Dubai, the capital of the United Arab Emirates is a picture-perfect city in the Middle East and Western Asia. It is hard to believe that once a desert, now is filled with skyscrapers and luxurious hotels. In fact, there is no shortage of beautiful and Instagrammable places in Dubai.
A trip to Dubai is best combined with a trip to Abu Dhabi since both the places are just 1.5 hrs away and there are a lot of best things to do in Abu Dhabi. You can choose to do the journey yourself or take a full day sightseeing tour if you are short on time. There are so many Instagramamble places in Abu Dhabi too and you just can’t miss the stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
Dubai is a highly popular holiday destination among many people in the world. To experience Dubai at its best one will have to splurge some extra bucks as it’s a heaven for luxury travelers but luckily all the spots mentioned in this post would not cost a fortune and you will be able to see the most Instagrammable places in Dubai on a budget.
This post includes everything one needs to know before visiting these Instagrammable places in Dubai (in no particular order) along with the exact google location and some insider tips.
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MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN DUBAI
1. BURJ KHALIFA – AT THE TOP
A visit to Dubai is not complete without seeing and going to the top of the iconic Burj Khalifa. It’s the tallest building in the world with 163 floors and it will make you go in awe once you see it closely. The architecture is unique and modern which makes it hard to stop gazing.
Burj khalifa has 2 observation decks: At the Top Burj Khalifa (Level 124-125) and At the Top Burj Khalifa Sky (Level 148, Level 125, and Level 124) with different pricing depending on which level you want to visit. The standard ticket will take you to levels 124-125 and cost between 150-224 AED. To go to level 148 is very pricey, somewhere around 340-540 AED and your time is also restricted to 30 mins.
Burj Khalifa also has a lounge at Levels 154, 153, and 152, offering a variety of experiences from Breakfast, High Tea, and Bubbly. The view over the city is unforgettable from the top and every other skyscraper looks so tiny.
As soon as you enter the lift, you will feel the air pressure in your ear as the lift takes you to 124th and 125th floor cruising at 10m/s. It is advised to book your tickets in advance as it’s highly unlikely to get a ticket on the spot. The security line is huge but you can skip the line by booking a premium experience to Level 148.
The views from the top are amazing anytime but the most popular times are sunrise or sunset and it’s worth spending extra money on it. I would suggest buying the sunset tickets well in advance as the tickets for popular times sell fast and may not be available on the same day.
Don’t forget to take a picture at the Painted wings on levels 124-125 as it is stunning and completely worthy of making it to Dubai Instagram spots.
HOW TO REACH BURJ KHALIFA
Burj Khalifa is located in Downtown Dubai beside Dubai Mall and the entrance to visit is inside the Mall. You can take a cab to Dubai Mall but if you want to use public transport then take the Red Line of Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa Station. From there you can take the F13 bus and get off at the Dubai Mall Bus Stop.
Google Maps Location – Burj Khalifa
2. MADINAT JUMEIRAH
Madinat Jumeirah is an upscale Arabian resort containing 5 Hotels, a souk, more than 50 restaurants and bars along with a private beach. It won’t be wrong to say that it’s a city in itself. It offers tradition and luxury at its finest.
There is no entrance fee to visit the grounds of Madinat Jumeirah, only the activities that are paid for. As Madinat Jumeirah is built next to Burj Al Arab, there is no shortage of photo spots too. The best thing to do here is to take an Abra ride down the river touring the whole property with a gorgeous view of Burj al Arab.
The Abra ride is complimentary for hotel guests but visitors have to shell out anywhere between AED 100-850 for 20 minutes depending on the type of tour. If you want to have the boat all to yourself then visiting here during the off-season or at a time when there is no one there to take a ride would be the best bet.
You will find several viewpoints and most of them make for a good photo opportunity. While you are here, definitely check out the Souk Madinet Jumeirah, the Arabian Bazaar full of amazing things.
HOW TO REACT TO MADINAT JUMEIRAH
The best way to reach here is by taxi or take a metro from your nearest station and get off at the Mall of Emirates Metro station on the Redline. From here you can either walk to the souk or take a taxi. Be ready for some exercise if you choose walking as the distance is around 2.5 km.
Google Maps Location – Madinat Jumeirah
3. BURJ AL ARAB
Located on the man-made island just 280m off Jumeirah beach, Burj Al Arab is a place for all things ultra-luxury. It’s a modern and luxurious 5-star hotel famous for its sailing structure and comes on the list of tallest hotels in the world. The entry is restricted to guests only however if you book to dine in the restaurant then only you get to see how it looks from inside.
But if you want to get up close to Burj Al Arab then take a 2 hr private yacht cruise that cruises past Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. The most economical option the hotel has is the afternoon tea which costs around 150 USD per person. Now, who wants to taste the luxury?
Though Jumeirah beach is private for the guests of Jumeirah Beach hotel with views of the gulf and Burj Al Arab, there is a public beach right next to the private one. It has an amazing view of this hotel and the sunsets are stunning to see from this beach.
HOW TO REACH BURJ AL ARAB
It depends on the fact that from where you want to reach the beach but there are buses (Bus 81) and metro (Redline) available from Mall of Emirates every 30 minutes and the nearest bus stand is Umm Suqeim Park 1.
Google Maps Location – Jumeirah Beach
4. DUBAI MIRACLE GARDEN
One of the most beautiful places in Dubai and also the most dreamy has to be the Dubai Miracle Garden. Dubai is famous for making everything larger than life and Miracle Garden is one such example.
It’s the largest natural flower garden with over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants. With numerous opportunities for photography, this place is literally a fantasy land made with flowers. It’s not hard to take beautiful pictures in Dubai when you have places like this.
The tickets are priced at 40 AED for adults and 30 AED for kids. Keep in mind that the garden is not open all year round. It only opens every year from mid-November to mid-May and this is the reason that it gets crowded too. So it is better to skip the line and book tickets in advance.
Seriously, it’s amongst the most magical and most Instagrammable places in Dubai which shouldn’t be missed if you happen to visit during mid-November to mid-May. Another good way would be to take a trip to Miracle Garden and Global Village with transfer services.
And if you are interested in more places like these take a flora and fauna tour that includes a trip to both Butterfly garden and Miracle garden.
HOW TO REACH MIRACLE GARDEN
The nearest metro station is the Mall of Emirates. Get off there and take bus 105 which takes you directly to Miracle garden. The easiest way is to take a taxi or a cab to reach here.
Google Maps Location – Miracle Garden
SUVARNA’S TIP: If you are visiting closer to the summer season then it gets hot really quick so I suggest going as soon as it opens and take around 3 hrs to explore this huge garden slowly as it’s beautiful.
5. PALACE DOWNTOWN
Palace Downtown is a luxury hotel located in the posh area of Downtown Dubai with a view of Burj Khalifa. You have to be the guest of the hotel to visit and see the inside but you are allowed to see and photograph it from the outside.
Take your killer shot from the main entrance gate which is at a good distance from the hotel entrance without disturbing other guests or the guards. You may or may not be allowed to take pictures here later in the day when the hotel starts receiving guests.
HOW TO REACH PALACE DOWNTOWN
The best is to reach by cab so that you will be dropped right at the main entrance.
Google Maps Location – Palace Downtown Entrance
SUVARNA’S TIP: I suggest coming here early in the morning so that you can quietly take your photos and the guards won’t be bothered too.
6. BURJ PARK BY EMMAR
Burj Park is a little man-made island in Burj lake located in Downtown Dubai with viewpoints of Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. It is a lush green park with wide walkways and some art installations.
The huge dandelion-like structures in the park with a view of Burj Khalifa makes for a beautiful picture. There are also a lot of fun things to do in Burj Park including cycling, taking a ride in the Dubai fountain lake, watch the Dubai fountain show.
HOW TO REACH BURJ PARK
Since it is located in the same area as Burj Khalifa and Palace Downtown so it’s best to see all these places in a single day. Start your morning early by visiting Palace Downtown first and then Burj park.
Google Maps Location – Burj Park
SUVARNA’S TIP: Don’t forget to bring your wide-angle lens as Burj Khalifa won’t fit in a regular lens.
7. WINGS OF MEXICO
There is no shortage of photography spots in Dubai and Downtown seems to be the hub of most of them. One of the Instagrammable places in Dubai that has garnered a lot of attention lately is the Wings of Mexico.
It is a sculpture designed by Mexican artist Jorge Marin, an expert in Mexican figurative art. The sculpture is a representation of our dreams to fly, figuratively. It’s on permanent display in several cities including Dubai, Los Angeles, Singapore, Nagoya, Madrid, and Berlin. It is undoubtedly one of the most photographed landmarks in Dubai.
HOW TO REACH WINGS OF MEXICO
If you want to use public transport then take the Red Line of Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa Station. From there you can take the F13 bus and get off at the Dubai Mall Bus Stop.
Google Maps Location – Wings of Mexico
SUVARNA’S TIP: Combine Wings of Mexico with Burj Park, Burj Khalifa, Palace Downtown, and Dubai Mall to save time. You can easily spend a whole day here as they all are located in the Downtown area.
8. ATLANTIS THE PALM
Atlantis, The Palm is a luxury 5-star resort located at an amazing man-made peninsula, Palm Island. The resort is also called “The Lost Chambers” and the theme of the hotel is exactly what the name suggests. Certain sections of the hotel are only open to the guests to maintain their privacy but there are a few places that you can access as a visitor.
Atlantis offers multiple activities like Dolphin interaction, the Lost Chambers Aquarium, Sea Lion Point, Aquarium dives, and a huge waterpark called Aquaventure which is super fun and should be on your list of things to do in Dubai. The Dolphin interaction is divided into 2 categories: Shallow water encounter and deep water encounter.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium is an 11 million liter aquarium and home to more than 50,000 aquatic animals representing over 250 marine species. This huge aquarium is packed with experiences and there are over 20 exhibits to explore.
If you are interested in getting a feel of the marine life up close then you can choose to either snorkel in the Ambassador Lagoon or dive at the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
The ticket price for Lost Chambers Aquarium ranges from AED 110.00 – AED 135.00 for adults and AED 85.00 – AED 95.00 for kids. It’s totally worth the money. Also, It’s an amazing place to take pictures with the marine life in the background. You can also get a combined ticket for Lost Chambers Aquarium and Atlantis Aquaventure if you want to save some money.
HOW TO REACH ATLANTIS THE PALM
There is no direct connection to the metro. You will have to take a metro to one station and then a taxi before finally taking a monorail to Atlantis so I would suggest taking an Uber and saving yourself from the hassle.
Google Maps Location – Atlantis
SUVARNA’S TIP: You can also go to the back of the hotel along the beach to take some pictures but it depends on the guard if he lets you in or not as this area is only accessible to guests of the hotel.
9. DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR
Dubai Creek Harbour is situated next to the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary, famous for its flamingos, and is the newest development in the city. Do not confuse this place with Dubai Creek as Dubai Creek doesn’t extend to Ras Al Khor.
It offers stunning views of Dubai Skyline over the water of Dubai Creek and is an amazing place to enjoy the evening. Watch a sunset here and you will see that it is one of the best places for photography in Dubai. There are cafes and shops open here to spend quality time.
HOW TO REACH DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR
You can get to Dubai Creek by Bus or Metro. The bus lines that have stops nearby are bus no 27,4 and C7 and also metro M1. Taking a cab is also an option but you may have a hard time finding the cab back to the city so ask the driver to wait in advance.
Google Maps Location – Dubai Creek Harbour
10. SAYA BRASSERIE
Saya is a beautifully decorated cafe restaurant located in City Walk, Al Wasl, Dubai with equally presentable and yummy food. If you love everything pretty and pink then this place is heaven for you as the effort put into the decor is commendable and the interior makes it one of the best Instagrammable places in Dubai.
They have a mix of Mediterranean and American breakfast and the lunch menu is varied with different cuisines. The custom-made desserts are to die for. A must-visit when in Dubai.
HOW TO REACH SAYA BRASSERIE
If you are taking a metro then take the Red Line and get down at Burj Khalifa Metro station or Dubai Mall Metro Station. It’s 2 km from there. If you wish to take a bus then Bus-12, Bus-15, Bus-7, Bus-81, Bus-93 will take you the City Walk.
Google Map Location– Saya Brasserie
11. THE POINTE
The Pointe is a waterfront complex and a hub for upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes with gorgeous views of Atlantis on the other side of the water body. It is a very chill place with a small beach and it also has colorful bean bags lying around on the beach.
What makes Pointe one of the coolest Instagrammable places in Dubai is the background of Atlantis and colorful bean bags on the beach. Sunsets can get really stunning at Pointe so don’t forget to grab that bean bag and enjoy a drink.
HOW TO REACH POINTE
The Pointe can be reached by metro and the nearest station is Nakheel or Internet city and then take a taxi. However, the best is to take a taxi. Sometimes it can be a bit hard to book a taxi back because of the crowd.
Google Maps Location – Pointe
SUVARNA’S TIP: Get there an hour before sunset, grab your seat on the beach and enjoy the sunset.
12. SHANGRI-LA
Another hotel that makes it to the list of Instagrammable places in Dubai is Shangri-la and it has some of the best views of the city and the skyscrapers. There are several places that you can photograph and so many of them include views of Burj Khalifa.
The view from their terrace at level 42 will make you go in awe and is the best to take a dope cityscape at any time of the day. The pool deck on the 4th floor also has stunning views of the Burj. And if that is not enough then they have a swimming pool at level 42 which gives you a view of Burj Khalifa.
However, you should either have a horizon club room or should be a diamond member in Golden Circle to get access. You can always ask the concierge if to can go up to the 42nd floor to see the view.
HOW TO REACH SHANGRI-LA
The Dubai Financial Centre Mass Transit Railway (MTR) station is within walking distance from the hotel and the closest bus station is Wasl, Terminus-01 which is 4 mins walking from the hotel.
Google Maps Location – Shangri La
SUVARNA’S TIP: You can have an early breakfast on the terrace with a view of Burj Khalifa. Sunset and night shots are both amazing from here.
13. DESERT SAFARI
When in Dubai, you have to make it to the desert for an unforgettable experience. No trip to Dubai is complete without spending a day in the desert doing some activities like dune bashing, desert safari, and camel riding. Also, spending sunset in the desert can be pretty amazing and can give you some stunning pictures. Who would have thought the desert can also be one of the Instagrammable places in Dubai.
You can choose from many tours that are available. I chose a half-day sunset tour and it was amazing. The tour included pick up from the hotel, Dune bashing, some time to watch the falcon show at the desert, entertainment shows with a BBQ Buffet Dinner with veg and non-veg options.
HOW TO REACH: Depending on the tour you choose, the driver will come to pick you up from the hotel and will drop you too.
SUVARNA’S TIP: Choose the tour carefully according to your needs and interests. If you want to do any other activity apart from what’s included in it then you have to pay extra.
14. DUBAI FRAME
Dubai Frame is an architectural landmark and iconic structure located at gate 4 of Zabeel Park. It is considered to be the “biggest frame in the world” with a height of 150m. The most unique and best feature of Dubai Frame is its positioning. It provides stunning views of the City’s skyline from one side and old Dubai on another. There is a museum cum gallery at the mezzanine and then you take the elevator to go to the top for soaking in the views. It is undoubtedly one of the best Dubai Photography Spots.
Dubai frame tickets are not expensive and it costs around 18 AUD for adults and 7 AUD for kids. However, disabled visitors, kids under the age of 3, and senior citizens visit for free. It is open from 9 AM- 9 PM.
HOW TO REACH DUBAI FRAME
Take the Red Line Metro and get down at Al Jafeeliya Metro Station and walk towards Gate 4.
Google Location – Dubai Frame
15. DUBAI MALL
If you are thinking about why a mall is on the list of Instagrammable places in Dubai then you have the see the Dubai Aquarium and the waterfall wall inside the mall.
The waterfall wall is a 24-meter tall wall with sculptures of divers that looks super cool. A quick snap is enough here and then make your way to the Dubai Aquarium and underwater zoo at the center of the mall. It is a huge attraction and some of the marine life can be seen from the outside but to explore the underwater tunnels with sharks, one has to pay for the tickets.
You can also buy a combo ticket for Dubai Aquarium and underwater zoo and Burj Khalifa.
HOW TO REACH DUBAI MALL
Take the Red Line Metro and get down at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station and use the Metro Link Bridge to walk towards Dubai Mall. It’s a long walk though. You can visit Dubai Mall on the same day as Burj Khalifa, Palace Downtown, Burj Park as they are all in the same vicinity.
Google Location – Dubai Mall
MAP OF INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN DUBAI
FINAL THOUGHTS
Dubai is the most populous and popular city in UAE which is changing rapidly. Though it is an impressive city with amazing skyscrapers and architecture, it is very touristy and not serene. Even if you don’t like to visit touristy places, Dubai can provide you with a luxurious vacation and some of the best photography spots. Apart from all the Instagrammable places in Dubai, the neighboring city, Abu Dhabi also has a lot of things to do for people of all ages and interests.
Interested in knowing more about UAE? Don’t miss these posts.
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Stunning photography! You’ve pretty much summed up all of my favourite places in Dubai, especially Miracle Garden!
Thank you so. much Sarah. I am so happy to hear that.
Wow these are indeed really instagrammable! I’ll keep them in mind when I come back to Dubai. On my side I’ve really loved La Mer in Dubai.
Oh yes!! I liked La Mer too but it was so crowded as well.
Love these photos, there are so many picture perfect spots in Dubai! I especially love the look of the miracle gardens and the view from the Burj Khalifa.
Trust me, Imani, there are several places in Miracle garden to make you go in awe. And Burj is iconic!!
Wow, these spots look amazing. Such great photos!
Dubai looks absolutely magical! It has bee on my bucket list and I was planning to go this year, but….:) perhaps next year will be better! I’ll keep these spots in mind for sure!
I was there not too long ago and I wish I had this article before my trip! The Miracle Gardens look so so fun, but I definitely did not know they existed. Saving this for things to do on my next long layover 😉 Thanks!
Love this guide! I can’t wait to go back and explore more of Dubai!
I live in Dubai and agree all the places listed by you are truly Instagrammable. You have taken beautiful photos.
I have a friend currently living in Dubai and his photos and videos always make me super jealous! Miracle garden looks amazing and like I would spend a lot of time there!
Dubai is on my list and you’ve made it look very appealing! Can’t wait to go there and see some of these spots for myself. 🙂
Dubai easily has some of the most incredible photo opportunities! I would love to see Atlantis the Palm and the wings of Mexico! Gorgeous photos as always!
Oh wow I´ve never seen some of these places! Thanks for sharing, I´m saving this for my next visit to Dubai 🙂
Your pictures are stunning! You make me want to go to Dubai 😊 I’m saving this post for later.
Dubai really is a picture-perfect city! My favorite is the one in front of the aquarium <3
I didn’t realize there were so many instagrammable locations in Dubai! Your photos are really good! I have never considered Dubai as attractive but you changed my mind!
Cool shots!
WOow you have written so much details Post on Dubai! Love all your tips as mentioned and you have captured so beautiful Photos.Love your Post.
Wow, the miracle gardens looks like a dream! Will for sure add it to my list when I visit Dubai.
Dubai is one of those places that’s been on my “some day” list for ages. After seeing how beautiful and photogenic it is, I feel like I need to move it up in the list! These photos are gorgeous.
Such a cool visual journey!!! Lovely
You have some incredible photo worthy places on your list. Love that you added in your own personalized tip to each as well!
WOW! Dubai is at the top of my bucketlist for many reasons, but all of these beautiful instagrammable destinations in dubai just made me want to go even more! looks truly stunning!
I love this guide! It’s one of the best ones I’ve ever seen of Dubai. Saya looks gorgeous! How long were you there for? Great tip about Abu Dhabi being so close too!
Some great ideas here for my next stopover in Dubai! Thanks for sharing!
Wow, these are incredible! I’m in love with the Saya Brasserie — so beautiful! I’d definitely head there. Thanks for sharing, this is a great post!
There are so many instagrammable places in Dubai! I have never considered this place as a travel destination, but for sure it’s a paradise for Instagrammers!
Dubai is one of the richest places in this world. I visited once its really great and safety to place. Thank you for posting.
Awesome experience, indescribable. will definitely repeat