Joanna James
Abu Dhabi is a unique capital city but perhaps not on everyone's list when it comes to Instagram. The desert city holds some spectacular attractions worthy of anyone's feed. Check out these places if you happen find yourself there.
The mosque takes its name after the first president of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan first initiated the plan for the mosque. He wanted the mosque to be his final burial place, and following his death in 2004, his remains lie in the courtyard. The massive structure and its premises were completed in 2007 and cost over 545$ million to complete the project. The prayer halls can hold up to 40,000 worshippers at a given time. With over 82 domes, the mosque holds the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest hand-woven carpet in the world. The natural lighting effects at dusk is spectacular! Its sheer beauty alone will make you want to keep clicking away the whole time you are there! But put away your phone for a while to be present and immerse in the beauty and spirituality of this creation.
Also named the Great Sandy Desert or the Empty Quarter, it is the biggest sand desert in the world and extends 250,000 square miles. It is furthermore, one of the most significant deserts with resources of petroleum and natural gas underneath its sands. The dunes here are at a height that humans can't even walk over them. A visit to the famous desert will result in a lot of Instagram posts for sure. Apart from Arabian hospitality, all types of travellers can have an adventure of a lifetime here. Try out a desert trek at dawn, or trek along with a camel, camp-fire barbecues, and biking and much more. You can also visit the tallest dune in the world, Tel Moreeb. The name means Terrifying Mountain! Above 300 meters in height and having a 50° incline, it is a dream for expert bikers and motorists to ascend to its peak.
Being in a desert can be a fascinating experience for sure and a must while sightseeing in Abu Dhabi! With many adventurous places and activities to do, it is one of those things that would complete a visit to Abu Dhabi. Thrill seekers can try their hand at Wadi bashing or move through the Dunes on on a four-wheeled drive. You can also experience camel rides, behold a lovely sunset overlooking the dunes and finish off with a spectacular dinner on the dessert.
It is a half-moon shaped oasis that stretches around 100 km and is 220 km northward of Abu Dhabi at the northern extremity of Rub' Al Khali. The Oasis is a crucial part of the country and necessary for the maintenance of UAE's agricultural societies and their economies. Life in the desert you get to witness here is an authentic and fascinating account of living in harsh conditions. Capture the authenticity of people thriving under such conditions. Also, the Liwa Oasis is a stunning canvas for some spectacular photographs. Find some amazing accommodation such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort all across Abu Dhabi.
All nature lovers should go here for some fantastic shots! You will come across many photo opportunities in one of Abu Dhabi's best biodiversity hotspots. The park is an educational, wildlife and leisure centre. Take pictures surrounded by lush greenery and a variety of animals such as herons, flamingoes, gazelles, dolphins, and the super rare dugong. Also find viewpoints, promenades and kayak tours for some idyllic photos.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
