Why visit
Dubai is Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab skyline, Dubai Mall + Dubai Fountain, the Gold Souk, Jumeirah beach resorts, and desert safaris 40 minutes out.
Dubai at a glance
City population
3.5 million
Elevation
5 m
16 ft
Time zone
UTC+4
Asia/Dubai
Airport
DXB
Dubai International
Founded
1833
Getting around
Metro (2 lines), trams, water taxis (abra across the creek)
Signature dish
Al Harees, shawarma, machboos, luqaimat, karak tea
Neighborhoods for travelers
Downtown (Burj Khalifa)Dubai MarinaJumeirahAl FahidiDeira
United Arab Emirates at a glance
Country center
24.0°, 54.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
83,600 km²
32,278 mi²
Country population
9.5 million
114/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
United Arab Emirates dirham (د.إ)
AED
Dial
+971
Language
Arabic
Demonym
Emirati
Internet
.ae
UN
Member state
ISO code
AE / ARE
Where in the world
24.0° · 54.0°
United Arab Emirates
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Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- The Burj Khalifa is so tall (828 m) that Ramadan observers on upper floors must fast longer: the sun sets later.
- Dubai has about 85% expat residents: locals are a small minority in their own city.
- The city was a small fishing village in 1960. Oil was only discovered in 1966.
- Dubai's Burj Khalifa is so tall (828 m) that people on the top floors see the sunset a few minutes later than people at the base.
- The UAE was founded in 1971: it is younger than the moon landing.
Bordering United Arab Emirates
Traveler notes
- Burj Khalifa at the top. At sunset
- Desert safari with dinner + stargazing
- Old Dubai (Al Fahidi) for a different side
Plan checks
- Build a three-day plan before extending. Most travel cities are easy to undersell to yourself.
- Check seasonal timing: high season can triple costs on some coastal destinations.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Dubai
What currency is used in Dubai?
Dubai uses the United Arab Emirates dirham (د.إ), ISO code AED.
What languages are spoken in United Arab Emirates?
The primary language is Arabic.
What is the international calling code for United Arab Emirates?
The calling code is +971.
What airport serves Dubai?
Dubai International (IATA: DXB).
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