is open only for the women that make it an amusing place to visit and explore.

Location: Al Jimi, Al Ain

Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 11.30 p.m.

Must Checkout: Markets in Abu Dhabi

Considering that Abu Dhabi’s nightlife culture is very active, it is an absolutely safe place to party until the early morning hours. Several of the clubs and pubs here are open up to 03.00-04.00 a.m. in the morning with the availability of cabs to take you back to your accommodation. Some of them even organize ladies night’s on a couple of days of the week, making it safe for the women to shake a leg and enjoy an evening too. 

Abu Dhabi has a lot of activities that you can partake with your family at night. Some of them are: 

Visit Noukhada - Who doesn’t like to spend time with aquatic animals and birds? Noukhada is the one place in Abu Dhabi that arranges Kayaking tours twenty-four hours with distinctive lighting at night to watch the marine animals around and under your boat. 

Take a family cruise ride on Captain Tony’s - This Dhow cruise ride that commences at the Yas Island and completes at Al Raha Beach is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi with family at night. It passes a lot of iconic buildings on the way including the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi which is brightened with numerous LED lights after sunset. 

Al-Ain Zoo - This place is a haven for a family that enjoys the company of animals in their natural habitat. You can sign up for their night tours and travel around the zoo to watch the nocturnal animals. 

Have dinner at Emirates Palace - This posh star hotel has people from all over the world coming in to have a full-fledged meal on this private beach.

Enjoy some fun rides at Yas Waterworld - Yas Waterworld is amongst the very few water parks that allows one to revel in the water rides till late in the night, especially on special occasions. It allows even the women who visit this rich city to enjoy the nightlife in Abu Dhabi with an all women-and kids day when the park remains open till as late as 11.00 p.m only for them.

Popular Read: Water Parks & Theme Parks in Abu Dhabi

Yes, Abu Dhabi is extremely safe for solo female travellers who wish to venture out in the night. The whole of UAE practices a very strict law and order, and therefore, the crime rates aren’t very high. Teasing a woman is a punishable offence, and therefore, this wondrous city is safe for women too. It is important for women to dress appropriately unless visiting a club.

The minimum age requirement for alcohol consumption in Abu Dhabi is eighteen. Some clubs or restaurants may ask for an identity before serving alcohol if they feel the need. It is important to remember that you shouldn’t order drinks at places where it is not permissible as it is an offence. 

Also Read: 50 Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi