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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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