A Taste of Seven-Star Luxury: My Review of Afternoon Tea at Sahn Eddar
Welcome to the icon of Dubai, the Burj Al Arab. Getting inside this famous sail-shaped hotel is a dream for many. You cannot just walk in. You need a reservation.
One of the most famous ways to get one is booking the Afternoon Tea at Sahn Eddar: Price, Menu, and Experience are what everyone asks.
I’ll be your guide. I’ve enjoyed this tea, and I’ll tell you everything. Is it truly worth the high price? Let’s find out.
The Sahn Eddar Experience: What It Feels Like
The moment you enter the Burj Al Arab, you understand. This is not a normal hotel.
Sahn Eddar is the lounge in the grand atrium. You’ll ride an escalator past a giant aquarium to get there. The lounge itself is a feast for the eyes. Think gold pillars, fine mosaics, and a beautiful water fountain. Often, a classical harpist or pianist is playing.
You feel like royalty.
The tables by the window are the best. They look down over the bridge to the hotel. It’s a fun place for “luxury car-spotting.” You will see a parade of Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, and Lamborghini cars. It’s part of the show.
The service is perfect. Your waiter is your guide. They explain every dish, refill your cup, and never rush you. You are a special guest for the two hours you are there.
The Menu: A 7-Course French Journey (A Big Surprise!)
This is the most important thing you need to know.
This is NOT a traditional British afternoon tea.
If you are dreaming of warm, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, you will be surprised. Sahn Eddar serves a 7-course French-style afternoon tea. It is more like a fine-dining tasting menu.
It is a journey in small, perfect bites.
- The Savory Start You begin with tiny, beautiful sandwiches and savory bites. These are not simple cucumber sandwiches.
- Imagine: A tiny tart with king crab and caviar.
- Or: A delicate beignet with smoked chicken.
- And: A rich foie gras terrine on brioche.
Each one is a work of art.
- The Sweet Masterpieces Next, the “pâtisserie” arrives. This is where the French pastry chefs show their skill. You will not find scones. Instead, you will get:
- A perfect pistachio éclair.
- A delicate vanilla millefeuille.
- A rich chocolate and caramel tart.
- Tiny, perfect cannelés or fruit tarts.
- The Drinks You get a choice of premium teas, coffees, and hot chocolates. The menu is large. I love the “Gold Cappuccino,” which has real 24-carat gold flakes on top.
You can also add a glass of fine champagne for an extra cost.
The Price: How Much is Afternoon Tea in 2025?
Let’s talk about the main question: the price.
The Afternoon Tea at Sahn Eddar starts at approximately AED 490 per person.
If you choose to add a glass of premium champagne, the price goes up to around AED 590 per person.
So, is it worth it? This is a “yes, but” answer.
If you want a classic, filling scone and sandwich tea, this is not for you. You will be disappointed.
But if you see it as a 2-hour “experience” to get inside the world’s most exclusive hotel, then yes. It is worth it. For many, it’s a special treat. For others, it’s a regular afternoon stop after exclusive real estate viewings nearby.
You are paying for the address. You are paying for the service, the live music, the gold-plated spoons, and the right to say, “I had tea inside the Burj Al Arab.”
Your Guide: How to Book and What to Wear
You cannot just show up. You must follow these rules.
- Booking is Essential You must book your afternoon tea far in advance, especially in the busy winter season. You can book on the Jumeirah hotel website. Your reservation is your “ticket” to get past the security gate on the bridge.
- The Dress Code is NOT a Suggestion They are very strict about the dress code. If you do not follow it, they can (and will) turn you away at the door.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
- For Gentlemen: You must wear a collared shirt (a polo shirt is fine), long trousers (smart jeans are okay), and closed shoes (no trainers or sneakers).
- For Ladies: A dress, a skirt, or smart trousers is perfect.
- NOT Allowed: No shorts, no t-shirts, no flip-flops, no sportswear, no trainers, and no torn jeans.
My advice: Dress up! It’s a special occasion. Many guests plan their whole day around this, perhaps with a bespoke shopping tour at the Mall of the Emirates or a luxury car rental to arrive in style.
The Final Verdict
The Afternoon Tea at Sahn Eddar is a bucket-list Dubai experience. It is a ticket into a world of pure, over-the-top luxury.
While the price is high and the menu is French (no scones!), the experience of sitting in that grand atrium, listening to the harp, and sipping gold-flaked coffee is unforgettable. It’s a story you will tell for years.
While tea is a great way to visit, staying is the full experience. See our guide to suite prices and booking to compare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the price for afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar?
As of 2025, the price is approximately AED 490 per person for the standard tea and around AED 590 per person with a glass of champagne. Prices can change, so always check when booking. - Is there a dress code for Sahn Eddar at the Burj Al Arab?
Yes, the dress code is strictly enforced “Smart Casual.” For men, this means a collared shirt, long trousers, and closed shoes. For women, a dress, skirt, or smart slacks. No shorts, t-shirts, sportswear, or flip-flops are allowed. - Do they serve scones at the Sahn Eddar afternoon tea?
No. This is a very common question! Sahn Eddar serves a 7-course French-style afternoon tea, which focuses on small savory bites and delicate French pastries, not traditional British scones with clotted cream. - How long does the afternoon tea experience last?
Your reservation is typically for a 2-hour slot. This is plenty of time to enjoy all 7 courses without feeling rushed. - Can I just walk into the Burj Al Arab to see Sahn Eddar?
No. The Burj Al Arab is not open to the public. You must have a confirmed hotel, restaurant, or tea reservation to pass the security gate on the bridge.
