Once a small village on the lower Persian Gulf where pearl diving sustained the community in the early 19th century, Dubai transformed dramatically through trade and later colonial influence. Over time, it joined with six neighboring sheikhdoms to form the United Arab Emirates.
Burj Khalifa © OLGA SLOBODIANIUK |
DREAMSTIME.COM
Today Dubai is synonymous with superlatives: the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the tallest hotel (Gevora Hotel), one of the largest artificial islands (Palm Jumeirah) and one of the world’s biggest shopping centers (Dubai Mall). The city also boasts the largest dancing fountain, a renowned indoor ski slope, the extensive Miracle Garden and the opulent Burj Al Arab, often described as a seven-star hotel. These feats reflect Dubai’s ambition and its drive to stand out on the global stage.
No modern city has experienced such rapid growth in so short a time. Funded in part by oil wealth and guided by ambitious urban planning, Dubai aims to be the Middle East’s transportation and business hub. Its population is highly international—residents and visitors from more than 200 nationalities contribute to a vibrant cultural and culinary scene. Visitors can expect extremes: intense desert heat for much of the year alongside beaches where both bikinis and more conservative dress coexist. Ultra-modern skyscrapers sit side by side with shifting sand dunes, creating a city where tradition and innovation meet.
Agni Skafidas, CEO of OLAM in the Middle East and North Africa, which provides human resources services in the UAE, describes Dubai as “a place of mystery” where tradition and cutting-edge technology coexist. She highlights the city’s strategic location: within four hours’ flight you reach a third of the world’s population, and in eight hours, two-thirds. Skafidas cautions that business relationships take time to develop and often require patience and many meetings over coffee. She notes the city’s supportive environment for entrepreneurship, including programs that encourage women—particularly local women—to start businesses through grants and mentorship.
CHECKING IN WITH ANDREW MILLER
Startup marketer and consultant
You’ve worked with two of the largest startup exits in Dubai history. What makes Dubai a great destination for business travelers?
Dubai is well suited for business travelers thanks to plentiful serviced apartments and hotels and thoughtfully planned business districts. Industry clusters—such as Media City, Studio City and Healthcare City—make scheduling back-to-back meetings efficient. The city’s 24-hour energy and lively nightlife mean business travelers can combine work and leisure in a single day.
What’s new in terms of development and foreign investment?
Real estate demand has rebounded, leading to renewed development, even though some older projects remain unfinished. Foreign investment has long been a feature of Dubai’s economy and continues to flow into the market.
Why is Dubai thriving, and why do people travel to the city?
Dubai is seen as the region’s most stable and westernized city, making it a preferred choice for investors and business owners. Leisure tourism is also a major draw—visitors come for shopping, nightlife, sun and unique attractions.
What is on the horizon for Dubai?
Dubai’s pace of growth remains fast, driven by ambitious leadership and long-term plans. The city has demonstrated resilience through past economic cycles, making it an increasingly attractive place for investment.
Dubai wants to be the market link between East and West. Is that happening?
Yes. Many leading technology, media and communications firms maintain offices in Dubai. The city has positioned itself as the most modernized, safe and business-friendly urban center in the Middle East, serving as a regional hub for commerce and innovation.
Dubai Fountain as seen from Burj Khalifa © TYPHOONSKI | DREAMSTIME.COM
Things to Do in Dubai
The Burj Khalifa soars more than 160 stories and anchors Dubai’s skyline. It is a global landmark and a must-see for visitors. Book tickets to the observation deck on level 124 for panoramic views, and if time allows, go higher to the At the Top SKY Lounge on the 148th floor for the city’s highest outdoor vantage point. Visiting at night offers a completely different and memorable perspective. At ground level, explore the Dubai Mall and watch the Dubai Fountain show.
Burj Al Arab hotel © SUBBOTINA | DREAMSTIME.COM
Palm Jumeirah, designed in the shape of a palm tree, is one of the world’s largest man-made islands and home to many luxury hotels and high-end residences. Palm Jumeirah and nearby areas feature a range of five-star resorts, including the Waldorf Astoria and One&Only. The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab remains an iconic symbol of Dubai and represents the city’s affinity for striking architecture; it offers an extravagant luxury experience to match its reputation.
Adjacent to the Burj Al Arab is Madinat Jumeirah, a complex with several upscale hotels and more than 50 restaurants, bars and lounges. Its waterways and traditional abra boats create a charming “mini Dubai” atmosphere, and the complex includes a souk offering a more traditional shopping experience.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah © OLEG ZHUKOV | DREAMSTIME.COM
No visit to Dubai is complete without experiencing the Arabian Desert. Luxury desert resorts, like Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, offer a taste of Bedouin heritage with upscale amenities. Activities range from camel treks and desert safaris to signature spa treatments and nights under the stars, allowing visitors to appreciate the desert’s shifting landscapes in comfort.
Dubai: Just the Facts
Time zone: GMT +4
Phone code: Country code: 971; City code: 4
Currency: United Arab Emirates dirham
Key industries: Construction, oil and gas, financial services, real estate, health care, security, transportation, tourism and energy
Dubai Info to Go
Dubai International Airport is a major aviation hub and one of the world’s busiest airports by passenger traffic, serving tens of millions of travelers annually and offering connections to more than 260 destinations worldwide.
Ground transportation from the airport includes metered taxis operated by Dubai Transport, which are plentiful and reasonably priced; an airport surcharge applies, and final fares depend on destination. RTA airport buses run regularly to central areas such as Deira and Bur Dubai. During busy periods, the Dubai Metro is an efficient alternative, with stations at Terminals 1 and 3.
COMING AND GOING
U.S. citizens need a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and used for business and tourism.
Where to Stay in Dubai
ONE&ONLY THE PALM DUBAI — An intimate beachfront resort on Palm Jumeirah with panoramic views, private beach access and high-end dining. West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah $$$$
RODA AL BUSTAN — A five-star property near Dubai Airport combining modern comfort with Arabian charm across rooms, suites and executive accommodations. Casablanca Road, Al Garhoud $$$$
WALDORF ASTORIA DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH — Located on Palm Jumeirah, this luxury hotel offers contemporary rooms, signature bedding and panoramic Gulf views with a private beach. Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah $$$$
Restaurants in Dubai
AL HADHEERAH — Traditional Arabian cuisine with multiple live cooking stations at Bab Al Shams Resort; evening entertainment includes dancers and cultural performances. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Al Qudra Road $$$$$
JW’S STEAKHOUSE — An award-winning steakhouse known for its steaks, seafood and extensive wine list; reservations are recommended. JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, Abu Baker Al Siddique Road, Deira $$$$
SEVEN SANDS — Showcasing authentic Emirati dishes from the seven emirates, Seven Sands is located at The Beach opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence. Shop No. 5102, The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina $$$