Dubai – geography
Dubai is one of the seven United Arab Emirates (UAE), and is situated along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf. The capital city is also known as Dubai and is sometimes referred to as ‘Dubai City’ to distinguish it from the emirate.
There has been a substantial level of investment in Dubai over recent years, transforming a once desert region into a haven for business and holiday travel alike. Although Dubai is known for its oil wealth, the majority of Dubai’s $40 billion GDP comes from the property and financial sectors. In 2006, just 6% of Dubai’s GDP came from petroleum and natural gas.
Of the seven emirates, Dubai has the largest population and is the second largest emirate by area, after Abu Dhabi.
Dubai - climate
Dubai enjoys blue skies and sunshine all year round, as you would expect from an arid subtropical climate. British travelers may wish to stay clear of Dubai during the months of June and September, when temperatures can soar beyond 45 degrees C. During the summer months the temperature of the sea can touch 40 degrees C, so it is no surprise that hotel swimming pools are often mechanically cooled.
Dubai – politics
It is documented that the city of Dubai existed for at least 150 years before the formation of the UAE.
As an emirate, Dubai has jurisdiction over some functions such as civil law enforcement and the provision of local services. However, Dubai shares a legal, political, military and economic framework with the other emirates. Dubai and Abi Dhabi are the only two emirates who possess veto power, on matters of critical national importance, relative to the other emirates.
The Al Maktoum dynasty has ruled Dubai since 1833 and the current ruler of the emirate, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is also the Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE.
Dubai as a holiday destination
There are a wealth of activities to keep the business and holiday traveller entertained whilst staying in Dubai. The links below provide further information for activities in Dubai:
Shopping in Dubai
Relaxing in Dubai
Family fun in Dubai
Dubai nightlife
Dubai – holiday accommodation
For information on hotels and other holiday accommodation in Dubai, please visit SmarterHotels.
