Barely 50 years ago, Dubai was little more than a small fishing village on the Persian Gulf. However, the ambition and vision of its leaders transformed it into a world-class city—one that continues to push the limits of modern architecture, luxury, and innovation.
Dubai is the city of possibilities, a metropolis of record-breaking achievements. It has become a top-tier tourism, economic, and commercial hub, filled with fascinating and extravagant stories. If you want to impress your friends, here are some mind-blowing things to know about Dubai—get ready for surprises!
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1. Palm Jumeirah is Visible from Space
Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island off the coast of Dubai, is home to luxury hotels and high-end residences. While its distinctive palm tree shape isn’t obvious from the ground, it becomes unmistakable from above. Stunning images of the island have been captured from the International Space Station (ISS), including those taken by French astronaut Thomas Pesquet.
2. 90% of Dubai’s Residents Are Not Emirati
Dubai is a global melting pot, much like the rest of the United Arab Emirates. 90% of its population consists of expatriates who come to work in tourism, construction, finance, or to enjoy a luxurious retirement. The city is also home to a large English-speaking community, drawn by its lavish lifestyle and business opportunities.
3. The City Was Built in Just 40 Years
Photos from the 1980s show a stark contrast—before Dubai became a futuristic skyline, it was just a stretch of desert and small fishing huts. Over the past 50 years, an aggressive urban expansion policy transformed it into a global financial and tourist powerhouse. Looking at Dubai today, it’s safe to say the gamble paid off!
4. Virtually No Crime Exists in Dubai
Despite its extreme wealth, Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world. A strict legal system, severe penalties, and adherence to Islamic laws ensure that residents and visitors can walk around without fear of theft or assault. Few other destinations can offer the same level of security and peace of mind.
5. Dubai Has the World’s Only “7-Star” Hotel
The Burj Al Arab, though not officially classified as 7-star, is regarded as the most luxurious hotel on the planet. With its 321-meter sail-shaped design, an exclusive helipad, and a panoramic restaurant, it is the pinnacle of luxury and prestige. Staying here requires a serious budget, but the service is among the best in the world.
6. Police Drive Supercars
Even law enforcement in Dubai embraces extravagance. Instead of traditional police cars, officers patrol in luxury vehicles like Lamborghinis, Mercedes AMGs, Brabus, Audi R8s, and even Bugattis. So, if you ever get a speeding ticket in Dubai, don’t expect to outrun the police!
7. There Are No Addresses or Mailboxes in Dubai
Despite its ultra-modern infrastructure, Dubai has no traditional mailing system—no mail carriers, no personal mailboxes. Residents must rely on courier services for deliveries or rent a P.O. Box at post offices and commercial centers.
8. You Can Withdraw Gold from ATMs
Forget cash withdrawals—Dubai offers gold-dispensing ATMs known as Gold to Go machines. Found in select luxury locations, these ATMs allow users to purchase small gold bars and coins, with prices updated in real time. In a city where gold is a status symbol, these ATMs are a natural fit.
9. The World’s Largest Mall Is in Dubai
The Dubai Mall spans 1.12 million square meters, featuring 1,200 stores, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and one of the world’s largest aquariums. Situated at the base of the Burj Khalifa, it’s a shopping paradise that could take days to fully explore!
10. The Burj Khalifa Was Inspired by a Flower
At 828 meters tall, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, with the fastest elevator and 160 floors. Its design was inspired by the Hymenocallis, a desert flower. Despite its steel and concrete structure, this record-breaking skyscraper retains a touch of natural beauty.
11. There Are No Income Taxes in Dubai
Dubai is a paradise for investors and entrepreneurs—no income tax, no corporate tax, making it a magnet for foreign capital. This tax-free status explains why the city attracts high-net-worth individuals and businesses from around the world.
12. Luxury Cars Are Abandoned in the Desert
Dubai’s extravagance has an unexpected downside—many luxury cars, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Bentleys, are abandoned in the desert. When business owners face financial troubles, strict laws mean they could face jail time for unpaid debts. Many choose to flee the country, leaving behind their supercars as silent reminders of failed fortunes.
