Given its name, you’d be forgiven for assuming that Hemingway’s is a literary inspired bar, but this spot in the Hilton Abu Dhabi is actually a South American restaurant-cum-sports bar. There are plenty of TV screens for catching the latest game and race action, plus live music from a house band from Monday to Saturday.

Swigging from the same bottle as its sister boozers across the world, McGettingan’s is an Irish chain pub with free flowing drinks and a great menu of hearty grub. That’s where the pub similarities end: expect backlit bars, polished floors and a tiled celling. McGettingan’s also has regular drink promotions.

Located on the 62nd floor of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Ray’s Bar is definitely the best bar with a view in Abu Dhabi. With a chic ambience, delicious range of cocktails, international cuisine and great music, Ray’s Bar has it all. This really is the place to be for a luxurious night out. Its regular drinks promotions keep the party going well into the early hours too.

Happy hour at Ray’s Bar is 1700-2100 and the dress code is smart-casual.

From the glow beneath the bar to the gleaming cushions, gold is the theme at this hidden gem in Le Royal Meridien. Boasting some of the best vistas in the city, it also has one of the best gimmicks. Slowly rotating 360 degrees, this bar is ideal for sun downers – sip on an expertly mixed cocktail and drink in that view. You must be at least 21 years old to enter and proof of age may be required upon request.

Located in the Beach Rotana hotel, Trader Vic’s is styled as a Polynesian Tiki bar, complete with wicker furniture, wooden canoes and mean Mai Tai cocktails. Do note that despite the casual dress code and Polynesian theme, open-toed shoes, shorts, caps and beachwear aren’t allowed. It also has a live band performing every now and again.

Well, the name says it all. Expect bright colours, light shows, big bass, fancy drinks and all the glam you can point a stick at. Hysteria is the place to go for a night of frenzy, wildness and delirium. Casual dress is expected.

Styled in gold and black, with plenty of plush velvet, this recent addition to the Abu Dhabi glamorous nightlife scene is located in the Sheraton and it has already developed a loyal following. Socialite Paris Hilton and garage star Craig David are among the names that have already played here. Dress to impress.

This former jazz bar in Le Royal Meridien Hotel has had a facelift. When touring musicians and local fusion acts turn up, soft lighting and intimate atmosphere are all part of the live music package, otherwise expect bumping tunes and DJs packing out the dancefloor. Smart dress required.