Dubai shines as the star of the United Arab Emirates. People call it Dubai City, blending modern luxury with deep traditions. The city leads globally in tourism, business, and culture. It showcases record-breaking skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa. Visitors enjoy pristine beaches, bustling souks, and advanced infrastructure. The golden city positions itself as a must-visit destination worldwide.
It covers 4,100 square kilometres, ranking among the smaller but most influential emirates. Sweeping deserts, golden dunes, and a stunning Persian Gulf coastline dominate its landscape. The inland terrain stays arid and flat, with acacia and ghaf trees scattered widely. This city of gold features artificial islands like Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands, redefining land reclamation. Deira Creek, a natural inlet, historically split the city into Deira and Bur Dubai.
The Dubai United Arab Emirates hosts diverse communities, with Emiratis as natives and expatriates forming 85–90%. The city embraces multiculturalism, where people from South Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa coexist. Emiratis proudly preserve traditions, upholding values of hospitality, respect, and cultural heritage. Festivals like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Dubai National Day unite communities in joy. People celebrate with artistic performances, vibrant fireworks, and delicious traditional cuisine.
Dubai’s economy transformed rapidly over the past 50 years. Fishing and pearl diving once sustained the golden city. Oil discoveries in the mid-20th century reshaped the emirate’s future. Today, oil contributes less than 1% to GDP. Tourism, trade, aviation, and finance drive the economy now. This golden city has built itself into a global business hub. DIFC, Jebel Ali Free Zone, and Internet City attract global companies. DXB Airport ranks among the world’s busiest. It connects the city with more than 200 destinations. Tourism forms another vital economic pillar. Millions visit attractions like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah. Luxury resorts attract travellers seeking exclusive experiences. Desert safaris, shopping, and festivals keep it vibrant year-round.
Some mistakenly call it the Dubai state, but the emirate belongs to the United Arab Emirates. The UAE unites seven emirates, and each emirate’s monarch rules independently. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum leads it as Ruler and Prime Minister. The government promotes innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification across the emirate. Its Vision 2040 plan advances innovative city projects and green energy development. The plan also aims to make this city among the world’s most livable places. Islamic traditions guide its society, yet the town embraces modern and liberal practices. It balances cultural heritage with modern innovation to attract people worldwide.
Here, its cultural life blends heritage with modern innovation. Visitors explore Al Fahidi Historical District, the Dubai Museum, and souks selling gold, spices, and textiles. World-class opera houses, art galleries, and film festivals enrich its cultural vibrancy. Sports play a vital role in its identity. Camel racing, falconry, and dhow sailing preserve Emirati traditions. Golf, cricket, and Formula 1 boost the city's international sporting reputation. The Dubai Shopping Festival attracts millions with discounts, performances, and dazzling fireworks. Also, the food scene reflects global diversity. Michelin-starred restaurants impress with innovation and creativity. Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat highlight traditional culinary heritage. Lastly, its dining offers an experience blending flavours from around the world.
Its history spans thousands of years. Archaeologists discovered settlements from the third millennium BCE. People fished, dived for pearls, and traded along the Arabian Gulf. In the 19th century, it joined the Trucial States under British protection. Oil discoveries in the 1960s transformed its economy and infrastructure. Visionary leaders reduced dependence on oil. Today, this golden city thrives with skyscrapers, innovation, and prosperity. Its souks and desert traditions still preserve cultural roots.
The team curated this content using historical records, government publications, and updated insights. Researchers referenced the UAE Government Portal, Dubai Statistics Centre, and cultural archives. Editors regularly update the content to reflect the latest developments in this City of Gold. Writers revise the information to showcase changes within the state in the United Arab Emirates.
