Dubai
The Arab world is home to numerous distinguished and advanced cities, each featuring a blend of modern and historical landmarks that attract millions of tourists annually. Among the most notable cities, both in the Arab region and worldwide, is Dubai, located in the United Arab Emirates.
Dubai is renowned for its remarkable harmony of diverse cultures and civilizations, seamlessly merging contemporary Western influences with the ancient richness of Arab Islamic heritage. In this article, we will explore Dubai in detail, including its location, population, and the prominent tourist attractions that contribute to its reputation as the most beautiful city in the Arab world.
Location of Dubai
Dubai ranks as the second largest city in the United Arab Emirates, following Abu Dhabi. It was established in 1833 when a group of settlers from the Bani Yas tribe led by the Al Maktoum family settled near a natural harbor area, which they utilized for fishing and trade. Located on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai spans an area of approximately 4,000 square kilometers and is home to around 2.2 million residents.
Major Tourist Attractions in Dubai
The discovery of oil in Dubai in 1966 marked a significant transformation for the city, leading to substantial investments in infrastructure development and the creation of new districts alongside the renovation of its historical buildings. Today, Dubai features several major tourist attractions that have become modern symbols and focal points for visitors from around the globe:
- Burj Khalifa: The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at 828 meters. It boasts numerous residential units and upscale restaurants, offering breathtaking views from its observation decks. The Burj attracts millions of tourists every year, especially during New Year’s celebrations, where an impressive display of music-synchronized fountains and fireworks illuminates the Dubai skyline.
- Hotels: Notable among the renowned hotels is the Atlantis, which exemplifies exceptional luxury and service with an array of top-tier amenities. It features underwater rooms that provide stunning views of marine life. Another iconic establishment is the Burj Al Arab, designed to resemble a sail, recognized globally as a seven-star hotel.
- The Dubai Mall: Known as the largest shopping mall in the world, the Dubai Mall offers a vast selection of retail stores and high-fashion outlets and serves as a premier destination for shoppers and tourists alike.
- The Palm Islands: Classified as one of the wonders of the 21st century, the Palm Islands are ingeniously constructed in the sea, shaped like palm trees. They host numerous hotels, lagoons, spacious pools, and underwater tunnels, allowing visitors to observe marine life up close, as well as various diving centers.