Abu Dhabi Photos -- National Geographic

Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Photograph by Ezequiel Scagnetti
One of seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi and its capital city of the same name combine desert and coastline, urban sophistication and cultural tradition.
Here, visitors snap photos near the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque. One of the largest in the world and an Abu Dhabi landmark, the mosque welcomes both worshippers and visitors.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque Interior
Photograph by Oliver Gerhard, Photolibrary
A prayer hall in the Grand Mosque can accommodate thousands of worshippers. The mosque houses the mausoleum of the late president for whom it is named, a significant and beloved figure in the modern history of the UAE.
Beach Stroll
Photograph by Daniele Mattioli, Anzenberger/Redux
Young women pause on the beach side of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, a popular promenade. A portrait of the late President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan is seen in the background.
Dhow Race
Photograph by Karim Sahib, AFP/Getty Images
Traditional sailing dhows—including this 60-foot (18-meter) boat owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi—race between Sir Bu Na’air island and the emirate of Dubai during the Al Gaffal in May 2010.
Corniche
Photograph by Stuart Franklin, Magnum
Gardens, fountains, and views of an ever changing city skyline draw early morning activity on Abu Dhabi’s seaside Corniche. Walks or drives along the promenade are a highlight for visitors to Abu Dhabi, who can enjoy its public parks and beach access.
Luxury Hotel Interior
Photograph by Kevpix/Alamy
The interior ceiling of the luxurious Emirates Palace hotel in Abu Dhabi reflects the opulence of the city, which can also be seen in its ultramodern office towers, shopping centers, and pristine infrastructure.
Social Event
Photograph by Daniele Mattioli, Anzenberger/Redux
Abu Dhabi residents and visitors gather for the opening of a media center. Such events are part of modern life in cosmopolitan Abu Dhabi city, home to Emiratis, expatriates, foreign workers, and international students.
Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road
Photography by Andreas Hub, laif/Redux
The oasis city of Al Ain is seen from the top of Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, which climbs the peak of the same name, one of the highest in the United Arab Emirates and a popular tourist attraction. Numerous corners and smooth asphalt make the road a favorite of drivers and cyclists alike.
Al Ain
Photograph by Jeremy Horner
Located in the Baraimi Oasis in eastern Abu Dhabi, the city of Al Ain was once a stop for ancient caravans. Today its attractions include historic forts, manicured gardens, and a famed camel market.
Sand Dunes
Photograph by Jeremy Horner, Getty Images
Abu Dhabi’s towering red sand dunes dwarf a lone traveler. The desert landscape, which covers much of the emirate, includes part of the vast Rub al Khali, or Empty Quarter, in the south.
Falconry
Photograph by Jeremy Horner
Historically practiced by the Bedouin, falconry is now a popular pastime in Abu Dhabi. Here, falcons perch on wakirs—decorated stands for falcons at rest—during a desert hunting expedition.
Desert Safari
Photograph by Ezequiel Scagnetti
Off-road vehicles help riders navigate the desert in eastern Abu Dhabi. Expeditions across the area’s massive red dunes by camel or vehicle—known as desert safaris—are a top attraction for visitors to the region.
Camel Pageant
Photograph by Randy Olson, National Geographic
Every year camels and prize-seekers converge on Abu Dhabi from across the Arabian Peninsula for an annual beauty contest. Established by the emirate's ruling family, the pageant can attract as many as 24,000 contestants.
Camel Handlers
Photograph by Randy Olson, National Geographic
Camel handlers rest around a campfire during Abu Dhabi’s annual camel beauty pageant. During the nine-day event, camels are paraded before a grandstand as their owners compete for extravagant prizes.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque at Night
Photograph by Thomas Linkel, laif/Redux
The illuminated Grand Mosque brightens the sky near a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, where guests dining poolside can take in the view.