Dubaï
Did you know that it is necessary to have a special authorization to be able to use a “professional” camera in Dubaï ? Yes, the only fully tolerated cameras are smartphones. Otherwise, it is very common to be reprimanded by local authorities or the security staff if you use a camera without permission. Surprising isn’t it ?
I did not know this when I arrived in Dubaï Marina, where I was about to spend 10 days of well-deserved vacation with my family. It was in November 2020, and it was my first time visiting the city. I was very happy to be able to travel again, after many months of the crazy Covid-19 situation. So I was very excited to discover new places to photograph. A joy that was short-lived. Indeed, my equipment was considered “professional”, and I very quickly stopped counting the times I had to put the device in my bag, for lack of official authorization.
My frustration passed, I decided to photograph as much as possible. Of course, I respected what had to be respected. and if I had to put the device away, then I cooperated. But as long as I could photograph, then I did. Finally, I’m so glad I was able to bring back with me the photos that you can see below and which represent my own version of Dubai. Dubai as I saw it for 10 days. I really did not think I would take so many street photos there, and yet. I did not think I could photograph people so much, and yet again. I wanted to achieve my creative expectations and goals, while always making sure to respect everyone’s privacy, not to be intrusive or offensive with my camera. And I think I managed to do so.
Dubai is an amazing ground for travel photography. Streets, seascapes, deserts, cityscapes, skyscrapers … everything is there, as well as an incredible contrast between its historical culture and the modern life with the growth that Dubai has experienced these years and that the world knows. I hope that the variety of the situations I encountered will be felt through the photos below, as well as the incredible photographic wealth that Dubai offers, despite the local authorities regulations.
“I can speak to my soul only when the two of us are off exploring deserts or cities or mountains or roads.”
Paulo Coelho