Bar
Ray’s Bar
A cocktail bar on level 62 of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, with views over the Corniche, the Gulf and Emirates Palace, inventive drinks and live…
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi
The first permanent Buddha-Bar Beach, on the sand at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, combining a beach lounge, bar and Far East-inspired restaurant with DJs and sunset sax.
At a glance
- Type
- Beach lounge, bar and restaurant
- Area
- Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Price
- $$$$ · Luxury
Good to know
- Beachfront terrace
- Guest DJs
- Sunset saxophone sessions
- Restaurant and lounge
Why we recommend it
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi opened in 2018 on the beachfront of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, and it was billed as the first permanent Buddha-Bar Beach, unlike the seasonal summer outposts the brand runs in Mediterranean resorts. It brings the Buddha-Bar mix of music and Far East-inspired food to a setting on the sand, and the article that marked its launch described it as the only branch of the concept open all year round.
The space is designed for lingering. A large terrace sits under dappled canopy shades with a wooden deck and whitewashed furniture overlooking the beach, and at opening there was seating for almost 300 guests across the terrace, restaurant, bar and lounge. As the sun goes down, the mood shifts from relaxed to lively: when it opened, the venue hosted sunset saxophone sessions five days a week, followed by a rotating line-up of guest DJs.
The food is part of the draw, not an afterthought. The menu follows the Buddha-Bar style, with Far East-inspired dishes, and when the venue opened the highlights included a wagyu rib-eye and the brand's signature chicken salad. A show kitchen with a cevicheria, a sushi counter and a robata grill allows you to watch the chefs at work. Many guests start with drinks at sunset and stay on for dinner.
It suits couples, groups of friends and anyone staying on Saadiyat who wants a stylish night out without heading into the city. Prices are high, in line with the resort setting, so treat it as a special evening. Smart casual dress is the norm, and the minimum legal drinking age in the UAE applies. Book ahead for terrace tables at sunset, and check the current schedule for DJs and live music, as entertainment and opening hours can change with the seasons.
The venue is part of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which has a private beach on the Gulf and is next to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. A taxi from the city or the Cultural District is the easiest way to arrive. Combine an afternoon at the Louvre Abu Dhabi with sunset drinks here for a classic Saadiyat day. The cooler months from late October to April are the best time to enjoy the terrace.
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi FAQs
Where is Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi?
On the beachfront of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
When did it open?
In 2018.
What makes it different?
It was the first permanent Buddha-Bar Beach, open all year rather than just for the summer season.
Is there food?
Yes. The restaurant serves Far East-inspired dishes, with a show kitchen including a sushi counter and robata grill.
Is there music?
Yes. The venue has featured sunset saxophone sessions and guest DJs.
Do you need to book?
Booking is recommended, especially for terrace tables at sunset.
When is the best time to go?
Sunset in the cooler months, from late October to April.