A roundup of bars and lounges in the UAE where you can unwind with a drink after a long day at work.
Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai
Dubai’s Shangri-La Hotel is known for its snazzy bars and lounges for the sophisticated kind. Its Balcony Bar is situated on level one of the hotel, overlooking its main lobby. Pick a craft cocktail, a premium spirit or simply enjoy a warm cup of coffee. Level four of the hotel houses the outdoor ikandy ultralounge. Unwind at the poolside with great music, cocktails, shisha and delicious snacks, while you enjoy stunning views of Burj Khalifa.
Taj, Dubai
Its Byzantium lobby lounge is a fantastic choice for informal meetings over cocktails and canapés. Treehouse is another lounge that’s located at the top of the hotel that serves fine liquor, creative cocktails, wines and champagnes along with light Mediterranean bites. One of the hotel’s restaurant — The Eloquent Elephant — serves English and International cuisines while its signature restaurant Bombay Brasserie serves Indian.
Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay, Dubai
The hotel’s Swim and Tonic pool bar is located at the pool deck offering views of the Burj Khalifa. A swim can be followed by cocktails, smoothies and snacks. “Happy Hour”is offered between 5pm and 7pm — get 50 per cent off on all beverages.
Madinat Jumeirah – Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai
Trader Vic’s is Madinat’s award winning bar, located at the waterfront and features a Mai Tai terrace for outdoor lounging. Claimed of be the home of the “Original Mai Tai”, Trader Vic’s is known worldwide for its exceptional cocktails and music. Its offering at Madinat is no exception.
Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
Emirates Palace has two excellent bars that serve premium liquor. The quirky yet classy Havana Club on the ground floor is known for its cognacs, armagnacs, varieties of French brandy, and rare cigars. Its Caviar Bar serves a variety of caviar with a special champagne menu. Relax in its couches, club seats or low tables, while you groove to traditional music.
Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi
Ray’s Bar on level 62 of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is one of Abu Dhabi’s most luxurious haunts. Expect fantastic music, craft cocktails and an opulent ambience – try its Asian inspired tapas menu. And the hotel’s lobby lounge on level three is a relaxed option for casual drinks.
Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah
The hotel’s Samar Lounge is a private two- storeyed luxurious space serving a variety of international wines, signature cocktails and rare cigars. Its Moon Bar sits atop the Samar Lounge, with luxurious day beds and spectacular views of the desert.
Rashida Jasdanwala
