Ramadan 2017: our pick of the best suhoors in Abu Dhabi

Courtesy IrisUAE

Courtesy IrisUAE

Courtesy Anantara Eastern Mangroves

Courtesy St Regis Abu Dhabi

Courtesy Iris Media

We pick out some of our favourite Abu Dhabi venues for a spot of suhoor.

Byblos Sur Mer at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi

This one is for the foodies. With suhoors normally serving Middle Eastern cuisine, it is understandable to be Shish Tawook-ed out half way during the holy month. But for Lebanese food done right — and in some cases with a twist — it will be tough to beat Byblos Sur Mer. The venue arguably has the largest variety of hot and cold mezze in the country, highlights include the lobster kebbeh (Dh58) and the delicious yet outrageous Shawarma Bil Baklawa (Dh85) — which is a chicken shawarma flavoured with pistachio and baked baklava.

Suhoor served à la carte starting at 9pm from Dh150 and set menus begin from Dh180. For more information or reservations, please call 02 666 6888 or email [e-mail]

Emirates Palace

With the UAE hotel scene constantly shifting, it’s impressive that for over a decade the suhoor at Emirates Palace remains a go to destination during the holy month. Located in a plush pavilion, the suhoor is split between the main dinning area — with tables suited for card and board games — and couches for those seeking more personal interactions. The food is what you expect — typical Middle Eastern fare — but done fresh and well. A word of caution though, you may consider bringing a jacket or a shawl as the industrial strength air conditioners is chilled at best.

Suhoor served à la carte at 9pm with prices starting from Dh150. For more information or reservations, please call 02 690 7999 or email [e-mail]

Saraya Tent

A lavish suhoor with out the troubles of going through the inconvenience of going through a hotel, the Saraya Ramadan Tent is located in a car park next to the St. Regis Hotel Abu Dhabi. Don’t let the urban location fool you: inside you are immediately at ease with the spacious setting with its dim purple lights, pristine white couches and a performer playing classic Arabic oud covers. While the main meals are standard Middle Eastern fare, one recommendation is the hefty fruit platter which easily serves three people.

Suhoor served à la carte starting from Dh125. For more information or reservations, please call 0503060628 or email: [e-mail]

Anantara Eastern Mangroves

A hidden gem. Where other hotels focus on sheer size, the tent at Anantara Eastern Mangroves is small, intimate and yet utterly comfortable. A singer plays regular sets of Khaleeji standards on the oud and the mezze selections from the menu is fresh and on-point. A good choice for those looking for something intimate and chilled.

Suhoor served à la carte starting at 10pm from Dh100. For more information or reservations, please call 02 656 2690 or email [e-mail].

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Azura Panoramic Lounge

An idyllic and relaxing spot offering some of the best views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. The Arabic delicacies on offer include a series mixed grills, fruit juices and deserts. A good choice for those looking for a relaxing night away from the hustle and bustle.

Suhoor served à la carte starting from sunset. For more information or reservations, please call 02 694 4553 or email [e-mail]

The Al Seef Tent at the Al Seef Resort and Spa

The Al Seef Tent at the Al Seef Resort and Spa is making its debut appearance this holy month and is set to stay on to become a permanent fixture of the venue. A good move; the small yet comfortable tent is located in a pristine location within the resort, over looking the dim lit swimming pools. Inside it’s airy and comfortable with tasteful furniture including large comfortable cream and turquoise sofas and Moroccan lanterns. The Middle Eastern food is fresh with the shawarma plate arriving with fat french fries. For those with a sweet tooth, go for the hefty Ice Cream Sunday. Relaxed and easy going, the Al Seef Tent is a good choice for those looking for a chilled night out.

The Al Seef Tent offers indoor and al fresco seating and operates from 8pm to 2am. For details call 02 307 6207 or email [e-mail].