Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the second largest city in the country after Dubai (which we covered in issue 139), is situated on its own island in the Persian Gulf. As the capital, it hosts all the government institutions of the seven emirates that make up the federation, including a unique body—the Supreme Petroleum Council. This council includes notable figures such as the President of the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed (who significantly funded the completion of the famous Burj Dubai, which was later renamed Burj Khalifa in his honor), Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, and other high-ranking officials.
Unlike visiting a typical Western country, a trip to the UAE requires careful preparation and understanding of local laws (which vary slightly between emirates). As a Muslim country, the UAE maintains Islamic values with strict adherence alongside advanced Western development. A visit to Abu Dhabi would not be complete without exploring the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most impressive mosques in the world, and the sensory-stimulating Ferrari World is also a must-see. It’s a blend of faith and modernity.
One aspect to be well-informed about before visiting the UAE is the legality and culture of alcohol consumption, which is prohibited in Islam. Alcohol is only allowed in licensed venues (hotel bars and designated liquor stores) or within hotel rooms, and it is never permitted in public. Additionally, public intoxication is not allowed, and alcohol sales are restricted to non-Muslims.
Cigar lounges, typically located in hotels, offer quality beverages that complement the enjoyment of a cigar. All that remains is to choose and… enjoy. Here are three of the best options.
Havana Club
Located in a prime spot on West Corniche, close to Abu Dhabi’s business district and the luxury Marina Mall, as well as the city’s prominent attractions, the Emirates Palace Hotel stands with its rich, classical Oriental design, resembling a palace from a thousand and one nights.
Within this palace is a bar dedicated primarily to Cuban rum. However, unlike the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of real Havana, the Havana Club distills the essence of this experience into a refined, aristocratic, and sophisticated lounge, considered one of the top five cigar lounges in the world. One wall is entirely covered with whole tobacco leaves, while others are adorned with Cuban cigar brands and numerous images of Havana streets. Leather and fabric armchairs around mahogany tables with dim lighting create the perfect setting for a particularly exclusive evening.
The menu features creative dishes of cheese, meat, and seafood, with a chef’s touch. Alongside, you’ll find a range of premium spirits and, of course, an extensive selection of Cuban cigars, as befits the venue’s name.
Havana Club
Emirates Palace Hotel, West Corniche Rd., Abu Dhabi
(+971) 2 690 7999
The St. Regis Bar
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Hotel is one of 46 luxury properties in the St. Regis brand by the Marriott Group. It is situated atop the Nation Towers, which rise above Corniche Road, an eight-kilometer stretch along the western cliff of the island, featuring parks, fountains, restaurants, and a beach.
At the base of the towers is a massive luxury shopping center, home to fashion and car brands ranging from Prada to Bentley, and, as expected, a helicopter pad on the roof. On the 48th and 49th floors is the hotel’s “Abu Dhabi Suite” – a penthouse “floating” between the two towers offering 360-degree views, dedicated rooms eliminating the need to leave the suite, and elements of luxurious fantasy (approximately 40,000 shekels per night).
The hotel boasts several bars and lounges, including The St. Regis Bar, which is divided into three areas: a library, a central bar, and a cigar lounge. Giant wall murals depicting desert action – camel races, falconry, and sword fights on horseback – adorn the bar’s walls. With walnut wood, crystal chandeliers, and comfortable armchairs, the bar combines contemporary design with a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere. The bar offers a substantial selection of drinks and cocktails, with the standout being the St. Regis Bloody Mary, crafted from the original 1934 recipe from St. Regis New York, including Worcestershire sauce. In the cigar lounge, any aficionado is sure to find a selection to their liking.
The St. Regis Bar
St. Regis Abu Dhabi Hotel, Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi
(+971) 2 694 4553
Lexx
Located southwest of Nation Tower, in the West Corniche area and in close proximity to Abu Dhabi’s business district, the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel features a futuristic and sophisticated design.
On the P2 level of the hotel is Lexx, a bar and cigar lounge that opened about a year ago. It maintains an elegant and refined atmosphere, which is essential for such a venue, achieved through precise and luxurious design without being overly grandiose. The lounge offers a curated selection of Cuban cigar brands, including the coveted Trinidad La Trova, with each listing its average smoking time and a recommended drink pairing.
Lexx also boasts an extensive wine list from the hotel’s cellar and a diverse selection of alcoholic beverages—cognac, whiskey, gin, and rum, including some of the finest such as Hennessy Paradis. The venue offers an impressive array of cocktails, including some aged for months in barrels. The food menu features cheeses, charcuterie, and more substantial dishes.
Lexx
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi
(+971) 2 510 1234
