Must-See & Snap: The Most Instagrammable Places in Dubai
Fun fact: Did you know that Dubai is home to not one but two massive artificial island chains—The Palm Jumeirah and The World? Both are actually so huge that they’re visible from space!
Moreover, Dubai’s towering skyscrapers, fancy hotels, and expansive deserts make it a photographer’s paradise. But with countless Insta-worthy spots, where do you begin?
Keep reading to get some tips and tricks as we jump into the magical realm of Instagrammable Dubai!
Burj Khalifa
Address: Downtown Dubai
Phone: +971 4 888 8888
Pricing: $$$
The Burj Khalifa, one of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai, is the rock star of all buildings! This skyscraper reaches a staggering 828 meters high and symbolizes Dubai’s big dreams and cool ideas.
But it’s not just about height. Check out the “At the Top” deck on the 124th floor or the super-exclusive “At the Top SKY” on the 148th floor—both serve up killer city and sea views, making your jaw drop.
And guess what? Getting there is a breeze too. Just hop on the Dubai Metro, and you’re practically there.
Now, beyond its height, there’s the posh “At.mosphere” restaurant up on the 122nd floor, where you can dine like a boss.
Then, down at the bottom, you’ve got The Dubai Fountain, the most enormous dancing fountain on the planet—a water show that’s pure magic!
What’s more, the Burj Khalifa isn’t just about steel and glass. Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani designed a fancy hotel inside, a museum that spills the tea on its history.
There’s even a park on a man-made island—so yeah, they went all out!
If you want to explore it further, tickets to the observation decks start at AED 149 (USD 40.6) and go up to AED 378 (around USD 102.9).
Yet if you’re feeling fancy, you could also spend a night at the hotel, starting at AED 2,400 (USD 653.4) for a deluxe room.
Pro tip:
If you want to enjoy a spectacular view of Dubai from the highest restaurant in the world, consider booking a table at At.mosphere on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa.
Its breakfast menu offers a variety of dishes, from Arabic mezze to eggs Benedict.
Burj Al Arab
Address: Umm Suqeim, Dubai
Phone: +971 4 301 7777
Pricing: $$$
Burj Al Arab is a fancy-pants hotel in Dubai that sits on its island. It’s an iconic landmark and one of the city’s most Instagrammable spots. It rocks a ship-sail shape and even throws in a helipad near the roof for extra flair.
And how do you get there? Well, you’ve got options: a swanky private bridge, a heli-ride, or if you’re feeling posh, a Rolls-Royce will do the trick.
Once you’re in, get ready for the lap of luxury (gold, marble, crystals) the whole nine yards.
Oh, and they’ve got an underwater restaurant too. Imagine chowing down surrounded by sea life—talk about dinner with a view!
Tucked away in Jumeirah, a breezy 15 km from the airport, this place is massive. We’re talking 202 suites, starting from a cozy 169 square meters, all the way up to a whopping 780.
And guess what? Each suite comes with your very own butler. Real fancy, right?
Now, facilities—they seem to have it all: nine spots to eat and drink, a spa to chill, a gym to work off the fancy food, a private beach for some sun-soaking, an outdoor pool, a helipad (because why not?), and even a conference center.
But here’s the kicker—the price tag. Nightly rates dance around AED 7,000 (that’s roughly USD 1,900!). And if you’re feeling like royalty, the Royal Suite can go up to a jaw-dropping AED 100,000 (a cool USD 27,200).
No wonder folks call it a 7-star hotel! It’s a magnet for celebs, royalty, and anyone up for a luxurious escape.
Pro tip:
Why not ditch the regular entrance and go straight to the Burj Al Arab Terrace for jaw-dropping views and a classy vibe?
While folks queue up, you’ll bask in Dubai’s skyline, sip a cool drink, and soak up the plush atmosphere.
Palm Jumeirah Island
Address: Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Phone: +971 4 3665000
Pricing: $$$
Palm Jumeirah Island is one of Dubai’s most picture-perfect places for your Instagram, as it showcases a man-made masterpiece with a trunk, 16 fronds, and a crescent, thanks to Nakheel Properties.
You can get onto the island using the monorail, a taxi, a boat, or a helicopter if you’re feeling extra posh.
Now, why would you want to visit? First, there’s the famous Atlantis Hotel with its water park, aquarium, and even a dolphin bay. And if you’re in the mood for a stroll, the Boardwalk is your go-to spot, lined with cool cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Imagine this: a 5.4-kilometer monorail that’s not just a ride but a scenic journey connecting the Atlantis Hotel to the Gateway Towers on Palm Jumeirah Island—it’s like commuting in style!
The options for living here are also endless. From snazzy studios at AED 1.5 million (that’s about USD 408,000) to luxurious villas hitting AED 100 million (a cool USD 27.2 million), there’s something for everyone.
Rent ranges from AED 60,000 (USD 16,300) for a cozy studio to AED 1.2 million (USD 326,000) for a villa that screams luxury.
Even if you’re not moving in, you can still crash in a hotel room, starting at AED 500 (USD 136) for a standard setup or going all out with AED 50,000 (USD 13,600) for a royal suite.
And when hunger strikes, you’ve got options—from AED 50 (USD 13.6) for quick bites to AED 500 (USD 136) for a fancy dining experience.
Pro tip:
For a genuine Dubai vibe, head over to Sunset Beach on the west side of Palm Jumeirah. This beach isn’t only free, but it also offers a stunning view of the Burj Al Arab and the sunset.
Dubai Marina
Address: Dubai Marina
Phone: +971 4 436 7456 ·
Pricing: $$$
Dubai Marina is a district in Dubai that features an artificial canal city along a 3-kilometer stretch of the Persian Gulf shoreline. It’s one of the most photogenic hotspots in Dubai, showcasing stunning skyscrapers and luxury yachts.
Home to over 120,000 residents in swanky towers and villas, Dubai Marina sits pretty well between Jebel Ali Port and hotspots like Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, and the American University in Dubai.
And getting there? Easy peasy. Cars, metro, tram, bus, water taxi, or ferry—take your pick.
Now, let’s talk fun. Ever tried the world’s longest urban zipline? Brace yourself, because you can do so in Dubai Marina!
And if you want some retail therapy, Dubai Marina Mall has 140+ stores, a cinema, a supermarket, and a food court.
You can also stroll along the 7-kilometer Marina Walk; it’s like a green paradise with cafes, restaurants, and shops everywhere.
When you’re hungry, Pier 7 is your go-to—you’ll get seven floors of dining bliss with marina views!
For a day out, just head to The Beach, an outdoor wonderland with a beach, splash park, cinema, gym, and mall.
Moreover, Bluewaters Island, an artificial gem, flaunts Ain Dubai as the world’s largest observation wheel. It’s a mini city with hotels, homes, and cool attractions.
Now, the nitty-gritty—the cost of living. It depends on where and how you live. According to Bayut’s 2023 report, the average annual rent for a Dubai Marina apartment was AED 75,000, with a sale price averaging AED 1,150,000.
Pro tip:
Don’t bother with the crowded dhow cruises (a traditional wooden boat that sails along the waters of Dubai at Dubai Marina); just catch a ride on the public ferry!
You still snag those killer Marina skyline and Burj Al Arab views without breaking the bank. Same sights, less cash—win-win!
Dubai Desert Safari
Phone: +971 58 143 7818
Pricing: $$-$$$
The Dubai Desert is a vast and beautiful landscape that offers many exciting and Instagrammable pics and activities for visitors. You can experience the thrill of dune bashing and sandboarding, or enjoy a relaxing camel ride or a hot air balloon flight.
Here, you’ll roll through the sand in a 4×4, ride camels like a desert VIP, and even try sandboarding—think snowboarding, but way warmer. Cap it off with a BBQ dinner that’s pure delight.
Also, you may dive into Bedouin culture at a desert camp, where dances like belly dancing and tanoura unfold, along with a jaw-dropping fire show.
Oh, and don’t forget your camera! The desert is the runway for oryx, gazelles, and falcons, giving you a snapshot of Emirati wildlife.
Just pick your adventure flavor at Lahbab, Al Qudra—they’ve got everything! From quick day trips to overnight extravaganzas, the Dubai Desert Safari is like a menu of thrills.
Prepare yourself for the many activities ahead! This involves dune bashing, camel joyrides, sandboarding, quad biking, falconry (yes, falcons!), henna tattoos, shisha smoking, and a BBQ dinner under the starlit desert sky.
Now, here’s the lowdown on the green stuff. Prices range from AED 50 to AED 500, depending on where, what, and how big your gang is.
Pro tip:
For a sunset to remember, forget the crowded camps at Dubai Desert Safari! Get dropped off at a quiet dune 30 minutes before sunset.
It’s good to bring a cozy blanket, snacks, and a warm drink as well. Embrace the desert’s silence as the sun dips, turning the sand into a vibrant canvas.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Address: Al Barsha South, Dubai
Phone: +971 4 422 8902
Pricing: $$
Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the most Instagram-ready landmarks in Dubai, where you can see millions of flowers arranged in unique shapes and patterns.
For us, it’s like a floral superhero’s secret hideout! Found in Dubai’s Dubailand district, this paradise blooms from November to May, ready to blow your mind with colors and scents.
Getting there is a breeze too—hop in a car, take a taxi, or catch the 105 bus from the Mall of the Emirates.
Now, the cool stuff. You’ll see a record-breaking Airbus A380 wrapped in 500,000 flowers; a Smurfs Village; a “floating lady” draped in exotic blooms; and a Butterfly Garden with 15,000 butterflies in custom-built domes.
Oh, and there’s a walking track with daily shows—parades, street performers, and family-friendly fun. Also, live shows, foodie delights, and souvenir shops add to the cherry. It’s basically a floral carnival!
Certainly, your wallet should be ready for anything. Tickets are AED 95 for adults, AED 80 for cool kids aged three to 12, and free for tiny tots under 3 and our pals with determination.
Pro tip:
Pair your visit to the Dubai Miracle Garden with the Butterfly Garden next door—two unique attractions in one day—for a fuller and more enchanting experience. Double the fun!
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Address: Al Fahidi, Dubai
Phone: +971 800 33222
Pricing: Free
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is one of the most Insta-worthy locations in Dubai, where you can explore the culture, heritage, and architecture of the city from the mid-19th century to the 1970s.
It’s a maze of wind towers, sand-colored buildings, and narrow alleys near Al Fahidi Fort by Dubai Creek. Metro, bus, taxi, or old-school Abra water taxi—just take your pick to explore this blast from the past!
Now, check out these excellent spots: they’ve got the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding, the Coins Museum, the Calligraphy House, and the Symposium House—it’s like hitting the cultural jackpot!
And that’s not all. The art galleries, museums, and super cool events like the Sikka Art Fair and Heritage Week add an extra splash of awesomeness.
Want a history fix? Hop on a guided tour or cruise the Dubai Creek on a snazzy abra. Oh, and don’t miss the chance to chow down on legit Emirati grub at the cafes and restaurants.
There’s no entrance fee to stroll around, but note that some spots might ask for some cash for tours or entry. For us, it’s a must-stop for history buffs and anyone itching for a peek into the city’s rad past.
Pro tip:
Discover the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood’s traditional wind towers that cooled the houses in the old days!
These towers, made of stone, wood, and gypsum, are examples of Dubai’s ingenious architecture and culture. Each one has a unique story to tell.
Dubai Creek Harbour
Address: Ras Al Khor, Dubai
Phone: +97142758888
Pricing:
Dubai Creek Harbour is a waterfront community that combines modern architecture and natural beauty. It’s one of Dubai’s Insta-gems, as it offers stunning views of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and the Dubai Creek.
So, you’ve got this sweet combo of cityscape and nature to soak in. Check out cool stuff like the Dubai Frame, the world’s most enormous picture frame, while you’re at it!
It’s also a futuristic waterfront hood spreading over 6 square kilometers along the historic Dubai Creek. For us, it’s a whole vibe, blending homes, shops, fun spots, and offices.
You can find it in the Deira district, around 10 kilometers from Dubai International Airport. Getting there is convenient too, whether by road, metro, bus, water taxi, or even a bicycle if you’re feeling adventurous.
Now, let’s talk highlights! There’s the super tall Dubai Creek Tower, a chill 4.5-kilometer promenade with cafes and shops, a marina for 125 yachts, a massive park, and a retail zone the size of a small country.
And that’s not all. There’s also a business district for work, a leisure zone with golf, beaches, lagoons, and a wildlife sanctuary—lots of activities to make the most of your stay!
Pro tip:
Enjoy a traditional boat ride! You can take a cheap and fun abra across the water at Dubai Creek. It’s not just easy on the wallet—it’s a genuine and unique way to dive into the city’s roots.
La Mer Beach
Address: Jumeirah, Dubai
Phone: +971-800-63-7227
Pricing: $$-$$$
La Mer Beach is one of Dubai’s most Instagrammable places, where you can enjoy a stunning beachfront, various restaurants and cafes, and a vibrant street art scene.
Why not snap some photogenic pics of street art, beach vibes, and the cool Laguna Waterpark? You can dive into foodie heaven and shop till you drop—La Mer’s got it all!
Transport is easy too—just hop in your car, grab a bus or taxi, or take the metro. La Mer Beach is like the cool kid of beaches, with sun-loungers and cabanas for that perfect chill spot.
Oh, and the waterpark? It’s a thrill-seeker’s dream with crazy slides, a wave simulator, and an infinity pool. Fun overload!
Not only that, but La Mer is also a flavor fiesta with 30+ shops, cafes, and restaurants. The place is buzzing with playful art, and you get killer views of Dubai, including the grand Burj Khalifa.
Note that beach vibes are free. But if you want VIP treatment with sun-loungers or cabanas, prices range from AED 60 to AED 300 daily.
The waterpark’s a bit more expensive, at AED 125 for adults and AED 95 for the little ones.
Pro tip:
Want a one-of-a-kind time at La Mer Beach? Go to the north end, beyond the main beach, to discover a hidden treasure: a cozy cove with serene waters and jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa.