Apr 10, 2001 05:46 PM
29698 Views
Dubai, for most Indians is associated with underworld gangs and criminals fleeing from India. But that was the Dubai of 1980s.
If my reviews riel you up, it is highly probable that this one will sound like a PR campaign for Dubai Tourism. Anyway, I will receive flak...which I think is good! I enjoy it, that's my personality.
Dubai is situated in a country called United Arab Emirates (UAE). UAE is made of 7 city-states...such as Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi etc. It was originally part of the great Ottoman Empire which was brutally hammered and axed by the allies in the First World War. After the Ottomans, the Brits took control of the region and established their representatives. Dubai and all were poor trading posts in the Arabian sea and Brits did not have any interest in ruling them...until 1971 when oil was discovered there. As in all the countries where they ruled, Brits were kicked out and the Sheiks (local rulers) of these small city states came under a federation...UAE with Abu Dhabi as the capital.
My review is now post 1971...
Dubai, flushed with oil from the 70s and 80s went on a construction spree. Labour and manager from Asian countries such as India, Pakistan and senior managers from UK, US etc. helped them build huge highways, modern residential and office complexes and world class resorts and hotels.
I've visited Dubai three times. Last time I was there in December 2000. It is amazing at what money can buy and Dubai is the perfect epitome of money!
The topography is barren desert and sand, however, Dubai's money has made strong attempts to hide the sand within the city and cover it with grass and palm trees. Outside the city, it's a sad eye-sore...but, it's all natural, so I cant complain.
Dubai has a huge Indian population, hence you will never feel lost. Most shops have Indian managers or Indian sales staff which makes you feel at home. Dubai has modern shopping complexes, although not as big as in the Canada or UK. If you are shopping do not miss the City Center shopping center and Burjuman shopping center.
Besides, you will find hundreds of strip malls, such as the one near Jumbo, famous for computer and spares...called the Al-Ain center.
Recently, a new strip has come up with modern office center. This is the Shaikh Zaid Road strip, parallel to the Highway that links Dubai and AbuDhabi. The need for this strip is justified, as the old Dubai (called Deira) over time could not handle the influx of people. One thing amazes me, is the quality of construction in any part of this new Dubai.
Dubai's money has also tried to bring and pull foreign tourists. Thus they have built beautiful beaches by the Arabian Sea. Modern resorts such as Jumeirah etc, have world class, well maintained, secure beaches. Secure I mean, is unlike the European beaches where nudity and vouyerism is rampant, Dubai's beaches are visited by families, enjoying an all day outing with food and drink! Police help is easily available and can be reached if you have someone following you or harassing you.
Jumeirah beach resort has a modern hotel called the Buruj Al Arab...constructed in the form of an Arab boat, called the Dhow. It is really like a sail boat. Local stories make you believe that this hotel is the most expensive in the world and per night charges can be anywhere from $1500 to $35,000. If you go to Dubai...you MUST MUST MUST observe this hotel! The hotel is covered with huge glass, which changes color as the sun rays hit upon it at different angles at different time of the day. So no two time will you find the hotel in the same exterior color...I hope am making sense....
People of Dubai:
Who are the original Dubaites. Well the Arabs, which comprise 40% of the population but control 100% of government, 100% of businesses and 100% of the wealth. The remaining 60% population are immigrants who work for them in various capacities.
These local Arabs, speak English and Arabic. Some even speak Urdu and Hindi. Most Arabs look down upon Indians as ''2nd class'' citizen. MARK MY WORDS. SECOND CLASS CITIZEN. If you aint got an EU or an US passport, then there will be discrimination in salaries also. For example, after graduation I applied for a job there. My friend from Delhi also applied. This was a big business group in Dubai. Now, my friend was smarter than I am. She was much more articulate in her interview. More work experience than I had... but she was offered half of what I was offered for a similar job. Why? She had an Indian passport. I was holding a Canadian passport. And if the colour of your skin is white and you have the right passport...your salary can be higher. If you're a British citizen, and even if you have no intelligence or degree but know how to smile, you will be preferred over other candidates. What happened to my job? I never took their offer. Stayed in India.
My friends in Dubai are from Canada, India and the UK. One British friend of mine said that Brits are respected in Dubai becos ''we beat them up for 50 years when we ruled them...'' so I think they still consider them their masters. Very sad.
If you speak a word against this discrimination, chances are you will be deported said my Canadian friend. But EVERYONE knows that there is discrimination based on the color of your skin and your accent.
As a person, a local Arab is arrogant but kind. He is a benefector but choosy. He is a beneovalent but will look down upon you even while helping. He will respect you, if you show agressive behavior and do your job well...but will never become your buddy. Never mix with you at social events. That's why you will find Indians only mixing with Indians there...and this is true for all communities there.
Immigrants cannot buy or own property in the UAE...so you're ultimate dream of having a home can never materialize and you will always be an alien in this country. I have seen many Indians return even after 30 years of service to Dubai.
Leaving this sad aspect of Dubai apart, this is a great city. I don't know much about nightlife here, but there are several good restaurants where you can hang out. Nice parks and waterfronts...which must be visited at nights! It's one of the safest city in the world.
Dubai recently inaugarated a new airport. One of the best in the world, I must admit. But I think you have to walk too much within the terminals.! Their Duty Free area is a legend in its own. Do try their Dubai Duty Free Car lottery. I have heard real stories of winners...you can win a S class M. Benz for $135.
If I were to define Dubai in mathematical terms, than I can say:
Dubai = Best of (New York + London + Paris) * 2 - (Crime) + local arrogance + job discrimination + feel at home for Indians.
I will modify my review based on some feedback I receive, but this is essentially my views on Dubai. Do visit this place. It will be an eye-opener.!
