Partner Content: Savour the sun, sea and a sizzling soirée in the capital this winter.


As the cooler months roll in, the UAE will welcome alfresco dining once again. To stay at the top of this seasonal change, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is pulling out all the stops with the relaunch of Sand & Koal. 

As for the name? Sand & Koal is derived from the al fresco location and the innovative cuisine that it serves. It also represents day through ‘Sand’ and night with ‘Koal’. The scenic beachfront setting allows for casual lounging, leisurely lunches, picturesque sunset drinks at dusk, and torch-lit dining, with views of the property and the Arabian Sea in every direction. Making a return in October, Sand & Koal is bringing back all of its beachfront glory, this time with elevated experiences.

Open-Fire Cooking

This season, the highlight at Sand & Koal is its open-fire cooking, where Mediterranean-inspired dishes come to life over an open flame. This culinary journey evolves throughout the day, creating an inviting atmosphere with the warmth of the grill and the fresh sea breeze. Expect a menu featuring a selection of meat and fish prepared with the smokiness of the grill. Highlights include the Grilled Chicory Salad, Carabinero, Wagyu Carrara T-Bone, and Whole Line-Caught Sea Bass.  Available daily, from 5pm to 1pm for Lounge access, priced at AED 150 minimum spend per person and from 7pm to 11pm for AED 400 minimum spend per person.

Sand and Koal

Brunch by the Sea

Immerse yourself in Brunch by the Sea, where a Mediterranean feast awaits against a breathtaking seaside backdrop. A live DJ accompanies this experience to get you in that true brunch spirit. Available on Saturdays, from 1pm to 4pm. Priced at AED 380 (soft beverages), AED 480 (house beverages) and AED 580 (champagne). 

Sand and Koal

Sunset by the Sea

Sand & Koal will offer a seaside setting perfect for watching the sunset while enjoying Mediterranean cuisine. The picturesque backdrop is ideal for relaxed evenings elevated by live DJs spinning their tunes. On weekends, you can even enjoy a fire show. As for the food, you can choose between a set menu featuring a starter, main course, and dessert or opt for the tasting menu, which includes a selection of sharing starters, mains, and desserts. Available on Sundays. Priced at AED 250 (set menu), AED 450 (tasting menu) or AED 165 (two hours unlimited sunset aperitives).

Sand and Koal

Fete Blanche

Sand & Koal will host Fete Blanche at the beginning of every month on Friday, a white party where guests are encouraged to don their white attire. This event features a special guest DJ, fire dancers, and an invited bartender. The menu is a la carte, offering a selection of dishes to complement the evening’s vibes. Available on the first Friday of the month, from 7pm to 1am.

Sand and Koal

If you’re seeking a relaxed sunset dinner, a lively weekend brunch, or an elegant white party by the sea, Sand & Koal at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, is the place to be.

GO: Email moauh-restaurants@mohg.com or call 02 690 7999 for reservations and more information.