Dubai, located on the north eastern side of the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) offers some of the world's top attractions at only 6.5 hours away from Heathrow Airport.  The best and greatest technology is being utilised in the regeneration and expansion of Dubai to create the most up-to-date country in the world with fantastic possibilities for both companies and individuals.

The country evolved as a trading town through Dubai Creek exporting pearls to Europe and India.  It is 14km long and is fed from the Arabian Gulf (also known as the Persian Gulf) and it is recognised as being an important tool for the country as well as being the heart of the city.  Oil was found in the Arabian Gulf in the late 1950’s which led Sheikh Rashid to invest in the costly dredging programme in the 1960’s to deepen the Creek to handle larger ships.  This certainly paid off as Dubai’s trade rose by 20% and a great deal of money was accumulated through its oil export.  Nowadays, it is still used and is a major attraction for tourists with over 15,000 people crossing by abra (a boat) a day. 

The country can be summed up by the four “s’s”: sun, sea, sand and shopping.  This however is only partly true as Dubai will be offering the newest technology and is already offering some of the greatest construction.  The world's largest sky-scraper will enjoy its lodgings here, the world's first 7 star hotel provides luxurious suites for Dubai’s tourists, the world's first underwater hotel is under construction, the world's first moving building  ( read "A room with a view") plus the man made Palm-Jumeirah, which is built and already lived on, and The Palm-Deira, The Palm Jebel Ali and The World that are under construction for homes to be built on and occupied.  These really are the most spectacular and incredible construction works to date.

Religion

Islam is the official religion of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. It is one of the most liberal places in the Middle East and followers of other religions (except Judaism) are tolerated. Visitors are however expected to respect Islam when visiting, especially during Ramadan. 

Travel

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is currently investing a lot of money and planning into the country to develop its already ever-growing tourist market.  There are currently 100 international airlines that serve Dubai’s International Airport, but plans have been made to build the world’s largest airport which will be known as Dubai World Central. 

The Grand Mosque and Dubai Museum are adjacent to the historic area of Bastakiya Quarter, which is a picturesque heritage site. It is being carefully renovated and turned into a pedestrianised conservation area which will enable locals and tourists alike to enjoy Dubai’s past.  Another beautiful site to visit is a town called Shindagha which is located near the mouth of the Creek, which happened to be where Dubai grew and flourished.  The Heritage and Diving Villages provide a glimpse of Dubai's traditional culture and lifestyle and is well recommended to visit.

Dubai has many recreational parks for families to enjoy, many featuring exotic plants and a variety of amusements, however if the beach life is more preferential, then Dubai also has beach parks available.  Jumeirah Beach Park and Al Mamzar Park are an expanse of protected beach that offer a wide range of amenities as well as specific days for children and women only.

Yet if you're looking for a little more adventure, Dubai also offers the Al Khor Wildlife Centre, Wild Wadi Waterpark, the Nadd Al Shiba Club where regular horse race meetings take place during the cooler months,  desert safari's, Dhow cruises and the Ski Dubai Snow Park which provides 6000 tonnes of man-made snow with beginner to advances ski slopes.  Alternatively, there is Dubai land which is a huge theme park, that is currently under construction, which can offer a burst of adrenaline.  It will consist of 3 billion sq.ft and is due to receive 15 millions visitors a year, a cinema complex and 55 hotels.