We all are well versed with the story of a small fishing village on the edge of the desert, being transformed into one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Dubai!. The ‘city of superlatives’, as it is fondly known, Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. But, there are several other Dubai stories, people are unaware of. Here are a few fun facts about Dubai, which will surely leave you engrossed.
Shake Hands with Someone Who Says, “You name it, Dubai has it!’’
1. UAE led the Arab world’s first interplanetary mission
The craft, called Amal (Arabic for Hope), is the first spacecraft from the United Arab Emirates that swung into orbit around Mars.
2. Income tax? You don’t have it in Dubai
One of the significant benefits of living in Dubai is the zero tax policy on its residents.
3. A birder’s paradise
Pack your binoculars! Over 320 bird species migrate between Europe, Asia, and Africa via Dubai. During the spring and fall, birds such as spotted eagles, broad-billed sandpipers, and greater herons pass through the city.
4. Burj Khalifa, out of spider lily
No one would need an introduction to Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, with its staggering at 2,716 feet. But, do you know that the design of the building is based on a local desert flower, hymenocallis, also known as the spider lily? There are three feet or lobes which form the architectural base of the Burj Khalifa which echo the shape of this flower.
5. Coffee museum
It has a museum dedicated entirely to coffee, and how amazing is that!
6. Literally, the young city
Don’t get surprised when you hear, only 15% of Dubai’s population is over 45! It’s a youthful city that is geared very much towards those in this age bracket.
7. Only 13 cars, 50 years ago
As per records, there were only 13 cars registered in 1968, in Dubai. Today, there are almost 3 million cars registered across the UAE.
8. The Palm Jumeirah can be seen from space
At least some of us might have seen Russian space engineer Oleg Artemyev’s Instagram post of an image of the Palm Jumeirah from space. This world’s largest manmade island, Palm Jumeirah is home to lavish luxury villas, pristine private stretches of white sand, and luxury hotels.
9. Minister for Happiness
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has now a dedicated Minister for Happiness, who’s in charge of promoting happiness among residents in Dubai and the other six emirates that make up the UAE.
10. Fuel or water – Pay the same
In Dubai, fuel and water are roughly the same prices.
11. Robot jockeys are used in camel racing
Robot jockeys have replaced human jockeys in camel racing, since the 2000s. It is one of the Emirates’ traditional sporting pursuits, which has been around for hundreds of years.
12. There are no permanent rivers in Dubai
Throughout the UAE, there are no permanent rivers.
13. Food tour in the world’s longest automated metro line
The longest driverless metro line in the world is in Dubai.
14. The cosmopolitan cuisine
Food from all over the world has influenced Dubai cuisine. Along with traditional Arabic food, you’ll find spices from India, ingredients from Persia, and eastern Mediterranean influences.
15. Arabian oryx – The national animal
The national animal of the entire United Arab Emirates is the Arabian oryx. It’s kind of like a mid-sized antelope.
How many of these Dubai facts did you know before reading this? Which of these made you excited? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Now, Pack your bags and book your flight tickets to explore this luxurious city and see how extravagant Dubai life is.