Dubai’s fame is growing due to its large-scale construction projects, from the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa) to man-made islands and some of the biggest shopping malls in the world. The city also attracts attention for its luxury hotels and gastronomy scene. However, there is much more to Dubai than its shiny, glamorous façade.
The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures, which can be seen in its food and architecture. From street food to fine dining, and from traditional souks to modern shopping malls, Dubai has it all. In fact, some of the best restaurants in the world can be found here.
In terms of cuisine, the city is famous for its Persian Gulf seafood, but it also offers an array of international options. The Dubai Mall is home to many high-end restaurants including a Cheesecake Factory, Five Guys, and Laduree. Besides the restaurants, the mall also has a number of high-end fashion brands like GAP, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
Those who enjoy a spot of retail therapy can head to the City Walk, which is a buzzing outdoor mall that features an array of luxury designer stores and eateries. The Dubai Marina is another popular area to go shopping. This waterfront district is lined with upscale shops and luxury hotels, as well as several public parks.
The southwestern part of Dubai is characterized by small stretches of sandy beaches that have helped catalyze the city’s tourism industry. Historically, the region was a center of pearl diving and trade. Despite the sluggish global economy, Dubai continues to thrive as an economic hub and has become one of the most important tourist destinations in the Middle East.
This emirate is also a major oil producer, but its oil wealth is not the foundation of the local economy. Trade remains at the core of the economy, with two of the world’s largest ports and a busy international air cargo hub. The Jebel Ali free-trade zone was established in the 1980s to attract industrial investment; activities based there include aluminum smelting and car manufacturing.
As a result, there are many opportunities for foreign investors to find employment in the UAE. However, the labour market is challenging; wages are relatively low and expatriate workers have few rights. In addition, the government has a zero-tolerance drug policy. Trafficking, smuggling and possession of illegal drugs are punishable by prison and heavy fines.
Dubai is also a paradise for children, with its countless theme and water parks. The most renowned is Aquaventure, which is attached to the luxurious Atlantis resort. The park features hundreds of slides, some of which are even underwater and run through the aquarium’s shark tank.