11 Fun Facts About Dubai
Dubai is a dazzling modern metropolis with roots in ancient Eastern culture. There’s a lot to learn about this fascinating Emirati city. But how much do you about Dubai? Some of these facts may just surprise you!
1. Big and Bold
Dubai wants to have the biggest and best of everything it would seem! Whether it be the 7-star hotels, the world’s biggest flower garden, the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest shopping centre, Dubai Mall, or the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building – in recent years Dubai’s development has been driven by the desire to be bigger and better. So far we can’t help but agree!
2. Cranes aplenty!
These giant buildings have appeared thanks to a massive construction boom in recent years, which has led approximately 20% of all the cranes in the world to currently be in Dubai! This large-scale development has transformed what was once a sparse desert town with little infrastructure into an exciting, internationally thriving city.
3. Address Unknown
Due to the rapid pace of expansion in the city, Dubai has had no address or postal system. Until 2015, when a formal system started to be put in place, giving directions based on local landmarks was generally how you would guide someone to a certain building.
4. And they sure can build fast!
When we talk about the ‘rapid pace’ of construction projects in Dubai, we’re not kidding. Dubai’s metro system, completed in 2009, was built in just 18 months! Yes, in less than two years, they built the entire 47 miles of the rail network and 42 stations. It would turn even the proudest Londoners green with envy.
5. The Dubai police ride in style
In-keeping with the decadent look and feel of the city, the Dubai police fleet features some rather flashy cars. These currently include a Lamborghini, a Ferrari, an Aston Martin One-77 and a Bentley. Because… why not.
6. And That’s Not The Only Unusual Thing They Have
Introducing the Dubai Police Bagpipe Band! Whilst bagpipes are usually associated with Scotland, the Dubai police have really taken to the instrument and the band are often seen performing at key events.
7. But That Doesn’t Stop Them Keeping On Top Of Things
Dubai is known for being a very safe city. In fact the crime rate is so low, it is recorded as being virtually 0%!
8. City of Gold
Never mind El Dorado, Dubai is historically known as the City of Gold. This is due to its flourishing gold trade and markets, such as the Gold Souk in Deira, playing a major part in the emirates economy. There are even ATM’s that dispense gold bars!
9. No taxes!
The emirate is largely tax-free. And the prospect of not paying tax on income or property has proven to be a significant draw for foreign workers and investment.
10. Diverse population
The benefits of living in a bustling modern city like Dubai, and not paying taxes whilst doing so, has indeed attracted people from across the globe to make it their home. This has led to over 80% of the current population being made up of immigrants.
11. Robots ride Camels!
Yes, you read that right. Camel racing is popular in Dubai, and whilst it used to involve human jockeys, robot racers are becoming increasingly common.
There is so much on offer in Dubai, it’s not at all hard to see why so many people head to there to visit, work and invest in the city year after year.
