Here are 10 interesting facts about Dubai that most people are curious about:
1. Home to the Tallest Building in the World
• Burj Khalifa stands at a height of 828 meters (2,717 feet) and has 163 floors.
• It holds multiple records, including the highest observation deck and elevator with the longest travel distance.
2. A City That Rose from the Desert in Just a Few Decades
• In the 1960s, Dubai was a small trading port.
• Thanks to oil wealth and visionary leadership, it transformed into a futuristic metropolis by the early 2000s.
3. Oil Isn’t the Main Income Source Anymore
• Contrary to popular belief, oil makes up less than 1% of Dubai’s GDP.
• The economy is now driven by tourism, real estate, aviation, and financial services.
4. It Has a Police Force That Uses Supercars
• Dubai police drive luxury vehicles like Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Bugattis to reflect the city’s opulence and for tourism appeal.
5. Home to the World’s Largest Man-Made Island
• Palm Jumeirah, shaped like a palm tree, is visible from space and features luxury hotels, villas, and beach resorts.
6. It Hosts the World’s Richest Horse Race
• The Dubai World Cup offers a purse of $12 million, making it the richest horse racing event globally.
7. You Can Ski Indoors
• Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates, is an indoor ski resort with real snow, penguins, and 5 ski runs.
8. It Has the World’s Tallest Hotel
• Gevora Hotel is the tallest hotel in the world, standing at 356 meters (1,168 feet).
9. No Income Tax for Individuals
• Dubai offers tax-free salaries, attracting expats and professionals from all over the world.
10. It’s Incredibly Multicultural
• Over 85% of Dubai’s population are expatriates from countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, the UK, and more.
• English is widely spoken and used in business and public life.