The UAE, often associated with great wealth, stunning architecture, and ubiquitous Lamborghinis, reveals a multifaceted reality. Beyond its glamorous cities lies expansive desert landscapes.
Despite its affluent citizens, strict laws regulate daily life, including rigorous dress codes for women. This series of photos unveils the UAE’s less explored, contrasting features, providing insight into its distinct cultural tapestry.
In Dubai, Their Mist Is Made of Sand
Dubai is nestled within the Arabian desert, seemingly adrift amidst the sands. Encircled by dunes, salt flats, and the rugged, parched terrain that stretches towards the Western Hajar Mountains, the city boasts fine, white sands as far as the eye can see.
As a coastal city, Dubai is susceptible to winds blowing inland from the ocean. These strong gusts gather the powdery sand, creating thick and turbulent air. These sandstorms can pose dangers, hindering visibility and making breathing difficult, necessitating seeking shelter indoors. Lasting for hours, they leave behind a significant mess to be cleaned up once they subside.
People Leave Their Trash on the Beach
No place in the world is without flaws. Where there is civilization, there is inevitably garbage. Typically, areas where trash accumulates are linked to poverty and inadequate governance. Despite this, the photos of the opulent cities in the UAE gleam with affluence.
Certain compromises are often required in exchange for a particular lifestyle. Growing accustomed to others cleaning up after you may lead to the belief that discarding trash wherever is acceptable, assuming it’s someone else’s responsibility to tidy up.
Things Get Sweaty Fast When You Go Outside
Describing desert heat to those who haven’t felt it firsthand is challenging. In the United Arab Emirates, the climate is severe and relentless. Building a nation in one of the hottest, driest regions on the planet requires inhabitants to acclimate to the extreme heat.
At night, the heat becomes somewhat tolerable, but as soon as the sun rises, it becomes scorching. In this image, a cat appears distressed, meowing to be let back inside. Air conditioning is the true savior in the UAE, a fact well recognized by all. Temperatures can soar to around 104°F (40°C) before lunchtime.
Does Anyone Need a Ride?
The United Arab Emirates is famed for being the hub where one can spot the latest sports and supercars, in every imaginable color, lined up along the same road. Few displays rival the extravagant exhibition of wealth seen in purchasing a car with a price tag that seems endless, yet lacking practicality beyond aesthetics.
As depicted in this photo and caption, practicality takes a backseat to opulence in the UAE market. There’s little demand for anything that doesn’t radiate extravagance. Even if there’s nothing inherently wrong with these vehicles, their affordability is their downfall. It’s not uncommon to see soccer moms chauffeuring their children to school in Lamborghini SUVs.
The Skyline Is a Thing to Behold
Nearly all of the tourist attractions in the UAE are artificial marvels. Towering structures of steel and glass dominate the skyline, creating a breathtaking sight that stretches across the horizon, as captured in this photo taken from sea level.
We’re accustomed to viewing cities from above, but this perspective offers something unique. The stark white sands serve as a boundary between the vibrant blue waters, almost painfully beautiful to behold, and a city ascending into the sky. It’s a striking visual representation of civilization’s reach.
Don’t Forget to Sunscreen at the Beach
When not marred by litter, the white sand beaches and azure waters of the UAE offer a sublime setting. It’s the ideal spot to unwind, soak in the stunning vistas, and bask in the sun. However, as mentioned, excessive sunlight is abundant in the region and can detract from the enjoyment of the experience.
Sunburn can quickly spoil a day or an entire holiday. Sunscreen is essential for beachgoers, but transporting bottles of lotion on a plane can be impractical. In Dubai, they’ve devised a solution to this dilemma. Convenient sunscreen dispensers line walkways near swimming beaches, enabling tourists to maximize their time and fully enjoy their leisure without worrying about sun protection.
The Road Is No Place for Walking
In a city emerging from the sands and inhabited by individuals driving outrageously expensive vehicles, priority is given to road construction, leaving pedestrian sidewalks neglected.
The scorching temperatures and sandstorms further deter pedestrian activity in these regions. On the roadside, there’s nothing but sand. While technically possible to walk there, the lack of distance or barrier between pedestrians and the vehicles zooming by can be quite daunting.
This Bird Is Going Places
The intense heat in the UAE is so oppressive that even the birds seek refuge indoors. With the scorching heat emanating from the concrete and sand, and the sun beating down relentlessly, it must be exhausting for birds to navigate the skies. Yet, as depicted in the photo, this little bird seems to have found a clever solution to beat the heat.
Crossing the road may be suitable for chickens, but not for this gentleman. He’s opting for the subway instead. Following the rules, he waits patiently, quietly, and in an orderly fashion for his turn. By observing etiquette and adhering to the boarding procedure, he sets an example for humans, showing that it’s not so difficult after all.
A Starbucks That Blends With Its Surroundings
This Starbucks achieves what many others struggle to do – it seamlessly blends into its surroundings, exuding an air of authenticity. Situated near a historical district in Dubai, the surrounding buildings boast traditional Arabic architecture, making the coffee shop an integral part of the scenery.
In the vicinity, numerous other restaurants and shops adopt a similar rustic, sandstone aesthetic. This creates a charming juxtaposition of contemporary tastes with old-world charm. The furniture and interior décor harmonize with the surroundings, while outdoor seating is nestled beneath a thatched roof, enhancing the ambiance.
When the KFC Is Too Fresh
Keeping chickens is a widespread practice globally. In countries like Brazil and Mexico, it’s common to see chickens roaming the streets without a second thought. However, in the glitzy city of Dubai, anything natural can seem out of context amidst the predominantly manmade surroundings.
As it happens, keeping chickens is also popular here. Many view it as a cultural tradition, akin to the call to prayer for those of the Muslim faith when the roosters crow in the morning.
Kick Back on Top of the World
There are numerous perspectives from which to experience a city. Ground level offers the pulse of daily life, where the action typically unfolds. Alternatively, you can ascend to the heavens and immerse yourself in a rooftop pool perched 30-something stories high.
Dubai epitomizes luxury for those with the means to indulge. Luxuriating in an ultra-fancy hotel affords a close-up view of the colossal structures shaping the cityscape, while also offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the world below. It’s a remarkable way to immerse oneself in the experience of life in the UAE.
The Burj Khalifa Is a Towering Giant
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, completed in 2009, stands as the world’s tallest building and structure at 828.8 meters. Construction began in 2004. Taipei 101 held the previous record at 508 meters, while the Petronius Platform, partially submerged, reached 640 meters before the Burj Khalifa surpassed it.
The Burj Khalifa boasts 163 floors, yet the highest accessible to the public is the premium SKY lounge on the 148th floor, offering unparalleled views of the entire city. Admission requires purchasing a ticket, which also grants access to levels 125 and 124, home to observation decks for a comprehensive tour and breathtaking vistas.
A Land of Ice and Fire
Across the globe, evidence of global warming is becoming increasingly apparent, particularly in regions already prone to extreme climates. In 2020, even the highest peak of the UAE, Jebel Jais, experienced an unusual phenomenon as hail and snow engulfed its summit, highlighting the effects of climate change in even the most unexpected places.
Even in Jumeirah, a renowned area of Dubai known for its sandy beaches, hail fell—an unusual occurrence. While it remains relatively uncommon for residents of the UAE to witness hail and snow, winter temperatures are decreasing, and instances of subzero temperatures are becoming more frequent.
Somewhere Between Space and the Earth
Due to the concentration of skyscrapers and tall buildings along the coastline, including the airport, the contrast is striking when viewed from aircraft approaching from inland. An aerial perspective vividly illustrates the towering height of these structures compared to the surrounding civilization, leaving one in awe of their sheer magnitude.
The view not only showcases mankind’s remarkable achievements but also highlights the diversity of lifestyles and accommodations in Dubai and the UAE. Despite its affluence, distinct differences are evident, with separate tourist districts from business and residential areas. This visual contrast serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of urban life in this dynamic city.
You’re Going to Want to Take Photos
It’s an unwritten rule understood by every tourist: always carry a camera. Photos serve as cherished memories and provide a means to share your adventures with loved ones who couldn’t accompany you on the journey.
A fantastic way to capture stunning shots is to wander aimlessly and see where your feet lead you. It’s advisable to carry a high-definition camera during your explorations, as snapping a blurry photo of a captivating car or towering skyscraper could leave you disappointed.
How Do Some People Get Their Licenses?
When someone drives a supercar, it’s assumed they grasp the fundamentals of operating such a costly machine, including starting and stopping. However, this isn’t always the case, as evidenced in this photo. Nonetheless, the individual demonstrated decency by leaving a note to apologize for the mishap.
This incident raises the question: how frequent is such occurrence? While it’s commendable that citizens exhibit integrity by admitting fault, addressing the issue extends beyond apologies. Will they take action to improve their parking habits, or will they continue relying on notes and paying for damages?
All the Animals Abide by the Rules
Like people worldwide, residents of the UAE also enjoy keeping pets. However, owning pets in a high-rise building presents unique challenges. Due to the vertical living environment, pets are primarily indoor companions in these settings.
This cat seems determined to explore the outdoors, yet climbing numerous flights of stairs proves too daunting even with four legs. So, the only option left is to wait for the elevator. One can only imagine the surprise of those waiting at the bottom upon seeing a feline passenger.
Seeing How the Other Half Lives
In every civilization, both historically and in modern times, wealth disparity is a prevalent issue, with some possessing abundant wealth while others struggle to meet their basic needs. Despite efforts by the government to portray otherwise, poverty exists in the UAE, as it does in every society.
The UAE has a high cost of living, and while official data on poverty levels is unavailable, exploring the city reveals disparities in living conditions. Venturing beyond tourist zones offers insight into the true essence of urban life, showcasing the diverse realities of residents at the heart of the city.
Sometimes Nature Puts on a Light Show
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth casts its shadow on the moon, visible to half of the planet. Conversely, a solar eclipse happens when the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, blocking sunlight, but it’s only visible to a small portion of the planet.
In this photo, we witness a rare phenomenon: an annular eclipse. Annular eclipses occur when the outer ring of the sun is visible around the dark disc of the moon. This striking event occurred just after sunrise in Dubai, creating an impressive sight against the desert landscape.
Style at the Touch of “Find Ride”
When McLaren is mentioned, most people immediately think of Formula One cars racing around at incredible speeds, a feat typically reserved for elite drivers like Lewis Hamilton. It’s certainly not the norm for your Uber driver to arrive in one of these ultra-expensive supercars.
In Dubai, anything is possible with the right funds. Given the plethora of luxury cars on the roads, arriving in a McLaren might not even raise eyebrows. It would undoubtedly be an exhilarating experience to travel from point A to point B, provided there’s no need for luggage or shopping transport.
Fresh Salad on the Side for Free
Living in a scorching climate like that of the UAE requires adaptation. Staying hydrated and consuming refreshing foods are essential for endurance. Heavy or doughy foods like meat or pastries can induce fatigue, a fact well understood in the UAE.
This photo captures a moment in a man’s lunch experience story. Upon accepting the waiter’s invitation to dine at the cafe, he placed his order. While waiting for his food, they surprised him with a plate of salad to snack on, a departure from the customary bread roll served in the West.
One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure
It’s eye-opening to consider what the wealthy discard. Items that are thrown away by the affluent are often luxuries that many people around the world cannot even afford to buy.
In many households across the UAE, where incomes are substantial, cleaning staff retrieve high-value items from the trash. This photo captures expensive lotions, Dubai wood, and incense being discarded, prompting speculation about the value of average household trash in the UAE.
The Giant Wheel That Overlooks Dubai
Visible from every angle, Ain Dubai stands as the largest Ferris wheel on Earth, situated on Dubai’s Bluewaters Island. A single revolution on this marvel takes 38 minutes, lifting passengers 250 meters into the air for a breathtaking experience.
Ain Dubai provides unobstructed vistas of the Dubai skyline and the entire city below, thanks to its immense size. Its prominence ensures visibility from all along the coast of Dubai. In this photo, as the sun sets over the beach, a local leisurely strolls with his camel, with the towering wheel in the distance, creating a picturesque scene.
Directing Traffic Where There Are No Roads
Typically, street signs correspond to actual streets. However, in the UAE, where much of the terrain is untarred and people traverse the desert, the government installs signs to provide a sense of order and direction. These signs ensure travelers know their location and intended destination, contributing to a semblance of civilization in the vast desert landscape.
In this photo, despite being surrounded by sand, encountering this sign during a sandstorm signals proximity to civilization. While the exact route onward remains open to interpretation, the sign serves as a reassuring marker, guiding travelers in their journey through the desert landscape.
Keeping Exotic Animals as Pets is a Fashion Statement in Dubai
While wild animals are undeniably intimidating and pose significant danger, their allure seems to outweigh concerns for many buyers in Dubai. Despite the illegality, there has been a notable increase in interest among buyers for owning exotic pets like tigers and cheetahs in the city.
Due to heightened interest, these animals are readily available online after being smuggled from their natural habitats. However, Dubai police have made significant strides in reducing the number of exotic animals in the country. With ongoing efforts, there’s hope for further improvement and a cleaner environment for all.
Up Above the Clouds So High
In certain parts of the UAE, waking up feels akin to Zeus atop Mount Olympus, gazing down upon a blanket of clouds. Yet, the reality is attainable with a substantial bank account and a stay at a seven-star hotel. From the uppermost levels, the buildings pierce through the cloud cover, offering a surreal and majestic experience.
For those fortunate enough to experience the pinnacle of luxury in a penthouse suite of such a hotel, waking up may feel like a dream, as if soaring through the sky like Peter Pan.
A Car That Looks Like a Travelling Galaxy
Mercedes-Benz produces luxurious and expensive vehicles often associated with individuals from affluent backgrounds. While their cars boast high-performance capabilities, thanks to collaborations with McLaren in Formula One, they exude a sense of comfort and refinement rather than flashy extravagance.
Except in the case of this Saudi prince, known as one of the wealthiest individuals on the planet, who decided to elevate style to unprecedented heights by adorning the exterior of his vehicle with pressurized carbon. The surface of his car is adorned with over 300,000 diamonds, a lavish indulgence that cost him $4.8 million. Let’s hope his parking skills are more refined than those of others in the UAE.
Food Donations for Those in Need
We inhabit a world of stark contrasts, where alongside wealth, we find its inverse. Unlike many other places, poverty in the UAE isn’t characterized by homelessness or high unemployment rates, which remain relatively low. However, a significant portion of the population consists of migrant workers, reflecting the immense demand for labor in the country.
The living conditions for the working class are often subpar. In this image, a grocery store features a section where individuals who cannot afford to purchase food can take what they need. Remarkably, the quality of items available in this section exceeds what the less fortunate are typically accustomed to.
Horses That Are Living in Luxury
Upon entering these premises, one might assume that the resident possesses a keen eye for interior design and substantial financial resources. Adorned with chandeliers and marble floors, the setting evokes an atmosphere where one might expect to hear classical music reverberating beneath lofty ceilings.
Surprisingly, amidst the opulence, visitors are more likely to hear snorts and neighs than classical music, as the residents here are less concerned about their surroundings. While it would seem to fit in perfectly with the extravagant features found in the UAE, this is, in fact, the Heilan Horse Club in China.
A Place of Sand and Snow
Typically, skiing experiences are associated with locations featuring natural snowfall, high altitudes, and cold climates. However, in Dubai, you can enjoy skiing amidst desert sands.
Ski Dubai, situated within the Mall of the Emirates, boasts an 85-meter high indoor mountain, offering a skiing experience that defies expectations for visitors to the UAE.
If Rolls Royce Was a Washroom
Luxurious restrooms are a global phenomenon, often lavishly designed to offer relaxation and comfort, particularly in the mansions of the wealthy. The restroom depicted in this picture, resembling a work of art, exemplifies this concept, offering ample space and elegant choices for visitors.
Resembling a spa, this restroom boasts a spacious shower large enough to accommodate a small group, along with a jacuzzi bath perfect for unwinding. Enhanced by a grand chandelier and abundant natural light, it offers a luxurious retreat from the stresses of life, making it an enviable space to inhabit.
Creating Awareness of Other Vehicles Is Important
Dubai’s roads are bustling with vehicles of all types, ranging from high-end luxury cars to large delivery trucks. These trucks can be seen zooming around day and night, ensuring that goods are efficiently delivered to the numerous stores scattered across the city.
In bustling neighborhoods where supercars roam freely, delivery drivers on scooters navigate the roads cautiously. The juxtaposition of high-performance vehicles and nimble scooters creates a potentially perilous environment, prompting uncertainty whether the message serves as a plea for caution or a subtle warning.
Dubai Cultural Diferences
Misinformation often clouds perceptions of the Middle East, particularly regarding Dubai, one of the region’s largest cities. Situated in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai boasts a population of approximately 6 million and has emerged as a bustling business hub in the Persian Gulf.
With a predominantly foreign population, the city reflects a blend of cultures from the region. Its rapid growth continues unabated, making it an enticing destination for tourists seeking unique experiences. The following images may inspire you to witness Dubai’s vibrancy firsthand.
Dubai’s Population is 83% Immigrants
The majority of laborers involved in constructing Dubai’s numerous skyscrapers hail from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, collectively constituting over 50% of the city’s population. Emiratis represent 17% of the population, with the remaining percentage comprised of other foreign nationals.
A significant class disparity exists in Dubai, where many immigrant workers endure squalid living and working conditions, contrasting sharply with the privileges enjoyed by Emiratis, who receive benefits such as paid rent, education, and medical expenses. Upper-class foreigners also command substantial salaries, exacerbating the economic gap.
Everything in Dubai Needs to be Cooled
Dubai’s location in the desert subjects it to scorching temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit and frequent sandstorms. The city relies heavily on extensive air conditioning to prevent buildings from melting and residents from overheating.
Construction engineers implement vertical cooling systems, employing powerful pumps to circulate water upwards through buildings, effectively cooling them down amidst the relentless heat.
There are Thousands of Luxury Cars Left Abandoned in Dubai
It’s a stark sight: strolling through Dubai’s parking lots reveals a sea of luxury and sports cars, ranging from BMWs and Mercedes to Ferraris and Porsches, left in casual neglect. The BBC even reported a shocking incident where a Ferrari Enzo, valued at over $1 million, was discovered abandoned in a Dubai airport parking lot.
One speculated reason for this phenomenon is attributed to Sharia law, which dictates that failing to meet car payments can lead to imprisonment. Consequently, it’s believed that some owners may have opted to leave the country rather than face potential incarceration, leaving behind their vehicles in the process.
Ready for the Heat
Dubai’s penchant for luxury extends even to its bus stops, which are unlike those found elsewhere. Unlike typical open-air stops, Dubai’s bus stops are small air-conditioned buildings, providing relief from the region’s scorching heat while waiting for transportation.
Dubai’s extreme temperatures, often exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit, make waiting for the bus outside an uncomfortable experience. The air-conditioned bus stops provide a welcome respite from the scorching heat, offering a practical solution to the city’s climate challenges.
Dubai is the Fastest Growing City on Earth
The city is expanding so quickly that economists are worried about an imminent financial and housing collapse.
Dubai’s metro system, finished in 2009, comprises 42 stations and was constructed in a remarkable 18 months, a significantly shorter timeframe compared to other cities. Thanks to increased trade and tourism, Dubai ranks as the world’s fifth-highest-performing metropolitan economy.
Dubai Hosts Robot Camel Racing
Camel racing is the national sport in Dubai, akin to baseball in the US and hockey in Canada. Due to the size of camels, only children are able to participate in racing them.
Instead of permitting Emirati or Dubai residents’ children to participate, there was a previous issue with children being trafficked into the country solely for camel racing. The global community eventually recognized this problem and has largely put an end to it. Dubai, however, devised a solution. Now, child-sized robots are being constructed and used for camel racing instead. These robots range in cost from $300 to $10,000.
Dubai is Building a City within the City
The Mall of the World, as it will be known, is set to become a colossal urban center spanning 50 million square feet. It will feature a climate and temperature-controlled environment, drawing inspiration from London’s Oxford Street to New York’s Broadway. The entire complex will be indoors and covered by massive domes.
This ambitious project aims to offer space for 20,000 hotel rooms, parking facilities for over 50,000 vehicles, and will house the world’s largest shopping mall. It is being developed to boost tourist traffic to Dubai.
Dubai wants to be the Biggest and Best at Everything
Dubai’s primary objective appears to be consistently achieving the biggest and most exceptional of everything. Its hotels are renowned for their unparalleled luxury, with Dubai proudly claiming to host the world’s best hotel: The Burj Al-Arab.
Furthermore, Dubai constructed the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, towering at 163 stories high and visible from 95 kilometers away. In addition, the city boasts the largest indoor mall on the planet, the biggest aquarium, the tallest hotel, and the most magnificent indoor ski park. It’s evident that only the best is acceptable for the sheikh.
A Quarter of the World’s Cranes Are Located in Dubai
Approximately 30,000, or 24 percent, of the world’s 125,000 construction cranes are currently in operation in Dubai.
Demand for construction-related machinery, equipment, and vehicles is anticipated to keep increasing in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE, as the construction and real estate boom persists. Dubai’s infrastructure spending budget for 2017 stands at $12.88 billion, surpassing any other region of similar size by a significant margin.
Some ATMs in Dubai Dispense Gold Bars
Indeed, Dubai is home to an ATM that dispenses 24-carat gold, offering bars, coins, or wearable jewelry.
Customers simply need to make their selection and pay via cash or credit card at the machine, dubbed Gold to Go. Located in the Dubai Mall, this machine has become quite the sensation, requiring replenishment twice a week due to its popularity.
About 33% of Dubai’s GDP Comes From its Airport
The airport contributes approximately $22 billion to Dubai’s GDP. Contrary to popular belief, oil only accounts for 2% of Dubai’s GDP. The majority of its revenue comes from transportation, commerce, trading, financial services, retail, and tourism.
It’s no surprise, then, that Dubai International Airport plays such a significant role in the Dubai economy. It employs over 90,000 people and supports over 400,000 jobs.
Only non-Muslims are Allowed to Consume Alcohol
Tourists are allowed to consume alcohol in licensed restaurants, hotels, and bars affiliated with licensed hotels. However, it is considered unacceptable and punishable to drink in public places, including beaches.
Dubai maintains strict regulations against public drunkenness and adopts a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Both residents and tourists must possess a license to purchase alcohol from stores. Despite these restrictions, the alcohol served in Dubai is renowned for its quality and is considered some of the best in the world.
It Has the Biggest Indoor Ski Park
The Dubai Mall is highly developed and renowned, featuring attractions such as Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort spanning an area of 22,500 square meters.
On the flip side, there’s also a snow park, recognized as the largest indoor snow park, covering an area of 3,000 square meters. This indoor resort boasts an 85-meter-high indoor mountain with five slopes of different steepness and difficulty levels, including a 400-meter-long run. Notably, it hosts the world’s first indoor black diamond run and regularly updates its features.
Once a Centre of Flourishing Pearl Industry
Before petroleum and tourist attractions emerged as the region’s primary sources of income, Dubai held prominence as a major pearl farming center during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The pearl industry eventually collapsed due to various factors, including the impact of the First World War, the Great Depression, and the invention of cultured pearls by the Japanese, among others.
Dubai’s Aquarium is the Largest in the World
It holds the title of being the largest mall in the world by total area, spanning 1,124,000 square meters, equivalent to 50 football pitches! The mall accommodates 1,200 stores, and its ground level features the Dubai Aquarium, recognized as the world’s largest indoor aquarium, boasting the world’s largest acrylic panel.
Visitors can embark on a glass-bottom boat ride to observe over 33,000 aquatic animals, or experience cage diving with sharks! Additionally, the mall features an Olympic-sized ice skating rink. Notably, it is also home to the world’s largest candy store, Candylicious, spanning over 10,000 square feet!
A Haven for Tourism
In recent years, the city has garnered the attention of some of the world’s most renowned celebrities, marking a significant achievement for a city that didn’t erect its first skyscraper until 1979. Among the notable celebrities who have visited the city in recent times is Kim Kardashian.
The star of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” made a visit to the UAE to host a makeup masterclass, accompanied by other KUWTK stars. Apart from indulging in shopping at the city’s abundant malls, she also made a point to explore the desert and visit a center catering to children with special needs.
