Abu Dhabi doesn’t just shine during the day. When the sun sets, the city transforms into a buzzing hub of music, lights, and energy. Forget the idea that it’s all quiet after dark-this is a place where rooftop lounges hum with live jazz, beach clubs pulse with electronic beats, and hidden speakeasies serve craft cocktails under string lights. If you’re looking for real nightlife, not just tourist traps, here are the five spots that locals and visitors alike keep coming back to.

1. The Beach House at Qaryat Al Beri

This isn’t just a beach club-it’s an experience. Open until 2 a.m. on weekends, The Beach House blends laid-back seaside vibes with high-energy DJ sets. Think sand under your feet, palm trees swaying, and a skyline lit up by the nearby Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The sound system is top-tier, and the drink menu leans into Middle Eastern flavors with a twist: think rosewater mojitos, date-infused gin tonics, and Arabic coffee martinis. It’s popular with expats and tourists alike, but never feels overcrowded. Arrive before 10 p.m. to snag a prime spot on the lounge beds.

2. Cielo at St. Regis Abu Dhabi

If you want views that make your jaw drop, Cielo is your spot. Perched on the 43rd floor of the St. Regis, this rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf. The lighting is soft, the music is curated house and chill beats, and the cocktails are crafted like art. Their signature drink, the Abu Dhabi Sunset, blends hibiscus, elderflower, and a splash of local date syrup. It’s not a party spot-it’s a place to sip slowly, talk, and watch the lights of the city come alive. Dress code is smart casual. No flip-flops. No exceptions.

3. Zuma Abu Dhabi

Zuma isn’t just a restaurant-it’s a nightlife institution. The open kitchen, wooden interiors, and buzzing energy make it feel like Tokyo meets the Gulf. It’s open until midnight on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends, and the bar area stays packed. The food is exceptional, but the real draw is the bar. Their sake cocktails are legendary, and the staff know how to mix a drink without pretension. On Fridays, live percussionists play taiko drums between sets, adding a pulse you can feel in your chest. It’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s one of the few places where you’ll see Emiratis, expats, and travelers all mingling naturally.

4. The Loft at The Ritz-Carlton

For something quieter but still unforgettable, head to The Loft. This intimate jazz bar sits on the 22nd floor with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Corniche. No DJs. No flashing lights. Just live piano, saxophone, and acoustic sets from regional and international musicians. The vibe is classy, relaxed, and deeply authentic. The cocktail list is short but perfectly curated-try the Emirati Old Fashioned, made with Omani date molasses and smoked cardamom. It’s the kind of place you go to after a long day, to unwind without the noise. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

5. White Beach Abu Dhabi (on Yas Island)

White Beach is the only beach club in Abu Dhabi that truly rivals its global counterparts. Located on Yas Island, it’s open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. The music ranges from deep house to international hits, and the crowd is a mix of luxury tourists, local influencers, and international visitors. The poolside cabanas are rented out fast, so book ahead. Their signature drink, the White Sunset, is served in a hollowed-out pineapple with edible flowers. The lighting shifts with the music-cool blues at dusk, warm golds at midnight. It’s not cheap, but if you want to feel like you’re in Ibiza without leaving the UAE, this is your ticket.

What to Know Before You Go

Abu Dhabi’s nightlife has rules-but they’re easy to follow. Alcohol is only served in licensed venues, so don’t expect to grab a beer at a convenience store. Dress codes are enforced, especially at rooftop and upscale spots. No shorts, no flip-flops, no tank tops for men. Women can wear dresses and skirts, but avoid anything too revealing. Most clubs open around 9 p.m., peak between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., and wind down by 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday are the busiest nights. Weekdays are quieter but often more authentic.

Public transport runs until midnight, so plan your ride. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Careem are reliable and affordable. If you’re staying on Yas Island, some hotels offer shuttle services to major venues. And remember: public intoxication is illegal. Enjoy responsibly.

Where to Go Next

After your night out, you might wonder what else Abu Dhabi offers after dark. Consider a moonlit stroll along the Corniche, or a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi at night during special events. Some cultural centers host late-night art openings with live music and light installations. For a different vibe, try the Al Maryah Island food trucks on Fridays-they stay open until 1 a.m. and serve everything from gourmet burgers to shawarma with truffle oil.