From the desert at Bab Al Shams to the Burj Khalifa

Aliya and Rajen’s wedding brought family and friends together for four days of celebrations across Dubai. From the opening ceremonies at Burj Residences to sunset in the desert, an evening at the Armani Hotel and a final party on the water, each day revealed another part of their story.

My team and I photographed and filmed the celebrations throughout. Spending that time together allowed us to get to know the people around them and follow the moments that connected one day to the next.

Pithi and Mehndi at Burj Residences

The celebrations began with a creative photography and film session at the Smiley Center. Their Aston Martin offered a few opportunities to play with reflections, lines and composition before we returned to the family celebrations.

There was plenty of laughter as Rajen’s friends and relatives enthusiastically joined in. These opening gatherings gave us an early sense of the warmth and playful energy that would carry through the following days.

Jain Blessings and Sangeet at Bab Al Shams

The next day took us into the desert to Bab Al Shams. Its courtyards, architectural details and surrounding dunes gave us a very different setting to work with.

As the sun set behind the ceremony, I worked with the changing light while staying attentive to the gestures and emotions unfolding between the couple and their families. The evening continued with performances featuring horses and camels, the bride’s entrance and time for photographs with friends.

Wedding Celebrations at the Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa

At the Armani Hotel, the Dubai Fountain and the soaring lines of the Burj Khalifa shaped the backdrop to the celebrations. Photographing the couple beneath the tower called for a different perspective; I often found myself close to the ground to bring its architecture into the frame.

Later, the carefully arranged setting gave way to a wonderfully spontaneous party. The celebrations spilled into the hotel’s fountain, with Rajen surrounded by cheering friends, champagne and dancing. My team and I were right there with them, capturing some of the most uninhibited moments of the four days.

A Final Gathering at Yuan, Atlantis, The Palm

On the last day, everyone gathered at Yuan at Atlantis, The Palm. Between the shared meal, speeches and long embraces, there was time to photograph and film the conversations and connections around the tables.

After several days together, those familiar faces had become an important part of the story we were telling.

An Evening on the Water at Dubai Marina

The celebrations continued aboard a yacht at Dubai Marina, with music, city lights and friends gathered on the water. It was a fitting close to a wedding that had taken us through so many different settings.

Aliya and Rajen, thank you for welcoming my team and me into these four days. It was a pleasure to share them with you and create photographs and films that bring the whole experience together.

Planning Your Wedding in Dubai?

Tell me about your plans, your venue and the moments you would like to have documented. I’d love to hear what you’re imagining for your celebration.