Overview of Dubai

Dubai is unlike any other city in the world at present. It is a rapidly expanding, diverse and affluent metropolis. A cultural cross-roads where east meets west, and the old and new come together in one place to create a truly unique city. With its state of the art telecommunications networks, positive business initiatives and a tolerant multicultural society, nothing is impossible in Dubai. Whether it be expanding of the emirate's coastline with the magnificent Palms and Waterfront projects, or setting up one of the world's best airlines in only 15 years to improve global connections, modern Dubai has met with success in all it has set out to achieve.

Originally a small fishing settlement, Dubai has continued to advance in its wealth, trading knowledge and locational advantages afforded it over the centuries. It was taken over by the Maktoum Family during the 1830’s, and the Family still rules the emirate to this day. From its beginnings in the pearl diving trade, Dubai has always been a significant business outpost, with its location bringing a fusion of Arab, Indian and Persian influences and it is now taking full advantage of its close proximity to the European, African and Asian continents.

Dubai is the one of seven emirates that makes up the UAE, and is the second largest after the country's capital Abu Dhabi. For Dubai, unlike the other emirates and most of its middle-eastern neighbours, oil revenue only accounts for 6% of its Gross Domestic product. Dubai has managed to attract the world’s attention through audacious and innovative real estate projects, world class events and sporting enterprises, not to mention a booming tourist trade.

Dubai is a stress free destination. Crime is low, it has year round sunshine, rarely rains, and English is widely spoken along side Arabic. Obtaining a visit visa is simple, with 33 nations from Europe, North America and Asia simply having a visa stamped in their passport on arrival in Dubai at no cost.

The Government of Dubai has demonstrated its commitment to providing a modern transport infrastructure, with a comprehensive road network, communication facilities, and a state of the art airport which has won numerous awards, including most recently, best airport in the world awarded by Conde Nast. To complement these facilities, a Monorail system is planned for 2008.

Superb shopping, sports and entertainment facilities are on offer, and Dubai boasts some of the world’s best hotels. Alcohol is widely available in Dubai’s wide range of bars and nightclubs, and there are numerous restaurants catering to all varieties of cuisine. An array of sport and leisure activities are available, be it scuba diving, sailing, football, tennis, golf or horse riding and much more. Dubai is the city that has it all.