Dubai: The Jewel of the Middle East

Dubai: The Jewel of the Middle East


October 11, 2023 | Allison Robertson

Dubai: The Jewel of the Middle East


Dubai: The Jewel of the Middle East 

Dubai selfie split image Dubai, a metropolis carved out of the Arabian desert, has risen as one of the world's most sought-after travel destinations. In 2019, before the pandemic impacted global travel, Dubai welcomed a record of 16.73 million international overnight visitors, making it one of the world's most visited cities.

Advertisement

An intersection of luxury, culture, and futuristic vision, this city in the United Arab Emirates is an epitome of how human ingenuity can transform landscapes. Here's why Dubai stands out as a traveler's dream.

Luxurious Lifestyle

Hotel in DubaiDelphotostock, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

Dubai is synonymous with opulence. With several 7-star hotels, such as the Burj Al Arab, and the globe’s highest infinity pool at Address Beach Resort, luxury in Dubai is not just an adjective but a lifestyle.

Dubai boasts over 100,000 hotel rooms spread across approximately 700 hotels. In 2019, hotel occupancy rate in the emirate was at an impressive 76%.

Popular Attractions

Burj Khalifa in DubaiRastislav Sedlak SK, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

Beyond luxury, Dubai is home to some world-renowned attractions like the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the Dubai Fountain with its dancing waters.

The Palm Jumeirah, a man-made archipelago, and the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden, showcase the city's penchant for the extraordinary.

Business and Real Estate

Dubai airportFour_Lakes, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

Dubai's ambitious vision has made it a hub for international business. The city has a burgeoning real estate market with iconic skyscrapers and ambitious projects, like the Museum of the Future, attracting investors globally.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) was the world's busiest airport by international passenger traffic in 2019, handling over 86.4 million passengers. It serves as a hub for Emirates Airlines, which connects Dubai to over 150 destinations worldwide.

Shopping Extravaganza

Indoor aquarium at dubai mallArcady, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

From the sprawling Dubai Mall, the world’s largest by total area, to the traditional Gold Souk, shopping in Dubai is a unique experience.

The Dubai Mall houses the mesmerizing Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and offers a captivating spectacle with its Dubai Fountain show, a harmonious dance of water, light, and music.

The annual Dubai Shopping Festival attracts tourists in droves with mind-boggling deals and showcases.

Pioneering Architecture

Cayan Tower in DubaiNextvoyage, Pexels

Advertisement

Dubai's skyline is a testament to architectural wonders, with buildings like the twisting Cayan Tower and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Music and Festivals

Opera house in dubaipierrick, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

The city regularly hosts global musicians and has an annual Dubai Jazz Festival which attracts international artists and enthusiasts alike.

The Dubai Opera, since its inauguration in 2016, has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to its various performances.

The Climate

Beach in dubaiThe Lazy Artist Gallery, Pexels

Advertisement

With over 300 sunny days a year, Dubai promises beach weather almost year-round, though the cooler months between November and March are the most tourist-friendly.

Safety

Beach in dubaiDenys Gromov, Pexels

Advertisement

Dubai is one of the safest cities globally. Strict laws and efficient governance mean crime rates are significantly low, with the city consistently ranking high in global safety indexes.

In the 2020 Numbeo Crime Index, Dubai was ranked as the 7th safest city in the world, making it a preferred destination for families and solo travelers alike.

Language and Religion

Mosque in DubaiShukhrat Umarov, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken given the expatriate population. Islam is the official religion, and the city exudes a deep cultural respect, making it essential for visitors to be mindful of local customs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

Also, with over 200 nationalities residing in Dubai, it's a melting pot of cultures, making it a familiar and comfortable travel destination for people from all corners of the globe.

Average Cost

Hotel in DubaiLina Kivaka, Pexels

Advertisement

A trip to Dubai can vary in cost. On average, a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $200 to $350 per day, including accommodations, dining, and entertainment.

However, costs can escalate if you indulge in luxury experiences.

Final Thoughts

Man in costume in dubaiEric Deine, Pexels

Advertisement

Dubai's meteoric rise on the global stage is not by accident. Its blend of luxury, innovation, and cultural heritage offers a unique experience for every traveler.

Whether you're looking to indulge in unmatched luxury, explore architectural marvels, or immerse yourself in a rich cultural tapestry, Dubai promises memories that last a lifetime. Given the statistics, it's no wonder that this desert gem continues to shine on the world's tourism map.


READ MORE

The Kalinago People

Discover the Kalinago people, also known as Island Caribs, who were historically known as fearsome warriors who protected their tribe using cannibalism as a fear tactic. Find out how they traditionally lived as hunter-gatherers and how many remain today.
May 13, 2024 Marlon Wright

Beach Lovers' Paradise: Where to Find the Warmest Ocean Waters

Discover the top beach destinations with the warmest waters around the world, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. From the crystal-clear lagoons of the Maldives to the vibrant shores of Cancun, dive into our guide to the most inviting and balmy beach escapes on the planet.
November 20, 2023 Sammy Tran

The Kawahiva: The Uncontacted Tribe Living in the Amazon Rainforest

Explore the world of the Kawahiva people, indigenous inhabitants of the Amazon rainforest. Discover their nomadic way of life, from temporary accommodations and innovative safety measures to the catastrophic challenges they face from unlawful logging. Learn about their culture, history, and the importance of preserving community in this in-depth article.
December 5, 2023 Allison Robertson
Sea Nomad Sama-Bajau

The “Underwater People” Nearing Extinction

The Sama-Bajau have lived as sea nomads for centuries, but their way of life is perilously close to extinction.
February 14, 2024 Dancy Mason
River Of Five Colors Internal

Caño Cristales: The River of Five Colors

Discover Colombia's River of Five Colors. Find out what makes this stunning natural phenomenon a liquid rainbow.
January 10, 2024 Allison Robertson

Abandoned Tourist Destinations

Explore the enigmatic world of once-bustling tourist spots that now lie eerily silent and neglected. Dive deep into the mysteries of abandoned destinations, and unravel their untold stories with us. From overgrown theme parks to desolate beaches, discover why these once-loved places have been forsaken by travelers and how the vestiges of their vibrant pasts still echo amidst the decay. Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s traverse these forgotten paths together through this intriguing article.
October 13, 2023 Sammy Tran