Abu Dhabi Drinks – Your Quick Guide to the Best Sips in the City

If you’re roaming Abu Dhabi and feel thirsty, you’ve got a world of flavors to choose from. From sweet dates‑infused coffee to chilled fruit juices, the city mixes tradition with trendy cafés. Below you’ll find the most popular drinks, where to enjoy them, and a few insider tricks to make your drink experience smoother.

Traditional Arabic Beverages

Start with Arabic coffee (gahwa). Served in tiny cups, it’s lightly spiced with cardamom and sometimes rose water. Most hotels and local eateries offer it for free, but you’ll get a richer taste at places like Al Fanar or Al Dhafra. Pair it with a handful of dates for that authentic taste.

Next up is karak tea. Think of it as strong tea boiled with milk, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom. You’ll find it everywhere, from street stalls on Al Wahda Road to modern chains like The Coffee Club. Order a “karak on the side” if you want extra milky goodness.

Don’t miss the shisha tea (also called “shisha latte”). It’s a sweet, milky tea topped with a swirl of orange blossom water. You’ll see it on the menu at most shisha lounges, and it’s perfect after a session of flavored tobacco.

Modern Cafés and Non‑Alcoholic Cocktails

Abu Dhabi’s café scene is buzzing with cold‑brew coffee, matcha lattes, and creative mocktails. Café Bateel serves a date‑syrup cold brew that’s a hit with expats. If you love fruity drinks, try a pomegranate mojito at Black Brick – it’s alcohol‑free but still feels fancy.

Fresh fruit juices are a must‑try, especially during the hot months. Look for stalls selling juice blends like mango‑saffron or watermelon‑mint. Prices usually range from AED 10‑20, and you can ask for a dash of honey for extra energy.

For beer lovers, Abu Dhabi has a growing craft beer scene. Bars like Barasti Beach Bar and The St. Regis serve local brews such as “Maqten” and “Baladi”. Keep in mind that alcohol is only served in licensed venues, and the dress code is modest.

When ordering, remember that “soft drink” in local menus often means soda, while “fresh drink” points to juice or a blended beverage. If you’re unsure, just ask the server to recommend the most popular local option – they’ll usually point you to something tasty.

In short, Abu Dhabi offers a blend of heritage drinks and modern sips. Start with a cup of gahwa, then explore karak, fresh juices, and creative mocktails as you move around the city. Enjoy the flavors and the warm hospitality that comes with every drink.