Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Dubai

There’s something magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon in Dubai. Maybe it’s the sharp contrast between the shimmering glass skyscrapers and the golden desert dunes. Or perhaps it’s the vast Arabian Gulf stretching out in front of you, turning fiery red as the day gives way to night. But where should you go to experience this breathtaking moment?

You’ve been waiting for it all day. The heat has been relentless, the city buzzing with activity, but this, this is the moment of peace. The sun begins its descent, and you’re not just standing anywhere—you’re in one of the best places in Dubai to watch this spectacle unfold. Here’s where you need to be.

1. Burj Khalifa – The Highest Sunset View in the World
It’s not just about height, but there’s something otherworldly about watching the sunset from the tallest building in the world. At 828 meters above ground, the Burj Khalifa offers the most unique vantage point for sunset lovers. As you rise to the 124th or 148th floor, the entire city of Dubai lies beneath you, looking more like a map than a metropolis. The sun appears larger from this altitude, and its rays reflect off the countless windows below, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. For a truly unique experience, consider booking a sunset visit to At The Top SKY Lounge and have a drink while watching the sun melt away into the Arabian horizon.

Location	Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd
Best Time	Approximately 30 minutes before sunset
Pro Tip	Pre-book tickets online to avoid long queues

2. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah – A Sunset with a View of Atlantis
The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah is a vibrant waterfront destination with a front-row seat to one of the most iconic resorts in Dubai—Atlantis, The Palm. As the sun begins to set, the silhouette of Atlantis against the dusky sky creates a picture-perfect moment. Palm Jumeirah’s crescent structure provides a natural platform to watch the sun sink into the Arabian Gulf, and with numerous dining spots at The Pointe, you can enjoy a meal with the sunset as your backdrop.

Why The Pointe? Because here, the sun doesn’t just disappear into the horizon—it seems to linger just a little longer, as if savoring the view as much as you are.

3. Al Sufouh Beach – The Hidden Gem
Dubai’s beaches are famous, but Al Sufouh Beach, also known as the "Secret Beach", offers something a little different. Tucked between the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah, this beach is less crowded than Dubai’s more popular shores. What’s so special about Al Sufouh Beach is its quiet charm. Here, you can sit on the soft sands, without the typical beach crowds, and watch the sunset paint the Burj Al Arab in golden hues. It’s a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, perfect for those who appreciate solitude and simplicity.

Location	Al Sufouh Beach, between Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah
Best Time	Sunset, between 6 PM to 7 PM depending on the season
Pro Tip	Bring a beach mat and some snacks for a quiet picnic

4. Dubai Creek Harbour – A Sunset with City Views
Dubai Creek Harbour is an emerging hotspot, offering spectacular views of both old and new Dubai. From here, you can watch the sunset cast a golden glow over the historic Dubai Creek on one side, and the towering skyline of Downtown Dubai on the other. The Creek Harbour Promenade is perfect for an evening stroll, and as the sun sets, the cityscape lights up, creating a mesmerizing contrast between day and night.

This spot combines the best of both worlds—the tranquility of the creek and the energy of the city. And for those who enjoy photography, this location is a goldmine for capturing Dubai’s architectural wonders under the magic of the setting sun.

5. Desert Safari – The Quintessential Arabian Sunset
Nothing says Dubai quite like the desert, and if you’re after a sunset that’s as wild as it is beautiful, a desert safari is your best bet. As you’re whisked away from the city into the golden dunes, the hustle fades, leaving you with nothing but vast open skies. As the sun sets over the desert, the sand glows with a fiery orange hue, and the entire landscape feels like something out of a dream. Most desert safaris offer a stop for sunset photos, so you can capture the moment before heading to a Bedouin-style camp for an evening under the stars.

Location	Dubai Desert, typically 45 minutes outside the city
Best Time	Dune bashing and sunset views, approximately 5:30 PM
Pro Tip	Book a premium safari package for a more exclusive experience

6. The Dubai Marina – A Sunset Amidst Skyscrapers
The Dubai Marina is another prime spot to catch the sunset, but it offers something a little different from the natural beauty of the desert or the beaches. Here, it’s all about the architecture. As the sun sets, the glass towers lining the Marina reflect the light in a dazzling display, making the whole place come alive with color. You can take a walk along the Marina promenade, or hop on a sunset yacht cruise for an even better view. The Marina has countless cafes and restaurants, so it’s easy to grab a bite while enjoying the sunset.

Why choose the Marina? Because watching the sunset here feels like being in the heart of a futuristic city, where nature and human ingenuity coexist in harmony.

7. Kite Beach – A Sunset for the Adventurous
Kite Beach is one of the most active spots in Dubai, and while it’s a great place for water sports during the day, the real magic happens as the sun begins to set. With the Burj Al Arab in the distance, the setting sun casts long shadows over the sand, creating an almost surreal landscape. Whether you’re enjoying a game of beach volleyball, trying your hand at kite surfing, or just relaxing on the shore, the sunset at Kite Beach is something you won’t forget.

Location	Kite Beach, Jumeirah
Best Time	Around 6 PM
Pro Tip	Rent a paddleboard for a unique sunset view from the water

Final Thoughts
Dubai’s sunsets are more than just the end of the day—they’re a chance to experience the city from a new perspective. Whether you’re watching from the top of the Burj Khalifa, the quiet sands of Al Sufouh Beach, or the golden dunes of the desert, each sunset tells a different story. It’s in these moments of transition—from light to dark, from day to night—that you really get to feel the pulse of this incredible city.

So, whether you’re a traveler searching for the perfect Instagram shot, or a local looking to unwind after a busy day, remember that Dubai’s sunsets are more than just a visual treat—they’re an experience. And like all great experiences, they’re best shared, best savored, and best remembered.