ABU DHABI'S MULTI AWARD WINNING NIGHTLIFE EXPERT

Born and raised in South London, Cliff Townley cut his teeth in the raw, bass-heavy world of UK underground music. Starting out as DJ Wiseguy on Delight FM, the legendary pirate radio station that helped launch So Solid Crew, Cliff held down the coveted Drivetime slot for three years. It was here that he developed his unmistakable style – a high-energy blend of UK Garage, Jungle, RnB, Hip Hop, and House – earning his stripes in the fast-paced world of London’s underground rave culture.

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In 2003, Cliff made the bold move to Abu Dhabi, becoming integral to the city’s rapidly evolving nightlife scene. Known for his versatility, he’s just as comfortable spinning classic soul and funk at brunch as he is dropping hands-in-the-air anthems at peak time.

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Over the past two decades, Cliff has become one of the UAE’s most sought-after DJs, known for his seamless blends and unmatched energy behind the decks.

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With his company, Junction Event Management, Cliff captured the ‘Outstanding Achievement Award’ at the Timeout Abu Dhabi Nightlife Awards in 2019, cementing his reputation as a nightlife pioneer. He has brought some of the world’s biggest party brands to the UAE, including Ministry of Sound, Hed Kandi, Guilty Pleasures, Defected, Space Ibiza, and TwiceAsNice. His sets have lit up some of the UAE’s largest stages, including the 15,000-capacity Sandance, the Eminem concert in Abu Dhabi, and supporting Salt 'n' Pepa at the DWTC. He also hosts a weekly show on the UAE’s Beat 97.8FM, further solidifying his status as a local nightlife staple.

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In 2009, Cliff made the leap from DJ to venue owner, opening Rush Nightclub in the iconic W Hotel, perched above the Formula 1 racetrack on Yas Island. Known for its electric atmosphere and star-studded lineups, Rush became one of the city’s premier nightlife destinations, hosting Formula 1 after-parties and earning multiple awards, including Time Out Abu Dhabi’s ‘Best Ladies Night’ title.

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Building on this success, Cliff launched Atlon Abu Dhabi in 2022, the city’s number one urban-inspired bar, known for its RnB, Hip Hop, and Afrobeat vibes. Not content to stop there, he also opened Café Nolta, a stylish waterfront venue offering specialty coffee, relaxed vibes, and stunning views of the Grand Mosque – a perfect contrast to the high-energy atmosphere of his nightlife ventures.

From distributing homemade mix tapes as a teenager in South London to becoming one of the UAE’s most recognized DJs, promoters, and club owners, Cliff Townley’s journey is a testament to his passion for music, innovation, and hospitality.

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Check out Cliff’s social media to find out where you can catch him each night around the UAE!