Dubai

Dubai is a sovereign state known as the emirate in the United Arab Emirates(UAE). A city within the emirate is also named Dubai. The emirate is located south of the Persian Gulf on the Arabian Peninsula and has the largest population with the second-largest land territory by area of all the emirates, after Abu Dhabi.^[4] Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the only two emirates to have veto power over critical matters of national importance in the country's legislature.^[5] Dubai City is located on the emirate's northern coastline.

The earliest mention of Dubai is in 1095, and the earliest settlement known as Dubai town dates from 1799. Dubai was formally established in 1833 by Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti al Maktoum when he persuaded 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe, living in what is now part of Saudi Arabia, to follow him to the Dubai Creek by the Al Abu Falasa clan of Bani Yas. It remained under clan control when the United Kingdom assumed the protection of Dubai in 1892.^[6] Its geographical location made it an important trading hub and by the beginning of the 20th century, it was an important port.

In 1966, oil was discovered, Dubai and the emirate of Qatar set up a new monetary unit to replace the Gulf Rupee. The oil economy led to a massive influx of foreign workers, quickly expanding the city by 300% and bringing in international oil interests. The modern emirate of Dubai was created after the UK left the area in 1971. At this time Dubai, together with Abu Dhabi and four other emirates, formed the United Arab Emirates. The following year Ras al Khaimah joined the federation while Qatar and Bahrain chose to remain independent nations. In 1973, the monetary union with Qatar was dissolved and the UAE Dirham introduced throughout the UAE. A free trade zone was built around the Jebel Ali port in 1979, allowing foreign companies unrestricted import of labor and export capital. The Gulf War of 1990 had a negative financial effect on the city, as depositors withdrew their money and traders withdrew their trade, but subsequently the city recovered in a changing political climate and thrived.

Today, Dubai City has emerged as a global city and a business hub.^[7] Although Dubai's economy was built on the oil industry, the emirate's model of business drives its economy, with the effect that its main revenues are now from tourism, real estate, and financial services, similar to that of Western countries.^[8][9][10] Dubai has recently attracted world attention through many innovative large construction projects and sports events. This increased attention has highlighted labour rights and human rights issues concerning its largely South Asian workforce.^[11] Almost half the population of Dubai comprises Indians. Dubai's property market experienced a major deterioration in 2008 and 2009 as a result of the worldwide economic downturn following the financial crisis of 2007–2010.

Dubai Destinations and Landmarks

 

Dubai Gold Souk

Dubai has been long known as the ‘city of gold’, despite the fact that majority of its gold is imported from Asia and neighbouring countries. Dubai is a tax free shopping haven for gold lovers and is the Middle East’s center of jewelry market. Moreover, Gold in Dubai is the cheapest in the world.

Global Village Dubai

Located in Dubailand, the Global Village is the world's largest leisure, tourism and entertainment project. It is the first premier cultural, entertainment and shopping destination in the region, with diverse cultures, theater, art, commerce and cuisine gathering from across the world.

Art Galleries in Dubai

The art scene in Dubai and the UAE is rapidly increasing over time and due to the inherited favor for beautiful scenery, art galleries in Dubai are becoming world recognized. Artists from different regions of the Middle East and other countries are displaying their art works in galleries in Dubai, making this a one stop city and truly a city to remember.

Sheikh Zayed Road

The striking new Etisalat head quarters buildingis taking shape close to the Dubai World Trade Centre roundabout beside Shaikh Zayed Road. There is no part of Dubai more impressive than Shaikh Zayed Road, which stuns newcomers to the city with its glitzy designs. Among the most impressive buildings is the Emirates Towers office and hotel complex.

Desert Safari

The magnificence and harmony of the desert can be experienced in a choice of exciting half-day, full-day and overnight safaris. These action-packed trips cover varied topography ranging from desert to mountain and take in remote camel and goat farms and isolated villages.

Dubai City Tours

Dubai city tour by coach along the lanes of Dubai city will give you a glimpse of its ancient Arabian culture and heritage mantled with the modern cosmopolitan lifestyle. You will experience an exiting ride on the Abra (water taxi), the popular local mode of transport which takes you across the creek to spice souq and the glittering gold souq that gives Dubai its name "city of gold".

Big Bus Tour in Dubai

Conventionally, big bus tours can only be seen in London and it’s one of the highlights of your tour per se, but since Dubai is a one stop city, you can always count on them to have everything that you need, including the famous big bus tour.

Beaches in Dubai

Dubai blessed with a beautiful beachfront, and the city's sultry heat makes nearly every day ideal for a trip to the beach. Dubai's main beaches run along Jumeira Road. Beach activities in Dubai include snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing and fishing, and there are many outlets in the city where gear can be rented.

Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai has five runs of varying difficulty, height, and steepness. The longest run is 400 meters with a fall of 60 meters. There are gentler slopes for beginners and indoor black runs for more experienced skiers. Skiers and snowboarders are equally likely to enjoy Ski Dubai with snowboarders getting to perform their stunts on a 90 meter long quarter pipe.

Parks in Dubai

The parks in Dubai are reputed to be among the best in the world. There are amusement parks as well as recreational parks and gardens. They all provide excellent environments that one can go to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Beach Resorts in Dubai

The beach resorts in Dubai comprise incredible edifices made of marble and glass with gardens that lead to private beaches. Several of these also have public areas that are well-furnished, amidst luxurious surroundings, as Dubai beaches boasts of soft white sand and warm sea, that are safe for swimming. Few good options when planning your stay at beach resorts in Dubai are:

Spa Resorts in Dubai

Offering several exclusive boutiques in the world, apart from super-luxury hotels, golden beaches and a thriving nightlife, the duty-free zone of Dubai is a haven for shoppers and a playground for adults. The Spa resorts often cater to upscale clientele, and feature world-class amenities and services, apart from easy access to all attractions in Dubai.

Dubai Dolphinarium

Dubai’s aim for diversification is purposely intended to create other forms of economic wealth apart from the primary oil resources. In the bid to establish this movement, Dubai Dolphinarium was created and developed to provide entertainment, education and environmental beauty for local residents and foreign visitors.

Dubai Museum

Dubai Museum includes archaeological objects such as pottery, stone and metallic items, stone engravings, and skeletons which were discovered during digs in the Emirate of Dubai (Hatta, Al Soffoh, Al Qusais, and Al Jumeira). Some pieces date back 4000 years.

Helicopter tours in Dubai

Taking a helicopter tour is one of the most adventurous ways of viewing the varied landscapes of Dubai. Helicopter tour is also one of the best ways of sightseeing in Dubai, wherein you can get an aerial view of the major tourist attractions in Dubai, and the forthcoming landmarks.

Fishing in Dubai

Dubai is a favourite spot for fishing enthusiasts. Dubai has already played host to numerous renowned mariners and sea fishing enthusiasts. Deep sea fishing is an exciting activity pursued in the waters of Dubai, and is a true blend of fun with adventure. The warm Arabian Gulf waters teemed with fish life, makes Dubai an ideal place for beginners and professional anglers alike.

Aquaventure Dubai

Aquaventure is one of the most important and superb attractions in Dubai, and is the right place for adventurous souls. It is easily accessible, and is located in the Atlantis, The Palm Hotel and Resort, on the outer rim of the well-known Palm Jumeirah Island.

Wild Wadi Water Theme Park

It's wet! It's wild! It's Wild Wadi - the wildest waterpark ever! It's 12 acres of pure fun with 23 adrenalin-pumping rides and attractions that leave you gasping for more. Situated between Burj Al Arab and The Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, it's just a 20-minute drive from the city centre. Get there and go wild!

Wonderland Theme Park Dubai

A huge indoor air-conditioned centre with over 100 rides, arcade games, video games and a whole lot more. There's also a place for mum and dad to sit and relax whilst enjoying a tasty meal from Mithu's Nest café which is situated inside the centre.

Places to visit in Umm Al Quwain

It is said that Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) is the best place in the world for people who enjoy sounds of waves and peace. Sailing in the calm water of lagoon offers best and most interesting sailing in the Northern Emirates.

Places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah

Located along the northern end of UAE’s Persian Gulf Coast, the Ras Al Khaimah emirate is located between the Arabian Gulf and Hajar Mountains. Covering a coastline of 27miles, including tranquil lagoons and golden sand beaches, it also shares the mountainous borders of Oman.

Places to visit in Fujairah

Fujairah, one of the seven emirates constituting the UAE, is a popular tourist destination. Fujairah is the only emirate that lies to the eastern end of the UAE, along with Gulf of Oman, while the other six emirates are located along the Arabian Gulf.