On 13 October, IKIGAICHA was honoured to create an exclusive tea bar for the launch of SEI by Aldar, bringing the essence of authentic Japanese tea culture to guests across Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Moving into stillness
At the heart of each launch event, IKIGAICHA’s tea bar invited guests to slow down and experience three pillars of Japanese tea culture: Sencha-dō, Sadō and wabi-sabi.
SEI’s philosophy, “Move Into Stillness”, resonates closely with IKIGAICHA’s Tokiwasure Tea Omakase. Here, centuries-old Japanese traditions become a contemporary art of hospitality, connection and conscious living, served one cup at a time.
IKIGAICHA’s tea bar at the launch of SEI Saadiyat.
What made these occasions truly exceptional was their energy. Conversations and connections flowed effortlessly among guests who share an appreciation for aesthetics, authenticity and a refined yet innovative approach to hospitality and well-being.
About SEI
SEI Saadiyat is Aldar’s Japanese-inspired residential project in the Saadiyat Cultural District of Abu Dhabi, close to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. Its name means stillness and calm in Japanese, and the whole project is designed to bring moments of calm into everyday life.
The 778 residences, designed by Jacobs with interiors by Kettle Collective, are set around planted courtyards. Homes range from apartments to Kanso Lofts and Kanso Residences, with a zen garden and serenity pool, mind and body studios, and hot and cold baths among the amenities.
Three traditions, one experience
- Sencha-dō, the way of sencha: a tea ceremony built around steeping loose-leaf green tea, valued for its relaxed, conversational spirit.
- Sadō, the way of tea: the classic ceremony of preparing and serving matcha, where every gesture is made with care and respect for the guest.
- Wabi-sabi: the Japanese way of seeing beauty in simplicity, imperfection and the passing of time, which shapes everything from the tea bowl to the setting.
Guests share a bowl of matcha at the tea bar.
Tradition meets contemporary luxury
The SEI launch was a beautiful expression of how tradition and contemporary luxury can come together to inspire a more meaningful way of living. Our thanks go to Aldar for the invitation, and special appreciation to the ELMNTS team for their extraordinary event management.
IKIGAICHA creates bespoke tea bars and Tea Omakase experiences for brand launches and private events. To bring one to your next occasion, visit ikigaicha.com or follow @ikigaicha_by_ikigaishu on Instagram.