8 amazing spots to get the best views of Dubai

If there’s one thing that Dubai has become famous for, it’s the array of soaring buildings that reach up into the endlessly sunny skies, creating some of the best views in Dubai. While these modern architectural wonders are truly a sight to behold, you'll best be able to appreciate the city and its skyline when taking a look from above. Visiting an observation deck or having a drink on a rooftop are some of the things you can’t miss in Dubai. From the sleek Burj Khalifa to the picturesque Kite Beach, here are 8 spots with unbeatable views in Dubai that need to be on your list.

Where to get the best views in Dubai

Best free view in Dubai: Dubai Creek Harbour

Best observation deck in Dubai: Burj Khalifa

Best unexpected place to see the skyline in Dubai: Apple Store Dubai Mall

Best rooftops and observation decks in Dubai

1. Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, clocking in at a whopping 2,772 feet, is the tallest building in the world and one of the best observation decks. This imposing structure in the Dubai skyline is a symbol of the city itself and one of Dubai’s top attractions. As well as for its height, the Burj Khalifa holds several world records for its design, making it a must-see for your first time in Dubai. It lets visitors get views up to 60 miles away of the sea, sand dunes, and city skyline from its two observation decks.

Insider tip

The Burj Khalifa has observation decks on floors 124, 125, and 148. The deck on floor 148 is the highest observation deck in the world and has a premium lounge, which makes it worth the splurge.

Address and opening hours

Burj Khalifa - Blvd Dubai Unit LG - 089 - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd. Each observation deck has its own schedule, so consult the timetable before you visit.

2. Sky Views Observatory

This observation deck is located on floors 51 and 52 of the elegant Address Sky View hotel. It's not as tall as the Burj Khalifa, but it does have Dubai's most famous landmark in the center of the view for the most Instagram-worthy shots.

The main draw of Sky Views Obervatory is the glass floor that surrounds its perimeter and its protruding glass slide. That means you can see all the way down to the ground from roughly 720 feet in the air!

Address and opening hours

Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai. Open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

3. Cé La Vi

Cé La Vi is a hip bar and restaurant located on the 54th floor of the Address Sky View hotel. It's in the same building as the Sky Views Observatory but has a separate entrance. It’s an established rooftop venue with several locations in Asia. This one boasts amazing views of the Burj Khalifa and more of Dubai's impressive architecture.

Insider tip

This is the place to go if you prefer to sip a cocktail while looking at the views instead of seeing them through a glass floor.

Address and opening hours

Tower 2 - Level 54, Address Sky View Hotel - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd. Open noon to 3:00 AM. Booking ahead is advised, especially during peak season.

4. Dubai Frame

This massive structure divides Old and New Dubai. It’s a golden frame nearly 500 feet tall that gives viewers a glimpse of the city’s modern side from one angle and its historic center from another. You can find it inside Zabeel Park, an area that offers a number of family-friendly activities in Dubai.

Insider tip

The Dubai Frame has two museum activities dedicated to highlighting Dubai’s past and present. Tickets to the Frame include the exhibitions, the park, and the Frame itself.

Address and opening hours

Zabeel Park - Al Kifaf - Dubai. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Free places to get great views of Dubai

5. Dubai Creek Harbour

Some of the best free views in Dubai can be found at the Dubai Creek Harbour. This waterfront walkway, just 10 minutes by car from downtown Dubai, has unbeatable views of the cityscape just across the water. They’re especially stunning from the viewing point.

Insider tip

Head there around sunset to get some truly Instagram-worthy shots of the scenic skyline in all its splendor.

Address and opening hours

685V+GG - Ras Al Khor - Dubai Creek Harbour. Open 24 hours, but expect a crowd during golden hour.

6. Kite Beach

Kite Beach has some of the best free views in Dubai that mix seascapes and skylines. It's one of the most popular Dubai beaches for water sports, swimming, and beach volleyball. You'll also find a bevy of food trucks, shops, and entertainment in the area.

Highlights

• Fabulous golden-hour sunset views
• Crystal clear views of the Burj Al Arab
• Restaurants and beach clubs in the area

Address and opening hours

Kite Beach - Dubai. It's a public spot that's open 24/7, but things like food, drinks, and retail in the area are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Best unexpected places to get fantastic views of Dubai

7. Apple Store Dubai Mall

The world-renowned Dubai Mall has a little secret. Head to the Apple Store, and you’ll catch some truly impressive free views of Dubai. The store’s double-height curved front windows offer amazing glimpses of the Dubai Fountain.

Highlights

• Free entry
• Prime views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain
• Inside one of the city’s best shopping malls, Dubai Mall

Address and opening hours

The Dubai Mall - Dubai. Open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday and 10:00 AM to midnight Friday to Sunday.

8. The View at The Palm

Head up to floor 52 of the Palm Tower on Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s stunning man-made island shaped like a palm tree. From here, you’ll get to see exquisite views of the island and its unique architecture.

Best time to go

The views at sunset are next level, so stop by during golden hour to see the city glowing.

Address and opening hours

Palm Jumeirah Rd, The Palm Tower - 52nd Floor - The Palm Jumeirah - Dubai. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM.

FAQs

What is the best place to get a view of Dubai at sunset?

Head to an observation deck to get a view from above, or go to a beach at golden hour for incredible views. Kite Beach is a brilliant choice if you're looking for the best Dubai photography spots.

What is the best place to get a view of Dubai at night?

The Sky Views Observatory has excellent views of Dubai at night, thanks to its prime location. You'll spot the twinkling Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and all the lights of Downtown Dubai's skyscrapers.

Where are the best free views of Dubai?

You don’t need to pay to see scenic spots in Dubai. Apple Store Dubai Mall, Dubai Creek, and many of the city’s parks and beaches have fantastic views that won’t cost you a penny.

Where is the best view of the Burj Khalifa?

Burj Plaza is the best place to get the perfect shot and view of the Burj Khalifa. Rooftop lounges, like Cé La Vi, are also prime spots.

Where is the best place to see the skyline in Dubai?

Dubai Creek Harbour is a popular — and free — spot to get the most incredible Dubai skyline views.