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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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