Today as we unveil hidden gems and iconic landmarks, get ready to witness the true spirit of Dubai, captured in every frame, and experience the heartfelt connection it ignites in those of us who call this city home. These Top 10 stunning locations truly encapsulate the essence of this city’s beauty, history, and artistic soul. Also, note that these places are not placed in any particular order because beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. So, without anymore further ado let’s take a trip with your camera around Dubai.
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1. Sunset Beach
In true Dubai fashion, I definitely could not have started this list of in any way other than with a Beach. As the name suggests, Sunset Beach is the best spot in Dubai to capture mesmerising shots of the sun disappearing over the horizon. Also known as the Umm Suqeim Beach, the sea view offers breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa glistening under the sun. Arrive at least an hour before sunset, and experiment with different camera angles – as the sky shifts its colour to orange, gold and tangerine.
2. Dubai Marina
With waterfront residences, luxury yachts and catamarans floating through the canal, the Marina Walk is a photographer’s dream. It is one of the few venues that look more beautiful during the night when the lights come on. Another option worth exploring is to set your tripod next to one of the bridges, which will give you a panoramic perspective of the canal and its surroundings.
3. Bur Dubai Creek
Bur Dubai is the quintessential tourist attraction of Dubai. The old creek lets people board abras or traditional dhows to embark on a voyage across Deira and Dubai Souq. You can also feed seagulls during your journey and watch fish swim in pristine waters below. This location holds a lot of cultural significance to Dubai. As its set in old Dubai its represents the cities rich history and origin days.
4. Tolerance Bridge
Named in honour of the International Day of Tolerance, the bridge connects the two banks of Dubai Water Canal. “Love and tolerance are bridges of communication and a universal language, binding humanity across different languages, religions and cultures,” said Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Prime Minister UAE, Ruler of Dubai. “Our UAE today is a light in a dark place, setting a bright example for others.”
5. Dubai International Financial Center
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road and reachable using a metro. Dubai has become the financial hub of the Middle East, marking DIFC a soon-to-be historical landmark in the future where we can all look back and recognise where it all started from. DIFC is a pivotal part of the city as it also house the Dubai courts. So, not only this this location stunning but it is also essential to the well being of the city.
6. La Mer
La mer being one of the first urban beachfronts in Dubai is always a busy destination for people to enjoy the seashore and explore the upscale restaurants and luxury lifestyle brands. The streets run adjacent to the beachfront promenade; and feature murals, walls with graffiti art and clear views of the blue sky.
7. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many species of birds and mammals. A tidal estuary with water lagoons, you can spot Grey Herons, Flamingos, Hedgehogs, and a variety of reptiles. With an abundance of natural flora; including mangrove formations, the ecosystem is managed by Dubai’s municipality department and gives visitors the chance to get close to nature. (Pro tip for photos: use a zoom lens and increase your shutter speed to catch the dancing flamingoes in the backdrop of the mangroves.)
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8. Al Bastakiya District
Narrow passageways, quaint streets, and rustic aesthetics, the Al Bastakiya District is a nineteenth century neighbourhood that forms part of Al Fahidi Historical District in the middle of Dubai. The community comprises classic-era buildings that feature wind towers, delicate inscriptions, and chimes that sing with the whistling of the wind. This district helps bring back the nostalgic feeling of old Dubai, allowing locals and long time expats to reminisce on simpler days, before Dubai became the metropolitan city that it is today.
9. Al Serkal Avenue
Al Serkal Avenue is the arts and culture centre of Dubai. Located in Al Quoz, the surreal district serves a platform for indie and underground artists to showcase their work. On a daily basis, the venue hosts art exhibitions, plays, musical performances, and a lot more. With artists pushing the boundaries of creativity, you have the chance to capture plenty of incredible moments on camera.
10. At the Top – Burj Khalifa
And what is Dubai if not for our most beloved and iconic Bur Khalifa? ‘At The Top’ takes visitors all the way up to the highest observatory deck on the 124th & 125th floor and offers scintillating views of the city. From up here the whole entire city is your oyster.
You can book your tickets for this unimaginable experience here.
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