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Dubai a world that changes. |
August of 1998 was my first visit to Dubai. Dubai an amazing place, from humble beginnings to world super city. It was fantastic to see this city starting to become what it is turning out be. When I was first here, Diera City Center and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel were just completed, the Burj Al Arab was about a year from opening and a handful of incredible office buildings were dotting the skyline. I looked forward to my next visit, and to see first hand this super city as it continues to grow. |
This happened in October of 2007. |
Wow. The amount of construction that has taken place since my first visit is phenomenal. There are places like the Burg Dubai, now the worlds tallest building and the Palm Islands that take advantage of the beautiful sea. The city population has also grown and soon a world class Metro system will relieve the traffic issues that have accompanied this growth. |
There is however a growing gap between rich and poor, like most places it is very visible, however there is no begging to speak of. Dubai is addressing this issue with new development coming off the planning desks that is aimed at the lower end of the market in order to allow all to participate in the success of the Emirate. |
This trip came during Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-ul-fitr. It takes a few days to become accustomed to most food shops and restaurants being closed , but as soon as the crescent moon is spotted the celebrations for the Eid begin. Eid is the time to spread happiness, love, and triumph. Muslims from all over arrive to participate in the festivities. |
Of course there is the rare sighting of the great desert moose. It's actually hung outside of a Mexican restaurant. |
The new airport has opened and is expanding to accommodate the increase in traffic. There is a lot of development and much more on the way. The beaches are still fabulous and the shopping bargains are hard to beat, but remember the rules. |