Paint the Town Red: A Guide to the Most Exciting Nightlife in Abu Dhabi

Derek Kingsworth

Unlocking the Nightlife Secrets of Abu Dhabi

The horizon of Abu Dhabi, mirroring a riveting dance of neon colors across the serene Persian Gulf, promises secrets only the night can tell. It's only after sunset, the city reveals its vibrant soul - the cosmopolitan nightlife. Nightlife in Abu Dhabi is as diverse as its multicultural population, offering something for all styles and tastes. Hold tight, because we will embark on a thrilling journey, exploring the city's pulsating nightlife like never before.

Each location that we'll explore in this article will breathe a different spirit, a different vibe. Some nights will hold a sophisticated calm, some might surprise you with their contemporary tunes, while others might just transport you into a different era altogether. Drawing from my personal experiences and endless nights of adventures, I aim to provide you with an unmatched guide to the most thrilling, electrifying, and exhilarating nights Abu Dhabi has to offer.

Cocktail Dreams: Where to Drink the Night Away

Here comes our first plunge into the nocturnal embrace of Abu Dhabi nightlife. No night is complete without a finely crafted cocktail in hand and a panoramic view to feast your eyes upon. Our journey begins at Ray’s Bar, sitting elegantly on the 62nd floor of the Jumeirah Etihad Towers. With knockout views, a diverse cocktail menu, and a tingling buzz in the air, it's no surprise why this place is a beacon of the night.

Speaking of elegance, one can't just overlook the glamorous GLO, a rooftop lounge at Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Imagine sipping your favorite cocktail, lazing around in a cabana, the rippling waters of the canal on one side, and a glittering skyline on the other. It doesn't get better than this, does it? But, well, it's Abu Dhabi – it always gets better.

VIP Treatment: Membership Clubs for the Elite

Now, let's transcend to the exclusive grounds of membership clubs in the city. It's no secret that I have been famously known (or infamous, as some might say) among my friends for my nocturnal exploits. One of my most unforgettable experiences was at the Legend Club at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Bristling with exclusivity and luxury, this place definitely gives you the VIP treatment you deserve. High-end decors, world-class gourmet dishes, and a selection of finest drinks, it's an experience you shouldn't miss.

Cigar connoisseurs! Our next stop is the Havana Club. A must-visit for all things luxury, leisure, and cigars. It's like entering a different time and space altogether, with Cuban vibes and ritzy aesthetics. Held in my hand was the best cigar I ever had, paired perfectly with a robust glass of Glenfiddich. A perfect setting to discuss business, or just while away the night, reminiscing about old times.

The Groove Chronicles: Where to Dance the Night Away

Let's unlock the rhythm of the night now. Every city has its heartbeats, heard in the thumping music of its clubs. Abu Dhabi's nightclubs are a riot of rhythms, where beats from around the world converge into a harmonious symphony. My favorite – MAD on Yas Island. Known for hosting world-renowned DJs and featuring state-of-the-art visual and acoustic systems, it's a place where you lose yourself to the music, to the moment.

And then there's Iris - a scenic gem in Yas Marina. It's an impressive mix of alfresco dining and electric nightlife. With live bands and international DJs lighting up every evening, it is here you can truly dance like nobody's watching! A night spent at Iris is a night well lived.

Gourmet Nights: Dining with a Difference

Moving on to satiate our culinary curiosities, we'll delve into restaurants that offer a perfect amalgamation of delightful dining and lively nightlife. One standout in this category is the renowned BOA Steakhouse. Beyond the exceptionally crafted steaks, the ambiance, music, and audience make for a distinguished dining experience. You can’t ignore the Zuma restaurant either, where Japanese cuisine gets a stylish makeover. Amid the chic interiors, taste sumptuous dishes while the city's neon lights play a mesmerizing backdrop.

Another commendable contender is Cipriani - an Italian restaurant that recreates the allure of Venetian nightlife. Twinkling chandeliers, a classy yacht club setting, and authentic Italian cuisine, topped off with refreshing limoncello - pure la dolce vita right in the heart of Abu Dhabi.

Unwind Under the Stars: Beach Clubs

As the night intensifies, we're drawn to the balmy breeze of the beach clubs. Nothing beats the calm of being under the starlit sky, with the rhythmic crash of waves as your soundtrack. Saadiyat Beach Club is perhaps the most beloved of them all. This is where luxury meets natural beauty. Whether you prefer lounging by the pool, relaxing in a cabana, or dancing to hypnotic beats – it caters to all your whims. Cue the resident DJ setting the mood right with groovy tunes, and you've got yourself an unforgettable night.

By day an idyllic island retreat, by night - the Yas Beach Club transforms into a lively party hub. Vibrant music, popular drink mixes, and a pulsating crowd - this place is definitely a thrill-seeker's abode. Whether you're seeking a calm retreat or an electrifying night of partying, Abu Dhabi's beach clubs won't disappoint.

Arabian Nights: Traditional Evening Experiences

No exploration of Abu Dhabi’s nightlife can be complete without stepping into the enchanting world of traditional Arabic evenings. Picture this - under a starlit desert sky, seated around a campfire, you listen to fascinating Bedouin stories, while soft oud music fills the air. This is Qasr Al Sarab - a desert resort that organizes traditional Emirati evenings. Exotic Arabic cuisine, soothing shisha, and tantalizing belly dances make this experience uniquely captivating.

For a slice of culture right in the heart of the city, head to the traditional Dhow cruise. Floating gently along the Corniche, the cruise offers a stunning view of the cityscape, accompanied by a lavish spread of Middle Eastern cuisine and enthralling performances by traditional dancers. It's a classic, yet unforgettable, Arabian night experience.

Luxury in Leisure: Golf Nights in Abu Dhabi

And now, for those seeking a unique blend of leisure and luxury, let's tee off to the incredible golf courses. Yas Links is a spectacular golf course that shines under the night sky. Imagine playing a challenging round, with the tranquil sea as your backdrop, under halogen lights that leave no room for shadows. It's a captivating experience, both for the golfers and the spectators.

Then there's the Garden Course at Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Lit up beautifully each night, the course not only offers spectacular golfing but also presents charming views of the illuminated Clubhouse. Whether you love golf or not, these nighttime golf experiences are dazzling additions to the vibrant Abu Dhabi nightlife.

So, there you have it, a full-blown guide to painting the town red in Abu Dhabi. Each one of these places breathes life into the city after sunset, transforming it into a playground of endless possibilities. Whether it’s sipping cocktails atop sky-high bars, dancing the night away to global rhythms, or cherishing traditional desert evenings, Abu Dhabi's nightlife has it all. So, all you night owls out there, put on those dancing shoes, brace yourselves for spellbinding evenings, and get ready to explore Abu Dhabi like never before!