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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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