À ne pas manquer à Abou Dabi

Emirati-founded coffee bar on the Saadiyat beachfront. Handmade espresso drinks and classic combinations, good for a slow stop between beach and museums.

Go on a weekday morning

Industrial-style beachfront cafe that is also a shop and barbershop. Order coffee or an acai bowl and browse the homeware.

Sit outside near sunset

Terrace coffee shop on the promenade. Try the rose latte or Spanish latte with mana'akish or burrata.

Grab a terrace seat early

Speciality coffee shop and roastery, listed among Abu Dhabi's August 2026 openings as the brand's second local branch.

Check opening hours first

One-Michelin-star modern Emirati cooking inside the Qasr Al Hosn site. Signature lamb machboos; finish with the Liwa date batheeta.

Reserve well ahead

Busy Bib Gourmand Emirati and Kuwaiti diner with majlis seating. Order machboos, then hot khanfaroush with local honey.

Expect a queue at dinner

Seafood spot by the fish market. Charcoal-grilled local hammour, shareable portions, and a chocolate choux dessert.

Book for weekend evenings

Abu Dhabi branch of the Dubai favourite, new Bib Gourmand. Open-kitchen Japanese-leaning dishes, sashimi, and the chocolate dessert.

Walk-ins only; arrive early

White domes, gold calligraphy and glass mosaics. The reflective pools and late-afternoon light give the best frames.

Arrive an hour before sunset

Memorial park with water features that mirror the Grand Mosque. Handy free viewpoint for wide shots from across the water.

Visit at golden hour

Roughly 2km of public sand with the city skyline behind. Good for sea-and-skyscraper shots and an easy walk.

Go early or at sunset

Abu Dhabi's oldest standing building, with the original watchtower and a calm courtyard. Contrasts nicely with the modern towers beyond.

Check entry rules before visiting

Yas Mall café voted readers' favourite in 2026, known for V60 pour-overs, plated desserts and an espresso served in a -86° chilled glass.

Order the -86° dirty espresso