Dubai
Lying on the southern
shores of the Gulf, Dubai is the second largest of the seven emirates which
make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
and ranks as the country's leading commercial centre. Abu Dhabi, which is
the federal capital, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah
are the other six emirates. Situated on the banks of the Dubai Creek, a natural
inlet from the Gulf, which divides the city into the Deira district to its
north, and Bur Dubai on its south, the city also ranks as the UAE's most important
port and commercial centre. Located at the crossroads between East and West,
the emirate's long-standing trading tradition has for centuries brought visitors
from throughout the Middle East and neighbouring regions.
Today, Dubai plays host to an increasing number of visitors from all over
the world. The city attracts travellers seeking something new and different,
offering international facilities combined with the adventure of the Middle
East - an exotic
destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle. The Ruler's office, together with
many head offices of major companies, Port Rashid, the Dubai World Trade Centre,
customs, broadcasting stations and the postal authority are all situated in
Bur Dubai. Deira is a thriving commercial centre containing a huge range of
retail outlets, markets, hotels and the Dubai International Airport. Bur Dubai
and Deira are linked by Al Maktoum and Al Garhoud bridges, as well as Al Shindagha
tunnel which passes under the Creek.
As well as being a commercial and shipping hub, Dubai is a popular destination
for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous desert experience, exciting nightlife
or a weekend away to shop in the electronics and gold markets. Dubai has beautiful
white beaches, clear blue sea, top class international hotels, and many fine
and varied restaurants.
Dubai,
the UAE and Economic Policy
With the exception of foreign policy and defence, each emirate enjoys considerable
autonomy in managing its own affairs. The local government of Dubai is committed
to liberal, free market policies and to the creation of a business environment
conducive to commercial activity. This approach is well illustrated by the
incentives available to investors in the Jebel Ali and Airport Free Zones
and by the continuing high level of public sector investment in the infrastructure.
Special
Fascinations
Dubai offers the visitor a fascinating kaleidoscope of contrasts - a distinctive
blend of modern city and timeless desert, East and West, old and new. An exotic
destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Dubai combines the comfort and
convenience of the western world with the unique charm and hospitality of
Arabia. Dubai offers superb facilities for sports and recreation, from golf
and water sports to desert safaris, dhow cruises, and sunshine, clean and
uncrowded beaches.
Shopping
One of Dubai’s greatest attractions for visitors is its superb shopping,
which is an integral part of life in Dubai. Being an open port with low
import duties and no taxation, the city offers unbeatable value. Most major
brand name products are readily available, and are often less expensive
in Dubai than in their country of origin.
Modern shopping malls are conveniently located throughout the city.
Local markets, Bazaars and souk shopping can be entertaining as well as
profitable. The sheer variety of goods available in the winding alleys is
bewildering, from gold and the latest in electronics, cameras and wrist
watches to spices, silks, household appliances and sports goods. Dubai’s
major shopping areas include Al Rigga Road, Al Karama, Al Dhiyafa Road and
Bani Yas Square.
Some of the more popular shopping areas are listed below:
| Gold
Souk |
One
of the largest retail gold markets in the world
|
| Deira Old
Souk |
Specializes
in spices though a variety of other goods are available
|
| Al Sabkha
Souk |
Known for competitive
prices on electronics
|
| Al Karama |
Offers excellent
prices on clothing, toys, accessories and furniture
|
| Deira Covered
Souk |
Textile market |
Sports
Consolidating its reputation as a commercial hub, Dubai is also known as the
sporting capital of the Middle East and is host to a variety of international
sporting events including chess, snooker, sailing, tennis, powerboat racing
and horse racing. For the visitor, Dubai offers a wide range of sporting facilities
from golfing to horse riding and jet skiing.
| Al
Boom Tourist Village |
This
village designed in traditional architectural style has a number
of restaurants, an amusement park and a marina
|
| Dubai
Creek |
Natural
water inlet cutting through the centre of the city
|
| Dubai
Museum |
Located
within the walls of the Al Fahidi fort which was built around 1787
|
| Dubai
Zoo
|
Dubai
Zoo houses many Arabian animals in their native habitats and is
a member of the World Zoo Organisation which ensures that it meets
all international standards
|
| Hatta |
A
mountain resort converted from the ruins of an ancient fort
|
| Sheikh
Saeed Al Maktoum House |
Built
in the late 1800's, this restored palace is situated at the mouth
of the creek
|
| Wonderland |
Well
known family fun park with a wide variety of water attractions |
