Al Meylas

In the heart of Abu Dhabi’s prestigious Al Maryah Island, Al Meylas redefines the art of gathering. Nestled within the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, this sophisticated lounge is celebrated as the “living room of Abu Dhabi,” a place where modern luxury meets traditional Emirati hospitality. From morning coffee to late-night conversations, the venue offers a seamless blend of comfort and elegance, making it a premier destination for afternoon tea, casual business meetings, and socializing with friends.

The ambiance is thoughtfully curated to feel both refined and unpretentious. Plush sofas and deep armchairs are arranged in a contemporary majlis style, inviting guests to settle in and stay awhile. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the interior in natural light, while the outdoor terrace provides a serene vantage point for watching the sunset over the city’s shimmering skyline. It is this balance of tranquility and sophistication that draws a loyal following of local residents, international travelers, and discerning business professionals alike.

Signature Afternoon Tea Experience

Al Meylas has earned an outstanding reputation for its signature afternoon tea, a ritual served daily from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The experience is crafted under the expert guidance of the hotel's Executive Pastry Chef, Rasika Weerasinghe, and changes with the seasons and special occasions. Priced at AED 270 per person, the afternoon tea set goes far beyond the ordinary.

Guests are treated to a stunning three-tiered stand featuring an array of artisanal sandwiches, delicate pastries, and freshly baked scones accompanied by clotted cream and marmalade. The menu often reflects local flavors, with creative items like saffron-infused macarons, mango saffron choux, and pistachio treats. During festive periods such as Eid, the offering is elevated further with regional specialties, including stuffed kunafa, muskhan samosas, and falafel tarts. These limited-edition events transform an already memorable tea service into an extraordinary culinary highlight.

An All-Day Menu for Every Taste

Beyond the famous afternoon tea, Al Meylas presents an à la carte menu that satisfies cravings from morning until midnight. The kitchen combines international comfort food with touches of Middle Eastern influence, ensuring there is something for every guest. Popular lunch and dinner items include Wagyu sliders with truffle sauce, served with a choice of crisp fries or a fresh salad, and a selection of small plates perfect for sharing.

For those starting their day here, the breakfast and coffee program is equally impressive. Baristas prepare expertly pulled espresso drinks and specialty teas, while the pastry display tempts with an ever-changing assortment of viennoiseries, cakes, and the finest macarons in the city. Reviewers consistently praise the coconut and saffron macaron as a must-try, highlighting the skill of the pastry team. Whether you visit for a quick caffeine fix or a leisurely meal, the quality of ingredients and presentation is always a priority.

The Majlis Atmosphere & Design

The design of Al Meylas is a deliberate departure from a standard hotel lobby bar. Drawing inspiration from the Arabic majlis—a space traditionally used for receiving and entertaining guests—the layout encourages connection. Modular seating groups allow for intimate circles of conversation, while the soft lighting and plush textiles create a warm, cocooning environment. This thoughtful design makes the lounge equally suitable for a confidential business discussion as it is for a relaxed family gathering.

Art and cultural elements are woven into the surroundings, aligning with the Four Seasons' broader commitment to showcasing local talent. The understated luxury is complemented by views of the city and the water, particularly stunning from the outdoor terrace. Here, the hustle of Abu Dhabi fades into the background, replaced by the gentle rhythms of waterfront life. It is this setting that guests describe as “peaceful” and “perfect for catching the last glimpses of the sun.”

Curated Beverages & Evening Socials

As the day transitions to evening, Al Meylas shifts gears elegantly. The beverage menu extends well beyond tea, featuring a meticulously curated selection of coffees, fresh juices, and crafted mocktails and cocktails. The lounge transforms into a chic space for aperitifs and light evening bites, offering a sophisticated alternative to the city's more bustling bars.

The atmosphere remains lively but never loud, with a gentle soundtrack that complements conversation rather than competing with it. This makes Al Meylas a preferred spot for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap after enjoying one of the hotel's signature restaurants, such as Butcher & Still or Cafe Milano. The service team plays a pivotal role in this experience, with reviewers repeatedly noting their warmth, attentiveness, and ability to make guests feel genuinely welcome without being intrusive.

Events & Seasonal Celebrations

Al Meylas is known for marking special occasions with style. Throughout the year, the lounge hosts meticulously planned events that align with cultural celebrations and seasonal moments. During the holy month of Ramadan, for example, the venue offers an Iftar set menu and a Suhoor à la carte menu, providing a refined setting for breaking the fast. The ambiance during these evenings is particularly magical, with traditional elements seamlessly integrated into the contemporary setting.

Valentine’s Day, Eid, and other holidays see the introduction of exclusive afternoon tea experiences. One recent example featured a romance-themed afternoon tea from February 1-15, complete with delicate savory bites, refined sweet creations, and the signature scones that regulars know and love. These limited-time events are often enhanced by special décor and personalized touches, making each visit feel unique and commemorative.

Serving Al Maryah Island & Abu Dhabi Emirate

Conveniently located on Global Market Street 2, Al Meylas benefits from its prime position on Al Maryah Island, also known as the city’s premier business and lifestyle hub. The Four Seasons Hotel’s direct, air-conditioned connection to The Galleria mall means the lounge is easily accessible for a post-shopping respite or an off-the-record coffee meeting. Ample valet parking and proximity to the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial district make it a natural gathering place for the capital's business elite.

The lounge serves as a gateway to the cultural riches of the emirate. Hotel concierge services can seamlessly extend your day with a VIP tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, or a stroll through Qasr Al Watan. By embedding itself in the fabric of Abu Dhabi’s social and professional life, Al Meylas provides more than a meal; it offers a true sense of place and an authentic connection to the city's modern rhythm.

Why Guests Choose Al Meylas

Returning guests often cite the unwavering consistency of service and product quality as the main reason they choose Al Meylas. The international team receives specialized training to anticipate needs, remember preferences, and deliver a polished yet personalized experience. Whether you are being seated for a quick espresso or a two-hour afternoon tea ceremony, the care is the same.

Specific selling points that distinguish this lounge from competitors include:

• Pastry mastery: The best macarons in Abu Dhabi, per multiple customer reviews, especially the saffron and coconut variety.
• Cultural authenticity: A modern majlis layout and event programming that honors Emirati traditions while appealing to a global audience.
• Versatile luxury: Equipped for breakfast, business meetings, afternoon tea, casual dates, and evening cocktails under one roof.
• Hotel-backed excellence: Access to the broader amenities of a five-star luxury hotel, including concierge, valet, and direct mall access.
• Stellar feedback: Repeated praise for the welcoming, genuine hospitality of the staff, creating a “home away from home” feeling.

Guests also value the partnership with the hotel's sustainability initiatives. The lounge participates in programs focused on responsibly sourced seafood, cage-free eggs, and the elimination of single-use plastics, adding an element of conscious luxury to the experience.