Dubai, UAE

Dubai, population 1.3 million, the financial centre of the UAE, is attracting corporate headquarters of international companies. Hosts professional tennis and golf competitions, music events, and the illustrious annual shopping festival. A very busy, extravagant, and glamorous city.

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, population almost 11 million (12% Emirati citizens and 88% expatriates), is one of the most westernized countries in the Arabian Peninsula.

Three large cities: Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai (the UAE's most internationally-known city), and Al Ain (the university centre with a medical school). Has a long coastline and the Hajar Mountains to the East, which are great for hiking. Popular with tourists who come from Europe and from throughout the region. more