Combining baby moon and maternity photoshoot in Abu Dhabi : a holiday to remember | Abu Dhabi Maternity Photographer

Holidays offer the perfect opportunity to pause, soak in the moment, and fully embrace this special chapter of your life. With no daily distractions, you can simply relax, connect with your partner, and enjoy the magic of a new place — all while creating lasting memories through beautiful photographs.

I’ve had the joy of photographing many expecting mums visiting the capital, and one of the most common questions I get is: beach or desert? It’s a tough choice — both locations offer stunning backdrops, each with its own charm.

That’s why I’ve put together a little guide with the pros and cons of both, to help you choose the perfect setting for your maternity session.

BEACH

Why do I like it?

I’ll never stop saying it — Saadiyat Island has the most beautiful beach in the entire UAE.
It’s a perfect blend of lush green grass, white sand, and crystal-clear water, offering a stunning variety of backgrounds all in one location.

The beach provides the perfect setting for light, natural, and timeless photography — especially during golden hour, when the sunset adds a soft, dreamy glow to every frame.

Another bonus? Saadiyat Beach is just a 20–30 minute drive from most central areas in Abu Dhabi, making it a convenient choice for visitors and residents alike. And if you're staying at one of the island’s beachfront hotels, getting there couldn’t be easier.

What to consider?

One important thing to keep in mind is access. Currently, Saadiyat Beach offers free access only to guests staying at nearby hotels or residents of Saadiyat Island.

There is also the option to use the public beach, but please note that it comes with an access fee of AED 225 per person and a photography permit fee of AED 500.

Additionally, weekends can get quite busy, which may affect the calm, intimate atmosphere we aim for during your session.

For the best experience and more privacy, I always recommend booking your session on a weekday whenever possible.

expecting parents walking on saadiyat island beach

pregnant belly with the sea in the background Abu dhabi

maternity session in abu dhabi

Abu Dhabi maternity photographer

DESERT

Why do I like it?

Watching the golden dunes glow at sunset is a truly unforgettable experience. Add to that the feeling of walking barefoot on soft sand and the occasional glimpse of a camel in the distance — and it becomes a peaceful escape from the buzz of city life.

The desert locations I use are incredibly quiet and serene, offering an intimate atmosphere where genuine connection and emotion naturally shine through.
One of the best things? No crowds — no matter what day of the week we shoot.

And let’s be honest — no visit to the UAE is complete without experiencing its breathtaking desert. It’s simply iconic.

What to consider?

My desert location is 50 minutes from the city which requires planning ahead transportation — either driving yourself or riding with me :)

Desert dunes with expecting parents during maternity session in Abu Dhabi

No matter which location you choose, a maternity photoshoot during your holiday in Abu Dhabi will be an unforgettable experience. If you are ready to book your maternity session just contact me here. Let’s create memories that will last a lifetime.