Abu Dhabi is an incredibly beautiful place! As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi holds significant ties to this region and is an important historical and cultural center. There’s plenty to do in the capital city and there are also so many picturesque places that make for great Instagram spots! Find out the best Instagram Spots in Abu Dhabi.
Map of the Best Instagram Spots in Abu Dhabi
The Best Instagram Spots in Abu Dhabi
Check out these great Instagram spots in Abu Dhabi! It is really easy to get around with taxis and Ubers available. I never had to use cash while I was in Abu Dhabi and used Uber for getting from place to place.
If you are interested in venturing out of the city and into other parts of Abu Dhabi, check out my other article here.
1. Secret Garden Cafe
Secret Garden is one of the newest Abu Dhabi Instagram spots! This cute cafe was recently opened and is located in the Galleria Al Maryah Island. Not only is the decor super chic, but the food looks amazing here as well! They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide variety of dessert and drink options. Their pastries and drinks look and taste fantastic!
2. Forever Rose Cafe
If you’ve ever wanted to visit a 2D cafe, here’s your chance! Forever Rose Cafe is also located in the Galleria Al Maryah Island, just steps away from Secret Garden. You’ll feel like you stepped right into a storybook as you enter this cafe! The decor and desserts look straight out of a fairytale.
3. Power of Words Sculpture
The Power of Words sculpture is located in Qasr Al Watan and it is such an impressive piece of art! The sculpture was created by Mattar Bin Lahej and has the following message inscribed in Arabic: “Wealth is not money and oil. Wealth lies in people, and it is worthless if not dedicated to serve the people.“
One of the most meaningful sculptures I have seen in my life!
4. Emirates Palace
Emirates Palace is a luxury hotel that is open to visitors! Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can still visit for free. It is certainly worth a visit as the hotel is extraordinary! It is complete with high ceilings and gold and marble finishes everywhere. Don’t miss out on exploring the hotel’s vast gardens as well.
You can also dine and shop here! There are several notable restaurants at the hotel and luxury stores as well. Tip: Head to Le Café and order a 24-karat cappuccino and sip your drink with a fantastic view of Abu Dhabi! Makes for a perfect Instagram spot.
5. Founder’s Memorial
The Founder’s Memorial is one of the most significant public art I have seen! It is dedicated to the founder of the United Arab Emirates
The main centerpiece of the Founder’s Memorial is a monument called “The Constellation“. This memorial is comprised of geometric shapes suspended in the air to form the likeness of the late founder. The shapes are supposed to represent stars and together they form a constellation! I highly recommend visiting at night so you can see the memorial light up.
6. Marina Eye
The Marina Eye is a giant ferris wheel near the Marina Mall. Although the actual ride itself is closed, it still makes for a great Instagram spot with the cityscape of Abu Dhabi in the background.
7. Corniche Beach
Corniche Beach is a great place to visit regardless of whether you’re looking for a photo opportunity! This pristine public beach is popular for locals and tourists alike. Come and soak up the sunshine while enjoying a view of the picturesque Arabian Gulf! Sunsets are also fantastic here.
Note: Entrance is AED 10 for adults and AED 5 for children. Kids under five go free.
8. Wahat Al Karama
Wahat Al Karama is a war memorial dedicated to the veterans of UAE and it is free to visit! It also offers the best view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. I highly recommend coming just before sunset to see the mosque change colors!
9. Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi
The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi is a five-star hotel with fantastic views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque! This hotel makes for a luxurious stay with its own private beach and 8 restaurants on property. Typically access to the hotel is reserved for guests only, but it doesn’t hurt to ask permission to see the gardens.
10. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful places in the world! It is the largest mosque in Abu Dhabi and is open to visitors. You can book timed tickets to visit this magnificent place of worship and marvel at this architectural wonder in person. It is easy to get a photo here with no one else as no one is allowed to be in the center! Plus, there are designated photo spots at the Grand Mosque. Trust me when I say that there are plenty of photo opportunities.
Be sure to read about rules for visiting the mosque and the dress code in advance! Women need to be covered from head to toe and no sheer and tight clothing is allowed. Be sure to pack a headscarf and modest clothing for visiting the mosque.
11. Bani Hashim Mosque
The Bani Hashim Mosque in Abu Dhabi looks a lot like the Al-Aqsa Mosque which is located in the Old City of Jerusalem. I used the arches to frame the Bani Hashim Mosque and was very pleased with my photo! This is certainly a very beautiful place.
12. The National Aquarium
Did you know the largest aquarium in the Middle East is located in Abu Dhabi? The National Aquarium is a fun place to visit for all ages. The aquarium features 10 thematic zones, over 330 unique species, and over 46,000 animals. Take a journey through the Arabian Gulf and beyond! The tunnel at the end makes a great Instagram photo spot.
13. Cultural Foundation
The Cultural Foundation is dedicated to the creation and appreciation of Emirati arts and literature. It is free to visit and I highly recommend stopping by to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Emirati culture.
The building itself is also beautifully designed with mosaic tile work on the exterior and interior. There’s a Children’s Library inside that is definitely worth stopping by as well. There’s even a super cute ice cream shop within the Cultural Foundation. This was probably the most unexpected place in Abu Dhabi!
14. Qasr Al Hosn
Qasr Al Hosn is actually the oldest building in Abu Dhabi! Visit this fortress to learn about the history of Abu Dhabi and how it has changed from a settlement to a modern, global metropolis.
I loved seeing the juxtaposition of the old fort with the skyscrapers in the background – truly a living representation of the past and the present.
15. Umm Al Emarat Park
Umm Al Emarat Park is one of the largest and oldest parks in Abu Dhabi! There are a ton of attractions within the park itself too including a zoo, botanical garden, amphitheater, and greenhouse! Plenty of Instagram photo opportunities in this vast green space.
16. Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the best museums I’ve ever visited! The actual building itself is a work of art. Stop by to see its wonderfully curated galleries and exhibits and admire the architecture of the space.
17. Saadiyat Beach Club
Saadiyat Beach Club is a great place to just relax, lounge, and enjoy the warm weather! You can book a day pass on their website to access the club!
18. Pura Eco Retreat Jubail Island
If you want to go beach glamping, here’s your chance! Pura Eco Retreat Jubail Island offers beachfront accommodations with a restaurant, a bar, and a private beach. Enjoy luxury beachfront glamping at its finest while you’re in Abu Dhabi.
19. Jubail Mangrove Park
Jubail Mangrove Park is one of Abu Dhabi’s newest attractions and it is a very serene place! Take a walk on the boardwalk while admiring the beauty of the mangrove forests. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, book a tour to kayak through the mangroves!
20. Yas Bay Waterfront
Yas Bay is Abu Dhabi’s newest waterfront destination with tons of fun entertainment and delicious dining options! I can’t even begin to describe the countless things to do in Yas Bay. Some highlights of Yas Bay include Cafe del Mar, Pier71, and the Etihad Arena.
There’s more to Yas Island than the waterfront as well! If you’re on Yas Island, some of the popular attractions on the island include Yas Mall, Yas Waterworld, CLYMB Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, and Yas Kartzone.
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