United Arab Emirates

The glittering desert city of Dubai lies on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the Persian Gulf to the north and surrounded by the golden sands of the UAE. Once a quiet fishing and trading port, Dubai has rapidly grown into a global metropolis known for its futuristic skyline, luxury lifestyle, and ambitious architecture. It attracts visitors seeking the glamour of modern city life, the thrill of new experiences and the warm allure of Arabian heritage.

The heart of the city is home to soaring landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and sprawling complexes such as the Dubai Mall and the iconic floating islands of the Palm Jumeirah. Yet beyond the skyscrapers and designer boutiques, Dubai’s roots run deep in Bedouin culture, with traditional souks, dhow boats on Dubai Creek, and desert dunes just a short drive away. A city of contrasts, Dubai is where old-world charm meets cutting-edge innovation, creating a truly unique destination in the heart of the Middle East.

Dubai lies within the Arabian Desert, and its geography is defined by vast stretches of flat, arid sand dunes, coastal plains, and salt flats known as sabkhas. To the east, the dunes rise into the rocky Hajar Mountains, which form a dramatic natural boundary between Dubai and Oman.

The city's coastline has been heavily reshaped by human engineering, with iconic artificial islands extending into the Gulf. Heading further inland, the terrain is mostly desert—sunbaked and golden, with sparse vegetation and occasional oases that support date palms and desert wildlife. Desert camps take the place of nomadic caravan settlements as visitors once again carve out their presence in the sands.

Despite its arid climate and limited natural freshwater sources, Dubai has flourished through innovative infrastructure. Its position at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, has played a vital role in making it a global hub for commerce and travel.