Abu Dhabi’s Qasr Al Watan is one of the UAE capital’s must-see sites.
The cultural landmark, which sits at the end of the Corniche just beyond Emirates Palace is filled with history, art, amazing architecture and much more.
And with such beauty comes fantastic Instagram opportunities. We know not everyone likes to experience life through a lens, but for those who do it for the ‘gram, this is one spectacular spot.
Here are some tips from the team at the palace about how you can get the best snaps. You can take a look at the gallery of pics above to see how good it looks for yourself.
Play around with perspective
Inside the majestic halls everything is larger than life – starting with the Great Hall. This is the architectural heart of the palace and using perspective photography, you can make your subjects appear much smaller or larger. Explore the relationship between the three dimensions of the Great Hall; and capture fine Arabian craftsmanship
Explore reflections
Snap a photo of your reflection at one of the different corners of the Great Hall, where you’ll find four art cube installations. They are covered in reflective mirrors that capture the intricate details of the hall’s patterns and provide multi-colored mosaics and kaleidoscopic patterns.
The Power of Words sculptures
Designed by Emirati artist Mattar Bin Lahej, the oval Power of Words is created with an interlaced inscription that is a direct quote from the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The Arabic quote translates to: “Wealth is not money or oil, wealth lies in people and it is worthless if not dedicated to serve the people.” This one-of-a-kind calligraphy sculpture is gold-plated and makes for a perfect photo-op.
Then, outside, you’ll find more sculptures based on quotes. The first reads: “Science and history walk side by side. By using science, man can record his history and preserve it for generations to come, so others may learn from it and come to know what their ancestors achieved.” The second reads: “The education of our people is a great wealth. We are proud of our educated nation because through knowledge and science we will open the horizon to a glorious future.”
Breathtaking landscapes
Once you’re outside, take in the scenic views of the gardens filled with the same mosaic patterns and Islamic-based designs from the palace itself.
There are wide spaces, fountains, arches and grand architecture.
Witness the skyline at sunset
It is the perfect place to fall in love with the stunning Abu Dhabi skyline, especially as the sun goes down. With the sunset glowing in soft shades of pink, orange and purple, find your angle and adjust the brightness on your camera to snap the ultimate picture of the skyline.
Palace in Motion
One for a video… As Qasr Al Watan bids the day goodbye, a 3d sound and lightshow takes over the palace walls. It tells the visual story of the UAE’s past, present, and future. It runs at 7.30pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday and costs Dhs25 for adults and Dhs12 for kids.
Dhs60 (adults), Dhs30 (kids). Open Sun, Tue-Wed 10am-6pm (last entry 5pm); Thu-Sat noon-6pm. Qasr Al Watan, Corniche West, www.qasralwatan.ae.
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