JOURNEY TO DUBAI: ON THE WAY

every morning, i see these buildings while on the way to work, from Karama to Rashidiya.....

INTRODUCTION TO DUBAI

HISTORY OF DUBAI
1833 – Bani Yas tribal family family moved into Dubai headed by Sheikh Maktoum bin Butti, the founder of the Al Maktoum family.

1892 – Sheikh Maktoum launched a formal trading agreement with the British government.

1912 - Sheikh Rashid (father of Dubai) was born. He was responsible for ordering
1. Development of Port Rashid to handle shipping imports and re-exports.
2. Further development of the shipping trade, most notably in gold.
3. Dredging of Jebel Ali Port (the largest deepwater port in the world)

1960’s – Oil was discovered and the small settlement in the Bastakiya area alongside the Creek, began to grow and modernise.

1968 – Six emirates, Abu Dhabi (capital city), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah joined hands to form the United Arab Emirates.

2nd December 1971- United Arab Emirates were formally established.

1972 – Ras Al Khaimah joining the alliance.
1990- Sheikh Rashid died. His Legacy continues through his son,
1. Sheikh Maktoum (1990 to 2006)
2. Sheikh Mohammed ( January 2006 –present)

GOVERNMENT
The Supreme Council of the UAE, comprising the hereditary rulers of the seven emirates.
1. President of the UAE and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi is His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan
2. Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and The Ruler of Dubai is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

GEOGHRAPHY
The UAE is situated on the east coast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering to Saudi Arabia and Oman.

POPULATION
Estimated population of Dubai is 1.4 million (80% expatriates from various countries).There are reportedly about 180 nationalities living and working in Dubai.

CLIMATE AND WEATHER

Temperatures range from a low of 10°C (Jan) to a high of 48°C (July).

CURRENCY
The currency is Emirati Dirham (AED) or DHS .Coins issued are 25 fils, 50 fils and 1 dhm and notes are issued in denominations of Dhs 5,Dhs 10,Dhs 20, Dhs 50, Dhs 100, Dhs 200,Dhs 500 and Dhs 1000. 100fils equal to one Dirham, Dhs 1 equal to RM 0.97.

HISTORICAL PLACES

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House
This was the house of the grandfather of the current ruler, now turned into museum. It was built in 1896, situated in Dubai Creek, next to Heritage and Diving Villages. It opens daily from 7.30am to 9.00pm and 3.30pm to 8.00pm on Friday. Telephone 04-3937139.

Heritage Village
Small museum displaying ancient artifacts from several archaeological sites dating as far as 500BC.It also displays and sells traditional crafts, pottery, woven goods and Bedouin jewellery. There are also remains dating from the 6th century which were found at Jumeirah archaeological site.
Visitors also may have coffee and traditional Arabic bread, dosa at the small souq here.

Diving Village
Diving village displays historical features of pearl diving.
Bayt Al Wakeel Maritime Museum
Bayt Al Wakeel museum is Dubai’s first office building built in 1934, situated near the abra (water taxi) station. This museum depicting Dubai’s once-traditional fishing and maritime history and culture.

Burj Nahar
This is one of three watchtowers which were used to guard Dubai, situated on the opposite side of Dubai Creek.

Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum
Al Fahidi Fort, built in late 18th century, has been, in the past, a seat of government , the ruler’s main residence , a military barracks and prison. It was renovated in 1970 to a museum where 4000 year old archaeological finds dioramas of traditional life are among the many displays. Open daily, 8.30am to 8.30pm except Friday, 2.30pm to 8.30pm.Entrance fee is Dh 3.00

Reference:-
1. Discover Dubai, April 2009
2. Dubai At a Glance
3. In Dubai, November-December 2008

JOURNEY TO DUBAI

Saturday, February 21, 2009

ON THE WAY

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