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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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