|
The second largest of the seven
emirates that form the United Arab Emirates,
Dubai is a superb example of a New Economy
business hub that has evolved on the solid
foundations of a rich cultural heritage. Once
a city of seafarers and merchants, Dubai is
today recognized as an international trading
port. While rapid sophistication of the 21st
century has changed the face of Dubai from
timeless deserts to a thriving economy with
strengths in trade, services, manufacturing
and technology, Dubai maintains a fine balance
of cultural legacy and a modern metropolis.
The city offers
a lively experience for visitors with a wide
variety of preferences. Hi tech gadget shopping
in Mega Malls or shopping for the spices &
incenses in the narrow Souk, crossing the
creek in a rickety old wooden Abra (water
taxi) or doing adrenalin flips in power boats
or jet skis. Cutting across the sands in a
4x4 or concurring the dunes on a camel back,
savoring the fine dining cuisine from around
the world or experiencing Bedouin hospitality
in an encampment. Dancing the night away in
a high energy night-club or sitting back and
enjoying the shivers of an exotic belly dancer.
Getting a toasty tan on an unspoiled beach
or practicing your golf swing in the Tiger's
path .. you name it, we've got it.
Dubai is to
the Middle East what Hong Kong is to Asia;
a capitalist jewel buzzing with activity.
Most visitors to the region stop here for
at least a day to browse the shops, eat in
the restaurants and soak up the atmosphere
of a city oozing wealth and a general air
of self-satisfied confidence. Split into two
by a long creek, a water taxi is an ideal
starting point for orientation purposes and
an opportunity to admire the modern palatial
architecture, the hallmark of a successful
Arab state. There isn't much here that isn't
glistening new. Even the traditional souks
that attract thousands of visitors each year
are packed with up to the minute gadgets and
the latest designer wear.
Dubai City
Facts
Dubai Population
– 265,702 (Source: UN Population Division
2000 estimate)
United Arab
Emitrates Population – 2,444,000 (Source:
UN Population Division 2000 estimate)
Currency
– UAE Dirham (AED)
Time Zone
– GMT + 4 (9 hours from Eastern Standard
Time)
Language
– Arabic
|
