Known for its stunning skyscrapers, luxurious lifestyle and cultural diversity, Dubai is a city that never ceases to impress. In this article we will explore some fascinating facts about Dubai.
Currency: The official currency is the Dirham (AED).
Population: 3.66 m (as of 2023)
Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is the main language spoken in everyday life.
Religion: Islam is the predominant religion, but there are also churches and temples of other faiths.
Climate: Dubai has a desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is 27 degrees Celsius.
Time zone: Dubai is located in the Gulf Standard Time Zone (UTC+4). (2 hours ahead of German summer time or 3 hours ahead of German winter time).
Economy: Besides oil and gas, tourism, trade and financial services are important economic sectors.
Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is known worldwide for its impressive skyscrapers, luxurious hotels and gigantic shopping malls. But behind this modern façade lies a rich history and culture deeply rooted in Bedouin tradition. Dubai is known for its year-round sunshine, with an average annual temperature of 27 degrees Celsius.
Dubai's history dates back to the 3rd millennium BC. Archaeological finds in the Al-Qusais region prove the existence of early settlements. Over the centuries, Dubai developed from a small fishing village into a major trading centre, especially due to the pearl diving trade in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The discovery of oil in the 1960s led to a rapid economic boom and laid the foundation for the modern Dubai we know today.
Earlier:
Economy: Dubai was originally a small fishing village. The economy was mainly based on fishing, pearling and trading.
Architecture: The architecture was traditional and consisted mainly of low buildings and huts made of palm fronds.
Transport: Camels and boats were the main means of transport.
Lifestyle: Life was simple and the locals followed traditional customs and ways of life.
Infrastructure: There was limited infrastructure and the town had no modern amenities.
Education: Dubai was in no way known for internationally recognised educational institutions.
Today:
Economy: Dubai has become a global trading centre and a major financial hub. The city also has a thriving tourism industry.
Architecture: Dubai today is known for its futuristic skyline dominated by skyscrapers such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.
Transport: The city has a modern transport system, including a metro, taxis and buses. Dubai Airport is one of the busiest in the world.
Lifestyle: While traditions are still deeply rooted, Dubai has a cosmopolitan atmosphere with people from all over the world.
Infrastructure: Dubai has state-of-the-art infrastructures, from luxurious shopping malls to world-class hotels and resorts.
Education: Dubai has a internationally recognised education system. Globally, Dubai's universities occupy top rankings.
Dubai's population is diverse and international. Of the over 3.66 million inhabitants, only about 10% are locals. The rest (90%) are expatriates from all over the world (including about 12,000 Germans) who are live in dubai and work. The city has an impressive Growth rate of 9.7% over the last four years (2019-2023), making it one of the fastest growing cities in the world.
Dubai is ruled by the Al Maktoum ruling family, which has been in power since the 19th century. The current ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is both the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. He has initiated numerous reforms to make Dubai a global centre of trade and tourism.
Dubai is located in the north-east of the UAE and borders the emirate of Sharjah.
How big is Dubai?
Dubai has an area of 4,114 square kilometres and stretches 72 kilometres along the coast of the Persian Gulf. The landscape is characterised by deserts, but there are also mountain ranges in the east and marshland in the west.
The Human Development Index (HDI) of the UAE is 0.911, placing the Emirate of Dubai in 26th place out of 188 countries (2021). By comparison, Germany is currently ranked 9th out of 188.
Dubai is a popular destination among German expatriates. The German community in Dubai is vibrant and diverse. Dubai is characterised by internationality, security, Health system and diversity an impressive city for many Germans. Within a small country like the UAE, there are beaches, city life with shopping malls, deserts and mountains. All within a maximum of 2 hours driving time. Many also feel that the career opportunities in Dubai are better than in Germany.
Burj Khalifa - With a height of 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa is not only the tallest building in Dubai, but also the tallest building in the world. It was opened in 2010 and has 163 floors.
Marina 101 - This impressive building has a height of 425 metres and 101 floors. It is located in Dubai Marina and was completed in 2017.
Princess Tower - With a height of 414 metres and 101 floors, the Princess Tower is one of the most striking buildings in Dubai Marina.
23 Marina - This skyscraper has a height of 392 metres and 88 floors. It offers luxurious flats with private lifts and pools.
Elite Residence - With a height of 380 metres and 87 floors, the Elite Residence is another impressive building in Dubai Marina.
Almas Tower - This tower has a height of 360 metres and 68 floors. It is located in the Jumeirah Lake Towers district and houses the Dubai Diamond Exchange.
Emirates Tower One - With a height of 355 metres and 54 floors, this tower is part of the Emirates Towers complex and houses offices and the luxurious Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel.
The Torch - This skyscraper in Dubai Marina has a height of 352 metres and 86 floors.
SLS Dubai - With a height of 335 metres and 75 floors, the SLS is not only in the top 10 tallest buildings in Dubai, but also has an infinity pool at 325 metres.
HHHR Tower - With a height of 317 metres and 72 floors, this tower is also known as the Blue Tower.
Dubai is a city of contrasts and opportunities, with a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Whether it's exploring its rich history or experiencing its vibrant lifestyle, Dubai offers a variety of experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
The official language of Dubai is Arabic. However, English is most commonly used in everyday life as 90% of the population is not from the UAE.
The population of Dubai has grown rapidly due to immigration and tourism. Currently, about 3.66 million people live in Dubai. This population is expected to According to Sheikh Al Maktoum increase to about 5.8 million by 2040.
Some of the most famous landmarks are the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Mall.
Dubai's economy has shifted from oil revenues to sectors such as real estate, tourism, finance and trade. The UAE's GDP is forecast to increase steadily by a total of US$140.4 billion (+28.14 per cent) between 2023 and 2028. By 2028, GDP is estimated to reach US$639.34 billion, on par with Sweden today.
Yes, there is a vibrant and diverse German community in Dubai. Become part of our unique German community.
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