Discover Dubai 2024: A Comprehensive Guide to the City's Marvels and Attractions

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai.

History of Dubai

1. Ancient History of Old Dubai

Today, it is hard to believe that this city of glory and modern luxury started out just as a tiny fishing village. Then, in the 1960s, the discovery of oil became the turning point for the development of the United Arab Emirates. That was the beginning of the rich history of Dubai. But even before that, Dubai has an impressive history in the field of development. Back to the early Minoan period, the place where Dubai lies now used to be a vast mangrove swamp, and by 3000 BCE, which is thought to be the Bronze Age, the swamp had dried up and then nomadic cattle herders were the first to settle in this area. Then, by 2500 BCE, they were the first to use the land successfully in agriculture by establishing a thriving date palm plantation. During the sixth century CE, Jumeirah, which is now home to beautiful beachside villas, had become a caravan station along the trade route linking Oman to what is now Iraq. By the 7th century C.E., Dubai became part of the first known Muslim dynasty, the Umayyad, which was a political and religious empire stretching from Spain to India with the Arabian Peninsula firmly in the centre. By this time, with increased trade routes, Dubai began to progress successfully through coastal industries such as pearl diving and fishing. But the profits from pearl diving had started to drop in the 20th century due to a lack of demand internationally, caused by two world wars and the effects these had on trade routes and global economies. 

2. Modern History of Dubai

Until the mid-20th century, Dubai’s economy relied heavily on fishing and pearl diving. Just then, Dubai struck oil in 1966. Oil changed everything, turned this sleepy town upside down and eventually transformed it into the megacity of luxury it is today. Shortly after this, Dubai changed its currency from the rupee to the riyal, which it still uses today. With the recent oil money, Sheikh Rashid began developing a modern and totally planned city and in 1971, the United Arab Emirates was formed with its shiny capital, Dubai. Dubai’s recent transformation into a “planned” city has led to an incredibly clean and totally glorious modern infrastructure.

The geography of Dubai

Dubai is the largest emirate based on the population of the United Arab Emirates and the second largest emirate (behind Abu Dhabi) based on land area, with an approximate area of 4,000 square kilometres. It is located on the Persian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in West Asia, a region popularly known as the Middle East. Dubai specifically lies in the middle of the Arabian Desert. 

1. Geographical location

Dubai lies between 25°26'97" north latitude and 55°30'95" east longitude. It is located on the Persian Gulf, and Sharjah lies in 

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai: 

the northeast, Abu Dhabi in the south, and the Sultanate of Oman in the southeast. Hatta, which is a minor exclave of the Dubai emirate, is bordered on three sides by Oman and is divided into two parts by the Dubai Creek. Deira lies in the northern part and the rest of the southern part is covered by Bur Dubai. 

2. Climate

Just like much of the Persian Gulf coastline, Dubai has a year-round hot desert climate. Humidity is basically high in the summer months and almost moderate during the rest of the year. The coldest month is usually January, with a temperature around 15 °C (49 °F), while the hottest summer month is July, with a high temperature of even more than 40 °C (104 °F). Basically, the average temperature ranges from 19.5 °C (67.5 °F) to 36.5 °C (98 °F). Precipitation is quite poor and amounts to nearly 100 millimetres (4 inches) per year; most of the rainfall occurs from December to March or April. The rain basically occurs in the form of showers, which are brief but quite intense. The wind is often lively but sometimes there can be strong winds as well, which can raise sand and dust storms, especially in the summer. The amount of sunshine in Dubai is great all year. Although, in general, cyclones do not penetrate the Persian Gulf, some tropical cyclones can reach Dubai, especially in the beginning of May and June. So basically, the best time to visit Dubai is from December to February, in order to avoid the heat, which sometimes becomes really uncomfortable and unbearable in the summer. 

Law of Dubai

In the Middle East, Dubai is one of the safest destinations, especially for its laws and regulations. Due to the strict laws and presence of security and cameras everywhere, street crimes, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, are totally uncommon, so one can feel safe using any public transport or wandering around most parts of Dubai at any time of the day or night. So here are some dos and don'ts that one should follow. 

1. Dos:

Always remember that, as a part of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai follows a tolerant version of Sharia law. So in order to stay safe and trouble-free, one must be respectful of these laws. It would be more likely for tourists to meet locals and explore the heart of Dubai. Insulting Emiratis with behaviour could cause serious troubles for anyone. Only shake hands with a woman if she offers her hand first, and do not take photographs without their permissions. 

■ Maintain the dress code sensibly and properly. Women are advised to wear loose-fitting clothes and dresses and skirts must cover the knee. Men should wear long-sleeve shirts and t-shirts and jeans or trousers. 

■ It's advised that one should take taxis or cabs directly from hotels to nightclubs. Drinking and being intoxicated in public is 

■ You should take your shoes off if visiting someone’s home. If you enter someone’s home, just leave your shoes at the door and avoid showing the soles of your feet. Please try not to eat with your left hand or both of your hands as well. 

■ Speeding is a common issue on every road, so while jaywalking and crossing roads without a pedestrian crossing area, please be careful, or else it can result in you being knocked down. 

■ Be aware of opening and closing times. The weekend in Dubai is Friday and Saturday, and in the West, Friday is the equivalent of Sunday. 

■ Tap water is really safe and free in Dubai; without buying any costly branded packaged water bottles, you can drink water freely. 

2. Don'ts

■ Don’t wear swimwear away from the pool or beach: Swimwear is acceptable to wear when lounging by the pool or on the beach, but away from these areas, it’s really disrespectful and totally forbidden. 

■ Don’t display any love or affection in public: Hand-holding is fine, but anything more than this is an offence, and anything that offends Emiratis is a crime in Dubai. Also, staying in the same hotel room with someone of the opposite sex that you aren’t married to unless you're a parent or child can result in getting arrested. 

■ Don’t lose your temper or be disrespectful to anyone: Swearing or making rude hand gestures in public or even while using WhatsApp or any other social media, will cause you trouble. So in order to stay safe, please refrain yourself from cursing out the person who nearly knocked you down! 

■ Don’t take photographs of government buildings: Normal tourist photography is fine, but avoid photographing Sheikh’s palaces, ports, airports, police stations, and military buildings; that's really forbidden in Dubai. 

■ Don’t drink-drive: This is strictly prohibited in Dubai and if you get involved in an accident and even the slightest trace of alcohol is found in your blood, you will end up in jail. The official legal alcohol limit for drivers in Dubai is always zero. 

■ Don’t take drugs: Taking drugs or even bringing them into the country is totally illegal and has serious consequences. 

■ Don’t eat or drink in public during Ramadan:  As it's an Islamic country, the holy month of Ramadan bans eating or drinking in public before sundown, so you really need to be careful. You mustn’t play loud music, especially at this time. 

■ Alcohol laws: Drinking laws 

• The minimum age for alcohol consumption in Dubai is 21 years. You need to have identification and proof of age with you, even while visiting a bar. 

• Consuming or buying alcohol without a valid liquor licence is considered an offence, and you will end up in jail. 

• Drinking alcohol in public places is strictly forbidden in Dubai and is punishable under law. 

• You are not allowed to carry alcohol to the beaches until the beach is private. By following these laws and regulations and showing respect to everyone, one can stay safe and trouble-free. 

● Demographics of Dubai: The population of Dubai had reached almost 3.38 million as of January 2020, according to government data. The population of Dubai basically consists of just 15% native residents, with the remaining 85% being composed of expatriates. About 85% of the total expatriate population or 71% of the total population is Asian, primarily from India (accounting for 51%). Other Asians in Dubai are thought to originate from Pakistan (17%), Bangladesh (9%) and the Philippines (3%). The city also has a high number of Somalis and British expatriates, making it the largest populated city among Western expatriates. 

● Religion in Dubai: The destination of the world-famous Burj Khalifa and the irresistible Dubai Mall, UAE, has a world of its own to offer to the millions of tourists and immigrants that attract this Middle Eastern country every year. Because of this, the UAE is a mixture of various religions, existing and expanding simultaneously. Islam is the most dominant religion practiced in the country. It is also the official religion in Dubai, UAE, as it's the largest-spread religion. Almost 76% of the population in the country follows Islam. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity are some of the other religions that exist in the UAE. A tiny amount of the population belongs to Jainism, Judaism, and other religions. 

Islam in Dubai: The Official Religion

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai: 

The constitution of the UAE defines Islam as the official religion of the UAE. It came to the Middle East with the opening of Mecca in Saudi Arabia and spread with the arrival of Prophet Mohammed in the UAE in A.D. 630. 

● Christianity in Dubai 

Christianity represents around 13% of the country’s population. Catholics and Protestants both have a significant presence. The laws of the Emirates facilitate by providing land for the construction of churches; they also waive off the costs of water and electricity. The major Christian festivals are celebrated publicly. 

● Hinduism and Sikhism in Dubai 

Hindus constitute around 6–10% of the total population. A major role in the development of Dubai was played by the Hindu businessman of India, who was thus granted permission to construct a temple in Bur Dubai by a former Emir. 

● Buddhism in the UAE 

Buddhism is another religion with a high population. They have their own temples and places of meditation. 

● Judaism in the UAE 

The Jewish community is small in the UAE, yet it is one of the few religions in existence. 

Economy of Dubai

Based on the economy, Dubai is the second wealthiest emirate of the UAE, after Abu Dhabi, which is the capital state. The city really plays an important role as a trade and tourist destination, with its port, JebeL Ali, operating as the centre of export trade in the Middle East. In 2004, with the introduction of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai became a global hub for service industries like IT and finance. The tourists basically believe that most of Dubai’s revenue comes primarily from oil, but only a moderate amount of oil reserves are used to generate the required infrastructure for trade, manufacturing, and tourism in order to build up Dubai's economy. Most of Dubai's GDP is non-oil-based, almost 95%. And actually, oil accounts for less than one percent of Dubai’s GDP, whereas tourism produces 20% of the GDP. Dubai is on its way to becoming one of the fastest-growing economies in the Middle East, with a growth rate of 6.1% in 2014. Dubai has excellent trade relations with multiple countries that really help to maintain its economy properly. By 2014, it's seen that in trading, Dubai’s largest partner was China, followed by India and the United States. In recent times, tourism has become an important driver of GDP and 

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are some important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai: 

rising up the economy. In 2018, Dubai welcomed almost 15.93 million visitors, retaining its ranking as the fourth most popular destination globally. 

● Architecture of Dubai

 Dubai is famous for its incredible vision and ingenious and luxurious architectural feats. Whether you’re a fan of awe-inspiring design, crossing off an item from your bucket list, or just looking for a fantastic backdrop for your holiday snaps, Dubai is all worth a visit. 

● Burj Khalifa

Dubai’s standout architectural landmark, the Burj Khalifa, needs little introduction as one of the most famous buildings in the world since it opened in 2010. At over 828 metres tall with 162 floors, it’s an important feature of the city’s skyline as the world’s tallest building. Located in Downtown Dubai and next to The Dubai Mall, the At The Top tour takes visitors up 125 floors and offers an incredible panoramic view that encompasses the entirety of Dubai and beyond. Outside, the exterior panelling includes 33,000 sq m of hybrid LEDs that light up nightly and for the first time, were included in a record-breaking laser and light show in 2018. 

● Dubai Frame

A one-of-a-kind structure, the Dubai Frame is actually that—a supersized picture frame with a special purpose. When viewed from one side, the golden-clad structure neatly depicts Dubai’s past, including its historical heritage spots and the pearl-diving ports that once supported the city’s rise. 

On the other hand, one can see Dubai’s future, with modern skyscrapers including Burj Khalifa stretching out to the desert. Visitors can explore a third perceptive from 150 metres up, with a 360-degree view from the structure’s 25-square-meter crystal-clear glass panel. The immersive gallery on the mezzanine level makes use of projections, audiovisual presentations, and even curated scents and mists for an engaging retelling of the city’s origins. 

● Atlantis, The Palm

One of the world’s most iconic hotels, the Atlantis, The Palm, has been in the spotlight since its launch in 2008. It has an eye-catching pink sandcastle design, glam interiors, and a prime position on the apex of the Palm Jumeirah island in Dubai. 

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai: 

While only hotel guests are privy to the luxurious resort, everyone can take that selfie in front of the hotel’s memorable turrets and towers from the adjacent Palm Boardwalk. 

● Jumeirah Beach Hotel

It is one of the city’s original five-star hotels. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel has maintained its legacy of luxury since it opened in 1997. Inspired by the shape of a cresting wave, the building is a standout on the city’s original shoreline. 

The lush resort is the destination for several notable venues and is best known for its proximity to another Dubai icon, the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. 

● Cayan Tower

Visitors to Dubai Marina shouldn't miss this incredible structure. The beautiful silver Cayan Tower twists 90 degrees as it rises. In an example of clever engineering, each of the 75 floors is rotated by 1.2 degrees to create the helix shape. 

It was prepared with the same architectural concept as Burj Khalifa, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, and local specialists Khatib & Alami Dubai. 

● Emirates Towers

Being an early architectural icon in the city, Emirates Towers is one of Dubai’s most recognisable skyscrapers. Located along the famed Sheikh Zayed Road, which reflects other leading architectural examples, including the record-breaking Burj Khalifa, the towers are a typical example of modern vision. 

Having equilateral triangular facades, the towers reflect traditional Islamic themes. It accommodates a hotel block and an office tower that boasts the Prime Minister’s Office.Both towers are joined by a central podium: The Boulevard, a leading retail and dining destination in the city. 

● Wafi

Its architecture reflects style direction from the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Wafi melds together the old and new for a unique building shape that stands out amongst Dubai’s towering skyscrapers. 

The ground is placed in a modernised pyramid formation. At night, the ridges are illuminated for an extra-striking effect. 

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai: 

The mall also depicts the Khan Murjan Souk, inspired by 14th-century bazaars in the region. It comprises artisan wares and unique souvenirs, amidst a striking setting that’s complemented by the intricate stained glass on the ceiling, which was hand-painted by skilled craftsmen. 

● The Opus

It was designed by the late Dame Zaha Hadid, who is known for her inventive approach to architecture. The Opus stands out in Downtown’s Business Bay district for its striking design. 

Firstly, the ‘ME by Melia’ design hotel in the region has been crafted in the form of a cube with two separate towers that merge together—from the bottom at the atrium level as well as from a bridge 71 metres above the ground. The middle points out the illusion of being ‘carved’ out, creating iconic curves. 

● Dubai Canal

A 3.2-kilometer-long waterway that winds its way to the Arabian Gulf from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay is one of the newest attractions of the city. Its proper parts of old Dubai, including Bur Dubai and Karama, an island in one, caused the greatest urban transformations of the city. 

Culture of Dubai

Most countries in the United Arab Emirates follow the religion and traditions of Islam and Arab and Bedouin culture. While Dubai is no different with its cosmopolitan nature, it sees a vibrant and more diverse range of cultures come into play. However, some traditional Dubai customs still remain unchanged. They are the five daily prayer sessions that Muslims observe when calls come from the towers of mosques throughout the country. Although Dubai culture is a little more liberal than most Arab, Islamic, and UAE nations, Islamic laws are still strictly adhered to and should be respected by all visitors. It is the official religion of Dubai, and so travellers are strongly advised not to criticise any aspects of it and should also avoid opinions regarding world affairs, politics, or negativity towards the current government. It is advisable to keep opinions light and simple, which will help to avoid any issues. During Ramzan, the holy month, eating in public is strictly prohibited from sunrise to sunset. Thus, visitors should consume any meals in the privacy of their accommodation. Public displays of affection are also punishable and any public sexual acts can result in imprisonment and deportation. Sexual relations between the unmarried are criminal offences, as is homosexuality, so visitors should respect and restraint themselves or risk facing jail time and deportation. Although swimsuits and bikinis are acceptable on Dubai beaches, women should dress according to the dress codes in other busy areas, particularly in districts such as Bur-Dubai, Deira, and Karama where the streets are full of men. Despite the allowance of bikinis, women should never sunbake topless or wear swimsuits that are too exposing, even in the privacy of the hotel pool. Profanity or obscene hand gestures such as 'the finger' can result in a fine or even imprisonment. Staying calm and using common sense at all times will allow everyone to live a peaceful life. 

● Emirati cuisine:  Dubai is literally a food lover's paradise. One can find any kind of cuisine from any part of the world. But the most famous and traditional Emirati food is its own unique cuisine that pays tribute to Dubai's geography, climate, and culture. Traditional Emirati foods are basically focused on meat from animals such as camels and goats or fish caught from the Arabian Sea. While meat, fish, and rice are the national foods of Dubai, Al Machboos and Khuzi are the traditional cuisines of the country. But meat, fish, and rice are the staple foods of the Emirati cuisine. Lamb and mutton are the more popular meats than goat, beef, and camel meat in this food. Usually, dates are consumed with meals in the tradition of Dubai. Dishes that are included in the Emirati cuisine include: Asida 

Dubai, the city of glory, luxury, and ultramodern infrastructure, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai, which is one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Just a decade ago, Dubai had one of the largest ecological footprints of any city in the world, though it looks like by 2050 it wants to have the smallest. There are some important things one really needs to know in order to learn about Dubai: 

Al Jabab bread Bathieth Harees Jami Jasheed [7] Kabsa Khabees Khanfroush Khamir Bread Machboos [8] Madroob Markouka Maqluba Muhala bread Quzi Salona Tharid Waggafi bread [7] 

Sports in Dubai

Sports are an integral and important part of every culture. The most popular sports in Dubai include Football, Cricket, Tennis, Basketball, Golf, horse racing, falconry, Table Tennis, cycling, ice hockey, rugby, etc. Football is the most popular and widely played sport here. The UAE Football Association plays the role of an active member of FIFA. Cricket has become an emerging sport nowadays. Tennis and basketball are also played here with huge interest. The government of Dubai and the UAE, along with the collaboration of several clubs, sponsors, and associations of various sports, plays a vital role in searching for new talents nationwide. In the year 2019, the Asian Cup was held in the UAE from January 5 to February 1. The 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup was hosted by the UAE. 

The dress code in Dubai from tourists and locals

A dress code is something that depicts the cultural heritage and practices of a community. Dubai, being a Muslim country, follows some strict laws, like the Sha'aria law. All tourists and locals should be dressed modestly, irrespective of the climate. Although there are strict laws, a tourist will not end up in prison if they are not dressed properly. Despite some laws, Dubai is a very family-friendly city, which allows the citizens to interact with themselves. The laws implemented by the government are only to protect families and their children.

Dress code for women in Dubai:

● Knee-length dress with sleeves or sleeveless 

● T-shirts, Pants, and jeans

● Tops and Skirts 

● Long dress 

● Shoes and clothing that are forbidden for women in Dubai: 

● Tight-fitting dresses, short dresses and clothes that are see-through 

● Swimming suits and bikinis 

● Tops exposing bra, cleavage and midriff area 

● T-shirts with inappropriate slogans or jokes

Dress code for Men in Dubai

● Cotton pants, Jeans, and trousers

● Any T-shirts, shirts and vests 

● Suits 

● The tight and see-through dress 

● Too small and too low dress 

● Swimwear: If anyone has a tattoo that could offend someone, they should cover it properly with their outfits.

Dressing code for Woman in Dubai on Private beaches

● One-piece swimsuit 

● Sports suits 

● Wet suits

The dress code for Men is quite simple

They can wear any swimsuit on both public and private beaches, except white colour clothes.