A Dubai sunrise is to be experienced at least once in your UAE lifetime. But where should you head to catch the first rays?

Up, up and away
A hot air balloon ride across the sleeping Emirate is an unforgettable way to experience a sunrise. Starting at 4am (yikes) you’ll soar up, up and away over the dunes and Hajjar mountains.
skidubai.com/tour/hot-air-balloon-dubai

Dune drive
Tour specialists Arabian Adventures run a popular early morning dune drive, offering you not only the chance to enjoy the post-sunrise glow over the desert, but also to update your Instagram account with some amazing photos of local wildlife.

Emirates Holidays Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
Tel: (04) 2144888. Metro: Business Bay.
arabian-adventures.com

Desert calm
The sun puts in a spectacular appearance at Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, whose low-rise construction amid the dunes makes it the perfect place for early risers.

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Exit 37 Dubai-Al Ain Road.
Tel: (04) 3143647. Taxi: Bab Al Shams Resort.
meydanhotels.com