Abu Dhabi has emerged as a growing hub for the creative arts, with photography becoming an increasingly sought-after skill. This has led to a rise in photography courses in Abu Dhabi, catering to beginners, enthusiasts, professionals, and those seeking niche expertise.
Whether you are looking to master camera basics, explore portrait, product, or food photography, or prefer flexible online courses, Abu Dhabi offers a variety of academies, private coaching, and workshops. This guide outlines the best photography classes in Abu Dhabi, including top schools, private coaching, online options, fees, contact information, and frequently asked questions.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Top Photography Classes and Providers
- Online and Alternative Options
- Other Notable Mentions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Top photography courses in Abu Dhabi and Providers
Photography courses in Abu Dhabi focus on hands-on learning, technical proficiency, and creative development. From structured in-person programs to personalised private coaching and online courses, there is something for every type of learner.
- SAE Training Academy Photography Course
SAE offers a practical short course in Abu Dhabi designed for beginners and passionate photography enthusiasts. The course covers fundamental photography skills, composition, outdoor and studio shooting, portrait, product, and food photography, as well as studio lighting and post-production using Adobe Photoshop.
Location:
It is located in Block 2 Ground Floor – Dubai Knowledge Park
Fees: AED 2,500 excluding VAT
Duration: 4 weeks, Saturdays 10 AM – 5 PM
Next Start: 16 Sep 2023 (verify for latest updates)
Contact: 04 360 6456
Target Audience: 16+ years, beginners to passionate individuals
Delivery Mode: On-campus
SAE stands out for its clear structure and comprehensive coverage of beginner-level photography, making it an excellent starting point for anyone in Abu Dhabi seeking practical, hands-on training.
- Manarat Al Saadiyat Photography Studio
Manarat Al Saadiyat hosts professional workshops and courses with state-of-the-art facilities for photography learning and talent development. The studio includes a large workshop space, makeup and dressing room, digital lab, and a rentable studio for exhibitions. Courses are led by local, regional, and international professional photographers.
Location:
It is located in Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Fees: Contact for details
Contact: +9712 6575 800
Focus: Professional growth, networking, and portfolio development
Manarat is ideal for those seeking a professional environment and opportunities to develop their skills alongside experienced photographers in Abu Dhabi.
- Skilldeer Photography Courses
Skilldeer provides a range of photography and photo editing courses across Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. Learners can browse and book courses conveniently through the platform.
Location:
It is located in Office #1704, ADCP Business Tower C Behind Honda Showroom – Zayed The First St Al Danah Abu Dhabi
Fees: Varies by course
Contact: 800 3337 or book via Skilldeer
Skilldeer is perfect for learners who prefer flexibility and a variety of options, from beginner classes to intermediate photo editing sessions.
- Jay Alonzo Photography Coaching
Jay Alonzo offers private one-on-one coaching for beginners in Abu Dhabi. Sessions are available online or in-person and include seven 60-90 minute classes focused on camera exercises, practical shooting techniques, and personalised guidance.
Address: Abu Dhabi (in-person option)
Fees: Contact for details
Format: Tailored private sessions
This coaching is best suited for learners seeking customised instruction and the ability to progress at their own pace.
- Strap Studios Workshops
Strap Studios offers specialised workshops in Abu Dhabi, focusing on business portraits, events, and video photography. Their studio provides a professional learning environment for hands-on skill development.
Location:
It is located in ADCP Business Tower C – Office #1704 – Zayed the 1st – behind City Season Hotel – AL Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi
Fees: Contact via workshops page
Contact: 02 677 2216
Strap Studios is ideal for photographers looking to enhance specific professional skills in a structured workshop setting.
Online and Alternative Options
- The Photography Institute
For those preferring self-paced, flexible learning, The Photography Institute offers a comprehensive online diploma in professional photography. The course consists of 12 modules, with an expected workload of 4-6 hours per week for 24 weeks. Learners receive personal tutor support, assignments, and access to a global student community.
Fees: Weekly or monthly plans available (7-day money-back guarantee)
Delivery Mode: Online
This option is suitable for Abu Dhabi learners who need flexibility or cannot attend in-person classes.
- Gulf Photo Plus Photography Level 1
Gulf Photo Plus offers a beginner-level course designed to help learners break free from AUTO mode. The course covers ISO, aperture, shutter speed, depth of field, lighting, and composition. It consists of 5 hours of teaching plus a 1-hour break.
Location: UAE-based (verify Abu Dhabi availability)
Fees: Contact for details
This course is ideal for hobbyists and beginners looking for a focused, short-term programme to develop fundamental photography skills.
Other Notable Mentions
- Akkasah Center for Photography at NYU Abu Dhabi
Akkasah focuses on photography histories and practices in the Arab world. While it is more archival and research-oriented than practical courses, it is a valuable resource for learners interested in contextual and theoretical understanding of photography.
Location: Saadiyat Marina District – Al Saadiyat Island – SDW4 – Abu Dhabi
This is suitable for students and researchers rather than those seeking hands-on skill training.
Key Takeaways
SAE provides the most detailed in-person photography course in Abu Dhabi, offering a clear structure and fees of AED 3,000, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Manarat Al Saadiyat, located on Saadiyat Island, hosts professional workshops with access to rentable facilities, catering to learners seeking a more immersive and practical environment. For those who prefer flexible learning, online courses such as those offered by The Photography Institute are ideal, backed by strong testimonials from UAE students. Private coaching with Jay Alonzo is perfect for beginners seeking personalised one-on-one guidance in Abu Dhabi. It is always recommended to verify the latest schedules, fees, and availability directly with the providers, as details such as SAE’s start dates are based on 2023 information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
AED 3,000 excluding VAT for the 4-week course.
No free options are listed; most courses are paid workshops. Community events may occasionally offer free sessions.
Yes, The Photography Institute offers a fully online diploma accessible from Abu Dhabi.
Studios like Manarat Al Saadiyat offer workshop space, makeup rooms, digital labs, and rentable studios for exhibitions.
