Dubai

Ah, Dubai. That mysterious place that seems so far away and yet we feel so connected to it somehow. You and everyone you know, knows someone who is working in or has worked in Dubai.

I went to Dubai in December 2007 too see it for myself. It was interesting but there was something deep and meaningful missing from the whole experience. Dubai is not a place that has struggled for its independence, it is not a place with civic pride so strong that you can feel the energy. It is a place that is growing, where people come to engage in commerce and, well, that's about it.

Somehow I know that I'll be back in Dubai, it'll likely be on business. I don't know how or when but the feeling is pretty strong. I tried to make some connections in Dubai before I got there, with very little luck. Along the way I found some interesting websites which may be useful if you're interested in this place.

American Business Council of Dubai & Northern Emirates
Canadian Business Council Dubai
The Consulate of Canada, Dubai
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing
Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre - a great source to find out which major international trade shows and exhibitions are coming to Dubai and when.

I stayed at the Majestic Hotel on Mankhool Road in Bur Dubai. It's a bit far from Medina Jumeirah where all the action is but the rates are reasonable and its an easy taxi ride to wherever you want to go. The rooms were excellent and so were the restaurants, food and service.

As for entertainment, the Mall of the Emirates is spectacular and host to Ski Dubai. Medina Jumeirah is a beautiful shopping and restaurant experience that is about five years old but looks like it's over 400 years old. There are some wonderful architectural experiences to behold in Dubai. The sad thing is that the rich history behind these experiences just doesn't exist.





I was happy to find the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre, but was disappointed when I realized that they are not very active. The good thing is that it exists, I hope locals find a way of supporting this place.