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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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