The Palm Jumeirah Can Be Seen From Space
Palm Jumeirah is a group of artificial islands located on the Persian Gulf in Jumeirah, Dubai. It is the largest manufactured island and is home to pristine private stretches of white sand, lavish luxury villas, and luxury hotels. When viewed from above, the island is shaped like a palm tree.
The islands were made through the land reclamation process, with engineers creating the foundation using rock blasted from the nearby Hajar Mountains. The process of creating the islands is arguably one of the most audacious engineering feats ever undertaken. The $12 billion project started in 2001 and was completed in six years.
The UAE Has a Minister for Happiness
In 2016, The United Arabs Emirates created a new post for the Minister of State for Happiness. The government then appointed Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi as head of this state office. She works to harmonize all government policies, plans, and programs to ensure a happier society.
It may seem odd, but this state office perfectly aligns with the UAE's goal to become the happiest state in the world. According to the World Happiness Report, yes, it exists. The UAE is ranked number 26 and first among Arab countries. The report, released by the UN, is based on an opinion survey conducted in 157 countries.
24-Carat Gold Leaf For Days
The Burj Al Arab is the only official seven-star hotel worldwide. It is one of the tallest hotels in the world, standing at 1,053 feet, but 39% of its total height is made of space that cannot be occupied. The hotel stands on the artificial Jumeirah Island and is connected to the mainland via a private curving bridge.
Staying on brand with Dubai's unapologetic opulence, the Burj Al Arab interior is decorated with 24-carat gold on its interiors, enough to cover over 40,000 Mona Lisa paintings. The luxury doesn't end there; the hotel floors are made with exclusive Italian Statuario Marble.
Dubai Police Car Fleet
Dubai is known for everything luxury, and the city has made a reputation for itself as a playground for the wealthy. One of the most impressive things about the city is its flight of police cars. It is not unusual to sport luxury vehicles on the streets belonging to ordinary citizens either.
In 2013, Dubai's police force added a Lamborghini "Aventador" to its collection of autos. Then, they continued to add a wide range of supercars to their fleet, such as; Bentley "Continental GT," a rare Ferrari "FF," Mercedes-Benz "Brabus G-Wagon," and Aston Martin "One-77."
Swearing on WhatsApp
UAE is very safe, but one risk to look out for when traveling there is probably unwittingly breaking local law. Dubai has strict rules about how people should conduct themselves. For instance, swearing is prohibited. This act is punishable by up to a year in prison, or a person is fined 10,000 dirhams, an equivalent of $2,722.
This ban extends to online activity. Swearing, even on WhatsApp and other online platforms, is illegal. If caught, this activity is punishable by getting a prison sentence of six months or a fine between 100,000 and 500,000 dirhams, the equivalent of $27,226 and $136,132.
Eating or Drinking on Public Transport
Dubai has many unusual laws, one of which is that eating and drinking are prohibited on public transportation. The city has numerous restaurants and bars where residents or tourists can freely eat. Therefore, there is no reason to eat in undesignated areas.
One of the reasons why this rule is in place is to keep the metro clean and hygienic and avoid littering. If caught with food or beverages, a person can be fined up to 100 dirhams. One passenger from Yemen was fined for chewing gum. While we understand the need to enforce the rules, being fined for chewing gum is extreme!
Aladdin Lamps
The story of Alladin and his magical lamp has been retold and adapted many times. It is a classic rags-to-riches tale with a young hero, a beautiful princess, and a wish-granting genie in a lamp. The story is of Middle Eastern origin and was initially told in the book, "Arabian Nights."
We won't find a genie after rubbing this lamp, but it makes for a great gift or souvenir to keep in our homes to remind us of our travels. These can be found at traditional souks in Dubai. At these markets, haggling is expected, so we should brush up on our bargaining skills before visiting.
Kava Pots and Coffee Sets
Kava is a strong black coffee beverage served and is a local favorite. This drink is such a huge part of Arab culture that it is served in exquisite and delicate pots and cups. The pots and pans used to serve kava are usually lined with gold and silver; some are also inlaid with semiprecious stones.
The cups used to serve the coffee are made of silver or copper and are rimmed with gold or silver, while the entire set is carried using thin trays of silver or gold. In some Arab homes, these sets are highly prized, often becoming family heirlooms.
Attar
Arabs and Muslims are known for their emphasis on personal hygiene. It is common and expected to get a whiff of exotic scents when walking past Arab men and women. Historically, these people believed that Attar attracts benevolent spirits and repels evil ones, and they also act as a powerful personal statement about an individual.
These fragrances are available for sale at the various perfume souks in Dubai. A must-visit while in the city are souks at Sikkat al-Khali street. They have multiple bottles containing scents. Other places to shop for fragrances include; Geant hypermarket, The Gardens Mall, and Burjuman Center.
Exotic Pets
Keeping wild animals as pets has been a long-standing status symbol for the wealthy in the Middle East. We have seen it on social media; big cats such as tigers being taken on a walk, lions pictured in the backs of luxury cars, and a video showing five tigers on a beach.
In 2017, the UAE government outlawed this practice as it became dangerous. A story emerged of a cleaner attacked by lions when the owner forgot to lock them up when he was leaving. The law states that these animals can only be kept at zoos, wildlife parks, and breeding and research centers.
Gold ATM
In May 2010, the Emirati unveiled the world's first-ever gold ATM at a hotel in Abu Dhabi. The unveiling attracted many visitors within the first few minutes of its opening. The machine dispenses small gold bars, similar to how an ATM dispenses cash.
The German-created ATM displays a live display of the rates, and it has been placed in one of Abu Dhabi's most luxurious hotels called Emirates Palace Hotel. It distributes one, five, and tens grams of these tiny gold bars. The ATM provides convenience for those who don't want to go to jewelry stores, and high-security cameras constantly monitor the machine.
Camel Parking
Dubai is a desert, and it is not uncommon to spot camels in the city. The Emiratis love these animals and without them, surviving in the desert would have been impossible. Decades ago, when Dubai was just a small city, there was a great reliance on the ship of the desert.
After the city became metropolitan, the love of the camel is still evident. The animals are now found on farms on the outskirts of the city, and they are still regarded highly and seen as a symbol of the country's cultural heritage. They also serve as tourist attractions, and it is common for tourists to ride them.
Luxury Bathrooms
Everything is bigger in Dubai. The city has a reputation for grandiose structures, opulence, and luxury. We all know about the city's hotels and other famous buildings, and their bathrooms are no different. These washrooms are probably ten times bigger than our normal ones at home.
One of the world's most expensive bathrooms is found in the XXII Carat Club Villas in Dubai. It is a high-end restroom that ranks high on luxury. It has a lavish marble interior and a $1 million Amazonian rock crystal tub. The villas themselves cost about $10 million. They are only 22 and are located on Palm Jumeirah islands.
Golden Cell Phones
It is common to see a lot of solid gold items in Dubai. It is a wealthy city, and the residents are always trying to outdo each other with their display of wealth. However, we imagine how heavy a solid gold mobile phone must be.
This gadget was created by Caviar in honor of Sheikh Zayed. The phone, dubbed the "Gold Sheikh," is made of pure gold and is decorated with diamonds and engravings. It is part of Caviars Tsar's range that celebrates leaders and founders of countries and dynasties. Only seven of these were made, and each piece costs $37K.
Wide Cars
Typically, Emiratis drive pretty big autos. It is common to find several 4x4 vehicles parked in somebody's garage. One of the reasons for this is that they have large families, and they need all that space to ferry them around. The second reason is that fuel is significantly cheaper in Dubai.
The rich also like to have customized one of a kind things, including cars, homes, and even phones. However, the Jeep pictured here is quite impractical and is illegal in some countries, such as the United States, where passenger vehicles are required to be a maximum of 8.5 feet wide.
Walking Your Camel
The United Arabs Emirates is made up of 80% desert, and Camels are a considerable part of the culture in this country. Without these creatures, survival in the desert is impossible. However, this image caught people's attention because of its irony. The camel represents the past, while the Mercedes SUV is an excellent representation of modern times.
Some families in Dubai still own the humped animals, and some take them on walks. When tourists visit the city, walking and riding camels are usually a part of their activities. Some families keep them on farms away from the city because it is still a part of their culture.
Fancy Horse Stalls
The horse is another animal that is a massive part of the culture in the UAE. Traditionally, the strong animal is seen as a symbol of honor, chivalry, and nobility. Also, Arabian steeds are known to be one of the purest breeds in the world. Riding is a popular sport deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage.
When we think of barns and stables, we think of simple stalls made of brick, wood, and earthen floors. When this image surfaced online, everybody assumed these horse pens were in Dubai. However, these pens are in Jiangsu, China, at the Heilan International Equestrian Club.
Free Food
Despite the glamour and opulence that middle easterners are famous for, there is still a vast disparity between to rich and the poor. In fact, according to some sources, it is one of the worst in the world. The government has introduced policies to help with the poverty problem in the country.
In 2013, the Ansar Mall in Dubai placed a free food shelf where people with no cash could pick up some free food. They offer a range of various food items, from fresh yogurt to Arabic bread, to help the less fortunate during Ramadan. The mall does not prevent anyone from taking the food.
Grooms Wanted
Arranged marriages are strange to Western cultures, but for many people in the UAE, it is seen as a way to form lasting and reliable connections with other families. Some of these marriages can lead to lasting love and happy marriages. However, divorce is frowned upon, and the options for women to get out of marriage are few.
Usually, fathers are in charge of planning and finding suitable mates for their daughters. It is not uncommon to see ads in the newspapers so that they can marry off their daughters to well-off families. Many marriages in the UAE are still traditional, and many are married off young, whether male or female.
Extravagant Hotel Rooms
Dubai is the most famous tourist destination. This city in the emirates ranks as number one, closely followed by New York and Lonon in third place. While vacationing in this beautiful desert city, we may get an opportunity to stay in one of its luxurious hotels.
The Burj Al Arab is one of the most extravagant hotels we can stay at. Officials in the country have rated it 5 Stars, the highest that a hotel can score. However, there are other luxurious hotels that we can stay at, such as the Bulgari Resort Dubai, which costs $3,117 per night.
Super Bus
Traveling in Dubai is relatively easy. The city is home to one of the world's longest and most fully automated railroad networks. It has two active lines, green and red. The other traveling options include buses. These are fairly comfortable and connect all the major landmarks in the city.
In 2011, the world's first superbus was manufactured by a team of Dutch engineers. The bus is a hybrid bus-limousine and can reach speeds of up to 155 miles per hour. It can only carry 23 passengers at a time and has cut travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to 30 minutes.
Luxury Vehicle Traffic Jams
Traffic jams are typical in many densely populated cities all over the world. However, traffic jams in Dubai are different in that the traffic resembles a supercars show. Many people in UAE enjoy a higher standard of living than those in other areas of the world.
Therefore, these cars aren't just a means to travel but also a status symbol. Life in this desert city is very accommodating to luxury cars; for example, the city has perfect driving conditions, well-maintained roads, and easy financing for those who want to purchase them. Interestingly, around 3,000 supercars are abandoned annually by their owners.
So Long, Fish
One sign that we are likely to see while traveling on the Dubai Metro is the no-fish sign. The metro officials do not want passengers carrying fish, dead or alive, on the train. This is undoubtedly due to the heat and the likeliness that the fish has a strong smell.
Those found carrying fish on the Metro will be fined not less than 100 dirham by the authorities. The Dubai metro is rated almost five stars on Tripadvisor, and travelers agree that it is one of the best ways to travel around the city. Clearly, their strict rules are working.
Massive Skyscrapers
The city of Dubai has some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. All the architecture in the city is awe-inspiring and has a futuristic feel that makes visitors feel like they have stepped into a modern world. The city is also home to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa.
This building was inaugurated in 2010, and it towers at 2,722 feet, overtaking the then-tallest skyscraper, Taipei 101. The building was designed by the same firm that designed the Sears tower in Chicago, which was also once a record holder for the tallest building in the world.
The Most Ornate Starbucks
The Emiratis are known for their love of coffee, and coffee culture is a massive part of Dubai's activities. So, it was only natural that Starbucks, the world's largest coffee chain, would have a branch in the most famous emirate city.
This Starbucks is located inside the Battuta Mall, and we will not find the standard interior design decorations in other chains in other countries. This branch has over-the-top designs with beautiful domed ceilings and intricately designed tiles. This isn't the only Starbucks branch in Dubai, this is one of over 100 branches that are found all over the country.
Police Boats
We have seen the incredible supercars the Dubai police force use, and we wouldn't expect anything less from their police boats. This is the world's fastest police boat, costing $400K. It was a gift to the police force from Dubai's Crown Prince Prince-Sheikh Hamdan.
The boat can only carry four to six people at a time and can go as fast as 85 nautical miles an hour. It is designed for catching criminals and performing rescue operations. The boat exterior is light carbon fiber, like the material used to make racing vehicles. Its sleek shape is similar to a Lamborghini on water.
Mile Up Tennis
There are many jaw-dropping architectural feats in Dubai, and it is hard to pick just one that tops them all. We would all enjoy a good game of tennis; now imagine playing this game on a tennis court 1,000 feet above the ground. Now we can do just that on our visit to the emirates.
The city has outdone itself in an effort to wow and impress its residents and visitors. Located at the Burj Khalifa, the tennis court was originally a helipad. In 2005, tennis superstars Roger Federer and Andre Agassi were invited by the city to enjoy a friendly game at the court in the sky.
Surfboard Kayaking
Everything in Dubai centers around their religion. It is not uncommon to see residents and tourists engaged in activities fully clothed that other people in other countries would do while dressed differently. This emirate city has tapped into a market that most cities cannot tap into: Halal tourism.
This type of tourism is a huge market to get into; Muslims make up a quarter of the world's population. It is also a group that requires exceptions when it comes to their needs while traveling. A city like Dubai is perfect for them to travel to as it follows their law of Islam.
Skiing In The Desert
When we think about skiing, we think of countries like France, Italy, Switzerland, and the United States. Dubai isn't at the top of the list because 80% of its surface is desert. However, the emirate is one of the most innovative countries in the world, and they have found a way for residents and tourists to ski.
The city is home to a resort called Ski Dubai, which is part of the Mall of the Emirates. Opened in 2005, it features a 278-foot-high mountain with slopes of varying height and difficulty. The resort also houses penguins released from their enclosures for several hours daily.
Full-Moon Drum Circle
A drum circle is a group of people playing drums and other percussion instruments in a ring. The purpose of drum circles is to bring people closer together by sharing rhythm. There is no leader in a drum circle, and the group comprises people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
While vacationing in Dubai, it is common to run into drum circles on the beach. The people already in the loop will encourage others to join in. This activity promotes community and can also serve as a means to reduce stress. It usually happens under the full moon, which is said to be therapeutic and healing.
An Aquarium In The Mall
Dubai is famous for its massive and impressive malls and is home to 35 of them. The Dubai Mall is one of them and is considered one of the biggest malls in the world. It is home to many tourist attractions, such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.
The huge aquarium is filled with over 140 species of aquatic animals. It holds over 400 sharks and an array of other sea creatures, such as octopi. If we are feeling adventurous, there is an option to get into the tank and enjoy a swim with the animals and experience them close and personal.
The Underwater Zoo
Still in the Dubai Mall, vacationers will find an underwater zoo. The zoo is located on the mall's second level, just above the aquarium. Here, visitors will experience three different ecological zones; the living ocean, rainforest, and rocky shore.
The rocky shore is where the land meets the sea, and here we will find sea otters, giant crabs, and other creatures found on the seashore. If we are brave enough, we can reach over and touch these creatures, but we wouldn't advise anybody to touch the dangerous ones, such as Piranhas or eels. One of the most exciting experiences here is watching the divers feeding sea creatures.
Camel Racing
Camel racing is a popular sport in various parts of the world, such as North Africa, Australia, Mongolia, Pakistan, Western Asia, and the Horn of Africa. Professional camel racing is a serious sport, just like horse racing, which attracts tourists, and individuals can place bets.
Deep in the Dubai desert, vacationers will find modern versions of the traditional camel racing of old times. From the stands, we can enjoy this old tradition that has been part of the Emirati's lives for centuries. It is exciting, heart-thumping, full of crowds, and spectators watch as 60 camels gallop full speed from the gates.
Gold Motorcycle
Motorcycle lovers will really enjoy this one. Dubai is the unofficial center of opulence and grandiosity, and it is pretty appropriate that the first golden motorcycle was displayed in this city. In 2013, Danish motorcycle maker Lauge Jensen displayed their newest make - a gold-plated motorcycle dubbed "Goldfinger."
The manufacturer usually makes bikes on order but this time, they decided to make one and display it in Dubai and Monaco. Soon after the display, a buyer snatched it up but had to pay $850K. The bike's 850 parts were individually gold-plated by hand. It was also covered in small diamonds totaling 7 carats.
Limousine Ambulance Service
The purpose of an ambulance is to carry those who need emergency medical care as fast as possible to the nearest healthcare facility. The intention of these rides is not glamour nor comfort but to save lives. However, the sophisticated city of Dubai would disagree.
Obviously, to them, being unwell doesn't equate to abandoning our class and comfort. This explains why the innovative city has limousines as part of a service to transport patients to and from the hospital. The service is not necessarily for emergency services. Instead, it is for offering transportation to patients who need to visit the hospital due to suffering mild to mid-level distress.
Gold Cupcake
This is the "Golden Phoenix," the world's most expensive cupcake. It is served at Dubai's Bloomsbury's Cupcakes. It was unveiled when Bloomsbury was opening its new branch in Dubai. At $1,000, it is undoubtedly the most expensive edible cupcake ever made.
The chocolate dessert is made from premium Amedei Porcelana chocolate and Ugandan vanilla beans. Then it is covered in 23-carat gold sheets and edible gold dust. After its unveiling, the store suffered backlash as internet users thought eating gold was all too much and that the money used to make it could be used toward a worthy cause.
Burj Khalifa
Dubai is well known for its stunning, tall architecture which is also well-designed with modern technology. The higher, the better, must be the notion when it comes to buildings over here. One of the tallest buildings in the world is the Burj Khalifa. The tower broke numerous records when it was inaugurated in January 2010.
The $2-billion construction was built as an acquisition to gain more international recognition, putting Dubai on the map. As well as being aesthetically appealing, the upside-down 'Y' shape of the tower was cleverly designed to withstand strong winds for its incredible 2,716-foot towering height.
Air-conditioned Bus Stops
If there is a city that cares about its citizens, it has to be Dubai. Healthcare is absolutely free for all its citizens. However, the vast majority of the city's occupants are expatriates who are in the country as laborers. Only about 11% of people living there are actual Emiratis.
There are also other perks that come with being a citizen in Dubai, such as tax-free income, subsidized fuel costs, generous government-funded retirement plans, and free higher education. Unbelievable right? Also, nobody has to wait for the bus under the scorching sun; the city has air-conditioned bus stops to help cool off.
Iced Out Mercedes
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are considered luxury items. The German manufacturer specializes in making innovative cars; also, they go above and beyond to create a fun, comfortable, and safe experience for their buyers. The vehicle also has excellent performance features, such as high-powered engines.
That said, imagine a diamond-encrusted Mercedes-Benz that truly lives up to Dubai's reputation for going over the top. In 2007, this auto was unveiled at a Dubai auto show to celebrate the manufacturer's 50th anniversary of its "SL550" model. The vehicle belongs to Saudi Prince (Amir) al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdul-Aziz, who, according to Forbes, is one of the wealthiest people in the world.
Tower Of Reptiles
The Emiratis love animals. Remember how they like to keep big cats as pets? Let's not forget their love for camels, and they also extend this love to tortoises. In the UAE, there are efforts to conserve this endangered animal. Capturing these reptiles or their eggs is considered an illegal act.
When we see the reptiles stacked like this, we assume someone did this to them. Perhaps that assumption is correct. However, turtles do this on their own when trying to get helpful UV rays that are important for them to help fight diseases and keep warm under that thick shell.
High-end UBER
People all over the world are familiar with the Uber app. This is where we can all order rides at our convenience to get to wherever we want. Even if we don't own a car, we can travel safely without using public transport.
In Dubai, this service goes a step further. We can request a luxury car when we order an Uber. Let's not forget that luxury cars are abundant in the UAE, and it is no surprise that some of them have found their way into this taxi service. It may cost more, but we can't put a price on luxury.
Driving On Water
Probably most of us had no idea that these exist. This is a vehicle that turns into a speed boat as soon as it hits the water. This invention happened in WWII when VW invented amphibious vehicles to help them win the war. These inventions have come a long way since then, and they keep getting improved.
Pictured here is the Gibbs Aquada; this amphibian is capable of speeds of up to 99 miles per hour. The Aquada is powered by a 2.5L Rover Engine. One sheik loves these so much that he owns six of these contraptions worth over $800K.
Escaping Traffic
Like any other busy city, Dubai tends to get congested by traffic despite the excellent infrastructure. We know the city is growing at an unbelievably fast rate, and understandably, there are so many vehicles on the road. This tends to get inconvenient when we need to get somewhere on time.
However, with wealth comes handy solutions to many problems. For instance, there is a helicopter taxi service to airlift people stuck on the road. This service is available to everybody who can afford it. Keep in mind that Dubai is home to over 52K millionaires, which means they can easily afford this.
24K Magic
The wealthy elites in Dubai are constantly finding new ways to spend their millions. One way that we have seen them do this is by customizing their vehicles in all types of methods. Gold and expensive gems are one sure way to stand out when we want to make our cars stand out.
A Jeep Cherokee is incomparable with Ferraris and Lamborghinis, and one owner decided to get a 24-karat paint job to make his stand out. This practice isn't uncommon, for instance, Saudi billionaire Turki Bin Abdullah has a fleet of exotic cars, such as a Rolls-Royce "Phantom" wrapped in gold.
Putting Louboutin's To Shame
What else could possibly scream wealth than a solid gold stiletto? A French designer designed these high heels, and, most of them were sold in Dubai. We aren't surprised by this, residents of the UAE put a lot of value in gold, and it's one way to showcase their wealth. We wonder, however, if the shoe isn't too heavy.
The creation is both a heel and a vintage cassette. However, these aren't the most expensive heels in the world. Designer Italian designer Antonio Vietri created the Moon Star high heels that were valued at $20 million when they were revealed in 2019.