On the surface, Dubai is like any other major city. It’s home to 3.5 million people, 200 nationalities, and welcomes up to 17 million visitors each year. But, it was only 40 years ago that its population was less than 350,000, and any visitors heading to Dubai were likely passing through on their way to onward destinations. Dubai’s position today as one of the world’s most popular destinations for travel, holidays, migration and investment is nothing short of revolutionary.
Dubai is one of seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The city is home to incredible record-breaking achievements wherever you look, from the world’s tallest building and longest urban zipline, to the world’s largest frame and deepest swimming pool. Architectural marvels, like the 43-story Atlantis The Royal hotel and eye-catching Museum of the Future, continue to transform the already spectacular skyline of Dubai to create a city that leaves both visitors and residents in awe.
But, if you scratch beneath the surface and look towards the city's roots, you’ll see that Dubai has deep Bedouin traditions that date back thousands of years, born out of the deserts and waterways that remain weaved between the city’s modern image. Traditional souks line the narrow lanes of the old town, and the air is filled with the aroma of spices and the thrum of haggling merchants. There are throwbacks to yesteryear found across the city, with historical neighbourhoods like Al Fahidi acting as a time capsule to show what life was like in Dubai centuries ago.
Visitors to Dubai are sure to experience the famous Emirati welcome. Hasan al-dayifa, translating to hospitality in Arabic, is a core part of Dubai's cultural identity and is deeply rooted in both Bedouin traditions and Islamic values. Hasan al-dayifa manifests in the warm, respectful, and generous treatment of guests which you’ll feel across the city.
There are so many reasons why you should head to Dubai. The city caters to a wide range of interests and continues to aim towards the very top for places to both visit and live. It’s one of the top shopping destinations in the world, attracting over 3 million global shoppers a year, and its array of world-class hotels push the boundaries of hospitality. Dubai is also the home of dnata Travel, so to truly experience what the city has to offer, there's only one place to begin your search.
