The futuristic city of Dubai is a real dream destination and one of the most photogenic places I’ve ever been to. Thanks to the majestic skyscrapers, beautiful parks, gorgeous flower installations, never-ending highways, and insanely beautiful views, there are countless places to take pictures in Dubai.
If you’re looking for the most instagrammable places in Dubai, you are in the right place! In this post, I collected the best Dubai photography spots with their exact locations and a bunch of useful tips about when to visit or how to get there.
*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
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Table of Contents
Best Photography Tours in Dubai
Do you want to get the best shots possible but you’re traveling solo or with someone who doesn’t know anything about photography? In this case, the below tours could be the solution for you!
- 5-Hour Tour with a Professional Photographer Guide – This is one of the top-rated photography tours in Dubai and it’s perfect if you want to pack a lot of awesome locations into a half-day tour. It includes a hotel pick-up and drop-off and you will receive around 25-30 photos that you can use on your social media or website later.
- Top City Attractions Photo Stop Car Tour – As the name suggests, this tour will take you to the top attractions in the city where you can take the best photos with the help of a professional photographer. The tour lasts 2.5 hours so it’s a great option if you don’t have half a day available.
- Dubai Photo Shoot with a Personal Travel Photographer – If you would rather skip group tours, why not opt for a private photoshoot instead? This is the best option if you want to capture some romantic couple photos or cute family photos for the family album.
Most Instagrammable Places in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa with its 830 meters (2,723 feet) height is currently the tallest building in the world and not surprisingly it’s also one of the most instagrammable places in Dubai. No Dubai itinerary is complete without going up to the top of the Burj Khalifa!
Not only you will get an incredible view of the city but it’s also one of the best places for photography in Dubai. If you want to take some photos with the Dubai skyline in the background, don’t miss out on the glass viewing platform on the 124th floor.
The painted wings inside the building are one of the most famous instagrammable spots in Dubai so make sure to take a photo there as well!
Location on Google Maps: At the Top, Burj Khalifa
How to get there:
For public transportation, you can use the red metro line that stops at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station. After that, you need to walk approx. 1 km to reach the Burj Khalifa entrance in the Dubai Mall. Alternatively, you can use a taxi – ask the driver to drop you off at the Fashion Parking in the Dubai Mall.
Best time to go:
Most people choose to go up to the Burj Khalifa for sunset. I suggest doing exactly the opposite and going there for sunrise! The Burj Khalifa sunrise tickets are the cheapest options available and they also include a light breakfast at the cafeteria.
The sun rises just in front of the viewing platforms and you don’t have to fight with the crowds to have that perfect Instagram shot. Trust me, it’s totally worth waking up early for!
Unfortunately, this package is only available on Fridays and Saturdays. If you’re planning to visit on another day, I suggest booking the earliest time slot available to avoid the crowds.
Cost:
Ticket prices vary based on which levels you want to visit and when.
With the standard tickets you can visit the 124-125 levels and they cost between AED 159-234. If you want to go for sunrise, you should book the Sunrise + Morning treat option which costs AED 129 AED.
You can also visit the 148 level which is the highest point of the Burj Khalifa but be prepared for a very pricy experience as the premium tickets cost between AED 389-543. If you need more information, read this ultimate guide about visiting the Burj Khalifa!
2. Sky Views Observatory
As the new kid on the block, the Sky Views Observatory is one of the hottest Instagrammable places in Dubai right now!
This observation deck is located across the road from Burj Khalifa and lets you take photos with the landmark in the background. The public observatory stands at 219.5 meters (720.1 feet) above the malls and parks of downtown Dubai.
You can visit the deck alone or summon up the courage to tackle the Edge Walk: a hands-free walk on an external ledge outside the tower.
Alternatively, try the glass Sky Slide. This tube wraps its way around the exterior of the tower and sends you hurtling from the 53rd floor to the 52nd. One ride on the glass slide is included in your ticket so don’t miss it!
Location on Google Maps: Sky Views Observatory
How to get there:
The Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station (Red Line) is right next to the observatory. The mall is equally well-connected with public buses and it’s easy to get an Uber, Careem, or standard Dubai taxi to this area.
Best time to go:
Arrive to coincide with the opening time. Otherwise, it gets extremely crowded and you may have to wait up to an hour for the glass slide. It’s open daily, 10 am-10 pm.
Cost:
Admission to the observatory is AED 85. This includes one ride on the Sky Slide but additional rides are priced at AED 25. Book your tickets here!
The Edge Walk costs AED 174 and is subject to terms and conditions.
3. Shangri-La Dubai Terrace
Shangri-La Dubai is one of the best hotels in Dubai with Burj Khalifa view and it’s home to one of the best skyline Dubai photography spots.
The hotel has an open-air terrace on the 42nd floor that overlooks the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown Dubai skyline – you simply can’t beat this view! Unfortunately, there are only two ways to access this epic terrace: you have to be either a guest of the hotel or you can book the terrace for a private event.
The ‘Just You and the View at 42’ dining package means that you get the terrace all to yourself for an exclusive dining experience. It sounds like a dream but note that it’s a very pricy option so if you don’t want to spend a fortune on this experience, book a few nights at the hotel and visit the terrace for the view.
Location on Google Maps: Shangri-La Dubai
How to get there: Both the Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station and the Financial Center Station (Red Line) are within walking distance of the Shangri-La.
Best time to go: Any time works but sunrise and sunset are the best for overall experience and photography.
Cost: Check the room rates at Shangri-La for your dates.
4. Burj Park by Emaar
If you want to shoot the perfect Instagram picture with the whole of the Burj Khalifa in the background, you need to visit the Burj Park by Emaar!
The park is absolutely beautiful and offers amazing views not just over the Burj Khalifa but the nearby skyscrapers too. Just see the photos below and you will understand why it has to be on the list of the most instagrammable places in Dubai!
The only downside is that you are not allowed to shoot here with a professional camera, so having a phone with a wide-angle lens is very much needed.
Location on Google Maps: Burj Park by Emaar
How to get there:
The easiest option is to combine visiting the Burj Park by Emaar with the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Mall because all of them are within walking distance of each other. Otherwise, it’s a 1.5 km long walk from the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station.
Best time to go:
Since it’s a public park and usually not so crowded you can visit any time of the day. Just carefully plan everything before you take out your camera because the guards will make you put it away right after they see it.
Cost: Free.
5. Wings of Mexico Statue
The Wings of Mexico statue is one of the coolest installations in Dubai and it’s definitely one of the best photo spots in Dubai as well. The wings are really photogenic and if you combine them with the Burj Khalifa in the background, you get a perfect Instagram photo in return!
You can basically frame it two different ways: either with the Burj Khalifa is standing high in the background or you can compose it within the frame of the wings.
Location on Google Maps: Wings of Mexico Statue
How to get there:
The easiest option is to combine visiting the Wings of Mexico statue with the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Mall because all of them are within walking distance from each other. Alternatively, you can use bus nr. 27 or F13 which stops right in front of the wings or take a taxi.
Best time to go:
You can visit basically any time of the day as it doesn’t get that crowded. And even if it does, people usually wait in line to get a photo here so one will photobomb your picture.
Cost: Free.
6. Palace Downtown
Palace Downtown is one of the most beautiful hotels in Dubai and it offers an amazing view over the Burj Khalifa. You can visit the pool area outside the hotel even if you are not a hotel guest so if you’re looking for the best Dubai photo spots, definitely check it out!
Shooting with a professional camera is tricky here as well and it depends on the mood of the guards whether they let you use it or not. Similar to the Burj Park by Emaar, having a phone with a wide-angle lens can be a lifesaver!
Location on Google Maps: Palace Hotel and Burj Khalifa
How to get there:
The easiest option is to combine visiting the Palace Downtown with the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Mall because all of them are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, you can use bus nr. 27 or F13 which stops near the hotel or take a taxi.
Best time to go:
We went there in the morning and unfortunately, the shadows were really harsh on the pool. Based on that I would recommend visiting in the afternoon and I’ve seen some amazing photos here taken at sunset as well!
Cost: Free.
7. Dubai Mall Waterfalls
The Dubai Mall is another iconic place in Dubai and the most famous place within the Mall is definitely the Waterfall Wall. The waterfall is 24-meters tall and it is decorated with fiberglass sculptures of divers. It looks pretty cool and it’s totally one of the best places in Dubai to take pictures!
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Mall, Waterfall Wall inside the Dubai Mall
How to get there:
For public transportation, you can use the red metro line that stops at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station. After that, you need to walk around 10 minutes to reach the first entrance of the Dubai Mall. Alternatively, you can use a taxi.
Best time to go: You can visit any time of the day but the best is to go early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowd.
Cost: Free.
8. Dubai Steel Heart
We stumbled upon this cool steel heart installation right after we stepped out of the Dubai Mall. It’s also an amazing location to shoot a great picture with the Burj Khalifa in the background!
You can find a cute corner next to the steel heart with carpets and treasure chests but when we visited in the morning it was still closed. (I guess you can only use that if you pay for it.)
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Steel Heart
How to get there:
The easiest option is to combine visiting the Dubai Steel Heart with the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Mall because all of them are within walking distance of each other.
If you are coming from the Dubai Mall, use the exit which is the closest to the Waterfall Wall. This way you will end up right in front of the Dubai Steel Heart.
Best time to go: You can visit any time of the day but the best is to go early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowd.
Cost: Free.
9. Dubai Creek Harbour
Dubai Creek Harbour is a fairly new and upcoming neighborhood in Dubai. Chances are you’ll still come across many new construction sites but a big part of the area is already finished at it can be freely visited.
Dubai Creek Harbour will be home to Dubai Creek Tower, which is planned to be the world’s tallest building with its humble 928 meters (3,044 feet) height. Yes, you’ve read that right – it will be even taller than the Burj Khalifa!
Although the tower is not completed yet, Dubai Creek Harbour already deserves its place on the list of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai thanks to the gorgeous panoramic views. It’s definitely one of the best photoshoot places in Dubai as you can get an insanely beautiful view over the Dubai skyline from the riverside!
One thing to note is that many people confuse this place with Dubai Creek. While Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek that is now part of the new Dubai canal, Dubai Creek Harbour is a specific neighborhood on the shores of Dubai Creek.
So if you want to find the same photography locations in Dubai you can see in the below pictures, use the exact Google maps location I shared below!
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Creek Harbour
How to get there:
As I mentioned the area is still in progress so currently it can’t be reached with public transportation, your only option is taking a taxi.
It’s important to know that you might not find a taxi in the harbor so it’s best to arrange your return trip beforehand. You can ask your taxi driver to wait for you until you explore the area or make an appointment for your return trip in advance!
Best time to go:
Definitely sunset! I recommend arriving around one hour prior to sunset so you can explore the best photo spots, take some pictures during golden hour, and later on you can see how the Dubai skyline looks in the dark with the lights turned on.
Cost: Apart from the cost of the taxi ride, it’s free.
10. Arabian Tea House
This beautiful tea house is located in the historic and atmosphere Al Fahidi (Al Bastakiya) neighborhood. It features an indoor dining space as well as a sheltered terrace where you can dine out of the sun.
The menu consists of over 150 types of tea! The Arabian Tea House is one of the Instagrammable places in Dubai where you can eat, drink tea, or visit purely to take photos.
They have an amazing exterior which is perfect for photos and you can use this cute setup even if you’re not dining at the restaurant (but I highly recommend doing so!).
Location on Google Maps: Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe
How to get there:
The Green Line of the Dubai Metro passes through Al Bastakiya. You can alight at Sharaf DG and then walk 10 minutes to the tea house. Al Bastakiya is well-served by public bus with many routes traveling along Al Mankhool Road and Al Satwa Road from Downtown Dubai.
Use the RTA journey planner to plan your route from your starting point. My guide on how to spend 4 days in Dubai is packed with other travel tips and I recommend consulting that in tandem with this guide.
Best time to go: Any time. The tea house is open daily, 8 am-2 pm.
Cost: Juices, ice teas, and coffees start at AED 25. Food items such as sandwiches are priced upwards of AED 50. Larger, hot dishes start at AED 60.
11. Al Bastakiya
Al Bastakiya is the historical district of Dubai. Completely different from the downtown area, this is where you will find low-rise heritage buildings in a traditional style that look back at Dubai’s humble roots as a trading and fishing port.
It’s one of the best places for photography in Dubai to show how much the city has evolved. The whole neighborhood is bursting with photo opportunities, such as the original city walls, museums, and market stalls.
Location on Google Maps: Al Fahidi Historical District (Bastakiya)
How to get there: Use the Dubai Metro Green Line or buses, as proposed for getting to the Arabian Tea House.
Best time to go: Any time works but early morning is the best before it gets hot and busy.
Cost: Free
12. Al Seef Street
Al Seef Street is an extension of Al Bastakiya as it runs from the heart of the historic core along the banks of Dubai Creek. You’ll pass more photographic buildings and get to experience the happenings of the waterway.
As strange as it might sound, the Al Seef Street Starbucks is one of the coolest Dubai photography spots. With its woody construction and thatched terrace, the building retains the old-world charm of the area and you might even not realize it’s the American chain at first!
Location on Google Maps: Al Seef Street
How to get there: Burjuman Metro Station (Green Line and Red Line) drops you a 10-minute walk from Al Seef Street. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street is well-served by public buses.
Best time to go: Any time of day.
Cost: Free but factor in cash for your favorite coffee at Starbucks.
13. Al Fahidi Fort (Dubai Museum)
Al Fahidi Fort was constructed in the 18th century and originally consisted of coral and shells. It has been used for a number of different reasons: a defense fortification, a prison, and a royal residence.
Nowadays, one of the oldest Dubai Instagram spots houses the Dubai Museum. This displays such artifacts as daily objects, jewelry, marine relics, and ancient weapons.
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Museum
How to get there: Same directions as per Al Bastakyiya.
Best time to go: Any time.
Cost: Admission to Dubai Museum costs AED 3. However, at the time of writing, the institute is closed until further notice for renovation.
14. Dubai Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden is hands down the most beautiful garden I’ve ever seen. It is full of gorgeous flower installations like huge sculptures covered with flowers, heart-shaped tunnels, and colorful umbrellas.
I’m absolutely obsessed with flowers so it was like heaven for me! And let’s face it: colorful flowers always make a perfect backdrop for photos so if you’re looking for the most aesthetic places in Dubai, you have to put Dubai Miracle Garden on your list!
The garden is only open between mid-November to mid-May but since this is generally the best time to visit Dubai chances are you’re going to be visiting during this period anyway. Unfortunately, if you’re visiting outside these months you will not be able to see the gardens.
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Miracle Garden
How to get there:
If you want to use public transportation, you have to take the red metro line and stop at the MOE (Mall of Emirates) metro station. After that, you need to take bus nr. 105 which takes you directly to the Miracle Garden. The whole process takes more than 1 hour so in case you want to save some time, you can take a taxi instead.
Alternatively, you can book a tour where transportation is already included, as well as some additional time to shop at Global Village which is right next door.
Best time to go:
The park opens at 9 am every day so if you want to make sure to get the perfect Instagram-worthy photos, go there for opening time! We went there around noon and the park was already full of people which made it quite difficult to shoot. However, a little patience (and sometimes a bit of Photoshop) always does the trick!
Cost: The entrance ticket costs AED 55 per person. If you’re visiting during peak times, it’s worth booking a skip-the-line ticket.
15. Dubai Desert
No Dubai itinerary is complete without visiting the Dubai Desert! Not only you will have an exciting day touring the desert, but you will also have many amazing photo opportunities there too. I mean you simply can’t take a bad picture with these sand dunes, am I right?
In order to visit the Dubai desert, you need to book a Desert safari. There are countless options out there, if you need some help with choosing the best tours, check out my post about the best desert safaris in Dubai!
We personally chose this desert safari tour and we loved everything about it! We opted for the 7-Hour Shared Red Dunes & Open Buffet Tour in the afternoon.
You can basically choose between two starting times: 11.45 am or 3 pm. I recommend choosing the 3 pm version because this way you can see the sunset in the desert which is really magical!
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Desert
How to get there:
If you book a Desert safari you don’t need to worry about how to get to the Dubai desert because they will pick you up at your hotel.
Best time to go:
Always choose the afternoon option, if there is any! Seeing the sunset in the desert is such a magical experience and the golden lights definitely transform the desert into one of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai. Another great option is to go for a sunrise desert tour when the lights are equally beautiful.
Cost:
It highly depends on which company you choose for the Desert safari. As I mentioned before, we chose this desert safari tour and loved everything about it!
The tour typically starts from AED 450 per person. It’s worth checking the price in advance for different days as it can vary based on the selected dates.
16. Jumeirah Public Beach
Burj al Arab is one of the most luxurious 7-star hotels in the world and a true icon of Dubai. Although staying there is very expensive, luckily you don’t need to get inside to take some amazing pictures with it!
The best place to take photos with the Burj al Arab is Jumeirah Public beach. The best thing is that the beach is free to visit so it’s definitely worth checking it out, even if you’re visiting Dubai on a budget.
Location on Google Maps: Burj al Arab, Jumeirah Public Beach
How to get there:
Unfortunately, there are no metro stations nearby but there are several bus stops around Jumeirah Beach such as the Wild Wadi or the Maharba Masjid (bus lines: 8, 81, 88, N55, X28). As an alternative option, you can call a taxi which is fairly cheap everywhere in Dubai.
Best time to go: The view from the beach is amazing any time of the day but if you want something special, go there for sunset!
Cost: Free.
17. The View at the Palm
The View at the Palm is a glass-framed observation deck located on Palm Jumeirah, the artificial island archipelago south of Downtown Dubai.
The observatory stands 240 meters (787.5 feet) above the ground at the “trunk” of the island and provides 360-degree views across the Palm and out towards the wider Arabian Gulf. This is one of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai if you want dreamy aerial views across the water.
With the general admission ticket, you get access to the glass viewing platform on the 52nd floor (pictured in the second photo below). However, if you want to go up to the 54th floor where you can enjoy the panorama without glass panels, consider booking the Next Level Experience.
Location on Google Maps: The View at The Palm
How to get there: Depart the Palm Monorail at Nakheel Mall and you’ll be at the base of the skyscraper.
Best time to go:
Any time works and there is a variety of different packages on offer. We opted for the weekend-only sunrise deal. However, we were unlucky as it was cloudy and damp the morning of our booking.
We ended up waiting for 1.5 hours in order to get photos. If you’re happy to take a gamble, then the sunrise experience could work out to be exceptional. But if the conditions are against you, it might be disappointing.
Consider going during the day if your priority is clear skies!
Cost:
General admission starts at AED 100 with tickets being valid at off-peak times. Admission during the peak hours of 4 pm-6.30 pm is AED 158. Additionally, you can opt for fast-track and VIP Experiences at an elevated cost. Check the different ticket options here!
18. Atlantis, The Palm
Atlantis, The Palm is a legendary hotel in Dubai located on the artificial palm-tree-shaped archipelago called Palm Jumeirah. The whole resort is a real dream come true, however, staying there comes with a high price tag.
Lucky for us, the resort offers several experiences that can be attended even when you’re not a guest, such as the Aquaventure Water Park, and the Lost Chambers Aquarium. The latter is why the hotel made this list of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai!
I’m sure you’ve already seen tons of pictures of this epic indoor aquarium, it’s a real bucket list experience in Dubai. However, the most photogenic spot – the Ambassador Lagoon – is actually not inside the aquarium, but in the hotel lobby, which means you can visit it for free once you’re inside the hotel!
It’s a huge aquarium full of fishes, manta rays, and sharks – it’s pretty magical! It was definitely one of the most photogenic places in Dubai we’ve visited.
If you’re inside the hotel, simply walk towards the entrance of the Lost Chambers Aquarium and once you walk down the stairs you will immediately spot the Ambassador Lagoon. There is even a cafe located right in front of the aquarium so you can get your daily dose of caffeine while watching the fishes and mantas swim.
Generally, if you are not a guest of the hotel you are not allowed to get inside. However, there are lots of cafes, restaurants, and shisha bars inside, so if you visit any of them, you are free to roam around the hotel.
If you’re already there, it’s worth taking a few pictures inside the hotel as well, it looks truly beautiful! And of course, I highly recommend visiting the Lost Chambers Aquarium itself too, it’s a pretty special experience.
Location on Google Maps: Atlantis, The Palm
How to get there: The Palm Jumeirah Monorail stops right in front of the hotel. Otherwise, taking a taxi is the safest bet.
Best time to go:
The best is to go in the morning to avoid the crowds at the Aquarium. We visited in the afternoon and it was really hard to shoot a picture without any other people in it!
Cost:
The ticket for the Aquarium costs between AED 110-135 per person, you can buy the tickets here. If you don’t want to visit the whole Aquarium and you manage to get inside the hotel then it’s free, apart from the cost of the taxi ride.
19. Forever Rose Cafe
Forever Rose Cafe is a unique concept cafe founded by Ebraheem Al-Samadi. The cafe is designed as a 2D illustration from a storybook which makes you feel as though you are a part of the tale.
From afar, the décor appears monochrome with white floors and tables, and black crockery. Customers, food, and beverages are the only instance of color that creates a sense of being within a fairytale.
It’s very difficult to imagine the experience so you’ll just have to visit one of the kookiest Dubai Instagram spots for yourself. Note that you can’t use a professional camera at Forever Rose Cafe, only a phone camera.
Location on Google Maps: Forever Rose Cafe
How to get there: Business Bay Metro Station (Red Line) is a 30-minute walk away so you can swap to a public bus or taxi from there if it’s too hot to continue on foot.
Best time to go: Opening time works out the best to take photos. It opens daily at 8 am and closes at 1 am.
Cost: Breakfasts cost AED 45-55. Main dishes for lunch or dinner are around AED 75-100. A latte or cup of tea costs AED 21 while mojitos are priced at AED 27.
20. Saya Brasserie Cafe
Saya Brasserie Café is a Dubai-born brand in multiple locations, each with gorgeous interiors that warrant success as one of the cutest Instagrammable places in Dubai to eat.
The best way to describe Saya is pink, pink, and even more pink! Rose-colored chairs are surrounded by lashings of Fuschia and cherry blossoms. The menu consists of comforting American breakfasts, light Mediterranean dishes, and photogenic cakes as well as fantastic coffees, teas, and shakes.
Location on Google Maps: Saya Cafe Brasserie City Walk
How to get there: The Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station (Red Line) is a 30-minute walk away. But dozens of buses stop outside City Walk mall if you want to save money on an Uber, Careem, or taxi.
Best time to go: Early in the morning around opening time. The City Walk branch opens daily, 9 am-1 am.
Cost: Saya’s Signature Shakes are priced at AED 38 while a slice of cake will cost around AED 50. Mains range from AED 40-100.
21. Dubai Marina Yacht Tour
An excellent way to embrace the sunshine and luxury lifestyle of Dubai is to take a yacht tour around the Arabian Gulf!
The deck of a yacht is one of the best places for photography in Dubai as it provides sweeping views of Ain Dubai, Burj al Arab, the Dubai Marina, and the city skyline all in one swoop.
I can personally recommend the Dubai Marina Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ. You get to choose whether you want a continental breakfast or a BBQ lunch or dinner.
The standard 2-hour tour is perfect for making the most of the sights, however, the 3-hour tour is even better as it goes all around Palm Jumeirah and lets you get a close look at Atlantis.
Location on Google Maps: Dubai Marina
How to get there: Dubai Marina is conveniently served by the Sobha Realty Metro Station (Red Line). Ferries operate within the marina itself. Note that the yacht tours do not usually include a hotel pick-up.
Best time to go: Any time works, so you can decide which best suits your schedule and whether you’d prefer the 2-hour or 3-hour tour.
Cost: From AED 210.
22. JBR Beach
If you’re looking for a gorgeous, white sandy beach in Dubai with fantastic photo opportunities, you can’t miss JBR Beach. It’s a 1.7 km (1 mile) long beach located in Dubai Marina, overlooking Blue Waters Island and Ain Dubai (the world’s highest observation wheel).
It’s not only one of the best Instagram spots in Dubai but easily one of the best places to spend a relaxing day on the beach and soak up the Middle-Eastern sun. Visiting the beach itself is free but you have to pay for additional activities if you want to participate.
Location on Google Maps: JBR Beach
How to get there: The beach is a 15-minute walk from the Sobha Realty Metro Station (Red Line).
Best time to visit: If you want to have the beach all to yourself, it’s best to go early in the morning. Otherwise, any time works.
Cost: Free, unless you want to take part in any activities or dine at one of the restaurants.
23. Imam Hussein Mosque
The Imam Hussein Mosque was founded in Dubai by the Iranian community who observe the Shia order of Islam. Its architecture seeks direction from Persian styles and is covered with glittering blue tiles and two twin minarets.
Weekly tours take place and are subject to change so it is best to check the schedule with your hotel when you arrive in Dubai if you want to participate.
Otherwise, you can visit one of the sacred Dubai photo spots purely to ogle the exterior and admire the architecture.
You can take photos with a camera but you must dress modestly and cover your hair at all times.
Location on Google Maps: Imam Hussein Mosque
How to get there: Many buses stop outside the mosque, next to the Iranian Hospital. Remember to consult the RTA journey planner based on where you are coming from.
Best time to go: Visit early in the morning before the mosque gets busy. Avoid visiting during prayer hours, on Fridays, and during Islamic holidays such as Ramadan and Eid.
Cost: Free.
24. Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is located a short walk from the Imam Hussein Mosque so you can visit these religious buildings together.
Jumeirah Mosque is one of the better-known places of worship and offers public tours and private visits to tourists with the mission to cultivate deeper cultural understanding. It takes inspiration from Syrian and Egyptian mosques and can host 1,500 worshippers.
Mosques such as the Imam Hussein Mosque and the Jumeirah Mosque are the best places to take pictures in Dubai to celebrate the customs and beliefs in the United Arab Emirates.
Location on Google Maps: Jumeirah Mosque
How to get there: Jumeirah Street is well-served by public buses, such as the 8, 9, 88, C10, and X28. Remember to plan to visit this mosque in tandem with the Iranian Mosque.
Best time to go:
The mosque offers public tours at 10 am so it’s best to arrive just before then to take photos of the exterior.
It then closes for prayers and reopens with the second tour of the day at 2 pm. The mosque is closed to tourists on Fridays and religious holidays.
Cost: External viewing and public tours are free. Private tours are subject to a cost and you need to email the mosque directly to discuss.
Map of the Most Instagrammable Places in Dubai
In the below map I collected all the best Dubai photography spots for you. You just have to click on the bracket in the upper right corner and it will open it up on your phone. Super convenient, right?
Useful Info for Planning Your Trip to Dubai
Where to stay in Dubai
There is no shortage of places to stay in Dubai, from high-end luxury hotels to more affordable options. Contrary to belief, you can find good deals on hotels in Dubai, no matter your budget.
The most important thing to keep in mind when booking your hotel room is the location. Dubai is huge and spread out, so you want to make sure you’re staying in an area that’s close to the sights and attractions you want to see.
Generally speaking, here are the best areas to stay in Dubai:
Deira – If you’re looking for a more traditional Arabic experience, you can’t go wrong with Deira. It’s also one of the more affordable areas in Dubai.
Bur Dubai – This is a great option if you want to be close to the action. Bur Dubai is home to many of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, and nightlife venues.
Palm Jumeirah – If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation, look no further than Palm Jumeirah. This artificial island is home to some of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels and resorts.
Downtown Dubai – This is the best area for those who want to be close to the city’s most popular attractions, like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.
Dubai Marina – This is a great option if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. The Dubai Marina is home to many restaurants and bars, as well as a beautiful waterfront promenade.
In case you’re curious to know more about each area with pros and cons and hotel recommendations, make sure to check out my in-depth article about where to stay in Dubai.
If you want to make your Dubai trip even more memorable, read my post about the best hotels in Dubai with Burj Khalifa views!
Do you prefer staying in Airbnbs rather than hotels? Then you need to check out my article about the best Airbnbs in Dubai, including beautiful Marina views, penthouses, and many more!
If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for different budgets.
LUXURY – Atlantis the Palm
Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island and enjoying a private sandy beach, the 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
MID-RANGE – Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina
Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina has a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a bar in Dubai. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests.
BUDGET – Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr
Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr (formerly Roda Links Al Nasr) features a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a shared lounge in Dubai. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr offers a continental or buffet breakfast.
How to get to Dubai
Being the biggest hub between Europe and Asia and one of the busiest airports in the world, Dubai International Airport (DXB) welcomes a huge number of airlines and connects the city with the rest of the world.
Located only 15 km (9.3 miles) from Downtown Dubai, flying to DXB is the most convenient way to get to the city. Once you land, there are several ways to get into the city center: you can take a taxi, the metro, or even the bus.
Although DXB is the biggest airport in Dubai, you can also choose to fly to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). This airport is located in the Jebel Ali area, about 50 km (31 miles) from Downtown Dubai, and it mostly handles cargo flights and low-cost carriers.
How to get around in Dubai
Dubai is an enormous city and getting around can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re not used to such big metropolises. The good news is that there are plenty of options when it comes to transportation.
Public transportation – Dubai has both metro and public bus systems in place. Although the metro is the most efficient way to get around, it only covers certain areas of the city. The bus system, on the other hand, covers a larger area but it can be quite slow during rush hour. This is definitely the cheapest way to get around Dubai, however, it can be pretty time-consuming.
Taxis – Taxis are widely available in Dubai and they’re relatively affordable, especially if you’re splitting the fare with someone. Your best bet is downloading the Careem app, which is similar to Uber, and lets you order a traditional Dubai taxi or a private vehicle.
Car rental – If you want the freedom to explore Dubai at your own pace, then renting a car is the way to go. Just keep in mind that traffic can be pretty bad during rush hour, so you might want to avoid driving during those times.
Best time to visit Dubai
The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March when the weather is cooler and more bearable. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and bigger crowds.
If you don’t mind the heat, then you can visit Dubai during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F). Each and every place is air-conditioned in Dubai, so you can take refuge from the heat indoors.
Just keep in mind that outdoor attractions such as gardens and water parks will be much less enjoyable during this time and it’s practically impossible to swim in the ocean because of the high temperatures.
If you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper rates, then April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit Dubai. Prices will be lower and the weather will still be relatively pleasant.
Another thing to keep in mind: Ramadan takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar but the exact dates change every year (usually it falls between March and May).
During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and many restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day. Alcohol is also not served during Ramadan. However, nightlife carries on as usual and many hotels offer special rates during this period.
If you’re not Muslim, then you can still visit Dubai during Ramadan, you just need to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
Planning a trip to the UAE?
Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about the United Arab Emirates. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!
Dubai:
- Top 10 Best Areas to Stay in Dubai
- 23 Incredible Dubai Hotels with Burj Khalifa View
- 21 Super Unique Airbnbs in Dubai for Every Budget
- How to Spend 4 Days in Dubai: The Perfect Dubai Itinerary
- 24 Most Beautiful Instagrammable Places in Dubai
- 15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai You Can’t Go Wrong With
- 88 Best Dubai Quotes & Dubai Captions for Instagram
- Hotel Review: Fairmont The Palm, Dubai
- Hotel Review: Th8 Palm, Dubai
Abu Dhabi:
- Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
- How to See the Best of Abu Dhabi in One Day
- 7 Epic Instagrammable Places in Abu Dhabi You Can’t Miss
- Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: Which One to Visit and Why
- Hotel Review: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
- Hotel Review: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
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Honestly I’ve never really wanted to go to Dubai but I don’t like saying things like that about a place I’ve never been to, so maybe I’ll go to prove myself wrong haha. Your photos are amazing by the way!
Thank you Olivia! It was quite the opposite for me, Dubai was on my bucket list for so long and I was so happy when I finally got to visit. And in the end I loved it even more than I though I would! So I can absolutely recommend visiting.
You should go Olivia, I am going next year for the 2nd time. I can’t miss Expo 2020
Wow beautiful photos! I live in Mexico so I especially love the “Wings of Mexico” one! Dubai is definitely on my list to visit and this provides some great inspiration!
I’m so happy to hear that, thank you Allison! I hope I can visit Mexico in the near future too!
Wow, your photos are incredible and there are so many amazing spots in Dubai by the looks of it!I’m hoping to visit soon so I’m bookmarking this to hopefully get some stunning photos like you did!
Thank you Emma! Dubai is really amazing and I can only recommend. If you need any help with your planning let me know, I’m happy to help!
These photos are amazing! Lovely post 🙂
Thank you so much!
Your pictures are beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Meghan! The pleasure is mine 🙂
Wow! Your pictures are phenomenal! I’m dying to visit Dubai, and when I do these places will most definitely be on my list.
Thank you so much! I hope you can visit soon! Dubai is really amazing, I can only recommend.
Can’t denied, they are indeed Instagram places. Do you use a tripod?
Yes, Dubai is really photogenic. 🙂 No, my boyfriend takes all the pictures of me!
I’ve never really been interested in Dubai but I just wanted to say your photos are GORGEOUS! Great post!
Thank you for your compliment! I know that many people don’t really like Dubai although I really enjoyed it and I think it’s worth to give it a chance. 🙂
Amazing post! I really want to make it to Dubai one day. I’ll definitely be coming back to this post when I do. 🙂
Thank you Krystianna! Hope you can visit soon! 🙂
Your pictures are amazing. I’m traveling to Dubai next month but I’m on a really right schedule and budget. I hope I’m able to take pictures in some of the places you posted. Will definitely tag you if I do. Though I don’t have someone to take pictures of me though ?.
Most of the places I shared are actually free! Yeah traveling alone and having photos are really hard, but you can always ask someone to click your photos or take a tripod with you 🙂
Wow this is amazing! Absolutely love this blog! Can’t wait to explore Dubai one day, using your advice! Thanks SO much!
I’m so happy you liked it Katie! Dubai is such a wonderful and photogenic city. I hope you will be able to visit soon! 🙂
We’re supposed to be going in December. I’m concerned about the dress as I thought I’d be able to dress much like I do in CA. Any tips? Love your photos!
Thank you so much Cindy! Although Dubai is an islamic city the dress code is not so strict so I saw many people wearing shorts and mini dresses as well. That being said, I think it’s best to respect their culture so I always wore a maxi dress or a long skirt to cover my legs. Usually I left my shoulders uncovered and only used a scarf or a long-sleeved shirt if we went to a religious place. Hope I could help! 🙂
I am staying in Dubai for almost 5 years , I recently visited all the places which I missed earlier after watching your photos with complete guide to the location. Just loved it.
Aww this makes me so happy! Thank you for sharing it with me and I hope you loved the places!
WOW! You look very pretty and so is Dubai! Can You tell me how long did it take you to experience all those places?
=)
Thank you so much Orina! We spent around 5 days in Dubai, it was amazing but nearly not enough. Can’t wait to go back again sometime!
Thank you very much for this amazing recommendation for the best spots for a pictorial in Dubai. Thank you for the great ideas, and wonderful pictures you shared. Please also include next time the Museum of the Future and Dubai Frame! Big thanks to you Ms. Kriszti and looking forward to your next recommendations in Dubai or the whole UAE
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I will definitely visit the Museum of Future and the Dubai Frame next time, thanks for the recommendation.
One of the most complete blog I have ever read about a location, which is specifically for people who love to photographed and get photographed. Thanks for sharing soo much details and being quite honest with your opinion…
Do share your insta account as I would love to follow you to see your work.
Thank you so much! You can find me as @shewandersabroad on Instagram
Thanks for taking the time to map out all these amazing locations! Super helpful for our upcoming trip
I’m so happy I was able to help! Hope you’ll have an amazing trip.
The photography in this post is stunning! I just got back from an outdoorsy/adventure trip to Costa Rica (lots of hiking, zip lining , rapelling etc) It was incredibly fun but I am thinking of visiting a city for our next trip for a change of style and experiences. Your post has definitely sealed the deal for me in terms of picking the Emirates, and Dubai specifically. Beautiful photos! Thank you for this inspiring post and for all the wonderful tips and suggestions that are now on my Dubai itinerary ❤️
Aww thank you so much for your lovely comment, it totally made my day! Hope you’ll love Dubai too 🙂
Awesome pictures! May I ask wear you bought your flowy skirts and dresses. They made the pictures look even more beautiful! I’m going in October for my honeymoon.
Hey! I have most of the dresses linked under the photos so you can easily find them 🙂
BEST BLOG WITH ALL REQUIRED DETAILS FOR A TOURIST
.THOUGH I LIVE IN DUBAI BUT THROUGH THIS BLOG I CAME TO KNEW FEW NEW LOCATIONS THANK YOU
My pleasure!