Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai and one of the most prominent cities in the Middle East. Located on the southeastern coast of the Persian Gulf, Dubai had a population of around 4 million as of 2025, with expatriates making up 92% of the population. The city, which started as a small fishing and pearling village in the early 18th century, rapidly grew into a major trade hub by the 20th century. Key milestones in Dubai's development include the establishment of a free port in 1901 and the expansion of Dubai Creek in 1961, which paved the way for a thriving economy. Oil revenue starting in the 1960s played a crucial role in the city's transformation, but by 2018, oil accounted for less than 1% of Dubai's GDP.

Today, Dubai's economy is diversified, with key sectors including trade, tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the leading financial hubs globally, and the city's airports, particularly Dubai International Airport (DXB), are among the busiest in the world, handling millions of passengers annually. Tourism is another significant contributor, with Dubai being one of the most-visited cities worldwide. The city's iconic landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa—the tallest building in the world—have made it a global tourist destination.

Dubai's landscape is marked by impressive feats of engineering, including artificial islands like the Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands, and extensive land reclamation projects that have expanded the coastline by hundreds of kilometres. The city is also home to one of the world's most densely packed skylines.

The city's history is rich, with evidence of early human settlements dating back thousands of years. Archaeological sites reveal a long history of trade, particularly between the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia. Dubai was known to ancient civilisations such as the Sumerians, who referred to it as Magan, a source of copper and bronze. The modern era of Dubai began in the 18th century as a pearling and fishing village, and by 1822, it was a town with a population of about 1,000. The city's modern establishment was solidified in 1833 when the Al Bu Falasah tribe seceded from Abu Dhabi and founded Dubai as an independent entity. The Maktoum family, which established itself in 1836, has ruled Dubai ever since.

The city's growth was further accelerated in the mid-20th century when it signed the General Maritime Treaty with Britain in 1820, establishing Dubai as a British protectorate. The introduction of oil exploration contracts in 1937 eventually led to the discovery of oil in 1966, which spurred rapid infrastructure development. By the late 1960s, the city saw a construction boom with projects like Port Rashid and the Jebel Ali Port. These developments transformed Dubai into a global trade and shipping centre.

Dubai's political structure is an absolute monarchy, ruled by the Al Maktoum family. The emirate follows a system where citizens vote for representatives in the Federal National Council, but political power remains concentrated within the royal family. Dubai's government is known for its progressive stance on business and infrastructure development, often adopting international models of economic growth.

The city’s real estate market is another key economic driver, with extensive construction projects that include skyscrapers, hotels, and residential developments. However, the market has faced fluctuations, particularly during the global financial crisis of 2008, although it has since rebounded.

Dubai is known for its distinctive culture, influenced by its Arab and Islamic heritage, as well as by the large expatriate population. The city has diverse religious communities and maintains a relatively open approach to religious practices. While Dubai has faced criticism over its human rights record, especially regarding the treatment of migrant workers, it has made significant strides in infrastructure and urban development.

Population:

• In 2016, the population of Dubai was over 2.5 million, and by 2025, it is expected to have grown to around 4 million.
• Dubai is known for having a skewed male-to-female ratio, with approximately 75% of the population being male.
• 15% of Dubai’s population are native Emiratis, while the remaining 85% are expatriates.
• The largest expatriate groups come from India (51%), Pakistan (17%), Bangladesh (9%), and the Philippines (3%).
• British expatriates make up the largest group of Westerners living in Dubai, with over 100,000 Brits residing there.

Geography:

• Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
• It is the second largest emirate by area, measuring 4,114 square kilometers, coming second only to Abu Dhabi.
• Dubai shares borders with Abu Dhabi to the south, Sharjah to the northeast, and Oman to the southeast.
• Dubai's geographical position places it on the Persian Gulf coast and within the Arabian Desert.

Economy and Taxes:

• Dubai is well-known for its zero income tax policy, which attracts both businesses and residents from around the world, making it a significant global financial hub.
• Dubai's economy was historically reliant on oil revenues, but by 2018, oil contributed less than 1% to its GDP.
• Major sectors driving Dubai’s economy include real estate, trade, tourism, aviation, and financial services.
• The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world's major financial hubs.

Real Estate and Infrastructure:

• Dubai is home to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, which stands at 828 meters (2,717 feet) tall.
• The Palm Jumeirah is one of the most famous artificial islands created by land reclamation in the Gulf.
• The city has a high real estate turnover, and luxury properties in the city are some of the most expensive in the world.
• Dubai’s real estate market has expanded rapidly, with large-scale projects like the Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, and The World Islands.

Transportation:

• Dubai has 2 million cars registered as of recent data. This marks a significant increase from only 13 cars in 1968.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the busiest airport in the world by international passenger traffic.
• The Dubai Metro, the first urban rail network in the Arabian Peninsula, began operations in 2009 and is fully automated and driverless.
• Jebel Ali Port is the largest human-made harbor and is one of the busiest container ports in the world.

Tourism:

• Dubai is one of the world’s most-visited cities, ranking as the seventh most-visited city globally in 2024.
• The city attracts millions of tourists annually with its shopping malls, luxury hotels, and iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Fountain.
• Dubai hosts major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Desert Classic, drawing millions of visitors each year.

Climate:

• Dubai experiences a hot desert climate, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the summer months, especially in July and August.
• The city has very little rainfall, averaging just 79.2 mm annually, although it has experienced occasional flooding due to heavy rains in recent years.
• Humidity in Dubai is also high during the summer, with dewpoints often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

Culture and Religion:

• Islam is the official religion, with 56% of the population identifying as Muslim. Other religious groups, including Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs, make up the remaining population.
• Dubai has several places of worship for various religious communities, and its policies allow non-Muslim religious practices with certain restrictions.
• Dubai is known for being a luxury hub, and its lifestyle emphasizes opulence and extravagance, reflected in its shopping malls, hotels, and leisure activities.

Education:

• Dubai is home to over 200 private schools and more than 40 universities, many of which cater to expatriate communities.
• The city is a hub for international education, with schools offering various curricula such as British, Indian (CBSE), American, and International Baccalaureate.
• Middlesex University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, and the American University in Dubai are among the top universities in the city.

Healthcare:

• Dubai boasts a rapidly growing healthcare sector with a mix of public and private hospitals.
• Dubai Health Authority (DHA) oversees public healthcare services in Dubai, while the private healthcare sector includes some of the most advanced medical facilities in the region.
• As of 2020, Dubai made health insurance mandatory for all residents, which has led to increased demand for medical services.

Dubai operates under an absolute monarchy, with power centralized in the hands of the Al Maktoum family. The ruling family has been in control since 1833, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum currently serving as the Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Mohammed is also the Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), playing a key role in national and international matters. The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, oversees the executive functions of the government and is involved in key decision-making processes.

The Government of Dubai is structured with over 58 governmental departments, each handling specific sectors such as healthcare, education, transportation, and law enforcement. These departments work together to manage the emirate's daily operations. The Dubai Executive Council, established in 2003, is responsible for implementing government policies and decisions. It is led by the Crown Prince and includes senior officials managing different sectors. Dubai also has a municipal government, known as the Dubai Municipality, which is responsible for urban planning, public services, and city infrastructure.

While Dubai is part of the UAE federal system, it maintains significant autonomy in local governance. The UAE's federal government handles national issues like foreign policy and defense, while each emirate, including Dubai, has control over local matters. Dubai citizens elect representatives to the Federal National Council (FNC), a consultative body within the UAE, although the executive authority remains with the ruling family. This structure allows Dubai to maintain a level of independence while cooperating with the federal government on broader issues.

Dubai has a dual legal system that combines Sharia law for personal matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance, and civil law for commercial and criminal matters. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has its own legal framework based on English common law, primarily handling financial and business-related cases. The emirate's judicial system operates independently from the federal judiciary, with courts such as the Court of First Instance, Court of Appeal, and Court of Cassation handling different legal matters within the city.

The governance of Dubai also involves a focus on economic development and diversification. The city has long been a major trade and commercial hub, and the government has worked to reduce its dependence on oil. To achieve this, Dubai has developed several free zones, which offer business-friendly regulations to encourage foreign investment and entrepreneurship. Notable examples include Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, which host international firms in the media and technology sectors. Dubai Holding and Dubai Investments are two state-owned entities that manage large-scale projects and investments aimed at furthering the city’s economic growth.

Dubai’s urban planning and infrastructure development are managed by the Dubai Municipality, which is tasked with overseeing the city’s growth in a structured and sustainable manner. The city's development is guided by a master plan, which includes residential, commercial, and recreational areas. This planning ensures that the city remains well-organized despite its rapid expansion. Dubai's infrastructure projects, such as the Dubai Metro, Dubai International Airport, and Jebel Ali Port, have contributed to the city's position as a global transportation hub.

Public services in Dubai, such as electricity, water, waste management, and transportation, are managed by various state-owned agencies. For example, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) oversees the city’s power and water needs, while the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) manages the public transport system, including the metro, tram, and buses. These services play a crucial role in supporting the city's growth and ensuring the well-being of its residents and visitors.

Although Dubai does not have a legislative assembly, it does encourage public participation through the open majlis, a traditional council where citizens and government officials meet to discuss various domestic issues. This provides a platform for feedback and helps ensure that the government's policies align with the needs of the public. Additionally, Dubai's leaders have taken steps to modernize and streamline its governance processes, which include digital transformation and the implementation of smart city initiatives.

Dubai's economy has undergone significant transformation over the years. While the emirate was historically reliant on oil, oil now contributes less than 1% to its GDP.

Trade has long been a central component of Dubai’s economy, supported by the city’s strategic location between East and West. The Jebel Ali Port, one of the busiest ports in the world, plays a vital role in global trade, facilitating the movement of goods across continents. Additionally, Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the busiest airport globally in terms of international passenger traffic. These trade and transport hubs contribute significantly to Dubai’s economy, with the city acting as a major gateway for imports and exports.

Tourism is another crucial sector for Dubai’s economy. The city is a popular destination for visitors, offering a range of luxury experiences and attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Mall. In recent years, Dubai has become one of the most-visited cities globally. The tourism sector contributes significantly to GDP, with millions of visitors arriving each year for leisure, business, and events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and Expo 2020.

Real estate remains a vital part of Dubai's economy, with the city’s skyline featuring iconic buildings like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina. The rapid development of both residential and commercial properties has attracted investors from around the world. Dubai’s property market, especially in the luxury segment, continues to be a key contributor to the economy. Despite some market fluctuations, the real estate sector remains a significant driver of economic activity.

Dubai has also established itself as a global financial services hub. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) provides a platform for international banks, investment firms, and insurance companies. It has attracted foreign investment and contributed to Dubai’s emergence as a leading financial centre in the Middle East. The establishment of stock exchanges like the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and NASDAQ Dubai has further strengthened the city’s financial sector.

The aviation industry plays a crucial role in Dubai’s economy, with Emirates Airlines being one of the world’s largest international carriers. The city’s airports, particularly DXB, handle millions of passengers annually, cementing Dubai's position as a global air travel hub. Additionally, the development of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) aims to expand the city’s aviation capacity further.

Dubai’s industrial sector, though smaller than other sectors, is also growing. The emirate has developed several industrial zones, such as Dubai Industrial City and Dubai South, to attract foreign investment in manufacturing and light industry. Dubai has increasingly focused on non-oil industries such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food production to diversify its economic base.

The energy sector in Dubai has shifted from oil to natural gas and renewable sources of energy. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is one of the largest renewable energy projects in the world, supporting Dubai’s move towards a sustainable energy future. While oil continues to play a role, the city’s focus is now on reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing investment in clean energy.

Dubai has also positioned itself as a leader in technology and innovation, with a focus on smart city initiatives and digital transformation. Projects like Smart Dubai aim to turn the city into one of the world’s most advanced in terms of technology. The establishment of Dubai Internet City and Dubai Silicon Oasis fosters innovation and the growth of tech startups, supporting Dubai’s push to become a global tech hub.

Dubai’s tax system is one of the key factors that attract businesses and entrepreneurs to the city. With no income tax and a business-friendly regulatory environment, Dubai offers an appealing destination for companies. Its free zones provide businesses with tax exemptions and 100% foreign ownership, making it a hub for international investment.

Dubai’s infrastructure is a crucial element of its rapid growth and global positioning. The city has developed a highly advanced network across transportation, utilities, telecommunications, and real estate, contributing to its economic success.

Transportation in Dubai is highly developed, offering a comprehensive system for both residents and visitors. The Dubai Metro, launched in 2009, is the first fully automated rail system in the Arabian Peninsula and plays an important role in the city's public transport. It consists of two main lines, the Red Line and Green Line, serving key areas across the city. In addition to the metro, Dubai operates the Dubai Tram, which connects popular areas such as Jumeirah Beach Residence and Palm Jumeirah. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a major international hub and ranks as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic. Another key development, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), is being expanded to accommodate increasing air traffic. On the ground, Dubai's extensive road network is managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), which is responsible for road maintenance, infrastructure, and traffic management, ensuring smooth connectivity across the city.

Dubai's real estate infrastructure has seen significant development, with modern buildings, residential areas, and commercial spaces shaping the city’s skyline. Iconic projects such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island, exemplify the ambitious construction projects in Dubai. The city is also home to numerous commercial and residential towers, with areas like Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai being prominent examples of urban planning. Additionally, Dubai has focused on creating specialized zones like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to cater to specific business sectors, further diversifying its real estate landscape.

Utilities in Dubai are well-managed, with key services like water, electricity, and waste management being essential to the city’s operation. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) provides reliable services to the population, while the city's infrastructure is increasingly leaning towards sustainable solutions. Renewable energy projects, such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, are being developed to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources. The city’s waste management system is also advancing, with Dubai having launched one of the largest waste-to-energy plants globally in 2024, aimed at powering homes and reducing landfill use.

Dubai's telecommunications infrastructure is robust and supports both business and residential needs. The city is home to major telecommunications providers such as Etisalat and du, which offer mobile, broadband, and television services across the emirate. The city is recognized for its high-speed internet connectivity, essential for both residents and businesses. Dubai is also making strides towards becoming a smart city, with the Smart Dubai initiative focusing on integrating digital technologies into city management and services. This includes the use of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to streamline city operations and enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants.

Dubai’s maritime and port infrastructure is another key aspect of its economy. The Jebel Ali Port is the largest man-made harbor in the world and one of the busiest ports in the Middle East, playing a central role in global trade. The port, alongside Dubai Creek, serves as a vital point for cargo and passenger traffic. Dubai Maritime City is another important development, focusing on marine industries such as shipbuilding, repair, and maritime services, contributing to the city’s economic diversity.

In the fields of healthcare and education, Dubai has invested in high-quality services to support its population. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) oversees public healthcare services, while a large number of private hospitals and clinics provide specialized care. The city’s healthcare sector includes state-of-the-art medical facilities, making it a regional hub for medical tourism. In terms of education, Dubai offers a wide variety of international schools and universities, catering to the expatriate population. Institutions such as Middlesex University, Heriot-Watt University, and the University of Wollongong in Dubai provide higher education in a range of fields, contributing to the city’s status as a regional education hub.