Al Meylas: The Majlis Reimagined at Four Seasons Abu Dhabi
A Gathering Place Rooted in Emirati Tradition
Al Meylas, whose name translates as a place of gathering, stands as Four Seasons Abu Dhabi’s most intimate and culturally resonant space. Conceived as a modern majlis for the contemporary traveller, the ground floor lounge embodies the essence of Emirati hospitality through its thoughtful design: generous seating arrangements of deep sofas and armchairs, unhurried spacing that encourages both conversation and contemplation, and an exceptional warmth of welcome. An outdoor waterfront terrace extends the experience into the luminous Abu Dhabi light, whilst the entire atmosphere achieves a remarkable equipoise between polish and approachability. Business travellers, families, solo guests and intimate gatherings all coexist within the space with equal grace and comfort.
A Refined Culinary Philosophy
Rather than compete with the hotel’s destination dining establishments, Al Meylas curates a deliberately lighter, more fluid culinary journey. The menu celebrates modern Middle Eastern small plates, artisanal pastries, refined coffees and an array of specially curated teas. Four Seasons has elevated the afternoon tea experience into a resplendent ritual, served daily from 3 pm to 7 pm with seasonal variations that honour UAE traditions and local ingredients. The pastry team brings considerable artistry to these editions, crafting occasions such as the Emirati Women’s Day afternoon tea that explicitly celebrate the flavours and cultural moments of the nation.
A Destination for Every Hour
The expansive opening hours from 8 am to midnight Monday to Friday, and 9 am to midnight at weekends, ensure that Al Meylas serves as a sanctuary throughout the day. Morning meetings benefit from carefully prepared breakfast accompaniments, whilst the afternoon transition brings the formalised elegance of the tea programme. As evening descends, the lounge transforms into a serene retreat for quiet conversation and refined refreshments. The waterfront terrace invites lingering, particularly when Abu Dhabi’s temperate climate permits alfresco enjoyment. Al Meylas emerges not as a destination to tick from a checklist, but rather as one of the capital’s most cultivated gathering places, where the ancient Emirati majlis tradition finds beautiful expression through contemporary Four Seasons sensibility.
Practical details
Location: Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, UAE
Format: Lobby lounge, modern Middle Eastern light fare and afternoon tea
Telephone: +971 2 333 2444
Afternoon tea: Daily 3 pm-7 pm
On Simply Luxury: Four Seasons