From glittering skyscrapers to glimpses of an old world city, Dubai is hands down one of the most "instagrammable" cities in the world. The city quite literally has it all - golden dunes, lapis lazuli waters, modern architecture, age-old souqs - name it and you'll find it in Dubai. If you travel for the 'gram (no judgement!), here's a list of everything you need to know before visiting these Instagrammable places in Dubai (in no particular order) along with the exact google map coordinates and some Headout insider tips.
#1 Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world obviously makes it to the most instagrammable spots list in the city. While Burj Khalifa makes for an amazing backdrop, the views from up top are equally (questionanbly more) epic!
Pro tip: Grab Burj Khalifa sunrise tickets for breathtaking pictures from atop the Burj. This slot is also seemingly less crowded.
Recommended Burj Khalifa tickets
#2 Imam Hussein Mosque
One of the lesser known gems in Dubai, but quickly gaining popularity among the travel community in the city - the Imam Hussein Mosque is UAE’s only Iranian mosque with intricately designed Persian architecture. The mosque boasts a decorative façade with azure blue colored faience tiles embellished with intricate floral motifs. The mosque is a sight to behold making it instagram worthy and how!
Note: Non-Muslims are not allowed into the building but you can view the mosque from the outside.
#3 Sky Views Observatory Deck
The new kid on the block, the Sky Views Observatory Deck is taking the internet by storm for all the right reasons. With its Glass slide & Sky Walk Dubai, this Observatory is the perfect blend of views and adventure. If you've seen the pictures and reels on the experience here, you'd know why it makes it to the top 5 instagrammable spots in the city!
Grab your discounted Sky Views Observatory Deck tickets on Headout
#4 Wings of Mexico
If you've been to Downtown Dubai and you don't have a picture in front of Wings of Mexico, have you really traveled to Dubai? This famed metal sculpture of angel wings was created by the Mexican artist Jorge Marin in 2010. Wings of Mexico is perfectly placed with a backdrop of Burj Khalifa, creating a stunning visual for a postcard perfect shot.
#5 The Lagoons, Dubai Creek Harbour
Located 10 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the iconic waterfront called The Lagoons is situated along the coast of Dubai Creek. This classic waterfront destination is a vibrant neighbourhood surrounded by green landscapes. An evening walk alongside the glittering creek and gorgeous sunset views is mucho tranquil. Don't forget to click pictures with the flamingos!
#6 Abra Ride
An abra ride is a quintessentially Dubai experience that one must sign up for while in the city. While it can get crowded and your Instagram shot could have a few extra elbows, the key is to go early morning. You'll find relatively lesser crowds and the soft morning sun makes for the perfect lighting.
Pro tip: A dhow cruise in Dubai is equally amazing and makes for the perfect substitute if you're not a fan of crowded abras.
Book your Abra ride on Dubai Canal
#7 View at the Palm
One of the newest attractions in Dubai, is the Palm Tower on Palm Jumeirah is a captivating skyscraper which has earned the fitting moniker -‘the most spectacular palm tree in Dubai’. The icing on the cake, though, is not just the tower, but its observatory deck: The View at the Palm. Located on the 52nd floor, the observatory deck offers unparalled views of Palm Jumeirah.
Pro tip: For avid swimmers, the infinity pool on the 50th floor promises quite the experience: 200 meters of sparkling water with striking panoramic views of Dubai.
Book your discounted View at The Palm tickets on Headout
#8 Dubai Souq
The souqs in Dubai have carefully preserved the old world charm of this city. Meandering through the quaint alleys transport you back to the pearl-diving days of Dubai. From spice souqs to gold souqs and even a whole souq dedicated to perfumes, these traditional markets have many a instagram worthy spots. Wandering through the lanes of these souqs transport you to the past and gives one a fascinating slice of history well preserved and chockfull of culture and traditions.
#9 Expo 2020
Dubai Expo 2020 needs no introduction. It's a whole world in here with so many different things to do and see. hemed around 'Connecting Minds, Creating The Future', Dubai Expo 2020 showcases some of the best innovation known to mankind. Here are the top instagrammable spots at expo 2020.
#10 Bastakiya Quarter
The Al Fahidi Historical District, commonly referred to as Al Bastakiya, holds within its walls memories of an era before Dubai turned into a glitzy and glamourous cosmopolitan. The charming little neighborhood turned outdoor museum has art galleries, bougenville lined courtyards, quaint cafes, restored buildings with wind towers and even the Dubai Museum.
Pro tip: The Arabian Tea House at the Bastakiya Quarter is hands down the most instagram worthy cafe in all of Dubai!
#11 Burj Park
Burj Park is a tiny island accessible by foot bridges in Downtown Dubai, located at the base of Burj Khalifa. With food truck festivals, art soirees and many a Instagram worthy photo op backdrops, it is a local's favourite for a leisure evening. You can also go cycling, take a boat ride across Burj Lake or ramp walk along the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk.
#12 Al Awir Desert
No one really knows the real story behind this mysterious plane wreck in the Al Aweer district of Dubai. Is it a real airplane crash? Has it been planted there for tourists? Or is it indeed a deserted film set? Whatever it may be, it makes for a great picture for your 'gram, so slap on some sunscreen and click away under the scorching heat!
#13 Hot Air Balloon Ride
While it's no Cappadocia, a hot air balloon ride in Dubai is other-worldly. The views and feelings you get whilst perched upon this magical carpet are completely unparalleled and will leave you spell bound. You get to marvel at the vastness of the Arabian Desert from a height of 4000 feet - an endless ocean of sand dunes as they are bathed in an amazing golden yellow light during sunrise. You also get to see camels, gazelles, oryx and other desert dwelling creatures roaming about in their natural habitat. Instagram worthy? We think so!
#14 Dubai Glow Garden
Dubai Garden Glow is a magical glowing garden that comes to life every winter at Zabeel Park. Hundreds of artists, engineers and technicians from around the world come together to create the most enchanting light sculptures in the world. Find a floating jellyfish, a glittering Burj Khalifa or Cinderella’s glowing carriage made with 10 million energy saving bulbs, miles of recycled luminous fabric, and 5000 tons of ice.
Book your discounted Dubai Glow Garden tickets on Headout
#15 Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame, the world's largest frame was designed to “frame” Dubai‘s evolution from an ordinary fishing village to the glittering cosmopolitan city it has now become. From the top of Dubai Frame, you can view Dubai's past, present and future at the same. The glass walk here makes for a great photo spot and so does a selfie with the frame in "the frame".
Book your discounted Dubai Frame tickets on Headout
#16 The Pointe
Set at the tip of the world-famous Palm Jumeirah, the Pointe Dubai is an iconic waterfront destination, home to more than 80 spectacular restaurants, vibrant shopping outlets and entertainment activities. The beach, view of the Atlantis across you and the hustle of the neighbourhood makes for a fun day out at The Pointe.
Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the Palm Fountain show which happens every day after 6 PM.
#17 Ain Dubai
The Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel, the largest and highest in the world at a height of 210m, flaunts 360-degree views of Dubai's glittering coastline and impressive skyline. Expect to spot the Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Palm Islands and the entire stretch of Dubai Marina from your pod. Also, pictures of Ain Dubai in the backdrop is equally gorgeous as pictures from inside the pod.
Pro tip: The views are said to exceptionally beautiful around sunset when the city is veiled in pink and ombre hues. Make sure to pick the sunset slot, even though it's slightly more expensive.
Book your discounted Dubai Frame tickets on Headout
#18 Dubai Desert Safari
Going on a desert safari experience is an absolute must while in Dubai. Camel rides, dune bashing, buggy rides, sandboarding - it's fun unlimited! With all these experiences, a camera roll full of pictures is expected.
Book your discounted Dubai Frame tickets on Headout
#19 Madinat Jumeirah
Madinat Jumeirah is a destination within a destination, boasting an array of ornate souqs, beachfront hotspots, palm-fringed waterways and desert-colored hotels. This contemporary interpretation of a traditional Arab village is even more enchanting at night with the backdrop of Burj Al Arab enhancing its beauty. Find any nook and it'll make the cut to your Instagram feed.
#20 Global Village
Global Village is exactly what it sounds like. An outrightly extravagant affair featuring food, attractions, shopping avenues, and much more. Self described as the world's largest tourism, leisure, Global Village Dubai features 27 pavilions that represent more than 75 countries with different cultures. If you'd like pictures of Russia while in Dubai, you know where to head!
PS: The African pavillion has many instagram worthy spots.
#21 Night in the Desert
A night under the starry sky surrounded by the soft sand dunes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Great Arabic food, dimly lit bedouin camps, mesmerising belly dancers, and breathtaking beauty all around - we guarantee you'll find more than one instagram worthy moment over the course of your experience.
#22 Madame Tussauds
Take a selfie with Audrey Hepburn, say hello to the Queen, and sing a tune with Rihanna - Madame Tussauds Dubai is THE place for selfies. Unlike other museums, you're welcome to touch them, hug them, and click as many selfies as you'd like (duh!).
Pro tip: The Dubai edition of Madame Tussauds also has a modern photo booth where you can scan the QR code, click as many pictures as you wish, and get a copy when you leave.
#23 La Mer
La Mer is beachfront address that flaunts wide open boardwalks, graffiti art murals and a breezy beachside charm. We could even say the place was designed for the 'gram. Around every corner, you'll find an art installation or graffiti wall that's worthy of going up on your Insta feed!
Pro tip: The sunset from La Mer is very Instagram-worthy! Make sure to visit around this time.
#24 Al Fahadi Historical Neighbourhood
Step into Dubai's past at Al Fahidi, where narrow sikkas (alleyways) wind between traditional wind tower houses built from coral, stone, and gypsum. This preserved heritage site showcases authentic Arabian architecture with its iconic barjeels (wind towers) and courtyards. The district's ochre-colored buildings and wooden lattice screens provide endless photo opportunities, while local art galleries and cultural centers add vibrant pops of color to your Instagram feed.
#25 Alserkal Avenue
A former industrial complex turned creative hub, Alserkal Avenue showcases Dubai's thriving contemporary art scene. The warehouse district features stark concrete walls adorned with vibrant murals, avant-garde galleries, and industrial-chic cafes. Every corner offers a unique photo opportunity, from minimalist architecture to colorful street art installations. The contrast between raw industrial elements and modern artistic expression makes this cultural district a must-visit spot for urban photography enthusiasts.
