Anything is possible in Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates. Known as the city of endless possibilities, Dubai will simply blow your mind! With so many record-breaking attractions, luxury hotels, family-friendly theme parks, world-class shopping malls, and things to do, Dubai has become one of the most well-liked destinations for people worldwide.The ever-increasing influx of tourists in Dubai makes it obvious that Dubai has become a popular tourist destination in the middle east and the world. In fact, TripAdvsiors Travellers’ Choice Award, has awarded Dubai the title of being the best destination in the world for travel in the year 2022 and 20231) The UAE is a Young Nation—Only 54 Years OldFounded in 1971, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is still relatively young, turning just 54 years old in 2025. For centuries, Dubai and Abu Dhabi were merely small desert settlements until the discovery of oil in 1958 changed everything.Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of Dubai used the country’s newfound oil wealth to develop the UAE into the global hub it is today. Here’s a brief look at the region’s history:Ancient Times – The area was an important trade hub, linking Mesopotamia, Persia, and India.Pearl Trade (Pre-20th Century) – The UAE was known for its high-quality pearls, which drove the local economy before oil was discovered.British Protectorate (1820-1971) – The region, then called the Trucial States, was under British protection, ensuring security and stability.Oil Discovery (1960s) – Oil was found in Abu Dhabi in 1958 and in Dubai in 1966, transforming the country’s economy.Post-1971 Development – The UAE rapidly modernized, shifting towards a diversified economy including finance, real estate, tourism, and aviation.2) Dubai’s Population in 1960 Was Just 34,000Back in 1960, Dubai was home to only 34,000 people. Today, that number has skyrocketed by nearly 9,000%, with the population now estimated at around three million, according to UN data. Talk about rapid growth!3) Foreigners Make Up 88% of the UAE’s PopulationThe UAE has one of the highest proportions of foreign residents in the world. Out of its total population of 12.5 million, a staggering 88%—or about 11.06 million people—are expats.If you’ve ever wondered how a country with just 133,000 citizens a few generations ago grew to over 12 million, immigration is the answer. According to Global Media Insights, the top three expat communities in the UAE come from:India (37.95%)Pakistan (16.72%)Bangladesh (7.38%)As someone who has lived as an expat for years, I’m used to being in the minority. But Dubai flips that idea on its head—the UAE is essentially a country built by and for expatriates.4) The Burj Khalifa Is the Tallest Building in the WorldSince its completion in 2009, the Burj Khalifa has held the title of the world’s tallest building. Soaring to 2,717 feet (828 meters) with 163 floors, it features the highest observation deck on the 143rd floor.After visiting several of the world’s tallest skyscrapers in South Korea and China, I thought I had seen it all—until I stood before the Burj Khalifa. No other tower comes close to the awe-inspiring scale of this architectural wonder.5) Dubai International Airport is the World’s Busiest for International TravelersWhile not the largest in size, Dubai International Airport (DXB) handles the highest number of international passengers. On any given day, approximately 240,000 travelers pass through its terminals, totaling 86.99 million passengers annually.The only airport with more total traffic, including domestic flights, is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.6) Dubai’s Police Force Uses Supercars for PatrolDubai’s police force is known for its extravagant fleet of luxury supercars, including Ferrari FFs and Lamborghini Aventadors. The purpose? To showcase the city’s affluence and reinforce its image as a global luxury destination.With one of the lowest crime rates in the world—just 24.6 major crimes per 100,000 people in 2023—the officers probably have plenty of time to cruise around in style. For comparison, Los Angeles has a violent crime rate of 732 per 100,000. Maybe they just need more Lamborghinis.7) Dubai is Home to the World’s Largest Suspended AquariumLocated inside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium Tank holds an impressive 10 million liters of water, making it the largest suspended aquarium in the world. It also boasts the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks globally, alongside over 33,000 marine animals from 200+ species.8) Dubai’s Artificial Palm Islands Are an Engineering MarvelOne of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks is the Palm Jumeirah, a set of man-made islands shaped like a palm tree. This incredible feat of engineering is the largest artificial archipelago in the world, constructed entirely from sand and rock.To fully appreciate its scale, visitors can take a helicopter tour for breathtaking aerial views of Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab, and the coastline. For thrill-seekers, skydiving over the islands offers an unparalleled perspective of this unique architectural masterpiece.

UAE Ranked Second Safest Country in The World in 2025The UAE has been ranked the second safest country globally in Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Index, just behind Andorra. This year’s rankings were dominated by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, with Qatar securing third place and Oman ranking fifth after Taiwan. Other GCC countries in the top 20 included Saudi Arabia at 14th place and Bahrain at 16th.Additionally, the UAE recorded the second-lowest crime rate worldwide on Numbeo’s 2025 Crime Index, reinforcing its reputation as one of the safest places globally.Numbeo gathers data through surveys answered by users, structuring its questions similarly to those in government and scientific studies. The crime index considers public perceptions of crime levels, concerns about specific offenses, and the prevalence of property and violent crimes. To make the rankings easy to interpret, Numbeo presents them on a 0 to 100 scale, simplifying comparisons.Why is the UAE among the safest countries?The UAE’s safety ranking is attributed to strict laws on crime, drug use, and public behavior, with severe penalties acting as a deterrent. The country also benefits from an efficient law enforcement system, a robust police presence, and advanced security infrastructure.Extensive surveillance, particularly in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, helps authorities prevent crime. The use of artificial intelligence and smart policing ensures swift crime detection and resolution.Furthermore, a strong economy and high living standards reduce crime incentives. Government investments in social welfare and employment opportunities help mitigate socio-economic issues that could lead to unrest.Women and children can safely navigate public spaces, even at night, thanks to well-lit streets, frequent police patrols, and strict anti-harassment laws. Tourists also frequently report feeling safer in the UAE than in many other global destinations.Saudi Arabia’s Safety Ranking ImprovesSaudi Arabia has made significant progress, jumping from 26th place in last year’s Safety Index to 14th in 2025. The Kingdom was also recognized as the safest among G20 nations, with 92.6% of its population reporting that they feel secure walking alone at night, according to the General Authority for Statistics.This achievement reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability across various sectors, including economic, environmental, health, social, and cybersecurity initiatives. These measures align with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to improve overall quality of life and service standards.Dubai as a Global Food DestinationMeanwhile, Dubai has ranked as the fourth most popular food destination on social media, surpassing cities like Sydney, Chicago, and Paris, according to a recent international travel agency survey.

As of today, Friday, March 14, one of Dubai’s most eagerly awaited hotels, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, has officially opened its doors.Inspired by the elegance of a superyacht, this stunning property sits beside the iconic Burj Al Arab, offering guests an unparalleled luxury experience. The expansive resort boasts a private beach, along with 386 rooms, suites, and penthouses, each featuring balconies and terraces that provide breathtaking 180° views of both the Burj Al Arab and the newly introduced superyacht marina.As expected from a world-class hotel, the resort includes wellness facilities, lush landscaped gardens, and a vibrant culinary scene—featuring 12 exceptional restaurants and four bars under one roof. Designed by renowned architect Shaun Killa, the resort’s aesthetic draws inspiration from a cutting-edge superyacht, with fluid architectural lines that resemble the effortless motion of a yacht gliding across the sea. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a striking archway entrance, perfectly framing the Burj Al Arab in the background.The RoomsJumeirah Marsa Al Arab offers 300 elegantly designed rooms and 86 luxurious suites, all mirroring the sleek, yacht-like exterior. Inspired by Italy’s iconic Riva boats, the interiors exude 1960s glamour, complemented by spacious terraces that invite guests to soak in uninterrupted ocean views.For those seeking an even more indulgent stay, premium suites like the Presidential Suite come with a private plunge pool, while the Royal Suite, which appears to float over the water, features an expansive terrace with its own pool and the flexibility to connect up to five rooms for a multi-bedroom retreat. Meanwhile, the Pearl Suite boasts a wraparound terrace offering panoramic sea views, making it the perfect setting for an opulent getaway.World-Class Leisure & FacilitiesGuests can immerse themselves in unparalleled relaxation at the three-story spa, which boasts floor-to-ceiling ocean views and thirteen treatment rooms, each extending to a private terrace for the ultimate serene retreat. The resort also features five stunning pools, including both adult-only and family-friendly options, as well as two private beaches—ideal for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip in the Arabian Gulf.For those who appreciate the allure of the sea, the 82-berth superyacht marina provides a picturesque setting to take a leisurely stroll while admiring the luxury vessels docking nearby.A New Standard of LuxuryJumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a true paradise, blending modern sophistication with world-class amenities. From its upscale dining scene and breathtaking accommodations to its unrivaled leisure facilities, this resort is a dream holiday destination brought to life—an experience so extraordinary, it must be seen to be believed.