Afternoon tea is a quintessential tradition, enjoyed for centuries all over the world. The age-old tradition can be widely enjoyed across the Emirates. We have been on the hunt for the best afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi and we were not disappointed!
Originating from the British 1800s, the tradition is very much alive in Abu Dhabi with an Arabic touch. Needless to say, Abu Dhabi adds a certain level of luxury to the ritual. From Emirates Palace to sky-high afternoon tea at the Observation Deck, there are plenty of options.
Afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi is the ideal activity on a weekend with friends or family. It’s also lovely for tourists looking to do something special with their afternoon.
It’s a particularly fantastic activity in the warmer months when the desert heat is too much during the day. What better to do than enjoy cute sandwiches and treats with a cup of tea?
That’s not to say afternoon tea cannot be enjoyed in the winter. We have lots of venues with outdoor settings for those cooler months!
Let’s jump in and uncover the best options for afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi. Be prepared to feel hungry!
Best Afternoon Tea Abu Dhabi
1. The Observation Deck
The Conrad Etihad Towers is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, with incredible views of the city’s skyline.
One of the hotel’s most popular attractions is the Observation Deck, which offers a unique afternoon tea experience.
Situated on the 74th floor of Tower 2, the Observation Deck provides panoramic views of the city, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi.
The menu at the Observation Deck is a carefully curated selection of sweet and savoury treats, prepared by the hotel’s talented pastry chefs.
From muhammara shooter crispy Arabic bread to mini fois gras burgers, the little bites are certainly some of the most creative we’ve seen!
Some of the sweet options include saffron brule, tahini crumble and kunafa ashta dome in keeping with the location!
Choose from a variety of teas, including black, green, and herbal blends, which are all served in elegant teapots with traditional tea cups and saucers.
The staff at the Observation Deck are knowledgeable about tea and can provide recommendations.
One of the highlights of the experience is the location itself. Take in the stunning views of Abu Dhabi while enjoying tea and snacks!
The combination of stunning views, delicious food and tea in stylish surroundings make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Price: 250 AED or 300 AED with bubbles
Timings: 12-8 pm daily, must reserve 24 hours ahead
Location: Tower 2, Level 74, Etihad Towers – Corniche W St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
2. The Alba Terrace, The Edition
The Alba Terrace at The Abu Dhabi EDITION hotel offers a sophisticated take on the traditional afternoon tea experience.
Some of the savoury highlights include parmesan pate choux beetroot labneh, and cured salmon with a lemon emulsion.
Whilst the sweet highlights include raspberry mille-feuille, strawberry cheesecake and peach tartlets. There are some more quirky options including rhubarb and basil mousse.
The Alba Terrace is a beautiful and modern space, with a bright and airy ambience, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a cup of tea!
The outdoor terrace is especially lovely in the winter months through to April, with its lush greenery and comfortable seating.
Many guests visit to enjoy the a la carte menu featuring delicious Italian food and artisan pizzas.
With advance notice, Alba Terrace can alter afternoon tea to dietary requirements.
Price:
AED 145 per person with tea/coffee or 215 AED PP with free-flowing bubbles.
AED 215 per person including 2-hours of bubbles
Timings: Sunday to Friday 1 to 5 pm
Location: The Abu Dhabi EDITION – Al Bateen – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
3. Episodes, Emirates Palace
Emirates Palace is an iconic landmark in Abu Dhabi, known for its stunning architecture and luxurious amenities.
Episodes is the latest dining destination added to the hotel as part of Mandarin Oriental’s acquisition.
It has a cake shop, a tea apothecary and it will be adding a gelateria in soon!
Episodes have recreated afternoon tea at Emirates Palace. Some of the savoury highlights include a Canadian lobster roll topped with caviar and a smoked Wagyu beef-filled crusted roll.
Whilst the sweet options include a minuscule carrot cake presented as a glazed orange globe on top of a crumbly base. Not to mention the delicate strawberry tart!
In keeping with the theme of Emirates Palace, the chocolate mousse is topped with tiule and gold leaf!
Price: 245 AED for afternoon tea Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi.
Timings: 2 to 6pm daily
Location: West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
It is best to book afternoon tea at Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi.
4. Majlis at Jumeirah Saadiyat Resort
The Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort is a luxurious beachfront property located on Saadiyat Island. One of the highlights of the resort is the Majlis, a cosy lounge serving a delightful afternoon tea experience.
Majlis is decorated in a traditional Arabian style, with plush seating and intricate lighting creating an inviting atmosphere.
The lounge is located on the ground floor of the resort and offers beautiful views of the gardens and beachfront.
Majlis afternoon tea menu offers a selection of savoury and sweet treats, prepared by the resort’s talented chefs. It is served in a tiered jewellery box, each part revealing Western and Arabic treats.
The menu includes classic items such as finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of cakes and pastries. Choose from a range of tea blends, including black, green, and herbal varieties.
The Majlis is located just a few steps away from the beautiful Saadiyat Island beach, offering the opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery while sipping on tea.
Price:
195 AED per person for Western afternoon tea
318 AED per two-person for an Arabic sweet afternoon tea
338 per two people for an Arabic savoury afternoon tea
Timings: 2 to 6 pm daily
Location: Al Saadiyat Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
5. The Lobby Lounge, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
The Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is an elegant and sophisticated venue serving afternoon tea daily!
It comes on a traditional three-tiered stand and features an assortment of freshly made sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Guests can enjoy tea and treats while seated in the beautiful naturally-lit lobby which has soothing water features.
The service is complemented by a selection of premium loose-leaf teas and freshly brewed coffee.
Guests can choose from classic blends like English breakfast and earl grey, or opt for more unique flavours like Moroccan mint or jasmine.
Price: 149 AED PP
Timings: 2 to 6 pm daily
Location: Lobby Level, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
6. The Drawing Room, St.Regis Saadiyat
The Drawing Room at St. Regis Abu Dhabi serves a traditional three-tiered stand for afternoon tea. It features an assortment of freshly made sandwiches, scones, and pastries. There is also a local option with Arabic sweets and treats.
Some of the savoury sandwiches include caviar, creme fraiche and smoked salmon. Whilst the sweet treats includes choux bun, vanilla macaroons and English fruit cake.
The Arabic options on the sweet side include delicious baklava, aish al sarya and mafroukeh.
Enjoy tea and treats whilst sitting in the beautiful and spacious Drawing Room, which has stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
With its delicious menu, beautiful ambience, and range of dietary options, it’s one of the best afternoon teas in Abu Dhabi.
Price: 195 AED or 249 AED with bubbles.
Timings: 2 to 6 pm daily
Location: Sheikh Khalifa Highway (E 12 Road) – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
7. Majlis, The Rosewood
The Majlis at Rosewood Abu Dhabi is a luxurious and elegant venue with a refined afternoon tea experience.
The tea service includes a range of sweet and savoury treats, as well as a selection of fine teas and coffees.
Enjoy savoury bites such as crab and mango rolls or Alaskan salmon sandwiches. On the sweet side, savour chocolate pear quenelle or strawberry sable breton to name some of our favourites!
For those with dietary requests, the Majlis at Rosewood Abu Dhabi offers a vegan afternoon tea menu featuring plant-based versions of classic items, including vegan scones, sandwiches, and cakes.
The tea service is complemented by a selection of fine teas and coffees, including loose-leaf teas from around the world and expertly brewed coffee. There is an option to add a glass of champagne!
Majlis translates to ‘sitting room’ in English so it is no surprise the venue is a comfortable and relaxing place to enjoy afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi. Not to mention, the stunning views of waterways surrounding Al Maryah Island.
Word of note, it can be a little bright in Majlis so it is worth having sunglasses to hand to enjoy the views.
Price: 210 AED pp
Timings: 3 to 6 pm daily
Location: Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirate
8. Al Meylas, Four Seasons
The Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi is also on Al Maryah Island and attached to the Galleria Mall.
Al Meylas afternoon tea experience features savoury macaroons such as avocado, carpaccio and guacamole. Not to mention, the foie grass mousse and truffle egg sandwich.
When it comes to sweet options, the pistachio santiago with marsacapone whipped ganache is to die for!
The scones at Al Meylas are a little different than other afternoon teas in Abu Dhabi. They come in classic, candied orange or chocolate chip options!
Al Meylas lounge itself is a stylish and elegant space, with comfortable seating. It overlooks the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and beyond, providing a beautiful backdrop to the tea service.
Enjoy the indoor seating in the summer months or the terrace from November or December onwards.
Choose to add a glass of champagne making it the perfect option for a special occasion or a luxurious treat.
Price: From 195 AED per set
Timings: 3 to 7 pm daily
Location: Global Market – Street 2 – Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi Global Market Square – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
9. Alba, Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is a stunning luxury hotel offering a range of world-class dining experiences, including the Alba Lounge’s afternoon tea service.
The Alba Lounge’s afternoon tea service is a sophisticated affair with a selection of classic and contemporary tea sandwiches, scones and sweet treats.
Some of the savoury options include cucumber, quail egg and chive sandwiches, turkey ham with apple remoulade sandwiches and Caprese tarts.
Whilst some of the sweet treats include lemon meringue pots, Italian caprese cake and homemade chocolates.
A ‘small tea’ is a great option for something light in the afternoon. It includes tea with fresh warm scones and all the condiments including clotted cream, lemon curd and strawberry jam.
There is also an option to enjoy a 22-gold-carat cappuccino at an additional cost during this afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi.
Guests can choose to sit indoors or outside on the terrace, which offers stunning views of the hotel’s lush gardens and the Grand Canal. Some angles can catch a glimpse of the Grand Mosque.
Alba Lounge’s afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton is a luxurious and indulgent experience, perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself to something special.
With its delicious menu, stunning ambiance, and range of dietary options, it’s a destination that’s sure to impress.
Price: 160 AED per stand or 299 AED for two. Include two glasses of prosecco for an additional 50 AED
Timings: 2 to 6 pm daily. Afternoon Tea reservations, call 971-2-818-8203.
Location: Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street – Al Rawdah – Khor Al Maqta’a – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
10. The Lounge, Westin Abu Dhabi
The Lounge at The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa is a charming and elegant venue. It’s not too far from Yas Island and the airport, making it the ideal spot for those on a flying layover.
This particular afternoon tea is certainly one of the more affordable at just 99 AED for two persons, its an absolute bargain.
Some of the savoury options include beetroot and citrus sandwiches, BBQ chicken wraps and Scottish smoked salmon.
Whilst sweet treats include lemon meringue tart, banana passion with nuts dip and baked cheesecake.
Price: 99 AED for 2 people
Timings: 2 to 6 pm daily
Location: Golf Club – Sas Al Nakhl – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
11. Fouquets, The Louvre
Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi has added a French twist to the classic tradition of afternoon tea right inside the landmark dome-shaped building – The Louvre Abu Dhabi!
Afternoon tea is served in a glass box with a red rim. It almost looks like a designer handbag, has three tiers and features treats such as hazelnut madeleines and tarte au citron.
It is certainly one of the most unique presentations of afternoon tea in Abu Dhabi and we just loved the French touch!
Fouquets is known for its association with art, film and culture. Not to mention, it is considered a fine-dining Brasserie!
The restaurant is an extension of the original Fouquet’s, which first opened its doors on Champs-Elysees in 1899.
The French-inspired treats and elegant tea blends, coupled with the stunning views of Louvre Abu Dhabi, make for an unforgettable experience.
Price: 390 AED per two people
Timings: 3 to 6 pm daily
Location: Saadiyat Cultural District 1 – Al Saadiyat Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates