Love photography or just love your instagram feed? Whatever the case, I’ve got the goodies for you. It has now been 8 years since I first started travelling the world solo and sharing photos of my adventures online. That has led me to a career in travel (yasss!) and around eighty countries around the globe (double win!)
So if you’re anything like me and you love capturing your travels in photographic form, I’ve got the ten best photo locations in Dubai for you. I’ll include information on where to find them, when to visit and any secret tips on breaking and entering into luxury hotels (just kidding!)
Burj Al Arab
It wasn’t so long ago I was standing inside the world’s only seven star hotel. As was to be expected for a hotel with such a reputation, it was jaw-dropping. But the good news is you don’t have to stay overnight to experience seven-star luxury. The spa at the Burj Al Arab is arguably the most impressive area of the hotel and if you book a treatment, you’ll have access to the facilities. Surprisingly photos are allowed, so be sure to bring your camera.
Read more: 12 Unique Experiences to have in Dubai
The Palace Downtown Dubai
Of all my favourite hotels in Dubai I’ve checked in to over the years, The Palace in Downtown Dubai is amongst my top three favourites. This beautiful hotel sets a magnificent backdrop in the centre of town. You don’t have to stay here to visit – instead, you can swing by when you visit the Dubai Mall.
Read more: 22 Things you must do in Dubai
Atlantis the Palm
Atlantis the Palm is one of the most recognisable hotels in the world. The impressive resort has so much to offer by way of photo opportunities but for the best view, make your way down to the private beach. The beach is only open to guests but that doesn’t stop the crowds from forming. This is one of Dubai’s busiest hotels so for a serene photo without the crowds, you’ll need to visit at sunrise while the rest of the hotel is sleeping.
Read more: What it is like to stay at Atlantis the Palm Dubai
Dubai Desert
Just like you can’t visit Rome without visiting the Vatican City, you can’t visit Dubai without visiting the Dubai desert. These expansive sand dunes have become everyone’s favourite photographic location in Dubai. It is also a great way to spend an afternoon bashing around the dunes seeing what your 4×4 is capable of. For the best photos, book a sunrise hot air balloon and glide over the landscapes with ease.
Read more: How to have a 48 Hour Layover in Dubai
Four Seasons Financial District
It wasn’t until my third visit to Dubai that I discovered the Four Seasons Hotel in the financial district. This is more of a business hotel, but the pool on the rooftop is one of the most photogenic pools you will find the world over. The backdrop of the Dubai clock tower is best seen at sunrise, when the desert sun casts a soft glow.
Jumeirah Beach
One of the most popular locations in Dubai is Jumeirah Beach. It is here where you will find many travellers and expats sipping away on a cocktail in one of the many beach clubs. As this is one of the few locations you can drink in public, there’s a great vibe on weekends. With the Burj Al Arab in the background, you can’t go wrong.
Al Maha Desert Lodge
Checking in to Al Maha Desert Lodge is a pinch me, I must be dreaming moment. This gorgeous lodge feels like an oasis and a world away from the busy hustle and bustle of downtown Dubai. Each room features its own private swimming pool, butler service and inclusive activities in the dunes. All this makes it hard to ever want to leave!
Burj Khalifa
The view atop the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is without a doubt one of the best photo locations in Dubai. Standing at 828 metres tall, the building is intimidating to say the least. If you aren’t afraid of heights, be sure to take the lift to level 148, standing at 555 metres high. It is from here where you can take in a view of the city at sunset. Another great time to visit is at sunrise when you feel as if you are floating above the clouds, before the sun breaks through.
Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi
The Arabian Tea house in the Al Fahidi district is one of the lesser known photo locations in Dubai, but one of my favourites. This beautiful tea house shows the history and culture of Dubai, contrasting with the new city. Al Fahidi is the cultural part of town where you can walk the empty streets, visit museums and buy something small to take home.
In front of the Burj Al Arab
With its unique architecture, the Burj Al Arab will always be one of the best photo locations in Dubai. This impressive structure is one of the most recognisable in Dubai, alongside the impressive Burj Khalifa. To see it from the water, join a boat tour or take your own inflatable boat to the seas.