Living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

About the UAE

The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971. The UAE consists of seven Emirates, with Dubai and Dubai being the largest. The country’s income is derived mainly from oil reserves; and, the Emirates are currently the sixth-largest oil producer in the world. 

The country's dramatic landscape features rolling sand dunes, punctuated by the occasional mountain range. Summers in the desert are scorching hot, but the fall, winter and spring climate is enjoyable. When it rains in the UAE, which is rare, the lightning and thunder put on a spectacular sound-and-light show over the Arab Gulf.  

As of 2010, there were an estimated five-million inhabitants of the UAE with 20 percent defined as local Emiratis, and the rest as foreign expats. The country boasts the world’s highest net migration rate, which is a testament to the UAE's welcoming people, modern conveniences and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Over the past few years, the UAE has spent billions on new roads and highways, public transport systems as well as art galleries, golf courses, business hubs, schools and universities. 

About Dubai

Dubai is the capital of the UAE, and is the largest Emirate. Once a thriving center for the pearl trade, Dubai has grown into a modern cosmopolitan city with towering skyscrapers, gleaming beaches, five-star restaurants and hotels, resplendent public parks and a budding art scene. Under the 2030 Vision, Dubai intends to invest the country's oil income into industry, real estate, tourism and retail.  

Dubai hosts Formula 1 racing on Yas Island, also home to Ferrari World, the world's largest indoor theme park, and Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster. Yas Waterworld, located on the Island as well, offers the ultimate water adventure.  Dubai's spectacular Corniche beachfront hosts the season-opener of the Red Bull World Championship Air Race. Both the Louvre and the Guggenheim are building sister museums on Saadiyat Island. Upon completion, they will be the sole extensions of these world famous museums outside of their original countries. Dubai also boats the splendid Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the largest and most spectacular mosques in the world.