Dubai, a city in the United Arab Emirates, is known for its skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, such as the world’s highest tower, Burj Khalifa. Dubai’s economy is primarily driven by trade and tourism, but it has also invested heavily in aviation, real estate, and financial services. It has a well-developed infrastructure and is renowned for its luxury hotels, shopping centers, and sporting events. It is a popular destination for visitors from the Middle East, India, and China.
Dubai is a major financial center, and its government encourages foreign investment. It has also established free trade zones to attract manufacturing and services industries, including Jebel Ali. Its large ports and airports provide important trade links. Its government provides generous tax breaks for businesses and investors. In addition, its low-income residents pay no income taxes and have access to state healthcare facilities.
While many Westerners visit Dubai for short luxury vacations, the emirate has much more to offer than just opulent accommodations and exotic culture. The city is a center of innovation, home to several groundbreaking large construction projects. It has also attracted global attention for its sports events, such as the 2020 FIFA World Cup.
In addition to its large and sophisticated port facilities, Dubai has developed luxury hotels and diversified into exhibitions, events, ICT, re-export, and financial services. Its proximity to the Gulf and its history as a regional entrepot have helped to establish its reputation. In the 1990s, it began positioning itself as a luxury tourist destination and spending a substantial percentage of its GDP on grandiose resorts and attractions.
Most of the emirate’s population lives in the metropolitan area of Dubai, which encompasses 13.5 square miles (35 square kilometers). The city of Dubai is served by the Dubai Metro, which has two lines and 49 stations. A monorail runs between the city and the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah.
A major tourist attraction is Dubai Mall, a massive complex of shopping, dining, and entertainment. It is a flagship project of the city’s plan to become a global commerce and cultural hub. The mall’s architecture is inspired by traditional Islamic design, but the interiors are a striking blend of modern technology and traditional elements.
The Arabian Peninsula’s first urban train network opened in 2016, and the fully automated and driverless trains connect the city center with the emirate’s outer suburbs.
To enter Dubai, American citizens need a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of departure and proof of return transportation. They must also pass a health screening. If they have been exposed to the Coronavirus, which causes coronavirus disease, they must present a medical certificate showing that they are in recovery. Those who have traveled to the Middle East or North Africa are at greater risk of contracting the disease. The CDC recommends that travelers receive vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, hepatitis C, and diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It is also recommended that travelers protect themselves from insect bites.