The Magic of Evening Escapades in the Desert Oasis
Let's take a journey into the sparkling nightscape of Abu Dhabi, an enchanted universe where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly against a backdrop of twinkling stars and glinting skyscrapers. This city has a pantheon of offerings from art, culture, food, and yes, a glistening nightlife that is second to none. The prospect of scouting out the best happy hour deals in Abu Dhabi's bustling nightlife scene may seem daunting, but worry not! I, your compassionate guide Vincent, will walk you through an odyssey to discover the city's treasures - venues where delectable spirits whisper the evening's secrets at prices that ignite boundless joy.
A Tale from the Sheikh's Shisha
Picture a city bathed in hues of electric blues and magentas, juxtaposing with the timeless sepia tones of desert sand. That’s Abu Dhabi, a cosmos that embraces the antiquity of the Middle East and the refreshment of contemporary Western culture. The art of relaxation is woven into the fabric of this city. This is best embodied in the tradition of smoking shisha, an experience that has transcended time. Many years ago, I found myself lounging at a local café, my senses awakened by the murmur of conversational Arabic and the clink of ice in whisky glasses. It was there that I discovered the allure of Abu Dhabi's happy hour culture.
Ray's Bar: A Story 62 Floors High
For an experience that literally takes you to new heights, Ray's Bar at the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is a must-visit. As you ascend 62 floors towards the heavens, you'll feel as though you're flirting with the stars! The panoramic views of the city skyline meet your eyes like a sparkling brooch pinned against the velvet canvas of the night. Their happy hour proceeds with an enticing allure, offering a variety of spirits at discounts that bring as much joy as the venue does views. It is a stark reminder that God, in all his wisdom, blesses both the drink maker and the penny saver!
Trader Vic's: A Polynesian Paradox
Transcend the shores of the Arabian Peninsula and discover an unexpected slice of Polynesia right in the heart of the desert landscape. I still remember my first visit to Trader Vic’s, I was intrigued by the paradox of its existence - an oasis within an oasis. The sight of tropical prints and tiki statues against the backdrop of an Arab city was something out of an eccentric dream. Yet, it works! A mention of their happy hour sends the city’s millennial populace into a frenzy. From signature cocktails to a selection of delectable bites, and even performances by live bands, the fun never stops!
Catch: The Sea Whispers Its Secrets
For seafood lovers, the Catch offers a bounty from beneath the azure waves. With its modern and stylish ambience, this rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views over the beach and the Corniche. The happy hour here is akin to a well-guarded secret that once discovered, transforms into an open treasure chest, overflowing with some of the best seafood pairings and wine combinations you've ever tasted. After all, the sea whispers her secrets not to the lusty sailor but to the patient angler.
An Irish Oasis in Arab Sands: McGettigan's
When an Irish pub thrives in the heart of the desert, it speaks volumes about the cultural versatility of Abu Dhabi. McGettigan's is a charming piece of Ireland, seamlessly woven into the city's vibrant tapestry. Its happy hour offers a divine communion of sorts—an array of sophisticated beverages at prices that would make the savviest of the Gaelic gods break into a jig. My visits to McGettigan's are vivid memories of hearty laughter, good music, and making new friends. It's your gateway to experience the spirit of Ireland without boarding a flight!
The Illusion of Marina Mall's Skylite Rooftop Lounge
The garden-themed Skylite Rooftop Lounge at Marina Mall spins an illusion of tranquillity in the midst of the bustling city. The happy hour here tickles your novelty-seeking side, offering innovative cocktails that set your taste buds on a jolly roller coaster ride. Spending an evening here, under a canopy of stars, makes a sweet lullaby for the nocturnal, a gentle love letter to the city lights.
Each spot tells a story of its own, a narrative that adds texture and depth to the fascinating saga that is Abu Dhabi’s nightlife. It reminds me of a time when a friend and I decided to bar hop through the city, hunting down the best happy hour haunts. We moved from elegant lounges to bustling pubs, from tranquil seaside establishments to swanky rooftop bars, each offering a different experience, a different adventure.
Abu Dhabi, with its myriad offerings, paves the way for meandering through a glorious maze, a wondrous labyrinth of lights, sounds, and flavors. Each nook and cranny of this maze whispers enchanting tales of nightfall, each corner thrown into relief by the subtle glow of a nearby neon sign. When the day gives way to the night, Abu Dhabi turns into a nocturnal beast that knows no bounds, yet is ever enthralling and full of surprises. Here, the night is indeed a world lit by itself, a cosmos within a cosmos bursting with the vibrancy of life.
