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Top places to catch that perfect Dubai sunset
Fri, May 26, 2023
Deep in the desert, floating through the sky or high above the rooftops – here are the 10 best places to welcome the evening.
Deep in the desert, floating through the sky or high above the rooftops – here are the 10 best places to welcome the evening.
1
Over the skyline
Watch the sunset from the perfect vantage point by going up the world's tallest tower. Plan in advance to book your spot on Burj Khalifa's observation deck, At The Top, and you'll see whirling hues of orange, purple and pink in the sky reflect off the city's architecture below. Or reserve a table at At.mosphere on Level 122 for a late tea with equally exquisite views.
2
By the sea shore
A paradise located along the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is home to vast stretches of land where soft sands line crystalline waters. In winter, there's no place more idyllic to catch a sunset than one of the city's beaches. Al Sufouh Beach is a hidden treasure if you're looking for a low-key spot or, for more vivacious vibes, head to Kite Beach. While there, you can even grab a delectable burger and shake at SALT.
3
Off decks and terraces
Looking for 360-degree sunset views of the city, complemented by live music and scrumptious food? Head to one of Dubai's trendy rooftop lounges and restaurants. TOMO at Raffles Hotel serves modern Japanese cuisine with sweeping panoramas of Downtown Dubai and the iconic skyline. Iris Dubai in Meydan features another angle of this scintillating sight, with an upbeat party vibe and creative Mediterranean menu.
4
On the water
Enjoy a spectacular sunset on the waters of Dubai Creek aboard a traditional abra boat. For just AED1, you can travel from Bur Dubai's banks to Deira's old souks, or vice versa, and take in the sights from a fresh perspective. Boats line the harbour, so be sure to make a special trip out for this authentic and affordable Dubai-only experience, and explore the nearby markets and historical districts. After that, nothing beats dinner at one of the city's original street food gems.
5
On a peaceful stroll
Linking The Beach opposite JBR to the new Bluewaters Island is a 77m-long bridge which you can cross on foot. It suspends over the small stretch of the Arabian Gulf between the two lifestyle destinations, awarding spectacular views of the sun, sand, sea and sky. The bridge also features seating nooks under the shade of palm trees, so you can take a breather on your stroll and enjoy the sunset in comfort.
6
At a beachside hotspot
While you can always enjoy a free beach day in the city, pick a weekend to spend it by the shore at one of Dubai's more upscale beachside destinations. A local favourite for Instagrammers and foodies alike, Shimmers at Mina A'Salam conjures Greek island vibes with a delectable menu to match. Sip on refreshing drinks as you gaze out at the horizon, or head to a cool, upbeat setting at Jetty Lounge, where you can walk down a pier for more picture-perfect vistas at sundown.
7
Out in the desert
Get away from the city lights and urban buzz to be at one with nature. A truly serene experience, Dubai's deserts are a great escape, with nothing but mountains of soft, smooth sand stretching out to the horizon. If you don't want to take this journey on your own, tour operators such as Platinum Heritage offer thrilling sunset desert safaris that guide you through golden dunes to a camp filled with live entertainment and gourmet delights.
8
Up in the air
Here's an evening truly out of the ordinary. Dine while suspended by a crane 50m-high over the vibrant JBR district with Dinner in the Sky. Anytime from October to June, book yourself for the 5pm or 6:30pm sitting – depending on sunset time – to feast your eyes upon a glorious view of the beach and surrounding cityscape bathed in a warm glow. Your meal is almost as enticing as the scenery, as it's designed and catered for by Le Meridien and The Westin Mina Seyahi's top chefs.
9
Plunging from above
The most exhilarating place to watch a sunset in Dubai? Freefall at over 193km/h while securely strapped to an experienced instructor with Skydive Dubai. Rather than just watching from the sidelines, join nature's spectacle on an adrenaline-pumping adventure at either The Palm Dropzone, that awards you a remarkable bird's eye view of Palm Jumeirah, or the Desert Dropzone, located approximately 35km outside the city. The last slot is at sunset, so book in advance as it fills up months ahead.
10
With a perfect outline of the Dubai skyline
Dubai Creek Harbour is one of the most popular spots in the city if you're after skyline views at any time of the day. But watching the sun go down, leaving behind a sky filled with shades of orange and pink contrasted by shimmering waters and the silhouettes of skyscrapers, is truly something else. Book a table at one of the restaurants along the harbour or go up a level and dine at The Courtyard at Vida Creek Habour for even better vistas.
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