You might have heard or read the phrase “Dubai is a city of wonders”, and this is true to the fullest. Be it the futuristic buildings, luxury resorts, or the records that it holds to its name. There are several globally recognised modern-age monuments and attractions that look as if they were made ahead of time.
All of these interesting and fun things are the reasons that we can see an ever-growing influx of tourists to this city every year. This blog is going to be a bit different giving you interesting facts about the marvellous city of Dubai.
1. Dubai is Known as the Venice of the Gulf
Many people are surprised after learning that Dubai is often referred to as the Venice of the Gulf. This is mainly because this city has an extensive network of waterways and canals, fishing boats, and huts. All of this looks very similar to that in Venice. The juxtaposition of modern skyscrapers against the backdrop of serene waters creates a stunning visual landscape, similar to the way Venetian architecture complements its canals.
2. Dubai is Famous for its Modern Architecture
Well, it is not a secret to anyone that Dubai is world-popular for its modern architecture. This city is home to some of the finest skyscrapers and stunning modern buildings. The Burj Khalifa is the most iconic of them all and it stands at 828 metres. It is the tallest building globally and a symbol of the city’s ambition.
Other than this there are other architectural marvels including the Burj Al Arab, shaped like a sail, and the futuristic Dubai Frame. The city’s skyline is a blend of innovative designs and luxurious developments, showcasing a commitment to cutting-edge construction and urban planning that attracts millions of visitors each year.
3. Dubai was Once a Fishermen’s Village
Dubai was once a humble fishing village in the 18th century. That was because it was primarily inhabited by Bedouins and fishermen who relied on the sea for their livelihoods. The discovery of oil in the 20th century transformed the region. This discovery sparked rapid development and urbanisation in the city.
As Dubai evolved from its modest beginnings, it became a global metropolis known for luxury, tourism, and trade. Today, remnants of its fishing heritage can still be seen in areas like the Dubai Creek, which remains a vital part of the city’s history.
4. Over 80% of Dubai’s Population are Expatriates
Another very interesting fact about Dubai is that the entire city constitutes approximately 88% of the total population. That’s because of the economic opportunities, safety, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. This diverse workforce fuels sectors from construction to finance, creating a unique cultural blend across the city.
The government facilitates this with tax-free policies, advanced infrastructure, and global business connections. However, most expats face residency limitations tied to employment, making permanent settlement challenging. This expatriate-dominated demographic has shaped Dubai into an international hub, where cultures converge, but home remains temporary for many.
5. There is No Income Tax in Dubai
For those who don’t know, Dubai is known for its zero-income-tax policy. This makes it an attractive destination for professionals and entrepreneurs seeking tax-free earnings. This policy applies to both personal and corporate income, allowing residents to retain their full earnings without deductions.
Dubai’s economy thrives without imposing taxes on individuals, supported by revenue from sectors like tourism, real estate, and oil. The tax-free environment, alongside modern infrastructure and a high standard of living, draws international talent, bolstering Dubai’s role as a global business hub.
6. Dubai has the Tallest Building in the World
A fact that broke the internet during its time is that Dubai made the tallest building in the world which is the Burj Khalifa. This building is soaring to 828 metres (2,717 feet) with 163 floors. It was completed in 2010 and since then this architectural marvel stands as a symbol of Dubai’s ambition and innovation.
It houses luxury residences, offices, the Armani Hotel, and observation decks offering panoramic views of the city. It was designed by architect Adrian Smith, the Burj Khalifa’s sleek, tapering form is inspired by Islamic architecture, making it not only a feat of engineering but also a cultural landmark.
7. Dubai Holds more than 300 World Records
So the next one is that Dubai holds over 300 world records, isn’t that mind-blowing even when you hear it? This showcases its dedication to achieving global recognition and pushing boundaries. These records span diverse fields, from architecture to events.
These achievements reflect Dubai’s ambition, innovation, and drive to attract international attention. Known for setting records in luxury, infrastructure, and entertainment, Dubai has established itself as a city that celebrates grand accomplishments on a global scale.
8. Dubai has the World’s Largest Flower Garden
Dubai has the world’s largest flower garden which is named the Dubai Miracle Garden. It is also one of their finest attractions where visitors get to enjoy a vibrant view in a 72,000-square-metre attraction having over 50 million blooming flowers. This looks stunning, imaginative, and jaw-dropping.
It was opened in 2013 and the garden showcases unique displays including floral sculptures of castles, hearts, and even a life-sized Airbus A380 covered in flowers. The garden and the intricate designs and seasonal flower changes, bring a colourful, refreshing contrast to Dubai’s desert landscape. This is why this draws millions of visitors annually to experience this breathtaking floral oasis.
9. The National Bird of the UAE is the Falcon
The falcon is the national bird of the UAE and it seems the entire city works and progresses on that. This bird symbolises strength, pride, and heritage, three parameters on which the entire city revolves. Deeply ingrained in Emirati culture, falconry has been practised for centuries as both a sport and a traditional hunting method.
Falcons are highly valued, with specialised training centres and even passports for their travel, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to preserving this cultural icon. The bird represents qualities admired in the UAE resilience, precision, and grace making the falcon a powerful symbol of national identity and pride.
10. Palm Jumeirah is the World’s Largest Manmade Island
Palm Jumeirah is known to be the world’s largest manmade island and that’s in Dubai. It is an iconic marvel of engineering that you can see off Dubai’s coast. It is shaped like a palm tree and the island extends into the Persian Gulf. Palm Jumeirah roughly covers 5.72 square kilometres.
It was developed by Nakheel Properties and it features luxury residences, hotels, and entertainment venues. Built with sand and rock, Palm Jumeirah embodies Dubai’s ambitious vision and innovation, creating a unique residential and tourist destination that has transformed Dubai’s coastline and global image.
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