History
Ancient history and settlement.
From pearl diving to futuristic spectacle.
Dubai was a modest fishing village until oil discoveries (1966) funded its metamorphosis. Sheikh Rashid’s vision created Jebel Ali Port (1979) and airline Emirates (1985), while the 2000s saw audacious projects: Palm Islands, Burj Khalifa (2010), and indoor skiing. Its tax-free boom draws global talent.
Geography
Ancient history and settlement.
Dubai straddles the Arabian Desert’s edge along the Persian Gulf. Artificial islands (The World, Palm Jumeirah) extend its coastline, while the Hajar Mountains loom inland. Summer temperatures hit 113°F (45°C), but air-conditioned malls and monorails defy the harsh climate.