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Illustration by Dulce Maria Pop-Bonini

AD Secrets: Comeback Edition

Explore hidden gems in Abu Dhabi with the revived AD Secrets series — discover study spots, culinary delights, cultural hubs, and unique experiences.

Oct 27, 2024

Abu Dhabi is teeming with undiscovered gems. Whether you're looking for a fresh study spot or eager to delve deeper into the city, this revival of The Gazelle’s AD Secrets series will introduce you to some of the most captivating and lesser-known locations in Abu Dhabi.
Café Study Spots
For students seeking the ideal environment to concentrate, these cozy cafés provide excellent atmospheres for productivity:
  1. Youth Hub: A vibrant space designed for young people to work, study, and connect.
  2. Third Place Cafe: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and great coffee.
  3. Cafe ArTea: Combines art and tea for a unique study experience.
Art House Cafe: A quirky spot filled with local artwork and delicious treats.
  1. Rain Cafe: A serene environment perfect for focused study sessions.
  2. Al Ulya Cafe: Offers a relaxed setting for productive work along with some delicious Portuguese food for you to try.
For more cafe recommendations, check out The Gazelle's top five cafes for studying.
Hidden Culinary Delights
Discover these off-the-beaten-path dining spots offering diverse flavors and affordable prices:
  1. Drop by Come and Eat Cafeteria: A local favorite serving up delicious, affordable meals.
  2. Discover Ortegos Deli: A hidden spot for fantastic sandwiches and snacks.
  3. Find Kulfilicious along the 170: Indulge in traditional Indian ice cream.
  4. Pay Anand Al Saeed a visit: Experience authentic Gujarati cuisine on Hamdan Street.
  5. Explore The Cheese & Pickles Centre: A paradise for Mediterranean flavors.
Cultural Hubs
  1. Abu Dhabi offers rich cultural experiences for anyone looking to explore beyond the ordinary:
  2. Spend time in Qasr Al Hosn: Visit the city's oldest stone building and learn about its history.
  3. Plan your visit to the Eastern Mangroves: Take a stroll through the scenic mangroves for a nature escape.
  4. Look through the Plant Souk: Find the perfect greenery for your living space.
Unique Experiences
For those looking for something out of the ordinary, these experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression:
  1. Learn about fire facials at Gold Moon Beauty Salon: Experience the unusual fire facial treatment.
  2. Stop by La Fontana: Enjoy shisha with a terrace view.
  3. Spend time at Mirage Marine: Try Shiazo shisha for a healthier alternative.
This marks the first installment in the new AD Secrets series. We extend our gratitude to previous Gazelle staff for their dedication to uncovering and sharing Abu Dhabi's hidden gems. A special thanks to Professor Kevin Coffey for inspiring the revival of this column. We aim to continue this tradition, bringing you fresh insights into the vibrant city we call home.
Joshua Isaac is a Senior Opinion Editor. Divya Aswani is a Contributing Writer Email them at feedback@thegazelle.org.
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