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Dubai Beach
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Dubai , one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, is unquestionably the commercial, leisure and sporting capital of the Gulf. International businesses are attracted by the liberal attitude and minimal bureaucracy, visitors enjoy the relaxed, luxurious lifestyle and followers of sport appreciate the world-class events held here. Top golfers from around the world participate in the Desert Classic tournament, while the racing world looks forward annually to the Dubai World Cup, the opening race in the Emirates World Series Championship.
The Creek is both the visual and commercial heart of the city. Dubai's modern development began around the turn of the century with the establishment by local merchants of an entrepôt trade based on this safe, natural anchorage. Now the emirate has a population made up of more than 70 nationalities, bringing a richly cosmopolitan character to the city.
Dubai offers visitors a multitude of attractions, from the mystery of the desert and its sand dunes and surrounding mountain ranges to the five star beaches and hotels to the original Dubai featuring old houses complete with wind towers and contrasting modern high tech buildings and shopping malls.
Numerous dhows still sail and trade to other countries and you can experience the activity of the Creek and buildings alongside it by riding on an abra - a water taxi which crosses the Creek from one side to the other. Alternatively, you can rent an abra for your own private tour down the Creek towards Maktoum Bridge and wonder at the contrast of old and modern buildings on the waterfront.
At the far end of the Creek past Garhoud Bridge is a wildlife sanctuary which houses thousands of migrating birds including the Greater Flamingos which can be seen at most times of the year.
If you prefer a more exhilarating mode of transport, rent a jet ski near Garhoud Bridge and see the sun setting near the Dubai Creek Golf and Yachting Club. Jet skis can also be rented at many of the beachfront hotels.
If you prefer to walk near the water, you can stroll around Creekside Park which has beautiful landscaped gardens or walk along the promenade on the Corniche on the Deira side of the Creek towards Maktoum Bridge.
Dubai Shopping Festival
The annual Dubai Shopping Festival extravaganza, has rapidly become an internationally known event, with thousands of bargains, draws, shows, promotions and some of the world's lowest prices. A whole area of Dubai is dedicated to the Global Village which is made up of lots of different country stands where you can pick up bargains such as handicrafts, clothes, food and pottery items from around the world. In addition, hotels and furnished apartment complexes offer reduced accommodation rates.