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Dubai, the second largest of the seven Emirates, is a desert city-state on the shores of the beautiful Arabian
Gulf,
replete with clean, sandy beaches and clear, blue-green waters. It has an
ancient heritage that survives amidst the skyscrapers and highways of a modern,
cosmopolitan city of almost 700,000 people. This 'Pearl of the Arabian Gulf', concentrated mainly on its exquisite creek, the finest natural shelter in 1600km
(1000 miles) of coastline, ranks as the UAE's most important port and commercial center.
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Bur Dubai, the original town situated on the southern side of the creek, has substantial areas of old buildings,
atmospheric alleyways and souks (markets). The modern city is on the Deira side
of the creek and is cosmopolitan and lively, with many attractive gardens and
first-class shopping facilities, ranging from Western-style shops to the ancient
souks where spices, perfume, clothing, antiques, handicrafts and jewels are
available. One-fifth of the world's gold passes through Dubai by air or sea.
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Dubai offers a breath-taking variety of attractions and activities for
visitors. From the almost 200-year old Al Fahidi fort that houses Dubai Museum,
to the Emirates Golf Club--a wonder in the desert, there are a multitude of
experiences to be had. The outstanding sporting facilities in Dubai, include
fishing, powerboat racing, snorkeling and ice skating. Apart from golf and
museums, tourists can also water-ski, go "dune surfing," swim, tan,
sail, camel-ride, go on safari and attend many international sporting and
entertainment events.
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