# Arabian Nights: What to Do in Abu Dhabi After Dark

> Kayaking under the stars, Bedouin feasts and buzzing nightclubs: we rounded up the 7 best nighttime experiences in Abu Dhabi. Discover how to spend an evening in the UAE capital.

- URL: https://langandtrip.com.ua/en/article/arabskye-nochy-chem-zaniatsia-v-abudaby-posle-nastuplenyia-temnot/
- Language: en
- Published: 2025-06-12
- Categories: Culture, Leisure, Beaches, Hotels, Tours, UAE, Parties

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Home to some of the most epic tourist attractions in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is a favourite destination for visitors who want to enjoy a more refined pace than its flashier neighbour, Dubai.

Even so, the enchanting UAE capital is still packed with things to see and buzzing with activity, especially at night.

A cultural hub, a shopper's paradise and home to everything from souks to superclubs, there is certainly no shortage of places to unwind.

Here is our pick of seven wonderful things to do and spots to explore in the emirate after dark:

## Kayaking Under the Stars at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Floating serenely on its own island, Louvre Abu Dhabi has quite rightly been basking in the spotlight ever since its billion-dollar debut in 2017.

As one of the capital's most captivating new cultural landmarks, visitors flock in their droves to marvel at the masterpiece designed by Jean Nouvel and take in its rotating exhibitions, and it is even more spectacular after sunset.

With opening hours that stretch late into the evening, guests can head up to the Art Lounge rooftop bar for sundowner cocktails and stunning views, while the more adventurous can opt for an exhilarating kayak tour.

The 60-minute tour of the Arabian Sea (run at set times throughout the year) lets design fans learn more about the striking architecture and experience the wonder up close beneath a starry sky, with special full-moon tours also available.

Kayaking at Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi; +971 60056556

## A Bedouin Experience at the Shangri-La Hotel

With Abu Dhabi's rich Bedouin heritage firmly woven into its culture, visitors can now savour a genuine taste of Arabia in a five-star setting.

The city's stately Shangri-La Hotel embraces its local roots, treating guests to an unforgettable experience beneath a Bedouin gazebo, with the culinary team serving up a lavish, made-to-order banquet brimming with Arabian flavours on request.

Guests are invited to move to an Arabian carpet by the canal for dessert and shisha, where they can soak up the beachfront atmosphere while taking in breathtaking views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi; +971 25098888

## Shopping, Dining and Entertainment on Al Maryah Island

Shopping in the Middle East is practically a national pastime, and, even more excitingly, Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most impressive supermalls around.

Stepping up to the plate is the dazzling newcomer on the block, The Galleria Al Maryah Island. This is the place to find everything you could need, a shopper's paradise that is already the talk of the capital thanks to its superb line-up of designer boutiques and high-street favourites.

There are also plenty of options to refuel here, with an impressive collection of upscale restaurants from around the world, including the likes of Roberto's, Zuma and Coya Abu Dhabi.

Perfect spots to kick back after browsing include three landscaped outdoor parks with games such as giant Jenga, the Xtreme Zone, plus one of the largest cinemas in the Middle East: the impressive 21-screen Vox Cinemas, boasting IMAX and 4D technology as well as a VIP moviegoing experience.

The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Sila Tower, Level 5, Unit 501; +971 26166999

## Sunset Tours at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Renowned for its magnificent architecture and, at just 12 years old, already one of the world's most beloved landmarks, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is truly one of a kind.

The iconic mosque draws millions of visitors every year, and it is no wonder, given its stunningly elegant design; it is also one of the capital's most popular photography spots among tourists and celebrities alike.

There is no better time to visit than at sunset. With its dazzling white minarets and reflective pools framed by soft pink light as the sun goes down, it is nothing short of magical. Catch a sunset tour and make the most of the romantic golden-hour glow, perfect for Instagram snaps, where you can admire the mosque in all its glory.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi; +971 24191919

## Tee Time at Abu Dhabi Golf Club

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, nothing compares to playing at one of the most luxurious golf resorts in the Middle East.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club is a tranquil oasis carved out in the middle of the desert, and beyond its flawless fairways, it also prides itself on offering "more than just golf". True to its word, there is plenty of entertainment, social events and dining on offer.

Best of all, you can play the championship course by day and head to the garden course by night, where powerful floodlights and a 9pm tee time let golfers keep playing well after sunset.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi; +971 2 885 3555

## Party on Yas Island

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With a line-up of international DJs and a reputation as one of the best clubs in Abu Dhabi, there is no better place to dance the night away than MAD on Yas Island.

The UAE's largest indoor nightclub does not disappoint, with jaw-dropping interiors and enormous LED screens, lasers, themed parties and performances from world-class artists.

Famous for hosting legendary parties, those in the know head to the island's superclub for an unforgettable night, and with so many celebrities flying in to perform, you never know who you might bump into on the dance floor.

MAD on Yas Island, near the Yas Tunnel, Abu Dhabi; +971 558346262

## Midnight Strolls Along the Corniche

Abu Dhabi's famous Corniche is always full of life, but it truly comes alive after dark.

The immaculate waterfront, stretching for eight kilometres, is the perfect place for a romantic beach walk, a bike ride along the track or a spot of people-watching from the bustling local eateries.

Dreaming of panoramic views over the emirate from dizzying heights? Look no further than the majestic Marina Eye Ferris wheel, which dominates the city's lit-up skyline on the Corniche breakwater and boasts 42 air-conditioned capsules, including a VIP capsule with leather seats.

Thrill-seekers can head to the Corniche Skate Park to join the city's skateboarders pulling off tricks alongside BMX riders and rollerbladers. Those who would rather not show off their balancing skills can watch the action from the sidelines and get ready to be impressed.

Selina Julien is a journalist and editor who writes about celebrities, travel and lifestyle. You can follow her on Instagram @Selinajulien
