10 Most Instagrammable Places in Abu Dhabi

Four million people visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque every single year, making it the most popular attraction in the city. People come to the mosque for many reasons - whether it's to pray, to admire the architecture, or to learn about its historical significance, and in all instances, there's no denying the incredible visual appeal of this mosque. 

With its pristine white marble and sprawling courtyards, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a work of architectural art. Consider taking a guided tour to get the inside scoop on this Instagram-worthy Abu Dhabi landmark.

Like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is another eye-catching architectural marvel. Its most iconic feature is its sprawling, metallic dome. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel and made of 8,000 perforated aluminum panels, this dome is definitely a sight to see. Snap a few pictures from the outside of the building before heading in for a completely different perspective.

Once inside the Louvre Abu Dhabi, there’s so much more to see beyond the sparkling ceiling. Take some time to admire the museum’s most famed art pieces, including La Belle Ferronnière by Leonardo da Vinci and Breton Boys Wrestling by Paul Gauguin.

The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental certainly lives up to its name with opulent features covering every square inch of the property. While not an actual palace, this lavish hotel is decked out with dancing fountains and domed ceilings, gold-plated arches, and dazzling chandeliers. There are Instagram-worthy photo opportunities quite literally everywhere you look.

Stick around at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental for a little while longer at one of the 11 on-site restaurants. Savor Michelin-starred Italian plates at Talea, open-fire cooked dishes at Sand & Koal, or Middle Eastern bites at Lebanese terrace to really feel like royalty.

While the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental looks like a palace, Qasr Al Watan actually is one. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, lives in the stunning structure, along with dozens of his family members.

Despite being the home of the UAE president, part of Qasr Al Watan is open to the public. Take a few pics in front of the white granite and limestone exterior before heading inside to look at the dozens of historic and cultural artifacts.

If you’re looking to fill up your Insta with sun, sand, and saltwater, there’s no better place to go than Corniche Beach. After all, the turquoise water, sparkling sand, and Abu Dhabi skyline are a winning combination. On top of that, at about 1.25 miles (2 km) long, you might even find a slice of this beach paradise all to yourself.

While this shoreline is beautiful at any time of day, stick around until sunset for a particularly eye-catching shot. The golden glow will make this Middle Eastern escape even more stunning.

Perched on the 74th level of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, the Observation Deck at 300 offers breathtaking panoramic views of Abu Dhabi's skyline. It actually claims the title of the highest vantage point in the city.

With the Observation Deck at 300’s floor-to-ceiling glass windows, you can easily capture photos of iconic city sights, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Corniche Beach, and the sparkling Arabian Gulf. After you’ve carefully framed your best shot, settle in for a cup of tea or a glass of wine at the deck’s cafe.

Head to Al Jubail Island for a visit to the gorgeous Jubail Mangrove Park. Just 20 minutes from the heart of Abu Dhabi, this greenspace feels like a world away. Follow the meandering boardwalks past thriving mangrove trees and wildlife, including herons, turtles, and gazelles.

Most visitors opt to just snap some photos while walking on the designated paths, which is one great option. If you’d like to get a little more outside of the box, consider renting a kayak and paddling your way through the mangroves. The experience is sure to make for some epic pictures.

While you may picture Abu Dhabi as skyscrapers and sand dunes, the Al Ain Oasis breaks the mold. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is bursting with greenery, thanks to its 150,000 towering date palms.

It’s safe to say that this jungle-like atmosphere will make a stunning backdrop for photos. Pose for a few pictures for the ‘gram on the date palm-lined walkways, then pick up some dried dates from one of the nearby local markets to make it a full-circle visit.

Standing at nearly 1,000 feet (305 meters) tall, the bright orange Moreeb Dune is one of the largest sand dunes on the planet. Add a desert breeze and a setting sun, and you’ve already got an Instagram-worthy set-up.

It’s important to note that it’s quite difficult to climb the Moreeb Dune. In addition to being so tall, the dune is steep, a 50-degree angle, to be a little more exact. If you can’t quite make it to the top, that’s okay. The orange sands will make for a beautiful backdrop regardless.

There’s no other place in the world quite like The Souk Qaryat Al Beri. With its Middle Eastern architecture connected via Venetian-inspired canals and water taxis called abras, it’s an awesome mix of cultures. Take a few photos while aboard the boats or along the canal-fronts.

While you can certainly visit The Souk Qaryat Al Beri just to admire the design choices, why not enjoy the shops while you’re there? Shop for everything from coffee and chocolate to Western clothing and jalabiyas (traditional Middle Eastern attire).