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From
the timeless tranquility of the desert to the lively bustle of the
souk, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for visitors.
In a single
day, the tourist can experience everything from rugged mountains and
awe-inspiring sand dunes to sandy beaches and lush green parks, from
dusty villages to luxurious residential districts and from ancient
houses with wind towers to ultra-modern shopping malls.
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The
traditional Abras (water taxis)
on the Creek |
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The emirate
is both a dynamic international business centre and a laid-back
tourist escape; a city where the sophistication of the 21st century
walks hand in hand with the simplicity of a bygone era.
All of these
contrasts give Dubai its unique flavor and personality; a cosmopolitan
society with an international lifestyle, yet with a culture deeply
rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia.
Since
earliest time, Dubai has been a meeting place, bringing together
the Bedouin of the desert interior with the pearl-diver, the merchant
of the city with the sea-going fisherman.
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The Spice Souk
is always
worth a visit |
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Having
expanded along both banks of the Creek, Dubai's central business
district is divided into two parts - Deira on the northern side and
Bur Dubai to the south - connected by a tunnel and two bridges. Each
has its share of fine mosques and busy souks, of public buildings,
shopping malls, hotels, office towers, banks, hospitals, schools,
apartments and villas.
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Skyline of the
modern Dubai |
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Outside this
core, the city extends to the neighboring emirate of Sharjah to the
north, while extending south and west in a long ribbon of development
alongside the Gulf, through the districts of Satwa, Jumeirah and Umm
Suqueim. At first
glance, the city presents a predominantly modern face, an
ever-changing skyline of new developments, from striking glass and
concrete towers to gracious modern buildings incorporating traditional
Arabian architectural motifs and features.
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The famous
Jumeirah Mosque |
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See also the latest projects in
constructing new landmarks for Dubai like the highest building in the
world!
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