Exploring Abu Dhabi’s First Night Beach on Hudayriyat Island

You’ve probably endured Abu Dhabi’s 45°C afternoons – now imagine cooling off under the stars. This isn’t just another beach; it’s Marsana Night Beach at Marsana East on Hudayriyat Island, which opened on 01 July 2025, and will run through 30 September 2025. This floodlit paradise, operational until midnight on weekends, offers a refreshing escape, weaving leisure, family-friendly activities, and a touch of luxury into the fabric of the city’s expanding leisure landscape.

Let’s dive into how Hudayriyat’s newly launched night beach is transforming Abu Dhabi's travel scene, and why it deserves a spot on your next itinerary.

Marsana has reimagined Hudayriyat’s waterfront, turning its eastern shore into Abu Dhabi’s very first night swimming beach. As the sun sets, the sea begins to shimmer beneath soft, diffused lighting. Loungers line the shore invitingly, while the air, usually sticky and still, is replaced by a gentle coastal breeze. It feels relaxed yet purposeful, like someone knew exactly what you needed after a long, hot day in the city.

Also read: Sunset Adventure in Abu Dhabi

For many travellers, this beach is more than just a novelty – it’s practical comfort redefined. First and foremost, it offers sweet relief from the relentless afternoon heat. You can swim comfortably in the evenings without worrying about sunburn or overheating. Families find it a safe and lively environment, thanks to attentive lifeguards, clearly marked swim zones, and an overall atmosphere that strikes a balance between fun and calm. And if you're here on a honeymoon or just on a romantic break, imagine ending your night with a swim followed by a candlelit dinner by the waves. There’s a kind of intimacy that only a moonlit coastline can provide.

Hudayriyat Island is remarkably accessible, just a 15-minute drive from central Abu Dhabi. You’ll likely pass by Saadiyat Island on your way – another iconic stop if you're exploring with an Alike itinerary. Entry hours vary slightly by day. From Monday to Thursday, the beach opens at sunset and closes at 10 PM, with entry priced at AED 50 for adults and AED 25 for children aged 6–11 (kids under 6 enter free). On weekends and public holidays, the beach stays open until midnight and the price doubles – AED 100 for adults, AED 50 for children. Best to arrive just before sunset; there’s only one entry point, and the loungers with a sea view go quickly, especially on weekends.

Worried about how to get around in Abu Dhabi? Abu Dhabi’s free shuttle bus service makes reaching the top attractions super convenient, especially for tourists staying in major hotels. Know more about the Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus.

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Marsana Night Beach isn’t just about dipping your toes in cool water – it’s about unwinding in a curated nightscape. As twilight sets in, the beach lights flicker on, casting a silvery glow across the shoreline. Swimming under the stars feels surreal – safe yet softly cinematic. You won’t need to carry much. Towels are provided, loungers are available on a first-come basis, and there are mini coolers placed around with water so you’re not parched midway through your swim. Even dinner's a breeze – you can scan a QR code right from your seat, order your meal, and have it delivered straight to your lounger.

And some nights feel particularly special. You might find soft live music playing somewhere in the background – acoustic guitars or ambient soundscapes that don’t compete with the sound of the waves. On family-friendly evenings, kids gather round for beachside storytelling sessions. Occasionally, the beach hosts “firefly nights,” where lanterns float gently in the air, turning the beach into something out of a dream.

The sea floor here is sandy and flat – none of those rocky surprises that can make you flinch at Saadiyat. It’s perfect even if you’re not a confident swimmer. Pack a pair of flip-flops, though – the floodlit sand holds onto the day’s warmth well into the evening, and you’ll want something between you and the grainy heat.

If you’re there on a weekend, keep an eye out for the Arabic coffee stalls that sometimes pop up near the entrance. A small cup of gahwa, spiced with cardamom, sipped slowly before a swim – honestly, that’s one of those quiet cultural joys that linger with you. Late summer also brings a little wonder to Hudayriyat: sea turtles sometimes nest near the edges of the beach. You might even see conservation guides gently reminding visitors to switch off torches and steer clear of certain zones. And if you're lucky, you’ll come across Emirati families selling luqaimat – fried dough balls drizzled in syrup and dusted with saffron. Don’t skip these. They’re warm, golden, and wildly addictive.

Hudayriyat Island is just a 15-minute drive from central Abu Dhabi—you’ll often pass Saadiyat Island on the way.

Tip: Arrive just before sunset—there’s only one entrance and the best spots (loungers with sea views) go fast on weekends.

Hudayriyat Island isn’t just about the beach. Marsana East resides within a buzzing neighbourhood that offers plenty beyond the shoreline.

Hudayriyat Heritage Trail: If you arrive early, this well-maintained pathway borrows inspiration from local traditions. Stroll past installations narrating Emirati tales and climb viewing platforms that promise picturesque shots of the Arabian Gulf.

Cycle through the island: For adrenaline lovers, rent a bike from Marsana and explore Hudayriyat’s cycling tracks. The illuminated tracks are particularly gorgeous post-sunset.

Stop by Bab Al Nojoum: Located nearby, this charming glamping destination offers artistic tents framed by palm trees. A perfect overnight stay for travellers seeking deeper immersion into Abu Dhabi’s coastal beauty.

If you’re concerned about using the Internet on the go, grab an Abu Dhabi SIM card via Alike.

When you're done swimming and soaking up the sun in moonlight, keep the night going. Head to Coastal Kitchen at The Ritz-Carlton, Hudayriyat, where you’ll find cliffside dining with stellar views. Try the grilled hammour – a local fish served fresh – and the saffron biryani that hits all the right notes of comfort and flair. For something cultural, visit Maraya Art Centre. It’s just a short drive and often features exhibitions from contemporary Emirati and Indian artists. Or if you’re in no rush, stroll through Hudayriyat Island Park nearby. You might catch an impromptu yoga class or even locals practising tai chi under the stars. It’s the kind of place where you don’t feel like a tourist – you feel like part of the rhythm of the city.

If you’re one for photographs – and who isn’t these days – the magic hour here is just after sunset. Keep your ISO high and your shutter low for those moody, long-exposure shots. Do remember though, while the beachwear is fine once you’re in, it’s best to dress modestly when arriving, especially if you're entering with family. The general rule is: swimsuits on the beach, cover-ups elsewhere. And always stay within the marked zones. Lifeguards are present but firm – they'll step in if you or the kids wander too far.

Need help crafting your itinerary? Alike curates Abu Dhabi experiences tailored for Indian travellers, ensuring your evenings at Hudayriyat complement the rest of your Middle Eastern adventure.

Book your Abu Dhabi holiday today for summer memories that glow as brightly as Hudayriyat’s floodlights.

For Indian travellers seeking unique experiences, it’s a fresh twist on the typical Abu Dhabi holiday package – something atmospheric and a little offbeat, yet perfectly safe and curated.

So if you’re planning an Abu Dhabi holiday package, make space for Marsana Night Beach. It’s not a bucket-list box to tick – it’s a pocket of calm, a cool breath in a hot city, a place where you can be with your people or just be with yourself. Alike’s handpicked itineraries include night swims at Marsana, combined with coastal cuisine, cultural detours, and completely hassle-free logistics. Because let’s be honest – holidaying should feel like this. Effortless, local, a little magical.