INTRODUCTION
Dubai is one of the seven states that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE); it is located in the Middle East. The UAE borders the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf and is situated between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 by the then ‘Trucial States’ after their independence from Britain.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Oil was first discovered in the United Arab Emirates in the 1950s, before that the country’s economy was built on fishing and pearling, since 1962, when Abu Dhabi became the first of the emirates to begin exporting the oil, the country’s economy has been completely transformed.

The UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers, the council is made up of the seven emirs and they appoint the prime minister and the cabinet for the country. Despite being ultimately ruled by the Supreme Council, as with the other six states, Dubai maintains a large degree of autonomy from the UAE when it comes to general decision making for the city’s development.
Sheikh Zayed, who has been the president of the UAE since its inception, quickly understood the economic potential for the country from the oil industry. He has continued to ensure that each of the emirates benefits from the oil generated wealth, he has insisted on the reinvestment of oil revenues into the healthcare system, the education system and the general national infrastructure.
The climate in Dubai is sub-tropical and arid or desert like. The city enjoys almost year round sunny blue skies. Rain is infrequent and if it does fall, it falls in the winter. Temperatures range from lows of 10C to extreme summer highs of 48C. The average maximum daily temperature in January is 24C and the average maximum daily temperature in July is 41C when humidity is very high.
The development of the oil industry has led to a large influx of foreign workers to the UAE, in fact Dubai’s population is the fastest growing in the world and the foreign population makes up about three quarters of the entire UAE population! As a direct result of this fact the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs tolerated. Dubai has also been quick to understand the need for diversification. Oil in the region is only projected to last for about 30 years and so Dubai has successfully embarked upon a major diversification program aimed to at developing industries and commercial enterprises to take the place of oil as the predominate commodity of the state’s economy.

DUBAI - THE CITY
The experiences and attractions available in Dubai are many and varied. From the miles of immaculate beautiful white sandy beaches to the richly exotic Arabian heritage, from the awe inspiring majesty of the desert to the lively international bars, restaurants and nightclubs - a visitor to Dubai is guaranteed an incredible, never to be forgotten experience.

Dubai is recognised as the commercial and tourism capital of the UAE and is globally regarded as one of the most sophisticated, futuristic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, in fact Dubai is something of a phenomenon! It is an Arab Muslim society with the fastest growing foreign population in the world, and it has successfully developed harmony through ethnic diversity. It is a city with unrivalled levels of economic energy and architectural ambition, a unique city of contrasts where the most modern and architecturally stunning skyscrapers stand alongside traditional beautiful Arabic structures.

In 2003 Dubai was voted safest holiday destination in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine, and in fact Dubai is recognised globally as one of the safest cities in the world. Living in Dubai you will find that it is virtually crime-free with the Dubai police ensuring personal safety and security. Anyone found guilty of committing a serious crime will be severely punished. Alcohol and drug related offences are considered serious.

The economy of the city of Dubai is a mainly service-driven economy, with every business amenity from banking to telecommunications offered. International trading and industrialisation are actively encouraged through the provision of favourable taxation advantages, offshore status, specialist free trade zones etc. Recent innovative projects in the city include the foundation of Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, bringing 21st century technology to Dubai in the world’s very first ‘Free Zone’ wholly dedicated to e-business.

SIGHTSEEING

A relatively new tourist destination, Dubai has gained in popularity in the recent years. It is essentially a desert city with superb infrastructure, liberal policies and excellent tourist amenities. Just 5 hrs from Europe and 3 hrs from most parts of Asia, Dubai makes a great short break for shopping, partying, sunbathing, fine dining, sporting events, and even a few sinful pleasures. It is a city of superlatives: for the fastest, biggest, tallest, largest and highest, Dubai is the destination.

The weekly day off is on Friday. Government departments are off on Friday and Saturday while a lot of multi-nationals are off on Friday and Saturday. Most local companies work a half day on Thursday. Note that, Since September 2006, a harmonised weekend of Friday and Saturday adopted for the public sector and schools. It is not yet certain how


Bastakiya District
The historic home to many reconstructed buildings in the traditional style. While information on the structures is slim here (see the museum in preference), the atmosphere is very evocative.

Burj al-Arab hotel
For a real glimpse into "how the other half lives", (self-proclaimed as the only 7 star hotel in the world, however is actually a 5 star deluxe hotel, with a unique shape of a boat's sail) afternoon tea, or cocktails, may be an interesting experience. Entry to the hotel requires a reservation which will be confirmed at the entry gate although residents of adjacent Jumeirah hotels may be able to visit by arrangement. Other tourists may occasionally be able to book tours of the hotel itself, however these will not run when the hotel is full. A "very smart casual" dress code applies.Dubai

Museum
Al Ibn Abi Talib Road, ph: +971 (4) 353-1862. A must-see for anyone interested in the social history of the Emirate (and indeed the country). The centrepiece of the museum is a reconstructed souq from the pearling days, complete with authentic sights and sounds. There is also a considerable focus on the speed at which the transition from poor pearling village to modern metropolis occurred. Admission 3AED.

Dubai Zoo
Jumeirah Road. An outdoor zoo near to the beach. Considering the extreme temperatures during the summer months, there are plans bring the zoo indoors. Admission 3AED.

Gold Souq
Deira. One of the more startling sights in the city, even for those not interested in making a purchase. Most of the gold is 22ct quality (although in some shops this is a veneer placed on lesser metals) and quite expensive - although even here the shopkeepers are prepared to bargain - and the craftsmanship can be remarkably detailed. The gold items are sold by weight with a "making charge" added on top to cover the workmanship. It pays, therefore, to go shopping armed with the current gold price and a knowledge of the making charges in order to hone the bargaining process. Most visitors here can expect to be offered "copy watches" as well, often by very persistent hawkers.

Ibn Battuta Mall
Commissioned in early 2005 this mall is worth visiting less for the shopping it offers and more for the architectural ambience created in its six courts designed according to the traditional architecture of China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia and Andalusia

Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 ( opposite Palm Strip Mall ). Generally considered to be one of the more attractive mosques in the region, as well as one of the few which are open to non-Muslims for tours. Tours run on Thursdays and are followed by a question-and-answer session about Islam for those who want to know more.

Mall of the Emirates
Home to what is currently the world's largest indoor ski slope. Guests at the nearby hotel have free ski passes and clothing hire, while other visitors need to purchase these.


Shopping : Dubai is a shopper's paradise. Shops open as early as 9 am and stay open to 11 pm. There are innumerable shopping centers and malls around town to keep any shopper happy!

Entertainment : As Dubai has grown from a small town into a bustling city, so has the entertainment. There are many music and sport events through out the year. Dubai also has a Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Summer Surprises to entertain visitors and residents. Most 3-5 star hotels have bars and nightclubs for those interested in the nightlife. World-class DJ's frequent Dubai's nightclubs, and many A-list musical celebrities are adding Dubai to their list of tour dates.

Beaches and sea : There are endless water-sport opportunities as Dubai has some of the whitest and sandiest beaches in the world. Ocean temperatures range from 22 in winter up to 35 degrees Celsius in summer, meaning you might as well forget a hotel and bathe in the ocean. Very salty though. Diving activities have been severely affected by offshore construction work for the Palms and The World; consequently, long boat trips are necessary to reach wreck sites. Alternatively, one can make the 90 minute road journey to the East coast Emirate of Fujairah or the Sharjah enclave, Khor Fakkan, for top class diving on coral reefs supporting extensive marine life.

Desert Safari or Dune Bashing : Head out to the desert in an SUV with specialist Desert Drivers. The drivers will take you for a roller-coaster ride over sand dunes, show you the sunset from a strategic vantage point and then take you to a lavish dinner with music and dance to complete the atmosphere. For a brief while you would experience what it is like to be a Sheikh! Not to be missed!

Sking : Dubai now has its own snow skiing centre. Located in the new Mall of the Emirates (MOE), on the Sheikh Zayed Road, it offers both skiing and snowboarding. The slope is quite large for an indoor area. All equipment is available for hire and a 2 hour package typically costs Dhs140. You must take warm clothing since it is well below freezing inside. More here

Wild Wadi : Located in the heart of the city, next to Jumeriah Beach Hotel, this is a water amusement park that is loved by kids as well as adults. It has light as well as adventurous rides; and sports like water surfing. A great way to beat the heat and enjoy the day away from the bustle of the city.

Dubai Creek : Cruise/Ride The Dubai creek is the foundation from which Dubai grew. It originally served as a port for trading vessels plying to and from India, Africa and the Middle East. Today a bit of the old shipping culture still remains. In and around the creek one can see some of the original buildings that have served as customs houses and defence structures. You can book a ride on the creek with a dinner cruise or even rent a private boat to take you on a hour long ride up and down the creek.

Golf : It may be a desert, but a lot of money and water is spent on irrigating opulent golf courses. Alternatively, for a more local flavor, try sand golf !

COMING SOON

Attractions and Experience World
A family World of theme and water parks, roller coasters and adventure, the Attractions and Experience World will feature a critical mass of themed, large-scale attractions, using the latest technology for thrills and safety. Based on the example of successful destinations worldwide, its largest theme park will act as an anchor, attracting visitors and encouraging the growth of visits to other attractions within the World, and Dubailand as a whole.

The Attractions and Experience World will cover approximately 145 million square feet, with an investment of AED 6.8 billion and will contain a total of 14 projects (Pharaohs Theme Park, Giants World, Kids World, Global Village, Space & Science World, Space Hotel, Tourism Park, Film World, Desert World Theme Park, Snow World, Aviation World, Water Park, The Castles, Arabian Theme Park)

Sports and Outdoor World
A high energy world of heroes and champions, the Sports and Outdoor World will include a mix of sporting venues that will incorporate a dynamic program of international rugby, cricket and other sports tournaments as well as extreme sports activities. When completed, it will be ideally positioned to become a prime warm weather training facility for professional sports teams and will appeal to a broad mix of markets.

The Sports and Outdoor World will cover approximately 206 million square feet, with an investment of AED 2.5 billion and will contain a total of 5 projects (Extreme Sports World, Dubai Sports City, Racing World, Polo World, Golf World). The already completed Dubai Autodrome and Business Park race track will be a part of the Sports and Outdoor World .

Eco - Tourism World
A natural world marvelling at the beauty of our planet, the Eco-Tourism World will comprise a series of nature and desert-based attractions integrated within their desert parkland surrounds. Its experiential and cultural activities will have broad appeal and its vast number of exquisite and unique offerings will no doubt encourage long-stays and repeat visits.

The Eco-Tourism World will cover approximately 806 million square feet, with an investment of AED 4.2 billion and will contain a total of 12 projects (Petting Zoo, Animal World, Equestrian Centre, Light & Sound World, Gardens World, Dinosaur World, Science and History Museum, Bio World, Sand Dune Hotel, Sandstone Villas, Camp World, Desert Safari)

Themed Leisure and Vacation World
A relaxing world of spas, health and well-being, the Themed Leisure and Vacation World will consist of appealing retreats designed to respond to the growing international demand for quality vacation village residences,resort hotels and wellness retreats. It will include several fitness and stress-management focused facilities and will offer unique creative concepts, such as themed resorts, providing visitors a chance to experience faraway exotic locales without leaving Dubailand.

The Themed Leisure and Vacation World will cover approximately 311 million square feet, with an investment of AED 3.6 billion and will contain a total of 4 projects (Andalusian Resort & Spa, Women's World, Wonders World, Holiday World)

Retail and Entertainment World
As shopping is one of the essential activities undertaken by tourists on vacation, the Retail and Entertainment World will provide a critical mass of retail facilities providing a wide variety of global brands but also unique boutiques and discount stores, all within the biggest mall in the world - the Mall of Arabia. Entertainment and dining facilities will complement the retail facilities through encouraging tourists to extend the length of their stay at Dubailand, thereby creating further opportunities for purchases.

The Retail and Entertainment World will cover approximately 46 million square feet, with an investment of AED 2.4 billion and will contain a total of 5 projects (Mall of Arabia, Factory Outlets, Auction World, World Trade Park, The Flea Market)

Downtown
A vibrant mix of entertainment and eating out, Downtown will be a mixed destination offering a variety of retail, dining and entertainment facilities. It will feature popular family entertainment components with cross-generational appeal such as cinemas, bowling, street entertainment, computer-based games centres, themed restaurants and nightclubs. Downtown's multitude of day and night activities will encourage overnight stays and spending at Dubailand.

The Downtown will cover approximately 6 million square feet, with an investment of AED 2.4 billion and will contain a total of 4 projects (The Towers, Dubai Walk, Virtual Games World, Teen World)

Dubailand - Regions
Though Dubai Land has various themed areas scattered throughout its development, many themed area clusters are grouped into regions which include the Falcon City of Wonders , City of Arabia , Dubai Sports City , Dubai Heritage Vision, Dubai Sunny Mountain Ski Resort (Ski Dome) , Aqua World, Arabian Legends, Al Emarat Sports World, and the Plantation Equestrian and Polo Club. Dubailand will ideally be located along the Emirates Ring Road, which will provide easy access to it from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai and Sharjah. It will be located 60 minutes from Abu Dhabi, 10 minutes from the Dubai Airport, and 20 minutes from Sharjah.