Dubai is a city full of perfect backdrops for an engagement photo shoot. Whether you’re looking for iconic landmarks, serene beaches, or stunning desert landscapes, Dubai offers an array of diverse locations to make your engagement photos truly unforgettable. I lived in Dubai for 5 years and I’ve had the privilege of capturing couples in some of the most scenic spots in Dubai, and I’m excited to share my top picks for the best engagement photo shoot locations!

1. The Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain

What better way to capture your love story than in front of the world’s tallest building? The Burj Khalifa stands tall and majestic, offering a modern and iconic backdrop for your engagement photos. You can take stunning shots in the gardens, or even capture the grandeur of the building behind you during the day or night. Personally, I like to visit this area in the mornings when it’s free from tourists!

2. The Desert Dunes

For a more adventurous and dramatic vibe, the golden sands of Dubai’s desert provide a unique and romantic setting. My favourite time of day for a desert photoshoot is either at sunrise or sunset for the soft lighting. It’s not easy to walk in the dunes, so I’d recommend walking barefoot or flat shoes.

3. Dubai Marina

If you love the combination of water, modern architecture, and sleek, urban style, then the Dubai Marina is perfect. The marina is lined with upscale cafes, luxury yachts, and beautiful bridges, offering a more relaxed yet chic environment for your photos. The soft golden hour light reflecting off the water makes for a dreamy and sophisticated shoot. If you’re feeling really adventurous then you could hire a boat!

4. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Al Bastakiya)

So, this is one of my favourite locations in Dubai! For those who want to add some history and charm to their engagement photos. The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya, is a beautiful blend of old-world architecture and Dubai’s rich cultural heritage. The narrow alleys, wind towers, and traditional buildings make for a beautiful and intimate setting. We could finish the photo shoot by jumping on one of the dhow boats to watch the sunset.

5. My Secret Beach Location!

I’ve always loved the sea, so of course one of my favourite locations for an engagement shoot is the beach. I have a dog who loves swimming, so I found a secret beach near Downtown that’s always free from tourists but has wonderful city views that we can go to. The best time of day for the beach shoots is either sunrise or sunset for that beautiful soft light.

6. The Green Planet

For nature lovers, The Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest in the heart of Dubai. This lush, vibrant location offers an intimate yet exotic setting, perfect for couples who love nature and want to capture the beauty of wildlife and greenery in their engagement photos.

Final Thoughts

Dubai offers a variety of stunning locations for your engagement photo shoot, whether you’re looking for a modern, sleek city vibe or a peaceful, nature-filled backdrop. Every corner of this beautiful city provides something different, making it easy to find a location that suits your style and personality. As a photographer who loves to explore new places, I can help you choose the perfect spot that reflects your love and connection. 

My Engagement shoots in Dubai are around 1-2 hours and I always shoot both digital and film photos. After your shoot, I’ll send you a gallery 7 days later with 80 professionally edited photos via a beautiful online gallery with a slideshow. 

Ready to capture your engagement in Dubai? Contact me to plan your dream photo shoot in one of these incredible locations. I can’t wait to be part of your journey and help you create memories that will last a lifetime!

Abbi