Discover 19 Fascinating Facts About Dubai You Must Know

Quick, think about the world’s greatest cities! Perhaps you dream of Paris, London, and New York.

However, nearly 2.2 million tourists visited Dubai in the United Arab Emirates during the first quarter of 2022 alone. Tens of thousands of Americans explored the city and experienced attractions like no other. You can too, as long as you are informed about some essential facts regarding Dubai.

Fun Facts about Dubai

What is the history and climate of Dubai like? What are some of the city’s major tourist attractions? How can you respect local customs while remaining safe? By answering these questions, you can maximize your experience in this spectacular destination. Here are 19 facts to keep in mind.

1. 20 Years Ago, Dubai Was a Desert

Humans have inhabited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for 125,000 years. Yet, it wasn’t until the 18th century that the town known today as Dubai was established.

Initially, this town was a modest fishing village with just a few hundred residents. It was small and constrained, with a vast expanse of desert making up most of what is now the city. The land was virtually unsuitable for farming or livestock.

In 1971, the UAE was founded, transforming it into a wealthy nation overnight thanks to abundant oil reserves.

Oil was discovered off the Dubai coast, attracting numerous businessmen to the city. While the Gulf War caused many to leave, they returned when oil prices surged. Starting in the 2000s, investments in Dubai’s development began, which continue today.

2. Don’t Confuse the City With the Emirate

When people mention Dubai, they often think of the city itself. However, there is also an Emirate of Dubai.

The city serves as the capital of the emirate, which includes smaller communities and less developed regions. Therefore, when seeking directions or travel advice, ensure you clarify that you mean the city.

3. Foreigners Love Dubai

Dubai’s population is just shy of three million people. Despite its significance to the UAE, only 15% of residents are native UAE locals.

The city boasts a vast population of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi migrants, many of whom have moved to Dubai to explore business opportunities. Indian and Pakistani communities are particularly prominent throughout, especially in higher-income neighborhoods.

The largest demographic of Western expatriates are British citizens, but many Americans and Africans, particularly from Somalia, can also be found.

4. But Rain Clouds Don’t

The climate in Dubai resembles that of other Middle Eastern regions. It rains on average only 25 days a year, with February being the rainiest month, bringing just 1.4 inches of precipitation.

Despite the scarcity of rainfall, Dubai is not perpetually sunny. The city experiences around 12 hours of daylight in June and only eight hours in January. Prepare to rely on streetlights if navigating the city after dark.

5. Make Sure to Go During the Cooler Months

Dubai compensates for limited sunshine with extreme heat. During the spring and summer, temperatures may soar to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nevertheless, temperatures significantly drop during other times of the year; January can see temperatures around 75 degrees. Thus, when planning your Dubai trip, consider visiting during the winter or fall for a more pleasant experience.

6. Weekends Are Not on Saturdays and Sundays

Historically, weekends in Dubai were observed on Fridays and Saturdays. However, in January 2022, Dubai aligned its official weekends more closely with international financial markets.

Despite these changes, business hours remain unique. Employees in Dubai typically work from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, and until noon on Friday, prompting a weekend that extends until Monday morning.

7. The Address System Is up and Running

Many believe that Dubai lacks an official address system, which once was true. Consequently, when sending packages, residents would often pen instructions on how to locate the recipient instead of providing specific addresses.

In recent years, the local government has developed an address system, assigning codes to streets and buildings. Unfortunately, many residents may still be unfamiliar with this system; thus, it is crucial to offer thorough directions when navigating.

8. You Can Use a Lot of Languages

The official language of the UAE is Arabic. When engaging with government officials or important business figures, attempting to use Arabic is advisable, even if it’s just a simple greeting to foster goodwill.

However, Dubai is a cultural melting pot, and many locals speak English. Additionally, Hindi, Chinese, and Urdu are commonly spoken, especially among Indian and Pakistani populations.

9. You Can Stay In Luxury

Dubai is renowned for its luxury hotels. Even if you are traveling frugally, you can find great accommodations featuring excellent amenities and personal services.

The Burj Al Arab boasts thousands of five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, offering rates as low as $200 per night. Enjoy free high-speed internet, spa services, and breakfast at a buffet. We had the pleasure to stay at JW Marriott Dubai and The Habtoor Grand Dubai, both of which were magnificent and affordable.

10. The Burj Khalifa Is the King of Buildings

When discussing Dubai, the Burj Khalifa often comes to mind. Standing at 2,722 feet, it is the world’s tallest building.

The mixed-use building offers various attractions, including one of the fastest elevators, taking visitors to an observation deck nearly 1,500 feet above ground. For dining, Atmosphere Burj Khalifa is the highest restaurant in the world.

11. The Miracle Garden Is the World’s Largest Flower Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden features more than 50 million flowers spread over 780,000 square feet, making it the largest natural flower garden globally. Virtually every flower species can be found here.

The garden is also home to the world’s largest floral installation, a life-size Emirates A380 crafted entirely from flowers. For relaxation, visitors can sit under a floral canopy and gaze at beautiful fountains.

12. You Can Find Wildlife in Dubai

Despite the rapid urbanization of Dubai, there is a variety of wildlife, including camels, falcons, wolves, leopards, and Arabian oryxes that can be seen in their natural habitats.

Traveling outside Dubai offers access to conservation centers like the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Alternatively, The Green Planet, an indoor bio-dome featuring a tropical rainforest, can be explored for a unique experience.

13. Get Ready to Go Shopping

Shopping ranks among the top things to do in Dubai. The Dubai Mall is one of the largest malls globally, spanning more than five million square feet, where luxury products, electronics, and home goods are readily available.

If you wish to shop and enjoy attractions simultaneously, check out the Mall of the Emirates, which offers a mix of retail stores, theaters, and virtual reality experiences.

14. Dubai Loves New Year’s Eve

For a holiday experience, consider planning your Dubai visit around New Year’s Eve. The city hosts one of the largest fireworks displays globally, centered around the Burj Khalifa.

If a more relaxed experience is preferred, tour offerings include dinner cruises and desert safaris. Live music and dance performances are popular ways to celebrate too.

15. Don’t Worry About Your Safety

Dubai is considered a safe destination, even for women traveling alone and families. Though you may encounter typical travel scams, prudence is key, as it is in any city.

When visiting mosques, note that many can accommodate thousands, so be vigilant about exit routes to avoid crowds in emergencies.

16. Don’t Show Public Displays of Affection

Dubai is known for its strict regulations, emphasizing the importance of respecting local customs irrespective of whether you visit for business or leisure.

Public displays of affection are taken seriously; kissing in public can lead to fines or deportation. While holding hands may be acceptable in certain circumstances, refrain from doing so in public spaces.

Furthermore, LGBTQ individuals face severe penalties for romantic or sexual interactions in the UAE, including imprisonment. Vigilance is essential for LGBTQ travelers to navigate Dubai safely.

17. Watch What You Say

The UAE has stringent restrictions on freedom of speech. Criticizing the government, police, or royal families can lead to severe consequences, with foreign nationals facing imprisonment for satirical comments.

Internet access in the region is regulated; although social media sites are accessible, certain dating, LGBTQ, or adult-oriented websites remain blocked.

18. Prioritize Hygiene at the Dinner Table

Dining etiquette in the UAE emphasizes cleanliness. It is customary to wash hands before meals.

Utilize your right hand to pick up glasses and finger foods, as the left hand is traditionally reserved for personal hygiene. Avoid placing personal items, such as your phone, on the table to maintain a tidy dining space.

19. Be Courteous During Ramadan

Ramadan is regarded as the holiest month in the Muslim calendar. Observing Muslims fast during daylight hours and participate in nighttime prayers.

Eating in public during Ramadan can lead to legal consequences; while indoor dining is acceptable, refrain from public consumption to avoid offending others. Additionally, avoid loud music or dancing in public and dress modestly during this time.

Learn the Most Important Facts About Dubai

Many aspects of Dubai may surprise you. Despite being a young and arid city, Dubai is a cultural, financial, and religious hub.

Attractions abound, such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Miracle Garden, all while providing the opportunity to appreciate stunning architecture and exotic wildlife.

However, it is crucial to be respectful of local etiquette. This includes avoiding public displays of affection, deriding the government, and understanding how to behave during Ramadan.

By exploring Dubai, you will gain a valuable perspective on the city. May these facts enrich your awareness and inspire a journey to this unique destination in the UAE.