Burj al-Arab

The Burj al-Arab (Tower of the Arabs) hotel is one of the tallest hotels in the world. The design resembles a traditional arab dhow (sailing vessel) topped with a modernistic helipad. Golfing fans may recall that Tiger Woods hit a number of drives from the same helipad in 2004. The hotel accommodation is split into magnificent duplex suites rather than conventional rooms and is one of the most expensive hotels in the world. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in the Burj al—Arab but the Al Muntaha (Ultimate) and Al Mahara (Oyster) award winning restaurants are not to be missed.

Dubai. Pop. 1,570,779.The most populous of the 7 Emirate states that make up the UAE (United Arab Emirates). Dubai was originally part of the Trucial States and Oman under a British protectorate. This protectorate was dissolved in 1971 and the UAE was formed. Compared to the other Emirates, oil and gas production in Dubai is a relatively small earner. Most of Dubai’s revenue comes from the Jebel Ali Trade Free Zone, Tourism, Real Estate and other financial and business developments. The expansion of Dubai’s tourism industry has led to a property construction boom and the city is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. The property and real estate boom is headlined by a number of massive projects including – Palm Island, The World, Dubai Marina, Burj Dubai Complex, Business Bay and Dubailand. The Burj Dubai Complex centrepiece will be the tallest building in the world at 810 m, although it’s official height is a closely guarded secret. The completion date is expected to be in 2008. The Burj Dubai skyscraper will be in good company as Dubai already has the world’s tallest dedicated hotel – The Burj al-Arab (Tower of the Arabs) at 231 m (1,053 feet). Dubai is also a mecca for shopping with modern mall shopping centres, traditional souks or markets and the famous Dubai Airport Duty Free shopping centre. For sports participants and fans Dubai has a range of activities including – Golf, Tennis, Cricket, Football, Rugby, Various Water-sports, Horse and Camel Racing.