I.

INTRODUCTION

DUBAI

"From a once-sleepy fishing village to a dazzling jewel in the Arabian desert, Dubai has
defied the limits of human imagination. As Victor Hugo once said, 'There is nothing like
a dream to create the future.' And Dubai, a city that embodies the power of dreams,
stands as a testament to this truth.

Did you know that Dubai boasts the world's tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, piercing
the sky at a staggering 2,717 feet? That's over twice the height of the Empire State
Building! But beyond its breathtaking architecture, Dubai's journey is one of sheer
determination and audacious vision.

Picture this: It was the 1960s, and Dubai was a modest trading post on the shores of
the Arabian Gulf, relying on pearl diving and trade for its livelihood. Fast forward a few
decades, and you'll find a modern metropolis that seemingly sprung from the sands of
the desert. It's a city where innovation knows no bounds, and ambition propels it to
new heights.

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Now, here's a question to ponder: How does a city transform itself from an arid desert
landscape into a global epicenter of luxury, commerce, and culture in just a few
decades? What drives this relentless pursuit of excellence? In our exploration of Dubai,
we'll delve into the captivating tale of a city that rose from obscurity to become an icon
of ambition, luxury, and limitless possibilities.

So, as the sun sets over the golden dunes, and the city's skyline begins to sparkle with
a thousand lights, let's embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes,
culture, and innovations of Dubai, a place where dreams are not just imagined but
woven into the fabric of reality.".

II. Body

Before Dubai evolved into one of the most luxurious and modern cities in the world, it
was a starkly different place with a much simpler way of life. Here's a glimpse of what
Dubai was like before its transformation into a luxury and ultramodern city:

Dubai has a rich history that dates back centuries. It was originally a small fishing and
trading settlement located on the banks of Dubai Creek, which flows into the Arabian
Gulf. The region's economy was primarily based on pearl diving, fishing, and small-scale
trading.

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The architecture of old Dubai reflected its modest origins. Buildings were constructed
using traditional materials like coral, gypsum, and mud brick. Wind towers, designed to
catch cooling breezes, were a common architectural feature. The skyline was dominated
by low-rise, simple structures.

Before the discovery of oil in the region, Dubai's economy was largely reliant on
maritime activities. Pearl diving was a major source of income, and the pearls from the
Arabian Gulf were highly sought after in international markets. Fishing and trading were
also vital economic activities.

Infrastructure in pre-modern Dubai was basic. The road network was undeveloped, and
transportation relied on traditional boats known as dhows. There were no modern
highways, airports, or skyscrapers.

Many of the inhabitants in the region led a semi-nomadic lifestyle, with a focus on
traditional activities like camel herding and goat farming. Life was closely connected to
the rhythms of the desert and the sea.

Dubai had a strong emphasis on its cultural heritage and traditions. The local population
followed Bedouin customs and maintained a close-knit community.

Dubai, like other emirates in the region, was under British protection in the early 20th
century, known as the Trucial States. The British presence helped maintain stability and
security in the area.

The dramatic transformation of Dubai into a global luxury and ultramodern city began in
earnest in the latter half of the 20th century. Visionary leadership, urban planning,
economic diversification, and strategic investments, fueled in part by the discovery of oil
reserves, propelled Dubai onto the world stage. Today, it is renowned for its iconic
skyscrapers, opulent lifestyle, world-class shopping, and as a hub for business, tourism,
and innovation.

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The Transformation of Dubai

The transformation of Dubai from a humble fishing village into a luxurious and
ultramodern city is a tale of visionary leadership, strategic planning, and unyielding
determination. Let's embark on a journey through the city's remarkable history and
urban development, starting from its modest beginnings up to the present day.

A Humble Beginning: Dubai's history dates back centuries, with its roots as a fishing
and trading outpost along the shores of the Arabian Gulf. In the 19th century, Dubai's
strategic location made it a vital hub for regional trade, particularly in pearls and spices.
However, it was in the 20th century that Dubai's transformation began in earnest.

Dubai's ascent to greatness can largely be attributed to the visionary leadership of its
ruling family, particularly Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. In the 1950s and 60s,
he recognized the potential of oil revenues and used them to invest in infrastructure
and development projects. This marked the beginning of Dubai's journey towards
modernity and luxury.

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Dubai's urban planning has been nothing short of audacious. The city's first master
plan, developed in the 1960s, laid the foundation for its transformation. Key features
included the creation of modern road networks, the dredging of Dubai Creek to
accommodate larger vessels, and the construction of essential infrastructure. This
foresight set the stage for future growth.

Dubai's leaders realized the importance of diversifying the economy to reduce

dependence on oil revenues. They established free trade zones, such as Jebel Ali Free
Zone, which attracted international businesses and investment. Additionally, Dubai's
strategic location made it a global transportation and logistics hub, with Dubai
International Airport becoming one of the world's busiest.

Perhaps the most visible aspect of Dubai's transformation is its stunning skyline. The
construction of iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Mall
has made the city synonymous with architectural excellence and opulence. These
landmarks are a testament to Dubai's commitment to pushing the boundaries of
engineering and design.

The Present and Beyond: Dubai continues to evolve, with ambitious projects always on
the horizon. The city is investing in sustainable technologies, including the Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, to ensure an eco-friendlier future. It has also set its
sights on becoming a smart city, using cutting-edge technology to enhance services and
infrastructure.

Dubai's remarkable journey from a humble trading post to a global symbol of luxury
and ultramodern living is a testament to the power of vision and strategic planning. Its
urban development, characterized by audacious projects and a commitment to
diversification, has reshaped the cityscape and inspired the world. As Dubai continues
to push the boundaries of what's possible, it remains a shining example of what can be
achieved through innovation and unwavering determination.

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The urban planning of Dubai

The rapid urbanization of Dubai and regional Middle Eastern cities presents challenges with respect to
the traditional local city fabric and the advent of modern high-rise towers. There is a strong need for
project stakeholders to consider cultural values, local environment, human scale, and existing
historical urban fabric in their approach to addressing project requirements, which, in most cases,
call for “iconic high-rise buildings” ignoring basic and fundamental conditions in producing
sustainable buildings forms and comfortable usable spaces. Developer companies and building
regulations should address social and community needs for well-planned and comfortable urban
spaces – balanced with project development financial benefits and return. High-rise, though rooted
in local culture, is not always the answer for local residential needs. Land use zoning and urban
plans should consider comfortable diversified building heights, open spaces, and socially mixed
development briefs to encourage value integration between locals and expat residents. Over the last
15 years, Dubai has emerged as one of the world’s fastest growing cities. It has been
associated with the desire to build tall buildings as a statement of modernity, globalization,
and economic prosperity, which leads to a rapidly growing population. This expansion has
caused many environmental and urban planning challenges. On the 25 km journey along
the six-lane Sheikh Zayed Road, a commuter typically witnesses variant building heights, unusual
building tops – tapered, twisted, and tilted forms that reflect, rightly or wrongly,
developers’ power – and the architects disregard of site specificity. This built form is
exacerbated with the introduction of flyover intersections, overhead transit rail, and tram
networks to address congested traffic challenges. Therefore, the big question is how Dubai can
harness its growth aspirations to transform regional and international urban planning
leadership into a successful prototype of an urban environment that reflects the integration
of its culture and socioeconomic realities.

Urban Shifts in the Gulf Region

In the 1970s, the rate of urban population growth was very rapid in the Gulf region. Under
these conditions, the pressure for change led to the importation of Western technology to
achieve immediate and sweeping transformations. Speed, sufficiency and quantity operated
as the ruling parameter, and a relative transitional period was avoided; while historically such
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transitional periods have enabled cultures and their values to evolve, expand, and
strengthen their own identity. The result has been internationally styled buildings based on the
latest technology introduced into an essentially traditional environment. In Middle Eastern
cities, the bulk of vernacular architecture is being restrained due to the belief that its cultural,
symbolic, and economic patterns are inferior to new living patterns and concepts of space
allocation – which introduce their own symbolism of technology – and new urban
management policies divorced from human scale and traditional organic city fabrics. Towns
and cities that once evolved to the vibrations of an inner rhythm that determined their
forms are now destroyed, disemboweled, or surrendered to development systems and
transportation demands that have little concern for human scale and urban environment.
Moreover, new planned “car cities” have become centers of population relying on the
latest roads and traffic systems.

Dubai 2020 - Urban Master Plan

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Since 1950, Dubai’s population has grown about 100 times to 1.9 million inhabitants (2010
estimate) – with UAE nationals making up only 17% of the population – while its urban
fabric extended rapidly approximately 400 times. The population forecast for 2020 is 2.8
million people, per a medium growth scenario. Until recently, rapid urbanization was not
dictated by population growth, but it was economically driven by attracting foreign
investment and activities aiming at developing a sustainable economic hub.Dubai,
reflecting the Sheik’s futuristic development vision, has committed vast areas for
developing mega urban projects (cities within a city), some of which are planned to house
over 1 million inhabitants. The Tourism Plan is aiming to attract 15 million tourists each
year, and is expected to rise to 20 million in the year 2020. The socio- cultural
composition is an array of over 100 nationalities with various lifestyles, religions, and
ethnic backgrounds.
Dubai Municipality, the planning authority since 1950, commissioned the preparation of
the following plans
 The mid 1980s comprehensive Development Plan prepared by Doxiadis
 The mid 1990s Structure Plan prepared by Parson-Harland Bartholomew &
Associates for 2012 Horizon
 The 2003 plan that amended the Structure Plan prepared by Dubai Municipality
for 2012 Horizon
 The Dubai 2020 Urban Master Plan prepared from 2010-2012 by the Dubai
Urban Planning Committee in conjunction with the services of AECOM.
The latest plan focuses on the environmental challenges and the socio- economic
transformation as the key to managing future urbanization (Dubai Municipality 2012).
Planning & Development Authorities

Development approval was carried out by Dubai Municipality until 2000. Approval authority
functions of mega developments were given to government linked bodies such as:

 Nakeel
 Jebel Ali Free Zone/Ports, Customs Free Zone Corporation (PCFC)
 Dubai Technology, Electronic Commerce and Media (TECOM)
Semi-public developers led by Emaar, Nakheel, Dubai Holding, Dubai Land, and others set
up their project development guidelines to govern third-party clients who are mainly
investors with limited or no managerial or technical capacities. Although this resulted in an
expedited review and approval process for the ambitious private developments, the focus
concerns the projects’ technical and safety details standards, while the urban design and

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related cultural qualities are not considered as major criteria for project approvals and
building permits. Hence the quality and buildings design regulations – including urban
guidelines, effective Emirate-wide – are still needed to govern and control new
development plans to ensure city-wide harmony. To monitor, enhance, and control these
regulations, the contribution and input of a specialized urban design manager at this early
stage of development is essential to (a) set up as part of the consultant scope of works
and the urban project requirement in the projects’ design brief, and (b) to undertake the
urban quality check at an early stage of the design to ensure compliance with the set urban
design requirements.

Issues & Direction: 2020 Masterplan

In decentralizing the Dubai Municipality approval process, there is a general lack of

coordination between agencies responsible for the provision of community facilities, as there is
no one single body responsible for this on a city-wide scale. This has resulted in a delay for
providing facilities in new residential developments and further impacted traffic loads on
roads in other areas (for schooling, leisure, etc.). Throughout the last 15 years, new housing
development projects have been directed towards the luxury or the upper–end market
sectors, which are generally comprised of large apartments or villas. Furthermore, the market
undersupplied affordable housing within or adjacent to these developments to address the
demands of the expat majority. The focus on boosting tourism numbers has taken attention
away from city and community development; facilities and public open spaces in tall
buildings zones are often filled with additional buildings, favoring increased sellable plots to
the provision of community facilities in order to maximize developers’ return. An example is
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), with minimum community open spaces and impacted traffic
capacity roads. This pattern can be seen in the master planning and design of the Lagoon,
which was one of many mega development projects management undertaken by Hill
International during 2005-2008. The Lagoons were planned with an objective of creating a
modern luxury, mixed-use destination centered around seven pearls (islands). The economics
dictated that more plots be sold, and thus plot sizes for high-rise buildings became smaller,
making building footprints less efficient and increasing the levels of podiums and basements.

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Plots for open spaces and facilities were sacrificed to make way for developable land. This
increased Gross Floor Area (GFA) resulted in added pressure and demand on traffic,
infrastructure, and services. The emergence of high-rise developments has resulted in a
segregation of the population. Whereas a majority of expatriates with smaller family sizes or
singles reside in the high-rise clusters (such as Business Bay, Downtown, Dubai Marina, etc.),
the local Emirati’s, with larger typical family sizes, prefer to live in bigger, culturally
traditional homes. This creates a city with mini clusters of people who are segregated by
socio- economic and urban form. This is a serious concern that needs to be addressed and
managed through balanced urban planning utilizing mixed land uses, controlled building
heights, balanced density, and adequately integrated communal and recreation spaces. The
economic downturn from 2008 to 2011 hit the property market, resulting in deserted high-rise
blocks that dominate the urban landscape. This was Dubai’s pronounced property cycle of
boom, slump, and recovery. Dubai has since put into place certain financial provisions to
mitigate against significant boom-bust cycles, resulting in a relatively stable property market
since 2013.

Added Value of Project Management

Project management companies have been active in the regional construction market
during the last 20 years; however, their role has been undermined by developers and
considered limited to construction management. On the contrary, project managers can
play a major role in supporting developers by setting up plans for the procurement of early
studies on the socio-economics, environment, heritage, and sustainability of the local market.
Those studies are essential to the preparation of a sound project brief. Such comprehensive
plans will control the involvement and the work of master planners, architects, and contractors
from the initiation of the project to its completion. Hill International has applied the same
approach in managing some mega regional developments such as The Lagoons (Dubai), Palm
Jumeirah (Dubai), Al Birdie (Libya), King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, and Failaka Island
(Kuwait). Unfortunately, in Dubai, some development projects have been marketed to high
level developers, who normally take a short cut in order to increase the pace of the
development process. This usually comes in the form of an international design consultant

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with a readymade design vision formed without engaging the project manager to perform the
pre-development feasibility studies. Shams Gate (Reem Island, Abu Dhabi) is one of Hill
International’s tall building projects that was awarded based on the client’s set vision and
approved master plan. The development includes three towers, which are connected by a
common roof structure. This design is an imitation of Marina Bay Sands (Singapore); however,
it replaced the Singapore tower roof structure, which is a vibrant urban space with fantastic
views, with a set of duplex apartments on the top floors. Bringing in project management
early in the feasibility studies stage for a strategic decision process is an essential requirement for
a sound development. Embarking on a simple design approach rather than “twisted buildings,”
could still achieve targeted financial return, controlled costs, and quality building performance
objectives with 20- 25% cost savings.

Understanding Local Regional Urbanization and Architecture

“The city is the integration and harmony between time, space, and human being, and its
identity lay in the relationships of these elements.” – Dr. M.Makiya (1914-2015) Urban
planning is a human need whereby planning requires achieving the balance and excellent
amalgamation between four aspects and needs, namely environmental, spiritual, social, and
economic. None of those should be compromised in successful urban planning ethics, which are
shared between all religions and philosophies. Urban design is the knowledge core which
collates and integrates technology and art, creating and organizing the built environment
to achieve social function, comfort, and visual preference for the city society. It aims to establish
the visual impacts of urban components through consistent building forms and
experiences.

High-Rise and Urban Development:

High-rise buildings emerged as a feasible economic solution to provide more space in dense
old cities such as Chicago and New York, where these buildings are statements of modernity,
globalization, and prosperity, and carry a notion of pride and major achievement as symbols
of capitalist power. There are a number of such towers in Dubai which are iconic monuments
such as Burj Khalifa and Emirates Towers. However, the city skyline now is “diffused” by

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innumerable mediocre tall buildings built next to other well planned and executed
skyscrapers. With urban population growth, it is clear that even traditional urban form
addresses society’s need for taller buildings, where form identity emerges from within its
region and culture. The first tall buildings in the 16th century from the Yemeni Shibam are
a living example of traditional high-rise buildings. “The Manhattan of the Desert” – listed by
UNESCO as one of the oldest World Heritage sites – can be considered a record of
sustainable planning and traditional building design in tower houses. It’s functional design,
materials, and construction techniques are an expression of traditional Arab culture, and this
is reflected in builders’ skills, as well as the creation of a built environment in harmony with
man and the concept of environmental unity. The Al Badiya residential development in
Dubai is a successful modern representation inspired by Shibam.

The Case for Appropriate Urban Planning

Dubai has become a city with a fragmented urban fabric. Tall buildings in today’s market focus
on the objective of maximizing the profitable multiplication of the value of ground
encouraged by building regulations. This results in tower typologies isolated from the urban
fabric, exacerbated by the owner/ developer’s objectives to maximize saleable areas on account
of quality of use. It is paramount that towers be designed in an urban context whereby
they provide all amenities for social activities. As buildings get taller, more ground-level
urban space needs to be considered. Ignoring community facilities makes for unpleasant
living conditions. Good designs exist in major development projects whereby collectively
planners/architects are involved in buildings’ architectural and urban design. This is in
contrast to poorly functioning isolated towers designed in different forms and materials.
“The concept of interaction between international and traditional urban and aesthetic
values should occur in a climate which permits the investigation of all possibilities that can
be used towards exploring social and environment advantages of new cities” – Chaderchi
(2000). A new approach is to seek an understanding of the essence of the regional local
architecture, as distinct from its forms. The introduction of modern technology into the Middle
East is a reality from which there is no retreat, transforming living patterns and habits. Style in
architecture has, throughout history, been determined by the prevailing knowledge of building

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materials and technology.The forms that evolve from this approach would, in
consequence, have a regional identity, a sense of continuity, and relevancy in terms of an Arab
and Islamic society. Ideally, the doctrine of unity in multiplicity, so relevant to architecture,
evokes through the architect inner rhythmic vibrations that create harmony through forms that
are a reflection of regional identity, human scale, creative technology, and continuity. Studies
are needed to assess road hierarchy, modes of transportation, and related streetscapes to
avoid post-development transportation projects that compromise urban spaces, such as
the case with out-of-scale Dubai Metro stations in terms of size and form. It is clear that
reducing the boldness of some main roads across the inner city fabric through improved
median landscaping, adding more greenery, and bridging others in specific and well-studied
locations could accommodate social activities and play grounds that improve urban
interaction. Pergolas, awnings, and side shaded arcades all are characteristics of the Orient or
countries with an oriental heritage, like Spain. With the opportunity of major project
development in Dubai, the onset of the 2020 master plan, and attempts to achieve the Sheik’s
dynamic vision for a “Global City Culture” coinciding with the World EXPO2020, major efforts are
needed from the market chain to address challenges, strengths, and resources in emerging
processes to facilitate the realization of the vision; the challenge is not to create sustainable
places but to make the places sustainable.

Building for the Future

Different approaches have been employed to address these challenges, illustrating how the
integration of modern technology into a traditional culture has been misunderstood. One
approach is to ignore the past completely and to impose an international style of architecture
more suited to other environments in an attempt to portray symbols of growth, prestige and
progress, resulting in architecture and environments barren in spirit – planned, ordered, and
compartmentalized in the nature of an industrial Western society, undermining the traditional
culture. The opposite approach has been to retreat into the past and to emulate forms that
are indicative of the great heritage of Islamic architecture. Some designers have attempted to
use superficial outer forms and immediately apparent features such as the dome or arches to
establish an Islamic identity in a surface-level attempt to identify to traditional buildings,

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which in reality owe their existence more to the international styles than to the inspiration of
local culture. There are good design examples in the region where international and Arab
architects have attempted to create significant building designs reflecting sound
understanding of local environmental conditions and culture integrated in contemporary
building forms and technology. Good examples can be found in Dubai’s Old Town and
Souk al Bahar. However, these zones are currently bisected by a large circular boulevard;
this can be addressed through creative pedestrian links creating open community space in order
to bring back an organic fabric. Dubai’s first tower was the 1979 World Trade Centre
building on Sheikh Zayed Road designed by John Harris. it can be considered a sustainable
design long before the emergence of sustainability codes because it is a functional
performance office building representing the right approach in addressing local
environmental and cultural conditions. The structure is a simple concrete frame with well-studied
openings and precast concrete screens responding efficiently to Dubai’s climate. The
image of this building with the adjacent glassed residential buildings is an urban design
case which could be considered in arguing the issue of rationalization of tall buildings’ design
responses to local climate.In comparison, consider the CTBUH award- winning Cayan Tower “as
one of the best high-rise buildings.” David Gianotten, Juror, OMA, stated, “The building
presents itself differently from every angle through its dynamic form, making it an
exceptional eye catcher.” Sir Terry Farrell stated that “the intelligent helical design of the Cayan
Tower responds to very specific and challenging local conditions…” (Wood, Henry & Safarik
2014). Contemporary images illustrate that the tower is now just one of many tall buildings
in the Marina – losing its majestic iconic building stature if designed for a different site
condition.

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 III. Summary

Origin of the City

The origin of the city of Dubai can be traced back to its historical roots as a small
fishing and trading settlement on the shores of the Arabian Gulf.

The area that is now Dubai has a long history of human habitation dating back
thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited by
nomadic Bedouin tribes and small fishing communities.

Dubai's early economy was primarily based on two key activities: pearl diving and
trading. The warm waters of the Arabian Gulf were home to valuable pearl oysters,
making pearl diving a significant source of income. Additionally, Dubai's strategic
location along trade routes made it an important trading post for goods such as spices,
textiles, and precious metals.

Dubai's name is believed to have been derived from the Arabic word "daba," which
means "to creep" or "to crawl." This name likely refers to the slow movement of the
tide in the Dubai Creek, a natural inlet that played a crucial role in the city's
development.

Many of the early inhabitants of the region led a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving with
the seasons to find suitable grazing areas for their livestock. Fishing, pearl diving, and
trade were essential components of their livelihoods.

Like many areas in the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai experienced periodic conflicts between
different Bedouin tribes over resources and trade routes. The area was historically part
of the territory of the Bani Yas tribe, with the Al-Maktoum family emerging as leaders of
Dubai.

In the 19th century, Dubai, along with several other emirates in the region, came under
British protection as the Trucial States. The British played a role in maintaining security
and regulating maritime activities in the area, contributing to a degree of stability.

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The modern transformation of Dubai began in the mid-20th century when Sheikh
Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum took leadership. The discovery of oil in the region
provided substantial revenues, which were strategically invested in infrastructure
development, urban planning, and economic diversification, paving the way for Dubai's
emergence as a global city.

Dubai's journey from a modest trading and fishing village to a thriving global metropolis
is a testament to visionary leadership, strategic planning, and an unwavering
commitment to development and innovation. It has grown into a symbol of ambition
and modernity, drawing visitors and businesses from around the world.

Geography:

Dubai is located in the Persian Gulf, to the northeast of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai
is the second largest emirate, with an urban area of 3885 sq.km. (1500 sq.miles) and
the city is roughly 35 sq.km. (13.5 sq.miles). However, it is poised to expand to twice
this size with the addition of the artificial islands, the waterfront, the three Palms, the
World, the Universe, and Dubailand, as well as many other construction projects
underway in the desert. One of Dubai's most fascinating geographical aspects is Dubai
Creek, which divides the city into two regions- Deira and Bur Dubai. Dubai Creek is a
natural 15.2km (9.5 miles) inlet from the Persian Gulf, where the city's trade developed.
The region north of the Creek is called Deira, and Bur Dubai refers to the south, where
many residential and commercial developments lie. Dubai shares its borders with Abu
Dhabi in the south, Sharjah in the northeast and the Sultanate of Oman in the
southeast. Due to the city's unique geographical location, it enjoys a strategic position
which allows it to connect to all Gulf States, as well as to East Africa and South Asia.The
line of the Tropic of Cancer crosses through the UAE, making the weather in Dubai hot
and sunny. In winter, the Emirate has an average daytime temperature of 25°C (77°F),
12-15°C (53-59°F) near the coast and 5°C (41°F) in the desert and mountains. Nights
are relatively cooler, and areas near the coasts experience an average of 50%-60%
humidity. In the summer, the weather in Dubai is sweltering and humid, with
temperatures touching 42°C (107°F). Even the temperature of the sea can reach 37°C
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(99°F), with humidity averaging over 90%. Rainfall in Dubai is infrequent and does not
last for more than a few days. It mostly rains during the winter, with short gushes and
the occasional thunderstorm. On average, Dubai experiences only five days of rainfall a
year.

Religion in Dubai

Ramadan

Ramadan - the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar - is when Mohammed received
the first of his revelations from God. Muslims observe a strict fast during the entire
month - originally modeled after similar Jewish and Christian practices - and use the
time for worship and contemplation. During the day, all forms of consumption are
forbidden including eating, smoking, drinking, and any form of sexual contact.
However, this is only the outward show of what is intended as a deeper, spiritual
cleansing and strengthening of faith. One Hadith says, "There are many who fast all
day and pray all night, but they gain nothing but hunger and sleeplessness."All Muslims
who have reached puberty are expected to observe the fast. It is generally accepted
that the elderly and the chronically ill are exempt, as are those who are sick or
traveling, mothers who are nursing, and menstruating or pregnant women, all of whom
are encouraged, for every day of fasting missed, to provide a meal for one poor person
who is breaking his/her fast. Children are not required to fast, though some families
encourage them to do so for part of a day or for a few days during the month.

At the end of the day the fast is broken with a light meal followed by the sunset prayer,
which is then followed by an evening meal called the iftar. Muslims are encouraged to
share the iftar with family, friends, and neighbors as well as the poor and non-Muslims.
The fast is resumed the next morning, traditionally when "you can plainly distinguish a
white thread from a black thread by the daylight."

The last 10 days of Ramadan are considered especially important, and many Muslims
retreat to their mosque or other community centers for prayer and recitations of the
Koran. Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power) is a special night of prayer commemorating

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Mohammed's first revelation. It is believed that this is when heaven is open to the
faithful and God determines the course of the world for the following year.

When the crescent of the new moon of the 10th month rises, Ramadan ends with Eid
al-Fitr (Feast of Fast Breaking). The feast lasts for 3 days and is a time of both religious
significance and social festivities.

Practice What You Preach

Dubai is tolerant of other religions, and people are free to worship as they choose.
There are a handful of Christian churches and a Hindu Temple in town. Religious
tolerance does not extend to proselytizing, and trying to convert a Muslim to another
faith is against the law. Those violating this law, even unknowingly, may be imprisoned
or deported. Non-Muslims are not permitted entry to the mosques, except for the
beautiful Jumeirah Mosque.

Non-Muslims should be aware of the daytime fast taking place and attempt not to eat,
drink, or smoke in front of those who are fasting. Many Dubai hotels offer in-house
daytime meals to accommodate their non-Muslim guests, but restaurants that open
during the day are typically cordoned off with curtains. Business activity is slower during
Ramadan, and local labor laws require companies to shorten the working day by 2
hours during this period. Everything changes at sundown, however, when the city
comes to life. Muslims pack restaurants throughout town for the breaking of the fast.
Make a reservation, as getting a table can be difficult. After dinner, Dubai continues to
sparkle, with shopping centers, shisha cafes, and Ramadan "tents" filling up in
celebration of the holy month.

Social & Cultural Issues

Dubai, despite its remarkable growth and prosperity, faces several challenges and
problems that come with its rapid development. Some of the key problems in Dubai
include:

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Water Scarcity: Dubai is located in a desert region with limited freshwater resources.
The city relies heavily on desalination plants for its drinking water, which is energy-
intensive and costly.

Extreme Heat: Dubai experiences scorching temperatures during the summer months,
which can pose health risks and put strain on energy and cooling systems.

Traffic Congestion: The city's rapid population growth and a high number of vehicles on
the road have led to significant traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours.

Housing Costs: The cost of housing in Dubai, both for renting and buying, has risen
significantly over the years, making it challenging for some residents to afford suitable
accommodations.

Labor Issues: Dubai relies on a significant expatriate labor force, and issues related to
labor rights, working conditions, and wages have been a concern. Efforts have been
made to improve labor conditions, but challenges persist.

Income Inequality: Dubai has a significant income gap between the wealthy elite and
the working-class population, which can lead to social disparities.

Cultural Sensitivity: Dubai's strict laws and regulations regarding public behavior and
dress code can be challenging for visitors and expatriates to navigate, leading to
cultural sensitivity issues.

Environmental Concerns: The rapid development and urbanization of Dubai have had
environmental consequences, including habitat disruption, air pollution, and waste
management challenges.

Social Pressure: The pursuit of material wealth and success in Dubai can lead to high
levels of social pressure, stress, and mental health issues for some residents.

Economic Diversification: While Dubai has made significant efforts to diversify its
economy beyond oil and gas, it still faces challenges in creating sustainable economic
sectors and reducing its dependence on hydrocarbons.

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Youth Employment: Ensuring meaningful employment opportunities for the growing
youth population is a priority, and the government is working to address youth
unemployment.

Cultural Preservation: Balancing the preservation of cultural heritage with the drive for
modernization and development can be a challenge, particularly as Dubai continues to
grow and evolve.

Dubai's leadership is actively addressing many of these challenges through various

initiatives and investments in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development.
The city's ability to manage these issues will play a crucial role in its future as a global
hub for business, tourism, and innovation.

Tourism, Employment & means of Living

Dubai, one of the seven united Arab emirates of the eponymous small country on the
Arabian Peninsula, really leaves an impression with all its splendour and unique
buildings. Travelling to Dubai is travelling to the city of contrasts where the vibrancy of
a modern metropolis and the traditional desert life are intertwined. Read the following
article and discover the top travel tips for Dubai.

What are Dubai’s major natural landmarks?

Dubai, known for its modernity and urban development, also boasts several natural
landmarks that showcase the region's unique geographical features and natural beauty.
Some of Dubai's major natural landmarks include:

Dubai Desert: The vast desert that surrounds Dubai is one of its most iconic natural
features. Visitors can explore the sand dunes, go on desert safaris, and experience the
stunning desert landscape. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a protected area
that offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and conservation efforts.

Dubai Creek: While partially man-made due to dredging, Dubai Creek remains a
significant natural landmark. It is a saltwater creek that extends into the heart of the

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city, dividing it into two main areas, Deira and Bur Dubai. The creek has been a historic
trading route and is still used for traditional activities like dhow cruises.

Hatta Pools: Located in the Hatta region, the Hatta Pools are a collection of serene
natural pools and rock formations set amidst the Hajar Mountains. It's a popular spot
for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, swimming, and picnicking.

Hajar Mountains: Dubai's eastern region is home to the Hajar Mountains, which provide
a dramatic backdrop to the city. These rugged mountains offer opportunities for hiking,
mountain biking, and exploring the natural terrain.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated in the heart of Dubai, this wildlife sanctuary is
a haven for migratory birds, including flamingos. It is a protected wetland area that
showcases the region's natural biodiversity.

Al Qudra Lakes: Located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Qudra Lakes are
a series of man-made lakes that have become a popular spot for birdwatching and
outdoor activities like cycling and picnicking.

Jebel Ali Wetland Sanctuary: This coastal wetland area is a critical habitat for numerous
bird species and other wildlife. It offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and is
a designated Ramsar site.

Dubai Miracle Garden: While not a natural landscape in the traditional sense, the Dubai
Miracle Garden is a man-made wonder featuring a stunning display of millions of
blooming flowers arranged in intricate designs. It operates seasonally and showcases
the beauty of flora.

These natural landmarks provide a balance to Dubai's modernity and offer residents
and visitors opportunities to connect with nature, explore the outdoors, and appreciate
the region's unique landscapes and ecosystems.

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Which cities should you visit in Dubai?

Marvel at Dubai’s landmarks from high up. An unforgettable view awaits in Burj Khalifa,
up on the 125th floor of the world’s tallest building. The world’s fastest lift will take you
to all the way up to the viewing platform. The top gives a view of the Dubai Fountain
show, which moves in sync with the music that’s being played at the viewing platform.
You can get a better experience of the fountain show while on a traditional Arab boat
called “abra”, sailing over Burj Khalifa Lake. The boat will take you past every major
landmark, all the way to the best spot to view the fountain show. Admire the spectacle
of 6,000 lights, 25 colour projectors and 83,000 litres of water. Another way to enjoy
the view of Dubai’s landmarks is to enter Ain Dubai, the world’s largest Ferris wheel. It
measures 250 metres high.

What to do in Dubai?

Dubai is a city of entertainment. And of the ways to have fun is visiting La Perle by
Dragone, a show where 65 performers, from actors to acrobats, show their skills.
Performers dive into the pool and fly through the air. La Perle is located in the centre of
Dubai, in the Al Habtoor City hotel complex. There are lots of tourist attractions in the
city, so it’s worth combining multiple tickets. This is exactly what the following offer
entails – you can enter Dubai’s two best water attractions with a single 1-day ticket.
Enjoy the adrenaline water slide rides in the Aquaventure water park and talk to the
marine animals at the Lost Chambers aquarium. You’re in for more than twenty water
slides and over 65,000 marine animals.

Living in Dubai

Dubai is strategically located as a gateway to Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific

region; making it just a short flight away from numerous countries. Dubai International
Airport offers frequent flights to all major destinations worldwide by some of the most

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famous airlines, making the occasional visit home or somewhere exotic quick and
hassle-free.

Its favourable geographical location and accessibility also make Dubai an incredibly
popular location for tourism and commerce.

Dubai was named one of the safest cities in the world in 2023 for residents. The UAE
government has imposed stringent laws, and a well-devised justice system, whilst
actively investing in modern technology to keep the city safe. The reputable Dubai
police force and the tolerant policy of the government have made the diverse society in
Dubai a comfortable environment in 2023 for all 200+ nationalities living in the emirate.
The city’s safe environment and calm nature make it so special and a safe haven for
women, children and the elderly to walk around at all times of day and night without a
problem or worry.

Dubai offers a diverse and exceptional lifestyle. The quality of life and amenities
available are developing at a rapid rate, much faster than is witnessed in many
developing economies across the world. Dubai offers world-class infrastructure and
quality products that let you live your life as you want. Lifestyle options are diverse, and
one can truly enjoy a vibrant and social atmosphere in Dubai.

Dubai offers tax-free living for everyone. Whether you are employed in any organisation
or running your own business in this city, you will not pay any taxes on your income.
The tax-free salaries in Dubai make it one of the best places to build one’s future. For
most expats who come to Dubai looking for greater opportunities, tax-free income can
mean a higher income and greater wealth, presenting a compelling reason to move to
Dubai. With tax-free income and just 5% VAT on goods and services, Dubai offers the
rare chance to enjoy life, take a comfortable vacation once in a while and boost your
savings all at once. All these factors have made this city a perfect place to live and
invest your money.

With around 342 sunny days every year, Dubai is ideal for sun lovers. The cooler,
breezier weather from September to May allows residents to enjoy all of Dubai's

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amazing outdoor attractions, including outdoor dining, parks and beaches. The summer
months can be challenging to residents and visitors, with the temperature rising to over
40 Celcius. But, you will find that everywhere in Dubai is well air-conditioned. So
whether you enjoy the hot weather or prefer to relax indoors, you can have fun all year
round as there are plenty of things to do indoors and out.

Despite fluctuations in oil prices and global economic uncertainty, Dubai's economy
continues to thrive, with the UAE's GDP growth expected to be 5.9% in 2022 and 4.4%
in 2023, a stark contrast to the forecasted recession in many global economies. Dubai's
economy has rapidly diversified away from oil, expanding into many industries including
tourism, financial services and construction. With Dubai attracting growing number of
tourists, and offering incredible incentives to expats, entrepreneurs and businesses,
Dubai's growth looks set to continue well into the future.

Home to the largest shopping mall in the world, Dubai is renowned for its exceptional,
luxurious shopping malls. Dubai is a shopping haven for people of all budgets, with
countless high-end shopping malls alongside traditional souks where buyers can
purchase almost everything at a much more affordable rate. Shopping can become a
delight during the Dubai Shopping Festival, held between January and February and
Summer Surprises during July and August.

Mere years ago, fuel was cheaper than bottled water in the oil-rich United Arab
Emirates. Today, although the cost of petrol has increased, it is still considerably lower
than in other cities and countries worldwide. Residents and visitors can take advantage
of this and buy or rent a car without much difficulty and at a significantly lower running
cost than many places across the globe.

Dubai's real estate market is booming. With quiet, family-oriented villa communities,
urban downtown hubs and amazing beachfront properties, Dubai has the perfect
property for you, whatever your tastes and requirements. There are properties to suit
all budgets, with a range from very affordable to top-end communities, and properties
of all sizes, from compact studio apartments to huge, multi-bedroom mansions. As well

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as huge popularity amongst end-users, Dubai's real estate market has become
increasingly attractive to investors thanks to the rising prices and attractive yields seen
in recent years.

Residents of Dubai have access to a huge range of schools and educational institutes.
Expatriates from the UK and the USA have a great choice of schools in the UAE as
many schools follow the British and US curriculums. Other schools provide a specific
curriculum according to the home country’s education system, including Indian,
Pakistani, Australian, German, and French. You can find information about the
curriculum, annual fee, and teaching method of any specific school via their website. As
well as leading schools, Dubai has a growing number of universities and colleges
offering higher education.

Population Density

UAE Population 2023 (Key Statistics)

 The population of UAE in 2023 is 10.17 Million, a 0.89% increase from 2022
 As of August 2023, the Dubai population stands at 3.61 Million according to
the official statistics by the Dubai Government.
 The population density of the UAE stands at 121.59 person Km2, with most of the
population residing in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
 According to the research done by GMI, the total Expat population in UAE in
2023 stands at 9.0 Million.
 As of 2023, the population of Indians in the UAE stands at 2.80 Million.

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 Age Group Population Percentage

0-14 years 1.52 Million 14.94%

15-24 years 1.26 Million 12.36%

25-54 years 6.52 Million 64.15%

55-64 years 0.67 Million 6.59%

65 years and over 0.20 Million 1.96%

In 2023, the gender split in the UAE continues to show a wide margin. Out of the total
population of 10.17 million people, the male population makes up 68.58% i.e. 6.97
million and the female population stands at a total of 3.2 million, making up only
31.42% of the population. This difference could be attributed to the increasing number
of male expatriates in the nation’s workforce, as most of the available jobs for
immigrants are dependent on male labour. Life expectancy along with certain societal
and cultural factors also influence roles and opportunities provided to each gender
which has resulted in gender disparity. A point to remember here is that these figures
can vary based on region and age group.

While the death rate is extremely low, the birth rate in the UAE is at a moderate level.
People are beginning to live longer, and the population size is increasing. This indicates
a well-developed healthcare system contributing to longer life expectancy. The
immigrant population (age 25–54 years) is the highest, amounting to 6.52 million
people which is significantly higher than other age groups.

26
With references to the previous statistics on gender split and age, we can analyze
gender distribution in the UAE based on different age groups. Here also we can see that
the highest population of both males and females is between the ages of 25 and 54.
The male population stands at 4.77 million, and the female population is at 1.75 million,
showing a wide margin in gender split. The older population of 65 years and above
shows a much lower rate. The male population stands at 0.14 million, and the female
population is at 0.06 million. This indicates how the margin of difference between the
male and female population is not just confined to the working age group but by small
margins exists in every category.

Dubai Population in 2023

Dubai is the first choice for immigrants considering the growing economy and diverse
opportunities. It has a rich culture, natural beauty and is the business hub of the Middle
East. Therefore, as mentioned above it is the most populated Emirate in the UAE. As of
August 2023, the population of Dubai stands at 3,611,037.

The population density of the city is approximately 762.6 individuals per square meter.
Dubai is the second largest Emirate with an area of 4,114 square kilometers.

Being a cosmopolitan city, the city has seen the growth of many religions including
Christians, Sikhs and Hindus.

Dubai Population Growth

In 1980 the population of Dubai was around 0.27 million. This increased to 0.68 million
in 1995 and 1.3 million in 2005. In 2015, it crossed the two million mark to reach 2.38
million and by 2018 it again added 1 million to its population. The population growth
rate is predicted to be 10.7% annually. Just like the rest of the emirates, the gender
division is skewed here. There are 7,118,367 million males and 3,128,568 million
females.

There are several factors for the high population growth rate in Dubai, the most
important of them all is the cosmopolitan approach. Due to this many foreign nationals

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have settled in the region increasing the expatriate population. In 30 years, the
population has grown by millions.

The Dubai Expo 2020 has created almost 2,70,000 additional job opportunities. With
the huge influx of workers, Dubai’s population will hit an all-time high in 2030.

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https://www.britannica.com/place/Dubai-emirate-United-Arab-Emirates

https://www.lifestyleasia.com/sg/style/jewellery/dubai-pearl-diving/

http://dubai2040.ae/en/

https://www.dubai.com/v/geography/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_Dubai

https://www.frommers.com/destinations/dubai/in-depth/religion

https://expatra.com/guides/dubai/moving-to-and-living-in-dubai-guide/

https://www.youth-hostel.si/en/travelogues/AE/holidays-in-
dubai?linksubid=PPC-
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e%20kilometres.

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M. Makiya: Analysis of Theory, Biography and Achievement.
Chaderchi, R. (2000). Concepts and Influences: Toward a Regionalized International Architecture-KPI.
Dubai Municipality (2012). Dubai 2020 Urban Masterplan, A Similar Approach to Sustainable &
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