We’re back again with another round of travel spots that promise the best Instagram-worthy pictures. This time, we’re hanging out in the Middle East. Filled with history, culture, deserts, mosques, and ancient sites, the possibilities are endless when it comes to photography.
Let’s dive into the top 21 Instagrammable locations in the Middle East, where ancient wonders meet stunning natural landscapes. Perfect for the adventurous soul or the culture-curious, these locations aren’t just about getting that perfect shot — they’re about experiencing moments that are as unforgettable as they are share-worthy. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the Middle East through a lens that will make every snapshot a viral hit.
The Treasury in Petra, Jordan
Petra is known as the ‘Rose City’ for its color-changing sandstone cliffs and is a monumental location steeped in ancient history. This archaeological wonder, carved directly into vibrant red cliffs by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, is most famous for the Al-Khazneh or ‘The Treasury’ — a stunning facade that epitomizes Petra’s engineering marvels. The dramatic entrance through the Siq, a narrow gorge flanked by towering cliffs, opens up to reveal this iconic structure, providing a breathtaking reveal that is perfect for Instagrammable shots and unforgettable memories.
Hegra in Saudi Arabia
Hegra, also known as Al-Hijr or Mada’in Saleh, is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and a lesser-known sister city to Petra, offering a stunning and less crowded Instagrammable location. This ancient archaeological site is famous for its well-preserved Nabataean tombs with elaborate facades cut directly into the sandstone cliffs. The vast desert landscape surrounding Hegra enhances its isolation and mystique, providing a dramatic contrast to the intricate rock carvings and monumental tombs that date back to the 1st century AD.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, Dubai
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi stands as a beacon of modern Islamic architecture and a magnificent Instagrammable location. Its dazzling white marble structure is adorned with intricate floral designs, gold accents, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, creating an ambiance of opulence and tranquility. The mosque features 82 domes, over a thousand columns, and reflective pools that magnify its beauty, enhancing the serene and majestic atmosphere. Particularly photogenic during the golden hour, the mosque’s exterior glows softly against the twilight sky, while the interior’s grand scale and exquisite detailing are illuminated by chandeliers made with millions of Swarovski crystals.
The Roman ruins of Jerash, Jordan
The Roman ruins of Jerash stand as one of the best-preserved sites of Roman architecture outside Italy, offering an extraordinarily Instagrammable backdrop steeped in history. The ancient city, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the East,” boasts a collection of archways, colonnaded avenues, and grand plazas that transport visitors back to the height of the Roman Empire. The imposing Hadrian’s Arch, the oval Forum surrounded by towering columns, and the well-preserved amphitheaters are particularly photogenic, especially when bathed in the golden light of early morning or late afternoon. The contrast between the ancient stone structures and the lush green grass in the spring adds a vibrant layer to photos.
Wahiba Sands in Oman
Wahiba Sands in Oman, also known as Sharqiya Sands, offers a quintessential desert experience, making it a stunningly Instagrammable location. This vast sea of undulating red and orange sand dunes provides a dramatic and ever-changing landscape that is perfect for captivating photos. The play of light and shadow on the dunes creates mesmerizing patterns, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the sand can range from deep reds to golden browns. The isolation and sweeping vistas give a sense of adventure and tranquility, ideal for those seeking to capture the essence of the Arabian desert. Adding to the photogenic nature of Wahiba Sands are the traditional Bedouin camps, camel rides, and the clear, starry nights, all offering unique opportunities to photograph the vibrant culture and stark beauty of Oman’s desert.
Raouche Rocks in Beirut, Lebanon
The Raouche Rocks, located along the scenic coastline of Beirut, Lebanon, are a striking natural landmark and a fantastic Instagrammable location. These iconic limestone formations, particularly the famous Pigeon Rocks, rise majestically from the Mediterranean Sea, creating a dramatic seascape that captivates photographers and visitors alike. The viewpoint from the cliffs above offers a panoramic view of the rocks against the backdrop of a vast horizon, perfect for capturing at sunset when the sky and sea are awash in hues of orange and pink.
Dasht-e Lut Desert in Iran
Dasht-e Lut Desert in Iran, also known as the Lut Desert, is renowned for its extraordinary landscapes, making it a surreal and Instagrammable location. It holds the record as one of the hottest places on earth, but its beauty lies in the mesmerizing natural formations, including the yardangs (massive corrugated ridges) and kaluts (towering rock formations). These natural sculptures, shaped by the wind over millennia, create a dramatic and otherworldly setting that is ideal for capturing stunning, alien-like photographs. The desert’s expansive salt flats and shifting sand dunes also provide contrasting textures that are a visual delight at sunrise and sunset, when the play of light and shadow brings the landscape to life with rich, golden tones.
The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem
The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem is an iconic and visually stunning landmark, offering one of the most Instagrammable spots in the Middle East. Located on the Temple Mount, this Islamic shrine stands out with its striking golden dome and detailed blue tilework, which beautifully reflect the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage. The architecture itself is a masterpiece, combining elements of Byzantine, Islamic, and Persian styles, making it a photographer’s delight from every angle. The surrounding courtyard, with its ancient stones and olive trees, adds to the serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Wadi Rum in Jordan
Wadi Rum in Jordan, also known as the Valley of the Moon, offers an otherworldly desert landscape that is supremely Instagrammable. This majestic red sand desert features towering cliffs, narrow gorges, and broad expanses of open sand, all set against a backdrop of rugged mountains that change color from dawn to dusk. The natural architecture here, from wind-swept rock formations to ancient riverbeds, provides a dramatic setting that is both timeless and stark. Wadi Rum’s vast, unspoiled terrain has also made it a favorite for filmmakers, giving any photo taken here a cinematic quality that is as breathtaking as it is serene.
Babylon in Iraq
Babylon, one of the most famed ancient cities in the world, located in Iraq, offers a deeply historical and visually arresting Instagrammable location. Once the heart of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations, its ruins provide a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the past. Key features include the reconstructed facade of the Ishtar Gate with its vibrant blue tiles and mythical creatures, and the remnants of the towering ziggurat thought to have inspired the biblical Tower of Babel. The site is enveloped by the stark beauty of the Iraqi landscape, which contrasts sharply with the archaeological wonders. Photographs taken here not only capture the essence of ancient grandeur and architectural innovation but also tell a story of cultural legacy and survival.
Baalbek in Lebanon
Baalbek, located in Lebanon, is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, offering a stunningly picturesque and Instagrammable location. This ancient site, originally known as Heliopolis during the Hellenistic period, features grandiose temples such as the Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter, which are famed for their monumental columns and intricate stone carvings. The scale and sophistication of these ruins against the backdrop of Lebanon’s mountainous landscape make Baalbek a photographer’s dream.
The Shah Mosque in Isfahan, Iran
The Shah Mosque, also known as Imam Mosque, located in Isfahan, Iran, is a masterpiece of Persian architecture and an exquisite Instagrammable location. Its stunning facade features intricate Islamic calligraphy and breathtaking tile work in shades of blue, turquoise, and gold, which encapsulate the pinnacle of Islamic art. The mosque’s grand iwan (vaulted open room) and massive dome are not only architectural feats but also create a visually striking play of geometry and color that is perfect for photography. The harmonious design and the symmetry of the mosque’s layout provide endless angles for captivating photos, with each view offering a new perspective on its beauty.
Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai stands as the tallest building in the world and is a monumental Instagrammable location. Its towering presence and futuristic architecture dominate the Dubai skyline, offering breathtaking views both from its observation decks and from the ground. The sheer scale and sleek design of the Burj Khalifa make it a striking subject for photography, especially when illuminated at night with its spectacular LED displays. Photographers can capture its grandeur against the backdrop of the city or the desert beyond, creating dramatic contrasts. From the right vantage points, you can also capture stunning reflections of the tower in the waters of the Dubai Fountain below.
Ziggurat Of Ur in Iraq
The Ziggurat of Ur in Iraq is a towering ancient structure that offers a unique and Instagrammable location rich with historical significance. Dating back to approximately 2,100 BCE, this massive step pyramid was originally built by the Sumerians and later restored by various Mesopotamian kings. Its grand scale and the surviving layers of the ziggurat stand as a testament to the engineering prowess of ancient civilizations. The stark, geometric lines of the structure contrast sharply with the flat, expansive surrounding desert, creating a visually striking image. The isolation and age of the Ziggurat of Ur add a layer of mystery and allure, making it a compelling backdrop for capturing the essence of Mesopotamian heritage and timeless beauty.
The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea, bordering Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank, is one of the most remarkable and Instagrammable locations in the Middle East. Known for being the lowest point on Earth and its hyper-saline water, the sea allows swimmers to float effortlessly on its surface, creating unique and playful photo opportunities. The surrounding landscape, with its stark, rugged cliffs and the shimmering expanse of the water, provides a stunning contrast that enhances the surreal beauty of the scene. The rich mineral mud found along the shore is also a favorite for snapshots, often shown in use during therapeutic mud treatments.
Persepolis ruins in Iran
Persepolis, located in Iran, is an ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, offering a visually stunning and Instagrammable location rich in history. The majestic ruins, with their grand columns, intricate bas-reliefs, and expansive stone terraces, evoke the splendor of ancient Persia. The site is particularly photogenic due to the impressive scale of its architecture and the detailed craftsmanship of its sculptures, depicting scenes of kings, soldiers, and mythical creatures. The backdrop of the rugged mountain range adds a dramatic contrast to the stone ruins, enhancing the visual impact.
Al Balad in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Al Balad in Jeddah is the historic heart of the city and provides a richly textured and colorful Instagrammable backdrop. Known for its traditional multi-story buildings made of coral stone, the area is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and bustling souks that capture the essence of old Arabian urban life. The architectural details, including intricately carved wooden balconies known as “rawasheen,” and the vibrant market scenes provide a deep cultural immersion perfect for dynamic street photography. The contrast between the old-world charm of Al Balad and the modern cityscape of Jeddah highlights the city’s rich heritage and ongoing evolution.
Wadi Shab in Oman
Wadi Shab in Oman is a stunning natural paradise, making it an exceptional Instagrammable location for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This picturesque wadi (valley) is known for its vibrant, emerald-green waters surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush vegetation. Hiking through Wadi Shab reveals hidden caves, waterfalls, and terraced pools, offering diverse photo opportunities that capture the essence of Oman’s natural beauty. The most photographed spot is perhaps the hidden cave at the end of the hike, where a waterfall cascades into a bright turquoise pool, ideal for capturing dramatic and enchanting images.
Dubai frame in Dubai, UAE
The Dubai Frame, located in the heart of Dubai, stands as an architectural marvel and a highly Instagrammable landmark. Designed to resemble a gigantic picture frame, it offers visitors the opportunity to view the city’s past and present in a single frame. The structure divides views of old Dubai to the north and the sleek, futuristic skyline of new Dubai to the south, providing a compelling contrast that encapsulates the city’s rapid development. Standing 150 meters tall and gold-clad, the Dubai Frame is striking against the blue sky, especially during the golden hours when the sun casts a warm glow on its facade. The glass bridge at the top provides a panoramic platform for breathtaking cityscapes, making it a perfect spot for both skyline photography and unique selfies.
Elephant Rock in Saudi Arabia
Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, is one of Saudi Arabia’s most remarkable natural wonders and a visually captivating Instagrammable location. Situated in the AlUla region, this massive red sandstone formation naturally resembles an elephant with a distinct trunk and body, emerging dramatically from the golden desert sands. The surreal shape and immense scale of Elephant Rock make it a photographer’s delight, especially at sunrise or sunset when the soft light highlights the textures and curves of the rock, enhancing its majestic silhouette against the stark landscape. The surrounding area, with its ancient rock formations and expansive vistas, adds to the allure, providing a backdrop that is both mystical and starkly beautiful.
Bimmah Sinkhole in Oman
The Bimmah Sinkhole in Oman, locally known as Hawiyat Najm, is a stunning natural wonder that offers a truly Instagrammable moment. This picturesque sinkhole, formed naturally due to the collapse of a surface layer, features a pool of brilliant azure water surrounded by rocky walls. Nestled in a park with well-maintained surroundings, the contrast between the stark, rugged limestone cliffs and the inviting, clear turquoise waters makes it a captivating subject for photography. Visitors can capture the allure of this hidden oasis from various angles, whether standing above on the surrounding rims or at water level, highlighting the surreal beauty and tranquility of the site. The lush greenery around the sinkhole adds a vibrant touch, enhancing the visual appeal and making the Bimmah Sinkhole not just a spot for unique swims but also a picturesque locale for both adventurous and serene photographs.
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