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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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