We’ve all been there: stuck in the Saadiyat Bubble, wanting to take a break from preparation for finals or just wanting to go into the city with some friends to have a good time. But many times the expense of a 40-minute cab ride and the not-so-cheap restaurants and lounges force us to think twice before ditching D2 dinner for something a little fancier. However, with a little bit of strategic planning, you can cut down your costs by more than half — at least if you are female.
Different lounges and restaurants around the city offer Ladies’ Night discounts on mocktails and even on some food items, making it affordable for ladies to explore the city’s nightlife. The best part, however, is that you do not need to wait for a specific day to enjoy these offers; lounges schedule Ladies’ Nights on different days, covering almost every day of the week. Here are some of the best Ladies’ Night deals:
If you are looking for a calm yet unique spot, Dusk is the perfect place for you. Located on the beautiful Nurai Island, surrounded by tranquil water, you can enjoy a pleasant meal during their Ladies’ Night hours from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Along with a special Ladies’ Night menu with a variety of drinks and a couple of food items, you also get to take a free 10-minute boat ride from the Nurai Island Port, which is a mere 12 AED cab ride from campus. This modern Mexican restaurant is the perfect getaway from campus on a Tuesday night with your girlfriends.
Iris is a vibrant lounge on Yas Island, showcasing a perfect blend between the peaceful water and the city lights. It is a great place to go to enjoy a couple of mocktails along with a beautiful sunset view. Their Ladies’ Night offer starts from 7 p.m. and includes four drinks on the house. Taking a cab to Yas Island might be on the more expensive side, but it is definitely worth the cost. With mostly techno music and a chill lounge vibe, it is a good place to go explore Abu Dhabi nightlife.
Located only ten minutes away from campus, Saadiyat Beach Club is famous for its Latino nights on Thursdays. Before midnight, they serve free drinks for females. The beautiful infinity pool boasts a large #Saadiyat sign, and serves as the perfect backdrop for your Instagram pictures. The cabanas around the pool are usually filled with excited conversations while people enjoy a dynamic start to their weekends. You can also take a break from the crowd by going on a walk on the dock by the beach.
Although Relax@12 is a 30-minute cab drive from campus, it is a great place to dance your problems and deadlines away. This energetic rooftop lounge allows customers to enjoy a magnificent view of the city while enjoying the free drinks included in the Ladies’ Night offer. They also serve a wide range of cuisines and have a special offer of all-you-can-eat sushi for 149 AED. With energetic music and delicious food and drinks, Relax@12 is a great escape from the Saadiyat bubble.
Aasna Sijapati is a staff writer. Email her at feedback@thegazelle.org.