Multi Cultural Dubai
Language
The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic, but English is widely spoken. Both these languages are most commonly used in business and commerce. Urdu and Farsi are also widely used. Most signs are written in both Arabic and English.
Islamic culture plays a large role in the general lifestyle of the UAE, with the majority of the local population being Sunni Muslims. Nevertheless, the UAE is very tolerant of the different beliefs that abound amongst the large expatriate population, whom make up almost 80% of the population.
Whilst the official religion of the UAE is Islam, other religions are free to openly practice their faith, and there are even a number of churches. The UAE is renowned for its hospitable, kind and friendly attitude that exists in both business and social situations. Foreigners are treated with respect and kindness, and they are in turn are asked to reciprocate their host's kindness by respecting the religious beliefs, local laws and customs of this beautiful emirate state.
- Dubai's population is around 1.67 million, and is set to increase to 3.5 million by 2010
- Over 82% of Dubai's population consists of expatriates, and of the expatriates, 80% are Asian.
- There are around 185 differing nationalities in this wonderfully cosmopolitan city, including Europeans, South Africans, Australians, New Zealanders, Russians and Americans.
- Dubai's coastline stretches over 72 miles (115 km) of the Gulf coast and its total area is near to 2,428 square miles. There's no shortage of beautiful beaches!
- Unlike the other Emirates, Dubai's economy does not rely heavily on oil, with sales constituting only 6% of its GDP. Dubai is more focused on pursuing long term success through international investment.
- It is estimated that 15-20% of the worlds cranes are operating in Dubai and these can be seen dotted around the skyline.
- 5,420,724 guests stayed in hotels in Dubai in 2004 alone, continuing the annual marked increase, of a 13% rise in numbers of hotel guests. Such increases are expected to continue for the foreseeable future with the growth of the Dubai property market and its reputation as a tourist hotspot.
- It has been predicted that by 2010, there will be approximately 15 million visitors to Dubai and up to 40 million visitors by 2015 Dubai.
- The Burj Al Arab is the tallest offshore structure in the world, as well as one of the tallest hotels in the world. It is also the only hotel to be classed as 7 star. Now that's luxury.
- The Burj Dubai tower currently under construction is already the tallest building in the world and its final height is still unknown.
- Like the rest of the UAE, Dubai is four hours ahead of GMT.
- The currency is the Emirati Dirham (Dhs) which is fixed to the US dollar. The rate is 3.67Dhs to 1 US Dollar.
- Before 2002, it was not possible for expatriates to buy property in Dubai, the only option was renting accommodation. Now everyone is entitled to buy property as long as it is a part of one of the rapidly growing freehold development projects. Dubai can now be a permanent home to anyone.