4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Looking for somewhere to swim in the evening in Abu Dhabi? These are the best night swims
When the capital's daytime heat hits oven-mode, the only sensible thing to do is wait for the sun to set and dive in somewhere cool.
Night swimming is having a bit of a moment in Abu Dhabi and for good reason – the pools are perfectly chilled, the sea is floodlit and the vibes range from Balearic beats to family-friendly fun.
Whether you're into a sunset beverage in an infinity pool or a midnight paddle with a fire show, here's where to make a splash after dark.
Café del Mar, Yas Island
If you want your swim with a side of Ibiza glamour, this is your spot. On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Noches Del Mar gets you three hours of unlimited drinks for Dhs299 from 8pm. Wednesdays are ladies' night – Dhs100 for unlimited drinks and a bite – while gents join for Dhs150 (three drinks and a bite). The infinity pool, Yas Bay views and resident DJs do the rest.
From Dhs100. Mon, Tue, Thu 8pm–11pm; Wed from 8pm. @cafedelmarabudhabi.
Looking for somehwre to eat? These are the best Yas Bay Waterfront restaurants
ILIOS at Surf Abu Dhabi
This chic Al Hudayriat spot already wins on sunset views alone, but Fridays are when it really shines. Their Because It's Her ladies' day runs from 4pm to 7pm, with free-flowing house drinks for Dhs145 (or Dhs125 for soft drinks) plus access to the temperature-controlled pool. Three hours, unlimited drinks and a front-row seat to golden hour – you might never leave.
Dhs145 (house drinks), Dhs125 (soft drinks). Fridays, 4-7pm, Surf Abu Dhabi, Al Hudayriat Island. @ (02 419 8508).
Time Out tip: Go early enough to catch the sunset, then stay for the lights, the music and the cooler night air. Whether you're after a party, a date night, or just somewhere to float under the stars, Abu Dhabi's after-dark swims have you covered.
Marsana East Beach, Hudayriyat Island
Abu Dhabi's first official night-swimming beach was such a hit when it opened in July that it doubled in size within weeks. Now you've got 260 metres of floodlit shoreline, lifeguards on duty and plenty of space for a twilight dip. Weeknights run until 10pm; weekends go late until midnight, with a DJ and fire show every Saturday.
The extras are pure Time Out catnip: plush sunbeds, free towels, QR-code ordering from nearby restaurants and discounts galore (spend Dhs200 at participating outlets for half-price entry). Dining deals include grilled cheese specials at Muncheeze, 15 percent off at Nonna Stella and complimentary drinks at Marmoura with a Dhs100 spend.
Adults Dhs50-100, Kids Dhs25–50, Under 6s go free. Until September 30. Mon-Thu (sunset-10pm), Fri–Sun (sunset-midnight). Marsana East Beach, Hudayriyat Island.
SAL, Saadiyat Island
For a more glam take on the night swim, SAL at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island opens its infinity pool every Friday from 7.30pm to 10pm. Expect a moonlit dip, live DJ beats and waves lapping just metres away. Swims don't get much chicer than this.
Wondering where to eat? Check out our guide to the very best restaurants on Saadiyat Island 2025.
Fridays 7.30pm-10pm. SAL, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island. (02 811 4325).
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