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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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