Whether you’re trying your hand at photography for the first time or are a certified pro, photographers of all levels are sure to wind up with some seriously impressive snaps from these UAE-based sites and events:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
There’s a reason celebrities always go to the Grand Mosque when they visit the UAE. The majestic house of worship, with pristine white pillars and ornate interiors, is any photographer’s dream location. Friday afternoon is a peak period, when residents visit for the Jummah prayer, so weekdays or Saturdays are probably the best time to visit. Make sure to dress conservatively if you’re planning a trip to the mosque, and if you’re female, keep a headscarf handy.
The dhow yard in Dubai
Visit the world’s biggest dhow-building centre along the Dubai Creek waterfront. Located across the creek from Dubai Festival City, the marina is an ideal place to capture images of boat builders in action, working with traditional tools and age-old techniques to hand-craft the dhows.
Al Dhafra Camel Festival in Abu Dhabi
Want to witness a camel beauty pageant? Capture the UAE’s old-school Bedouin spirit at this annual festival, which usually has about 30,000 camels in attendance. The event takes place in December in Al Gharbia, Abu Dhabi’s Western Region. Camel beauty, sheep beauty, camel milking, sour milk, falcons and dates are all judged in different competitions. This year will be the festival’s 10th edition.
Kushti wrestling in Dubai
This sporting event, though completely unofficial, takes place every Friday around 4.30pm at an open sandpit near Deira’s Hyatt Regency hotel. Hundreds show up to observe the action, making it a photography-worthy experience indeed. Watch as 14 wrestlers compete in six-minute matches, wrapping up just before the sunset prayer time.
Bastakiya in Dubai
Explore the labyrinths of old Dubai in the Bastakiya quarter of the city, where you’re bound to find culture and traditional craftsmanship. Now known as Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the area was set to be demolished in 1989, until Britain’s Prince Charles visited and suggested that it be preserved. Art galleries and cafes are aplenty along the windy streets, offering a refreshing change from the city’s ultra-modern malls.
Miracle Garden in Dubai
Though these flamboyant floral spectacles may seem a little jarring, there’s no denying the picturesque potential offered by Dubai’s Miracle Garden. Located near Dubailand and Arabian Ranches, the location is perfect for capturing cheesy, romantic images with its heart-shaped hedges and peacock structures. It’s also quite close to the Butterfly Garden, which has its fair share of photo opps.
Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi
This wildlife sanctuary on Sir Bani Yas Island off the southern coast of Abu Dhabi is home to more than 13,000 free-roaming animals and birds. If you want to treat the family to a local safari adventure, this is the place to go. Accessible by boat or sea plane, the 87-square-kilometre island is populated with giraffes, cheetahs, hyena, Arabian oryx and antelope, among other animals. Book a day trip and keep some spare memory cards handy. If you’re lucky, you may even get some great close-ups.
The Ghost Town in Ras Al Khaimah
Locally known as Jazirat Al Hamra, this deserted village is rumoured to be haunted. Walk through the ruins of adobe houses, with walls created from corals, seashells, mud and stones, previously lived in by the Za’ab tribe who abandoned the houses after a dispute. Located just south of Ras Al Khaimah, The Ghost Town is often frequented by fashion photographers who are eager to capture images of high-end clothing against the dilapidated, crumbling exteriors of the village.
The Spice Souq in Dubai
Treat your senses to a tantalising array of Arabic sweets and spices at the Spice Souq in Old Dubai. The market and its surrounding alleyways make for great photo opps, as you can capture the cultural essence of the city in action. Wander beyond to explore the Gold Souq and the nearby fabric markets.
Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi
Get a feel for the traditional Emirati Bedouin lifestyle by trekking out to Heritage Village, a re-enactment of how the capital city was before the oil boom. Watch as local artisans demonstrate the craftsmanship of weaving and glass blowing, or observe the traditional art of henna as it is applied to the hands of tourists. Campfires, camels and delicious Arabic tea complete the unique experience.