Photography courses in Dubai

The Photography Institute delivers a fully online, self‑paced Diploma in Professional Photography, consisting of 12 modules and assignments, which most students complete in approximately 24 weeks, though they have up to 12 months to finish at their own pace. The curriculum covers technical foundations such as camera settings, exposure, lighting, composition, color theory and post‑production, along with modules focused on building a professional photography portfolio and understanding the business of photography. The program is enriched with interactive assignments, access to online resources and optional advanced modules in specialized areas such as wedding, fashion, landscape and travel photography, which can extend study time by six months.

Students benefit from 24/7 tutor and student support, participating in a vibrant global learning community via private social groups and webinars. Each learner is assigned a personal tutor, who provides tailored feedback throughout the course, helping to refine creative vision and technical skill. Because the Diploma is accredited and recognized internationally, graduates are well‑prepared to pursue careers as professional photographers or develop their own freelance businesses with confidence.

Moutasem Academy is a KHDA‑licensed private photography school based in Bayswater Tower (Office 1005) in Business Bay, Dubai. Founded by photography and multimedia expert Moutasem Qwassmeh, the academy specializes in one‑on‑one private training, offering courses tailored to every skill level—from beginners to professionals. Their fully equipped studio, flexible hours and personalized approach make them a strong choice for individual-focused instruction.

The academy’s offerings include a variety of specialized short courses and a comprehensive Diploma in Photography. Short courses—typically 8–10 hours—cover areas like night photography, product photography, car photography or portrait photography. The extensive Diploma program spans 216 hours over 6 months (approx. 3 sessions/week), covering technical mastery, lighting, post-production, business skills and specializations such as fashion, event, architectural, landscape, macro and even AI-assisted workflows. All courses include free use of equipment and official certification upon completion.

Gulf Photo Plus (GPP), located in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, is a leading photography hub offering a wide variety of courses and workshops tailored for all skill levels—from beginners to professionals. Their programs cover essential topics such as camera techniques, smartphone photography, post-processing with Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, as well as analog photography and creative printing methods like cyanotype and Polaroid emulsion lifts. The hands-on workshops and private tuition sessions are designed to help students develop practical skills in a supportive, creative environment.

Beyond education, Gulf Photo Plus serves as a vibrant community center for photographers, hosting exhibitions, artist talks and annual events like GPP Photo Week. They also provide professional-grade printing services, making it a one-stop destination for learning, creating and showcasing photographic art. Whether you’re looking to improve your technical expertise or immerse yourself in Dubai’s photographic arts scene, Gulf Photo Plus offers comprehensive resources and inspiration to support your journey.

Premiere Art Institute, located in Business Bay, Dubai, offers a comprehensive Complete Photography Course designed for both beginners and intermediate learners. This group course covers essential photography techniques, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, exposure compensation, compositional rules and focus tracking. Students will also learn about light, color and temperature to enhance their photographic skills. The course includes all necessary materials and provides a KHDA-attested certificate upon completion.

In addition to the group course, Premiere Art Institute offers a 1-on-1 Gem Photography Course tailored for individuals interested in capturing high-quality images of gemstones. This personalized training ensures focused attention and customized learning experiences. For those interested in video editing, the institute provides an Online Complete Course on Adobe Premiere Pro, suitable for beginners and intermediates. This course covers the fundamentals of video editing using Adobe Premiere Pro, with sessions conducted via Zoom or other video platforms.

The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) is a distinguished global photography initiative based in Dubai. Established in 2011 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, HIPA aims to elevate the art of photography through various programs, including workshops, lectures and a prestigious annual competition. The award offers substantial prizes, with the grand prize reaching up to $120,000, and is open to photographers worldwide, regardless of their professional background.

HIPA’s educational offerings encompass a range of workshops and lectures designed to enhance photographic skills across different genres. For instance, the «Basics of Photography» course provides foundational knowledge in photography, covering essential topics such as camera settings, exposure and composition. These sessions are typically conducted in Arabic and are held at various locations, including the HIPA Lecture Room in Downtown Dubai. In addition to technical training, HIPA collaborates with partner organizations to host exhibitions and events, further promoting the art of photography within the region and globally.

The FAD Institute of Luxury Fashion & Style in Dubai offers a comprehensive 1-year International Diploma in Photography (Fashion & Lifestyle). This program provides a blend of technical and creative learning, covering various aspects of photography, including digital technology, lighting techniques and photo editing. Students engage in practical shoots across different genres such as fashion, travel, wildlife, product, interior and conceptual photography. The curriculum emphasizes developing a unique photographic style and preparing students for the professional industry.

The course includes opportunities for live assignments, internships with industry photographers, and participation in the FAD Emerging Talents Show. Students also have the option to pursue a semester abroad in Milan or Dubai and participate in the FAD Europe Tour, which includes visits to fashion capitals like Paris, London and Milan. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to work as professional photographers in various sectors, including media houses, advertising agencies and as freelancers.

Nikon School in Jebel Ali, Dubai, offers a wide range of photography and videography courses suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced photographers. Located in JAFZA View 19, the school provides hands-on workshops covering essential topics such as basic camera operation, portrait photography, videography and even vlogging. Courses are designed to help participants master manual settings on DSLR and mirrorless cameras, enabling them to capture professional-quality images and videos. They also offer advanced courses for those looking to refine their skills and explore more creative techniques.

In addition to regular workshops, Nikon School provides exclusive sessions for Nikon Premium Members, along with perks such as gear loans during courses and a three-year warranty on Nikon products. The school supports both in-person and online learning options, making it accessible to a wide audience. With expert instructors and comprehensive programs, Nikon School in Jebel Ali is a great choice for anyone eager to develop their photography skills in a structured and professional environment.