Writing the next bestseller? Love to read and write in the bar? Ernest Hemingway would certainly approve. There’s something about writing in a bar or lounge that just makes you feel like you’re the main character. That’s why we’ve been on the hunt for chill bars in Abu Dhabi that offer good food and beverages to keep those creative juices flowing.
Whether you’re after a book-themed bar or a quiet but vibey lounge to get inspired, we’ve got you covered. Pull up to one of these chill bars in Abu Dhabi with your notebook, pen and plenty of ideas. Soak up the atmosphere and check out our round-up of the best chill bars in Abu Dhabi.
Brauhaus
This is the capital’s O.G. German pub and it is one of the best chill bars in Abu Dhabi for penning your plot. Sit on the terrace and you’ll find plenty of conversations to eavesdrop on for character inspiration, plus, a warm and sunny atmosphere. The German hops and snacks are a must-try and it’s never too noisy to hear yourself think. Be sure to order the pretzel bread for sustenance; this writing stuff is hard work.
Click here for the best craft hops bar in Abu Dhabi.
Open Mon-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri-Sun 5pm-2am. Beach Rotana, Al Zahiyah (02 697 9118).
Library Bar
This spot at the stunning The Abu Dhabi EDITION combines two of our favourite things: books and bars. Head to Library Bar to be inspired by everything from the names of the mixed drinks to the bar’s décor. It’s one of the best chill bars in Abu Dhabi where you can really settle in and write. It’s an obvious choice for writers in the capital – maybe you’ll even meet your next writing buddy. Looking to make a night of it? There’s a Writer’s Block Brunch that just might sort out any word count issues.
Click here for The Library’s brunch and happy hour deals.
Open Sun-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri-Sat 5pm-2am. The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen (02 208 0000).
Manhattan Lounge
Is there anything more writerly than Manhattan? Step into a posh version of New York at St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort’s Manhattan Lounge. The soothing scents and warm lighting beckons you inside and the murals and artworks create the feeling that this is the kind of place where ideas are discussed and creativity flows, making it one of the best chill bars in Abu Dhabi for writers. See for yourself.
Click here for more places to visit on Saadiyat Island.
Open daily, noon-midnight. St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, marriott.com (02 498 8888).
Marta Bar
There’s a secret bar in the Louvre Abu Dhabi and if you’re a writer (or even if you’re not) it’s screaming your name. Marta Bar is a well-kept secret that requires a journey on a golf cart, a reservation and a ride in a secret elevator behind Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi. You’ll feel incredibly cool just for being there and it’s one of the best chill bars in Abu Dhabi to gather your thoughts and write.
Click here for the best outdoor bars to visit in Abu Dhabi.
Open Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun noon-midnight; Thu-Fri noon-1am. Closed Mondays. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island (02 205 4200).
Stratos Revolving Bar & Grill
Looking to write with a view of the city? You can’t do better than Stratos, really. This spot is Abu Dhabi’s only revolving bar, giving you 360 degree views of the beautiful city below. It’ll have you wondering about all the people on the ground below – what are they up to? Where did they come from? It’s one of the best chill bars in Abu Dhabi to get inspiration for your novel. Plus, the bar itself is pretty slick, too.
Click here for the best bars with a view in Abu Dhabi.
Open daily, 2pm-2am. Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Corniche (02 695 0490).
Want more? Click here for the best swim-up pool bars in the UAE.
