Dubai
Dubai is the largest city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and has the sixth largest oil reserves in the world. The city boasts of a state-of-the-art infrastructure, an incredible skyline, and breathtaking architecture. The Emirate is a monarchy but there is peace and political stability all around, most people follow a lavish lifestyle and the economy is thriving.
Language: Arabic, Persian, English, Urdu, Hindi. Although, the official language of Dubai is Arabic, English is the main language for higher education.
Local Time: Dubai, UAE is 1.5 hours behind the Indian Standard Time (IST)
Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). 1 AED = 16.92 Indian Rupees
History of Dubai
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven states that has grown from a quiet backwater to one of the Middle East's most important economic centres. Though traditionally conservative, the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs generally tolerated. Politically it remains authoritarian, however. Relations with neighbouring Iran have been tense because of an ongoing territorial dispute over Gulf islands. The UAE was one of only three countries to recognise Taliban rule in Afghanistan. Before oil was discovered in the 1950s the UAE's economy was dependent on fishing and a declining pearl industry. But since oil exports began in 1962, the country's society and economy have been transformed. The UAE has diversified and has become a regional trading and tourism hub. UAE firms have invested heavily abroad.
Economy
Singapore has grown from a tiny fishing village to a thriving centre of commerce & Industry. Singapore has the busiest port in the world serving over 620 shipping lines & one of its major oil refining & distribution centres. Singapore is a vital supplier of electronic components & a leader in ship building & repairing, its strategic position has helped it to grow into a major centre for finance, communication & tourism. Singapore has an airport served by more than 69 airlines. 91% literacy.
Climate
Singapore is generally hot and humid year round, with the temperature almost never dropping below 18°C, even at night, and usually climbing to 32°C during the day. Humidity is mounting over 75% mark.
Culture
Singapore is a mixture of an ethnic Malay population with a Chinese majority, as well as Indian and Arab immigrants. There also exist significant Eurasian and Peranakan (known also as 'Straits Chinese') communities.
