Abu Dhabi’s nightlife scene is something of a sleeping giant right now. Having a few drinks after work might still be a thing, but blow-out bashes with superstar guest DJs, yacht parties and red carpet events are, for now at least, a thing of the past.
Your bank balance is probably enjoying some much needed respite while the capital’s bars and clubs gradually reopen, but the buzzing atmosphere of the city’s most popular nightspots is sorely missed.
There are some places open, though, and as long as the necessary safety measures are in place, we’re happy to check them out.
Our latest trip takes us along the Corniche to the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl (a great hotel name for fulfilling a word count). It has a few great venues inside, as well as a cracking infinity pool and some good staycation deals running. The views are brilliant, too.
The hotel’s bar, Lexx, has plenty going for it, with a sleek interior and a very impressive terrace. There are also plenty of TVs inside showing sport and a menu of classy sounding bar bites, cheese and charcuterie.
This visit brings us to the bar on a Friday evening and it’s busy (but still socially distanced). By the look of it, some people have been to brunch before, but there are others, like us, here for a couple of quiet drinks to get the night started.
The venue is ultra-modern, with a large glowing bar that grabs the eye.
We’re indoors this time and go for some happy hour drinks (and with 50 percent off everything, it is a generous one).
It’s Dhs20 for a chilled glass of hops, which is enough to keep most people happy, surely. Of course, grape and short drinks are available, too, as are mixed drinks. When you end up having a few rounds and still get plenty of change from a Dhs100 note, the place – already a great spot in our eyes – just seems that little bit better.
Sport. Deals. Views. Atmosphere. Style. Five boxes ticked. While the city awakes from its slumber and as tourists start to return, we can think of few places that are more deserving of a visit than Lexx.
