Dubai: The Jewel of the Desert

• HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
• YesNa'am
  [na-am]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fad-lik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorryAasif
  [aa-sif]
• How are you?Kaeef halak?
  [ka-eef ha-lak]
• Fine. And you?Tamaam. Wa ant?
  [ta-maam. wa ant]
• Do you speak English?Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?
  [hal ta-ta-kal-lam al-ing-li-zi-ya]
• I don't understandAna la afham
  [a-na la af-ham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseOreed an ara al-qaeemah, min fadlik
  [o-reed an a-ra al-qa-e-mah, min fad-lik]
• I don't eat meatAna la akul al-lahm
  [a-na la a-kul al-lahm]
• Cheers!Saha
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseOreed an adfa, min fadlik
  [o-reed an ad-fa, min fad-lik]

• Help!Musaidah!
  [mu-sai-dah]
• Go away!Imshi!
  [im-shi]
• Call the Police!Itni al-bulisiya!
  [it-ni al-bu-li-si-ya]
• Call a doctor!Itni Tabib!
  [it-ni ta-bib]
• I'm lostAna da'eef
  [a-na da-eef]
• I'm illAna mareed
  [a-na ma-reed]

• I'd like to buy...Oreed an ashtari...
  [o-reed an ash-ta-ri]
• I'm just lookingAna faqat atadabbar
  [a-na fa-qat at-ta-dab-bar]
• How much is it?Kam thamanuh?
  [kam tha-ma-nuh]
• That's too expensiveHatha ghali jiddan
  [ha-tha gha-li jid-dan]
• Can you lower the price?Hal tastatiu tanzil al-si'ar?
  [hal tas-ta-ti-u tan-zil al-si-ar]

• What time is it?Kam al-waqt?
  [kam al-waqt]
• It's one o'clockHuwa al-wahid
  [hu-wa al-wa-hid]
• Half past (10)Nusf sa'ah
  [nusf sa-ah]
• MorningSabaah
  [sa-baah]
• AfternoonDuhur
  [du-hur]
• EveningMasa
  [ma-sa]
• YesterdayAl-bareh
  [al-ba-reh]
• TodayAl-yawm
  [al-yawm]
• TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-dan]
• 1Wahid
  [wa-hid]
• 2Ithnan
  [ith-nan]
• 3Thalatha
  [tha-la-tha]
• 4Arba'a
  [ar-ba-a]
• 5Khamsa
  [kham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sab'a
  [sa-ba-a]
• 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-ni-a]
• 9Tis'a
  [tis-a]
• 10Ashara
  [a-sha-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Ayna...
  [ay-na]
• What's the address?Maa huwa al-alamat?
  [maa hu-wa al-a-la-mat]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tastatiu an tuuriyani (ala al-khariita)?
  [hal tas-ta-ti-u an tu-ri-ya-ni ala al-kha-rii-ta]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata yajid al-qaafilah al-qadimah?
  [ma-ta ya-jid al-qa-fi-la al-qa-di-mah]
• A ticket (to ....)Tadhkirah (ila ....)
  [tadh-ki-rah ila]

Dubai's history dates back to at least 3000 BCE, where evidence suggests it was part of the Magan civilization, known for its trading relationships with the Sumerians. The area was initially inhabited by semi-nomadic Bedouin tribes who survived by fishing, pearl diving, and trading.

The modern city of Dubai was officially founded in the early 19th century. In 1833, a faction of the Bani Yas tribe, led by the Al Maktoum family, settled in the area. This marked the beginning of Dubai as a trading port, leveraging its strategic location along the Persian Gulf.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dubai's economy was heavily reliant on the pearl diving industry. The waters of the Persian Gulf were rich in natural pearls, and the industry flourished, attracting traders from as far as India and Europe. However, the introduction of cultured pearls in the 1930s led to a decline in the natural pearl market.

In 1892, Dubai, along with other sheikhdoms in the region, entered into a treaty with the British, becoming part of the Trucial States. This agreement provided protection against piracy and external threats, fostering a period of economic growth and stability in Dubai.

Oil was discovered in Dubai in 1966, transforming the city's economy almost overnight. The revenue generated from oil exports funded massive infrastructure projects and modernization efforts, setting the stage for Dubai's future as a global metropolis.

On December 2, 1971, Dubai joined six other emirates to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This unification provided a framework for political stability and economic cooperation, further propelling Dubai's rapid development.

Recognizing the finite nature of oil reserves, Dubai's leadership embarked on a strategy of economic diversification in the 1980s and 1990s. Investments were made in sectors such as tourism, real estate, and finance, leading to the construction of iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and the establishment of free zones like Jebel Ali.

Despite its rapid modernization, Dubai has made efforts to preserve its cultural heritage. The Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, offers insights into the city's history and traditional way of life. Heritage sites like the Bastakiya Quarter showcase the architectural and cultural legacy of Dubai's past.

In the 21st century, Dubai has continued to grow at an unprecedented rate, becoming a hub for tourism, business, and innovation. Landmark projects like the Burj Khalifa, the Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Metro exemplify the city's ambition and forward-thinking vision. Dubai's successful bid to host Expo 2020 further underscores its global significance.

Dubai is served by two major international airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). DXB is one of the busiest airports in the world and is well-connected to cities globally through numerous airlines. DWC, located in the Dubai South area, serves as an alternative and is expanding its services. Taxis, buses, and metro services are available from both airports to various parts of the city.

Dubai has an extensive and efficient public transport system, including the Dubai Metro, buses, trams, and water taxis (abras). The Metro is a convenient way to travel, covering major attractions and business districts. Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also available. For a unique experience, consider using the Dubai Ferry or the Palm Jumeirah Monorail.

The official currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and in case you encounter places that do not accept cards. Currency exchange services are available at airports, malls, and various exchange centers.

Dubai is generally very safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like any major city, it is wise to take precautions. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables, and be cautious in crowded places. Areas such as Deira and Bur Dubai are generally safe but can get crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded markets.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, 998 for ambulance services, and 997 for fire services. Dubai has state-of-the-art medical facilities and hospitals. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widespread and can provide over-the-counter medications. For consular services, contact your respective embassy or consulate in Dubai.

Fashion: Do dress modestly in public areas; swimwear is acceptable at pools and beaches. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Public Transport: Do use designated seats for women and children if you are traveling with them. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, but be aware that some cultures may prefer not to shake hands with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local and international cuisine. Don't eat with your left hand, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Dubai like a local, visit traditional markets (souks) such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira. Take a walk along the Dubai Creek and consider a ride on an abra. For a more modern local experience, explore City Walk or La Mer. Engage with locals and expatriates to get insights on hidden gems. Avoid visiting during peak summer months if you are not accustomed to extreme heat.