Abu Dhabi after dark: bars to visit this weekend

Ocean views or low-lit lounges? Here are some of the best bars in Abu Dhabi this weekend

If you’re looking for a solid spot for a summer night out, Abu Dhabi’s bar scene has something for every mood. Whether it’s a rooftop date night, a catch-up with friends, or a solo evening somewhere with a view, the capital delivers. From the highest bar in the city to modern-style lounges with stunning ocean views, these are the best bars in Abu Dhabi to check out this weekend.

Brooklyn Chop House

Brooklyn cool meets Yas Island buzz at this vibey lounge where the drinks hit right and the R&B throws it back to the early 2000s. Between 6pm and 8pm, the happy hour crowd tucks into Philly Cheesesteak Dumplings and Braised Short Rib Bao Buns. House drinks start at Dhs30. It’s the kind of place you pop in for a drink and stay for the playlist.

Location: W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Time: 6pm to 8pm

Contact: +971 2 656 0000

Seaside Sundowners

Beach bar, golden hour and drinks at Dhs29. This is the kind of happy hour that doesn’t need to try too hard. Chilled beats float across the sand as the sun makes its exit. Perfect for post-work unwinding or a pre-party start.

Location: Beach Bar & Cabana 9

Time: 6pm to 8pm, daily

Contact: +9712 656 3500

W Lounge – The Final Lap 

The lights are low, the beats are loud, and the cocktails are unapologetically bold. W Lounge turns Saturday nights into a full-throttle affair with DJs on deck and the Yas Marina Circuit in full view. The jalapeño-spiked Blink’d is not for the faint of heart.

Location: W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Time: Saturdays, 9pm to 2am

Contact: +971 2 656 0000

Hidden Bar

Image: Rosewood website

If you’re into gin, this is the spot. Hidden Bar houses the city’s largest gin collection, with 237 varieties from 21 countries, plus house-infused options like coriander and rhubarb. Its prohibition-era theme adds character without feeling kitsch. Located just off the lobby, it’s easy to find and has a sleek outdoor terrace overlooking Al Maryah Island’s waters. Perfect for a relaxed date, a catch-up with friends, or winding down with a cigar and a drink.

Location: Rosewood Hotel – Al Maryah Island – MI1 – Abu Dhabi

Times: Daily, 5pm to 3am

Contact: (0)2 813 5520 | @rosewoodabudhabi

Siddharta Lounge

Located within The Trilogy by Buddha-Bar at Yas Bay, Siddharta Lounge brings laid-back luxury with rooftop views and contemporary overall style. Hinging on signature cool beats and elegant design, this three-tier venue channels the same energy as its Dubai counterpart. Go if you’re in the mood for a rooftop drink and a moody atmosphere with good music.

Location: Siddharta Lounge, Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Times: Sun–Thu 5pm–2am | Fri–Sat 5pm–3am

Contact: (0)50 601 1194 | @siddhartalounge_abudhabi

La Cava

Image: Rosewood website

Tucked beneath Rosewood Abu Dhabi, La Cava is an underground grape bar with a moody, candlelit setting made for quiet date nights. Walls are lined with over 1,000 premium labels, and there’s a walk-in cigar room if that’s your thing. Go if you’re in the mood for deep pours, soft lighting, and a little escape from the city.

Location: La Cava, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi

Times: Tues–Sun 6pm–1am

Contact: (0)2 813 5550 | rosewoodhotels.com

Perlage

If you’re in the mood for something low-key but refined, Perlage is a solid choice. Since opening in late 2023, it’s drawn in a loyal crowd with deep red interiors, a speakeasy feel, and an impressive menu focused on premium sparkling drinks. It’s plush, moody, and made for slow evenings over good conversation.

Location: Perlage, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Times: Tues–Sun 8pm–3am

Contact: (0)58 288 8164 | @barperlageae