A skyscraper leaning about 18 degrees, shot from the ground near the exhibition centre.
Capital Gate is an office and hotel tower beside the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, leaning around 18 degrees, far more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Its shape reads best from the pavement and from across the water. Morning sun lights the glass; blue hour reveals the lit lines of the building. The site is public from the street.
| Best time | Morning to late afternoon; blue hour for lights |
|---|---|
| Best season | October-April |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Address | Capital Gate, ADNEC area, Abu Dhabi |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- Tripod for dusk, low angle
- Lens
- Ultra-wide 12-24mm; 24-70mm
- Composition
- Fill the frame diagonally from a low angle.
- Tip
- Use a polariser to reduce sky reflections on glass.
Location
Capital Gate, ADNEC area, Abu Dhabi
24.4186, 54.4347 View on map
Highlights
- Dramatic lean of about 18 degrees
- Glass facade reflections
- Blue hour lights
- Easy street access
Tips for visiting
- Shoot from across the road and keep the tower on a diagonal for maximum drama.
When to visit
Morning and blue hour, October to April
Accessibility
Pavements are level.
Frequently asked questions
Is it open to the public?
The exterior is visible from the street; the tower is mostly offices and a hotel.
What lens works best?
An ultra-wide lens.
Is it free?
Yes from the street.
How far from the centre?
About 15 minutes by taxi.