Golden moments: UAE residents capture the country’s everyday magic through their lens
Desert roads to city skies — UAE photographers capture beauty in every corner
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2 MIN READ
Dubai: From the rolling dunes of Qasr Al Sarab to the glowing lanterns of Ramadan nights, UAE residents are capturing more than just images — they’re freezing moments that reflect the country's vibrant heart. Whether it's the golden hush over Pond Park in Dubai, the glint of sunlight on Khalid Lake, or the dramatic skyline of Sharjah bathed in light, these scenes reveal the UAE's quieter, more soulful side. Through their eyes — and cameras — ordinary days turn into unforgettable stories.
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"Twists, turns, and a view to match" - Dr Naveen Aggarwal, specialist anaesthetist at Thumbay University Hospital, Ajman, and a UAE resident for 11 years, took this stunning shot of Al Ain’s Jebel Hafeet, a scenic escape where mountain roads meet panoramic views.
Dr Naveen Aggarwal/Gulf News reader
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"Into the desert" - Seema Dhall captured this striking contrast of golden dunes against dark tarmac at Qasr Al Sarab, describing it as one of the many moods of the desert — a beauty she says can be found in every corner of the UAE.
Seema Dhall/Gulf News reader
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"A burst of light and life at the Spice Souk" - Captured by Seema Dhall, this stunning shot of Moroccan lamps glows with color, culture, and character — a perfect reflection of the vibrant energy that lights up our everyday lives.
Seema Dhall/Gulf News reader
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"Ramadan glow through a young artist’s lens" - Ayaana Fathima, a 13-year-old photography enthusiast and 9th grader at GIIS Abu Dhabi, captures the magic of Ramadan at WTC Souq with these stunning shots of glowing lanterns. Her passion for photography and art shines as brightly as the lights she photographs — a beautiful tribute to tradition through young eyes.
Ayaana Fathima/Gulf News reader
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"A Ramadan night in Abu Dhabi" - Fathima captures the spirit of the Holy Month with her lens — vibrant lanterns glowing at WTC Souq Abu Dhabi. Fathima blends creativity and culture in every frame, offering a fresh, youthful take on one of the UAE’s most cherished traditions.
Ayaana Fathima/Gulf News reader
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"Sharjah in golden light" - Bethica Das, a homemaker and food blogger living in Sharjah for 14 years, captured this stunning sunset view of the iconic Central Souk from her balcony. Framed by the UAE flag and bathed in golden light, it’s a moment of pride, peace, and timeless charm.
Bethica Das/Gulf News reader
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"A golden pause at Pond Park" - As the sun dipped below the Dubai skyline, the sky lit up in hues of amber and rose — turning a regular evening into a moment of magic. Barkha Bhushan, 49, an Indian homemaker who has called Dubai home since 2005, captured this serene sunset at Pond Park, Barsha. The photo perfectly balances nature and city life: silhouettes of trees and relaxed onlookers frame the glowing skyline, where modern architecture meets peaceful reflection. For many, it’s just a sunset — for Bhushan, it’s an everyday opportunity to reset.
Barkha Bhushan/Gulf News reader
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"Lake Khalid’s charm" - Dr Seema Bhatia, a UAE resident since 2007, captured the serene beauty of Lake Khalid in this stunning shot. At its centre lies the enchanting Butterfly Garden — an invitation to a peaceful, unforgettable evening surrounded by nature’s charm. ‘A moment of pure magic in the heart of Sharjah!’ is how Dr Bhatia described it.
Dr Seema Bhatia/Gulf News reader
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"Sun, clouds and reflections" - Dr Seema Bhatia captures a magical moment as the sun plays hide-and-seek behind dramatic clouds, casting shimmering reflections over Khalid Lake along the Sharjah Corniche. A perfect blend of light, shadow, and serenity — nature putting on a quiet show!
Dr Seema Bhatia/Gulf News reader
Share your best captures of the UAE’s landscapes with us and be part of this exciting visual journey. Send your photos to readers@gulfnews.com and let’s celebrate the beauty of the Emirates together!
Manuel AlmarioSenior News Editor
Manuel has been with Gulf News for 24 years, currently serving as a Senior News Editor and a vital member of the team. From managing social media platforms and crafting viral content to shooting and editing videos on various topics such as weather, gold prices, and traffic updates, Manuel ensures news is not just timely but engaging. He also moderates reader comments and keeps the digital space respectful and impactful.
Formerly the Community Editor for the Readers section, Manuel helped residents resolve issues with banks, telecom providers, utilities, and government agencies—giving people a voice and driving accountability. “I’m proud that, with the cooperation of companies, I was able to help people get the answers they needed,” he says.
Beyond the newsroom, Manuel is driven by a passion for human interest stories—amplifying voices that often go unheard. “From rags-to-riches journeys to the quiet resilience of people with special needs, I believe these stories restore hope in humanity,” he added.
“In every story I tell,” Manuel says, “my goal is simple: to inspire hearts, inform minds, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s a viral video, a quiet act of resilience, or a voice that needs to be heard, I believe every story has the power to connect us—and sometimes, even change us.”
Manuel’s impact goes far beyond the newsroom—he’s been honored as one of the 300 most influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition 2020 by Illustrado. His dedication to telling powerful stories, along with his influence in community, culture, and human interest, has earned him a well-deserved place on this prestigious list.
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