Abu Dhabi isn’t just about grand mosques and desert safaris. When the sun sets, the city transforms into a buzzing hub of bars, lounges, and rooftop venues where the real fun begins. And if you’re looking to enjoy quality drinks without paying premium prices, the happy hour scene here is surprisingly strong. From beachfront cocktails to hidden speakeasies, you don’t need a VIP pass to get great value - just know where to look.
Where the Best Happy Hours Are Hiding
Forget the tourist traps lining Corniche. The real deals are tucked away in places locals know about. The top spots for happy hour in Abu Dhabi aren’t always the flashiest - they’re the ones with consistent pricing, friendly staff, and a vibe that doesn’t feel forced.
At Barasti on Saadiyat Beach, you get 50% off all cocktails and beers from 5 PM to 8 PM daily. The open-air setting, live music on weekends, and salt-kissed breeze make it feel like a mini-vacation within the city. It’s not just a drink - it’s an experience you can’t replicate in a high-rise lounge.
Then there’s The Al Qasr Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton. Their happy hour runs 6 PM to 8 PM with half-price wines by the glass and premium spirits. It’s quiet, elegant, and perfect if you want to unwind after a long day without the club noise. The staff remembers regulars, and the cheese platters paired with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc are worth the trip alone.
Hidden Gems You Won’t Find on Google Maps
Some of the best deals aren’t advertised. They’re whispered about in WhatsApp groups or passed along by hotel concierges. One such spot is 96 Degrees, a tiny rooftop bar above a boutique hotel in Al Maryah Island. No sign, no website - just a single door with a red light. Walk in between 6 PM and 8 PM, and you’ll find $8 cocktails (normally $18), free popcorn, and a view of the Yas Marina skyline that costs nothing extra.
Another secret? The Library Bar at St. Regis Abu Dhabi. They don’t call it a happy hour - they call it "Evening Indulgence." From 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, select martinis, whiskey flights, and small bites are 40% off. The dim lighting, leather chairs, and jazz playlist make it feel like you’ve stepped into a 1920s novel. It’s not loud, it’s not crowded, and it’s one of the most authentic spots in the city.
What to Expect in Terms of Pricing
Happy hour pricing in Abu Dhabi varies wildly. At chain bars like Hard Rock or Irish Village, you might get $10 cocktails during happy hour - still steep for what you’re getting. But at local favorites, you can find the same drinks for $6 to $8. Here’s what you’re likely to pay in 2025:
- Standard cocktail: $12-$20 (full price), $6-$10 (happy hour)
- Local beer (Al Ain, Bedouin): $8-$12 (full), $4-$6 (happy hour)
- Imported beer (Heineken, Guinness): $10-$15 (full), $5-$8 (happy hour)
- Wine by the glass: $15-$25 (full), $8-$12 (happy hour)
- Free snacks: Often included at mid-to-high-end venues
Pro tip: Happy hours usually run 5 PM to 8 PM, but some places extend to 9 PM on weekends. Always check the venue’s Instagram Stories - that’s where they announce last-minute extensions or special themes like "Tequila Tuesdays" or "Whiskey Wednesdays."
Weekend vs. Weekday Differences
Don’t assume the deals are the same every day. Weekdays are where the real savings live. Monday through Thursday, you’ll find the longest happy hours and the most generous discounts. By Friday and Saturday, venues shift gears - happy hours get shorter, prices creep up, and the crowd changes.
For example, The Terrace at Four Seasons has a 5 PM to 8 PM happy hour Monday to Thursday with $7 cocktails. On Friday, they cut it to 6 PM to 7:30 PM and raise prices by 20%. The same goes for Yas Island’s rooftop bars - weekday happy hours are packed with professionals unwinding after work. Weekends? That’s when the party crowds roll in, and the deals dry up.
If you want the best value, go midweek. You’ll get better service, shorter lines, and more room to actually enjoy your drink.
What to Order and What to Skip
Not all drinks are created equal during happy hour. Some bars use cheap mixers or watered-down liquor to stretch their margins. Here’s what to stick with - and what to avoid.
- Do order: Classic cocktails like Mojitos, Old Fashioneds, Negronis, and Gin & Tonics. These are harder to mess up, and quality bars use real ingredients.
- Do order: Local beers. Al Ain and Bedouin are brewed in the UAE and taste fresh. They’re also cheaper than imports.
- Avoid: "Signature" cocktails with names like "Desert Sunset" or "Sheikh’s Delight." These are often loaded with syrup and artificial flavors.
- Avoid: Bottled cocktails served in plastic cups. They’re usually pre-made and lack freshness.
Ask the bartender: "What’s your best-selling cocktail during happy hour?" Their answer will tell you everything you need to know.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Night
Planning matters. Here’s how to turn a happy hour into a full evening without overspending:
- Start at a bar with a long happy hour (5-8 PM) to save on drinks.
- Order food - many places offer free or discounted snacks during happy hour. Share a platter to stretch your budget.
- Walk or use a taxi. Parking in downtown Abu Dhabi is expensive. Avoid driving if you’re drinking.
- Check if your hotel offers a drink credit. Some luxury properties include $20-$30 in bar credits with your stay.
- Don’t stay too late. After 9 PM, prices spike. Move on to a quieter spot if you want to keep drinking.
One local trick: Head to Al Maha Hotel’s bar at 7:30 PM. They start happy hour at 5 PM, but the crowd doesn’t show until 8. Arrive early, get your drinks in, then walk over to the adjacent desert garden for sunset. You’ll get two experiences - a great deal and a memory - for the price of one.
What’s New in 2025
This year, Abu Dhabi’s nightlife scene got smarter. More venues are offering "happy hour +" packages. At Octave on Al Maryah Island, you can now get a 30-minute cocktail class with your happy hour drink for free. At Barbarella, they’ve added a rotating selection of Emirati-inspired cocktails - think date syrup, cardamom, and rosewater - all at happy hour prices.
Also new: apps like Abu Dhabi Nights and DrinkSaver now track real-time happy hour deals across 40+ venues. You can filter by location, price, or drink type. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than wandering aimlessly.
Final Tips for First-Timers
If you’ve never done happy hour in Abu Dhabi, here’s what you need to know:
- Dress code matters. No shorts or flip-flops at upscale spots. Smart casual is safe.
- Reservations aren’t always required, but they help on weekends.
- Alcohol is served only in licensed venues. Don’t expect to find it in malls or public areas.
- Payment is cash or card - no haggling. Prices are fixed.
- Stay respectful. The UAE has strict rules. Loud behavior, public intoxication, or inappropriate conduct can get you fined or worse.
Abu Dhabi’s nightlife doesn’t scream for attention. It whispers. And if you listen closely, you’ll find some of the best drinks in the Gulf - at prices that won’t break your bank.
Are happy hour deals in Abu Dhabi worth it compared to other cities?
Yes - if you know where to look. While cities like Dubai have more options, Abu Dhabi’s deals are often more consistent and less crowded. You’ll pay less for better quality drinks here, especially at local favorites. A $7 cocktail in Abu Dhabi tastes better than a $12 one in Dubai, simply because the bars focus on fewer, better ingredients.
Can tourists drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, but only in licensed venues like hotels, bars, and restaurants. You don’t need a special permit as a tourist. Just show your passport if asked. Alcohol is not allowed in public spaces, and drinking while walking or in your car is illegal. Always consume responsibly and respect local laws.
What’s the best day to go for happy hour in Abu Dhabi?
Tuesday to Thursday. Weekends are busy, prices rise, and happy hours get shorter. Midweek, you’ll find longer deals, better service, and fewer people. Plus, you can often get a seat without waiting.
Do all bars in Abu Dhabi have happy hours?
No. Only licensed venues offer them, and not all choose to. Chain bars and tourist-heavy spots rarely have good deals. The best happy hours are at independent bars, hotel lounges, and rooftop venues. Check Instagram or local blogs - they update deals daily.
Is there a dress code for happy hour spots in Abu Dhabi?
Most upscale bars require smart casual: no shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Jeans and a collared shirt or sundress work fine. Some beach bars like Barasti are more relaxed, but if you’re unsure, it’s safer to dress up a little. It’s not about being fancy - it’s about respecting the space.
Can I bring my own alcohol to a bar during happy hour?
No. Bringing your own alcohol is illegal in the UAE. All venues must serve licensed products only. Even if a bar says "BYOB," it’s a myth. You’ll be turned away or asked to leave.
