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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
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Travel Tips in Dubai United Arab Emirates!
