When the sun sets over the glittering skyline of Abu Dhabi, a whole different world wakes up - the city's underground cocktail scene. From low‑key backrooms tucked behind unassuming storefronts to luxe lounges that require a password at the door, the capital offers a mix of classic speakeasy vibes and modern hidden bars. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a local looking for a new haunt, this guide shows how to hunt down the coolest spots and avoid the usual tourist traps.
What makes Abu Dhabi’s night scene stand out?
Beyond the sprawling malls and desert safaris, Abu Dhabi has cultivated a nightlife that balances luxury with secrecy. The Abu Dhabi speakeasy is a concealed bar that blends historic Prohibition‑era charm with Middle‑Eastern flair, often hidden behind an ordinary façade and only revealed to those in the know. Abu Dhabi hidden bar offers a similarly secretive experience, typically accessed via a discreet entrance, a coded doorbell, or a reservation through a private WhatsApp group. The result is an intimate setting where mixologists experiment with exotic ingredients like saffron, date syrup, and oud‑infused spirits.
How to sniff out a speakeasy or hidden bar
- Follow local influencers on Instagram and TikTok - they often post stories hinting at a new back‑door entrance.
- Join niche Facebook groups such as “UAE Secret Bars” - members share entry codes that change weekly.
- Check hotel concierge desks; many luxury hotels partner with off‑site bars for exclusive guest access.
- Read the “cocktail menu” on sites like Zomato; a menu that lists only a few items can signal a hidden concept.
- Ask for a reservation via phone and be ready to answer a trivia question - that’s a classic speakeasy test.
Top 5 Abu Dhabi Speakeasies
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Bar BZ (Al Maryah Island)
Located behind a faux‑bookstore on Al Maryah Island, Bar BZ reveals a plush lounge once you pull the right novel from the shelf. Signature drink: Desert Rose Martini - gin, rose water, and a dash of Arabian dates.
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The Blind Goat (Yas Island)
Enter through a hidden door in a boutique wine shop. The interior feels like a 1920s jazz club, complete with a live saxophonist on weekends. Must‑try: Goat’s Whisper, a bourbon‑based cocktail with smoked goat milk foam.
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Speakeasy 777 (Al Wahda)
Disguised as a laundromat, the door opens to a neon‑lit bar featuring a rotating menu of Emirati‑inspired drinks. Order the 777 Dallah - a tea‑infused whiskey cocktail served in a traditional dallah.
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Mosaic Lounge (Corniche)
Behind a faux art gallery, Mosaic boasts a mosaic‑tiled bar with a curated selection of rare gin and mezcal. The Tile Trail cocktail mixes mezcal, pomegranate, and a hint of rose petal bitters.
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Secret Saffron (Emirates Palace)
Accessible only to guests of Emirates Palace or via a special invitation, this ultra‑luxury spot hides behind a gold‑embellished screen. Their signature Saffron Velvet pairs premium vodka with saffron tincture, elderflower, and a gold leaf garnish.
Top 5 Hidden Bars Worth a Hunt
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Scruffy’s Bar (Al Bateen)
Found via a graffiti‑tagged alley, Scruffy’s offers a laid‑back vibe with craft beers and a rotating selection of local whiskeys. Try the Al Bateen Old Fashioned with date-infused bitters.
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Jewel Box (Saadiyat Island)
Enter through a small jewelry store; inside, a lantern‑lit bar serves the Pearl Diver - rum, coconut water, and a pearl dust rim.
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Midnight Oasis (Al Dhafra)
A desert‑camp style bar camouflaged behind dunes; reachable only after a short camel‑ride. Their Oasis Breeze cocktail fuses gin, desert lime, and a splash of rose water.
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Vault 12 (Al Reef)
Hidden behind a metal safe in a boutique clothing shop, Vault 12 is a minimalist space serving avant‑garde cocktails like the 12‑Barrel, a smoked whisky with charred oak chips.
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Echo Chamber (Downtown Abu Dhabi)
Disguised as a recording studio, this bar's acoustic walls amplify live DJ sets. Their Echo Elixir mixes tequila, hibiscus tea, and a shock of edible glitter.
Speakeasy vs. Hidden Bar: Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Speakeasy | Hidden Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Typical entrance | Secret door behind shop or bookshelf | Camouflaged in alley, oasis, or everyday venue |
| Atmosphere | Retro, jazz‑age, plush décor | Eclectic, often themed around local culture |
| Dress code | Smart‑casual; suits often welcomed | Casual‑chic; comfortable for desert settings |
| Reservation | Usually required, sometimes via phone quiz | Often by invitation or secret link |
| Signature focus | Classic cocktails with a twist | Locally‑inspired ingredients and experimental mixes |
Insider Tips for a Smooth Night Out
- Know the UAE alcohol policy. Non‑residents need a temporary permit to purchase alcohol in most venues; hotel guests are covered by the hotel’s license.
- Carry a copy of your passport - many hidden spots ask for ID to confirm age (21+).
- Plan transport ahead. Ride‑hailing services like Careem and Uber operate 24/7, but traffic can surge after midnight.
- Tip the bartender 10‑15%. In upscale speakeasies, a generous tip can earn you a personalized cocktail.
- Dress for the vibe. Dark denim and a smart shirt work for most speakeasies; sand‑friendly sandals are fine for desert‑style hidden bars.
Nightlife Checklist - Don’t Forget These Essentials
- Valid ID (passport or Emirates ID)
- Reservation code or entry password
- Cash for cover charges (some bars still prefer cash)
- Phone with a fully charged battery - you’ll need it for directions and QR‑code entry
- Light jacket - air‑conditioned interiors can be chilly
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special license to drink in Abu Dhabi?
Visitors can drink at licensed venues without a personal permit; the venue’s license covers you. However, if you want to buy a bottle to take home, you’ll need a temporary alcohol permit, which you can obtain through the Abu Dhabi Police website.
How do I find the entry code for a hidden bar?
Most hidden bars share codes through private Instagram accounts, WhatsApp groups, or by word‑of‑mouth. Follow local mixology influencers or ask the bar staff for the “secret password” when you book a table.
Is it safe to walk around Abu Dhabi at night?
Abu Dhabi is one of the safest Gulf cities. Major nightlife districts are well‑lit and patrolled. Still, keep an eye on your belongings and use reputable transport services after midnight.
What are the best non‑alcoholic options at these venues?
Many speakeasies offer mocktails using fresh dates, pomegranate, and house‑made syrups. Try the “Desert Sunrise” - a blend of orange, mango, and a hint of rose water.
Can I bring a group of 10 to a speakeasy?
Large parties are usually accommodated in private rooms, but you’ll need to book weeks in advance and often pay a fixed table fee.
With this roadmap, you’ll no longer wander the streets hoping for a sign. Instead, you’ll step confidently into Abu Dhabi’s most exclusive watering holes, sip innovative cocktails, and discover the city’s nighttime side that most tourists miss.