Dubai is divided into Diera on the north side of the Creek and Bur Dubai to the south, the Dubai business districts. Tunnels and bridges connect the two, but mosques, markets, and hotels abound on both sides. Dubai is one of the more liberal Arab states and there are few of the alcohol restrictions found elsewhere. However, respect for their culture and religion should be adhered to, particularly over the holy month of Ramadan.

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and visitors can dress however they like. Still, a good amount of respect for local customs is appreciated. Dubai is well known as a melting pot and everyone you speak to refers proudly to the number of different nationalities and religions found here; estimates vary but Zahed suggested around 100 nationalities and 86 faiths, all freely allowed to practise. Dubai's "Open Doors, Open Minds" programme allows non-Muslims to visit the Jumeirah mosque, one of the city's landmarks. Dubai is a Mecca for anyone looking for sand, sea, shopping and property too! With an average daily temperature of 27.5C, Dubai is known for its excellent weather, the world's richest horse race and its rapidly expanding and extensively developed natural coastline.

Oil revenues make up less than 6% of Dubai's income. Historically, Dubai was a trading post between east Asia and Europe, and through the efforts of its rulers, combined with favourable geopolitical conditions, it is regaining that role. Oil analysts believe that Dubai's reserves will be exhausted by around 2010. In Dubai's case then, the need for careful planning to diversify away from this source of earnings was vital.

Dubai Hotels are famous for their luxury and excellent service; the Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most famous landmark, and known as the 7 star hotel. The minimalist white structure, which resembles a billowing sail, stands on its own island 280 metres offshore. Dubai Hotels are well known all over the world as top-class hotels. Duty free shopping that Dubai offers its visitors is also a wonderful experience. Dubai hotels are famous all around the world for the quality of services; Dubai has what is perhaps the largest concentration of luxury hotels in the world. Most 5-star and 4-star rating hotels are concentrated in or around two famous places, one of which is Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Beach Road, and the other, the Sheikh Zayed Road.