What's unnecessarily long but gets the job done? Answer: the hashtag for Canon Middle East’s latest marketing campaign. #ComeAndSeeMyArabia kicked off last week with a consumer product launch in Dubai, featuring new hero models such as the EOS 750D, 760D and M3.
The Japanese camera firm invited 10 social media influencers from the region to partner with Dubai's biggest photography community, Gulf Photo Plus, to take a photo tour of Dubai and discover interesting and alternative locations where they could put the cameras through their paces. So we followed them around to discover the cool-kid locations to snap pictures in Dubai right now, according to the pros.
The best places to take pictures in Dubai:
Rustic charm and history in Bastakiya
National Geographic describes the diminutive Bastakiya quarter as “Dubai’s most engaging neighbourhood”. The area was established in the late 19th century by wealthy pearl and textile traders from Bastak in Iran – hence the name. The labyrinthine lanes are dotted with restored merchant’s houses, art galleries, cafés, and boutique hotels, which all make ideal fodder for your camera lens. (More info)
Chic and funky at Box Park on Al Wasl Road
Dubai’s latest retail destination is a refreshing alternative to the emirate’s mega malls, Boxpark offers quirky shopping and dining options with a vibrant illuminescence. The hip setting combines modern architecture with boldly-hued shipping containers for what is also a playground for phographers who like to play with light. Develop Meraas claims the new high streets reflects the “cool and unpretentious distinction of Dubai”. (More info)
Sights not smells at Deira fish market
In among all your shiny new camera kit, you might need to pack one extra piece of equipment – a nose peg. Deira is the beating heart of a city built on trade and the fishmarket is a dynamic setting where you can witness fishmongers hock the latest catch. It may sound like a rustic spot, but the location stunningly contrasts the city’s five-star hotel scene. The market has actually become a hotspot for photographers and tourists, but remember to smile and ask for permission before you snap any portraits. It costs nothing to be polite. (More info)
Pretty in pink at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
These pale pink flamingos are the city’s most well-travelled tourists when they arrive each winter, and there are actually more than 270 avian varieties that alight in Ras Al Khor’s salt flats, mudflats and lagoons, just south of Downtown Dubai. The sanctuary is vital stopover on the East African–West Asian Flyway and “twitchers” can get a close look from the two accessible hides (platforms) and the flamingo roost is off the junction of Al Wasl and Oud Metha Roads. (More info)
Artsy meets industrial at Alserkal Avenue
This uber-creative hub has been wooing tourists and locals away from the beaten track since it opened in 2007. Nested one of the city’s industrial areas, Alserkal Avenue tucks a host of galleries and event spaces within its corrugated units, not far from the Mall of the Emirates. The artworks on display are highly photographable but the location itself offers plenty of interesting lines and angles. The location is also being expanded to almost double in size this year, reflecting Dubai’s burgeoning arts and music scene. (More info)
Awe-inspiring scenes over Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai’s superhighway is easily the most iconic scene on this list and is best enjoyed at night. The throbbing artery tirelessly channels supercars, tour buses et al from northeast to southwest and back again, and is best viewed from high up in one of the city’s shimmering towers. Arrive early at the Level 43 Rooftop Lounge & Bar to grab the best vantage point and snap Sheikh Zayed Road as dusk sinks in. You can also see a similar view on one of Canon's recent promotional videos. (More info)
Photographer Katarina Premfors, who guided and gave the attendees photography tips during the two-day event, supported the unique campaign as she felt Dubai has more to offer than just skyscrapers.
“Photography is all about observation; seeing things which we otherwise tend to miss. There are several places in Dubai that allow you to experience the city like never before. I hope Canon’s campaign inspires everyone to explore their creative sides and discover unique elements of their cities,” she explained.
Canon will also launch a city guide based on the Dubai tour which will contain rich editorial content such as photography hints, tips and inspiring imagery of Dubai. The guides will be hosted online on the Canon Middle East website and will be available for download.