Dubai City Guide: Attractions, Lifestyle & Business Hub
Dubai is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world today. Although it has only been around for less than a century, the city has already earned itself a reputation as one of the most progressive and affluent places to live. The emirate’s thriving economy and well-developed infrastructure have made it an ideal location for numerous businesses and organizations. This rapid growth has also attracted many people worldwide, who have flocked to this new paradise to make their homes. If you are considering visiting Dubai anytime soon, you’ll need to brush up on some basic knowledge about this exciting city before setting off on your adventure. Fortunately, we’ve pulled together some essential details about this fascinating city so you can confidently plan your trip! Here are ten things you need to know about Dubai before you travel there:
Dubai: The Basics You Need to Know
When planning your trip to the UAE, you’ll have to do basic research on the city you plan to visit. This will help you plan your trip better and allow you to make the most of your time in the country. Here are some basics you need to know about Dubai before you go: - Dubai is the largest metropolis in the United Arab Emirates. It is located on the Arabian Peninsula, east of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. With a population of over 3.5 million, Dubai is ranked as one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. - Dubai is a multicultural city. It has a cosmopolitan population with a mix of people from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. It is also a very religious city, with more than 90% of the population being Muslim. It is home to the tallest mosque in the world, the largest church in the Middle East, the largest Hindu temple, and the largest Buddhist temple in the region. - The city’s name translates to “The New Capital” in Arabic and Persian. Since Dubai is the country’s largest metropolis, the city wants to be the capital of the future Arab world.
Arabic and Persian Language Are Official Languages
Although English is the most commonly used language in Dubai, you will find that many people also speak Arabic and Persian as their first language. You will find a wide range of people from all over these countries living in Dubai, and you may even come across people who speak Arabic as their native language and Persian as their second language! Arabic and Persian are the official languages of Dubai, and you can find many signs, banners, and advertisements written in both languages. It’s worth noting that speaking any language other than Arabic or Persian in public places in the city is illegal.
Dubai is a City-State
Unlike other countries, you can’t travel to Dubai by plane. Instead, you have to arrive in the city by boat. This is because Dubai is a city-state and not a country. This means Dubai has its ruler, government, and laws but no international border. The city of Dubai is a separate part of the UAE, but it is not part of the federal government. The ruler of Dubai, who is also the UAE’s president, is responsible for the city's administration. Dubai has its immigration department, police force, and courts. There is also a Dubai-controlled army that is only used for external defense purposes.
There are Different Time Zones in Dubai
Dubai is a vast city, with over three million people living there. This means there are three different time zones in Dubai, which is challenging for visitors. - The Dubai Standard Time is the central time zone in the city. You will find this time in most touristy areas and hotel rooms. - The Emirates Standard Time is the time in Dubai during which people in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country reckon their time as opposed to the western and northwestern parts. - The UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) is the timing used worldwide and is the same as what is used in the UAE.
It’s Illegal to Be Drunk in Public
Dubai is a very modern and progressive city, and the government has taken several measures to ensure that the city remains safe and secure. One of the most critical policies in this regard is the law that bans people from being drunk in public or consuming alcohol that is not bought from authorized vendors. Drunken or unruly behavior is not allowed in Dubai, and you may face severe penalties if you are found guilty of committing such an offense. Even if the authorities can’t see you doing anything illegal, it's illegal to be drunk in public.
Tipping Isn’t Necessary, but Always Welcome
The Dubai government does not require visitors to tip the wait staff, bartenders, and taxi drivers, as is the custom in many countries. If someone offers you a tip, you can accept it, but it’s not required. If you are looking for a way to show appreciation for the people who have helped you while you are in the city, you can always tip them. For example, you may want to tip the taxi driver if they have taken you to your hotel.
A Few Safety Tips for Visitors to Dubai
One of the best things you can do to avoid getting into trouble while in Dubai is to ensure you always know where you are. You should always keep your hand on your wallet or purse and avoid taking random steps or entering any buildings. You should also never walk alone in isolated places, like parks or beaches, at night or if you are unfamiliar. For example, it may be better to take public transport if you need to go to the beach at night or if you want to go to a park or beach during the day.
Conclusion
Dubai is a city that is full of life, excitement, and opportunity. This city is constantly growing, expanding, and changing, and there are many opportunities for those who want to make their mark in the city. If you want a new adventure, experience, and city to call home, consider visiting Dubai. This bustling metropolis offers much, from world-class shopping and entertainment to breathtaking architecture and natural beauty. This is a city that is increasing, and it has a lot of exciting developments in the works for the future. From modern skyscrapers to stunning gated communities and waterfront developments, Dubai is one of the most dynamic cities in the world.
