Dubai is a place filled with many innovative technologies and architectural unique formations that keep mesmerizing and attract the native people as well as foreigners. Here is a list of 13 interesting facts about Dubai you can use as a guide to plan your vacation in the Middle East or just use it as a source of inspiration to discover something new about the world you live in.
Tallest building in the world
One of the first interesting facts about Dubai is the Burj Khalifa, a skyscraper in Dubai. It is the tallest building in the world with 163 floors and 828 meters. It was built from 2004 to 2010. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the Burj Khalifa’s design draws inspiration from Islamic architecture, specifically the spiral minaret of a mosque. The tower features a series of setbacks as it ascends, giving it a distinctive and elegant profile. Burj Khalifa offers two observation decks. The lower deck, known as the At The Top observatory, is located on the 124th floor. The higher deck, At.mosphere, is a luxurious restaurant and lounge situated on the 122nd floor.
Dubai’s police drive cool cars, and animals or use robotic officers
The list of interesting facts about Dubai continues with police officers who usually drive many high-end luxury cars that would make any car enthusiast’s heart race. Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Bugattis, and other supercars are not just for the wealthy residents. Besides cool cars, the city takes care of its cultural heritage. Police officers use camels too, mostly in desert and tourist areas. In the streets of Dubai, it becomes more common to meet with humanoid robots. They have touchscreens and provide a unique way for tourists and residents to interact with law enforcement.
Ski Resort inside Mall in desert
The resort opened in 2005 and it features 85 meters high Indoor mountain and 5 slopes of steepness and difficulty. It offers many activities and attractions that will suit individuals, families, and even professional athletes. For example, it includes a black diamond run for very experienced skiers and snowboarders. Children and adults are welcome too – there is Snow Park with many toboggan runs, icy body slides, and ice caves. Another famous attraction is the Penguin Encounter. The resort gives you a chance to meet with a colony of Gentoo and King Penguins.
ATM machines for Gold
There are many “Gold to Go” ATMs in Dubai where you can invest your money into gold in the form of gold bars and coins. From 1-gram bars to larger sizes, these gold items are beautifully packaged. The gold ATMs are strategically placed in some of Dubai’s most iconic and high-traffic locations. Luxury hotels, shopping malls, and other popular tourist destinations. The ATM machine includes many cameras and real-time monitoring by a person is present too.
Souks, traditional markets are present everywhere
Souks are traditional markets that are not about shopping. You can engage in the art of haggling and connect with local vendors and end up getting a good bargain. Some of the traditional souks include textile souk, perfume souk, Deira fish market, traditional crafts, and many more.
An Indoor aquarium with over 33,000 marine animals
Located under Dubai Mall, it holds over 10 million liters of water. The aquarium is home to a staggering array of marine creatures, numbering over 33,000 animals representing more than 140 species. From graceful stingrays and majestic sharks to colorful coral reefs and schools of fish, you’ll find an incredible diversity of underwater life. The 48-meter-long walk-through tunnel is the most exciting part of it where you see it all from different perspectives surrounded from all corners by underwater wildlife. You can also participate in activities like cage snorkeling, shark diving, and even the thrilling opportunity to feed the aquatic inhabitants under the guidance of trained professionals. The facility hosts workshops, educational programs, and events too.
Artificial islands copy the world and solar system
There are three artificial islands: World Islands, Universe Islands, and Palm Islands. World Islands is an archipelago of small artificial islands constructed to resemble a map of the world when viewed from above. These islands were built using sand and rock and are situated off the coast of Dubai in the Persian Gulf. Each island represents a specific country or region and is intended to serve as a high-end residential, commercial, or tourist destination. “The Universe Islands,” were planned artificial islands shaped like the planets of the solar system. Each island would represent a different planet and feature distinctive landscapes, architecture, and attractions. Palm Islands as the name suggests resemble the shape of palm trees. Each features a trunk and fronds. Palm Jumeirah, the first and most famous of the Palm Islands, has become a symbol of Dubai’s architectural prowess.
An indoor rainforest with over 3,000 species of plants and trees
Besides an indoor ski center and underwater Zoo, Dubai Mall offers something for lovers of green and plants as well. Within the indoor rainforest, visitors can find over 3,000 species of plants and trees. It includes the world’s largest artificial tree. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the indoor rainforest serves as an educational hub, allowing visitors to learn about the diverse plant species, their habitats, and the importance of rainforests in sustaining Earth’s biodiversity.
Artificial Water Canal
Opened in 2016. It is a waterway that weaves through the city and connects its major landmarks. It is around 3.2 kilometers long. The canal connects Dubai Creek to the Arabian Gulf, effectively dividing the city into two parts: Bur Dubai on one side and Deira on the other. The canal features a captivating water bridge, known as the Sheikh Zayed Road Waterfall Bridge, where the canal flows beneath a stunning waterfall.
Annual shopping festival
The Festival launched on 16 February 1996. During the festival, many shops offer discounts, deals and promotions. Daily car raffles and draws are another popular attraction where you can win either a car or gold. Beyond shopping, the Dubai Shopping Festival offers a lineup of captivating entertainment and cultural events. Concerts featuring international artists, dazzling fireworks displays, live performances, and fashion shows.
Camel races with small robot jockeys and “Camel Beauty Pageant”
In the past, young children were often used as jockeys in camel races, which raised concerns about child welfare and safety. To address these issues, the UAE and other countries in the region introduced robotic jockeys as a humane and modern alternative. Officially they were replaced in 2005 after some camel owners were found to be involved in human trafficking. These small devices are often remote-controlled by trainers who follow the races in vehicles alongside the track.
Besides camel races, Dubai has a Camel Beauty Contest which provides camel breeders and enthusiasts with a platform to showcase the finest examples of these animals and honor their significance in local traditions.
Strict rules and regulations of public behavior
Although you can find many innovative things and experiences in Dubai, there are still strict rules governing public behavior unlike in Western countries, central Europe, the USA, or Australia. While Dubai is more liberal in its dress code compared to some other Middle Eastern countries, there are still guidelines to follow. It is okay to wear swimwear when you are at the beach, but otherwise, clothes that reveal too much can lead to unwanted attention or legal consequences.
Married couples can hold hands in public but more intimate displays of affection like kissing, hugging, or other forms of physical affection are more suitable for private settings. Smoking is generally okay in designated smoking areas, restaurants, and cafes that have outdoor seating.
You can consume alcohol only in licensed establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and bars that have obtained the necessary permits.
You can take photographs freely but when shooting individuals, especially children and women, you should ask for permission. Photography at certain locations, such as government buildings and military installations, is strictly prohibited. And any form of disrespectful behavior, including offensive gestures or verbal abuse towards police officers or other authorities, can lead to legal consequences.
Air-conditioned bus stops
Introduced in 2007, these bus stops come in the shape of a closed box with usually 8 to 10 seats. Some of them have even wifi. They are inclusive, with features such as ramps, tactile indicators, and easy-to-use seating arrangements that cater to people with disabilities.
Sources: booking.com, Wikipedia, TripAdvisor
About Author
Freya
Photographer, artist, content creator, and a solo female traveler since 2017.