15 Fascinating Things You Didn’t Know About The UAE
We’ve rounded up all the unusual and somewhat crazy things about the UAE. Read on to discover why this fantastical country is full of wonders. From the largest emirate to the must-visit city of Dubai. Here are 15 incredible facts about the UAE.
For a relatively small-sized nation in the Arabian Peninsula, The UAE has achieved many feats. Especially considering it was only founded in 1971 after formerly being known as the Trucial States.
Discover the emirates
The UAE offers a multitude of experiences and combines city life with beach day vibes. Discover everything this glamorous nation has to offer in our guide to the best hotels in The UAE.
But for now, let’s check out all the weird and wonderful things you never knew about The UAE.
Need for speed
1. Firstly, speeding into pole position, the Dubai police proudly use supercars to patrol the streets of Dubai. The likes of Ferrari, Bentley and Lamborghini all make up the fleet. Unsurprisingly, the fastest police car in service, a Bugatti Veyron can also be found here.
2. Secondly, adrenaline junkies amongst you will love the thrill of Ferrari World Themepark. This spectacular pleasure ground is packed with amazing rides including the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa which takes you from 0 to 240 kmh in just 4.9 seconds. Prepare for the ride of your life!
Travel and tourism
3. It’s a popular spot for holidaymakers. Every year over 12 million tourists visit The Emirates. And tourism now makes up over 10% of the nation’s GDP.
4. With all those visitors it’s no wonder that Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport is the largest terminal in the world. Given that it’s the largest it’s of course home to amazing ways to pass the time. Like an epic shopping mall, zen gardens and even a swimming pool. Consequently it’s the perfect place to spend a couple of hours while prepping for your flight or waiting for a connection.
Architectural feats of brilliance
5. The Capital Gate building in Abu Dhabi leans more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It was designed to lean 18 degrees west. This impressive structure is home to offices, retail space and even a tea room.
6. Furthermore, while we’re talking about buildings and architecture let’s not forget that the Burj Khalifa holds the accolade for the world’s tallest building. Standing tall at 828 metres, this immense skyscraper houses the world’s highest mosque on the 158th floor. It’s also host to the highest nightclub in the world on the 144th floor and the highest swimming pool in the world on the 76th.
Geographical wonders
7. There are no permanent rivers in The UAE. Because of it’s unique position within the Arabian Desert, it’s a very dry nation with no naturally occurring bodies of water.
8. The population comprises over 200 nationalities, with an estimated population of 9.89 million people. As a result astonishingly more than 80% of residents are expats. This is largely due to the unique business opportunities available in recent years attracting workers from all over the world.
World record holders
9. The Miracle Garden in Dubai is the largest flower garden in the world. This masterpiece occupies over 1.5 million square feet and attracts more than 20,000 visitors daily. Therefore if you ever find yourself in Dubai it’s well worth a visit. The beautiful floral sculptures will capture your imagination.
10. Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s largest hand-woven carpet. At a massive 5,630 square metres the carpet had to be woven in nine parts due to its size. Once it was ready the total area was assembled within the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
11. Check out the Dubai Frame, it holds the record for the largest photo frame in the world. Located in Zabeel Park, Dubai this huge landmark proudly stands at 150 metres tall. Visit the top of the structure for spectacular views across the cityscape.
Culture
12. The UAE in the Persian Gulf has more than one royal family. That’s right, a different royal family rules each of the seven emirates.
13. The working week begins on Sundays in The UAE. As a result schools and workplaces are open as it’s just a normal day. The national days of the weekend are classified as Friday and Saturday.
14. The UAE was the first country in the Middle East to host the FIFA World Cup tournament in 2009.
15. And finally, Dubai is often known as the City of Gold. Achieving it’s nickname due as a result of the fast expansion from sleepy port to a major business hub including being a hub for the selling of gold. The Gold Souk is a huge labyrinth of stalls selling as much gold as you can feast your eyes on.
Find out more
So, that rounds up our most unusual things about The Emirates. As we’ve alluded to it really is an amazing destination to visit.
But, if you want to find out more and plan your next trip simply click the big button below and we’ll help take you there.
