The way I saw Dubai – a travelogue

By Er. Mohammad  Ashraf Fazili (Former Chief Engineer, J&K Govt)

In this part of my travelogue I will talk about my incredible experience of travelling across Dubai and its neighboring Emirates.

Dubai today stands as one of the most remarkable examples of rapid urban transformation in the modern world. Once a modest fishing settlement along a creek in the Arabian Gulf, it has evolved into a global hub of commerce, tourism, and innovation. My journey through Dubai and several other emirates offered not only the excitement of travel but also valuable insights into how visionary planning, discipline, and governance can shape a city’s destiny.

Rise of a desert metropolis

Dubai is the second largest and arguably the most dynamic of the northern emirates of the United Arab Emirates. Despite having limited natural resources, it built its prosperity primarily on trade and commerce. Historically, the region was a small settlement around Dubai Creek until it was taken over around 1830 by a branch of the Bani Yas tribe from the Liwa Oasis. The Al Maktoum family led that takeover and continues to rule the emirate today.

The city has grown at an extraordinary pace, particularly along the Abu Dhabi–Dubai highway, transforming the desert landscape into a modern skyline of steel and glass. At the center of this urban spectacle stands the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest structure in the world, rising to a height of nearly 830 meters. Constructed between 2004 and 2009 at a cost of about $1.5 billion, the 163-storey tower symbolizes Dubai’s global ambitions.

Another major attraction is the Dubai Mall, widely considered the world’s most visited retail and lifestyle destination, drawing more than 100 million visitors annually. With over 1,200 retail outlets, two major department stores, and hundreds of dining venues, it represents Dubai’s reputation as the shopping capital of the Middle East. Areas such as Fashion Avenue host more than 150 luxury brands, while Souk Al Bahar blends traditional Arab marketplace aesthetics with modern shopping and dining experiences. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo further add to the city’s appeal, offering immersive experiences with thousands of marine species in one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world.

Exploring the neighbouring emirates

Travelling beyond Dubai reveals a fascinating diversity among the other emirates. Sharjah, for instance, was once one of the wealthiest trading centers in the region before Dubai’s rise. Known today as the cultural capital of the Arab world—an honor conferred by UNESCO in 1998—Sharjah is home to numerous museums dedicated to heritage, maritime history, and Arabic calligraphy. The city surrounds Khalid Lagoon, and its Corniche offers scenic evening views of the illuminated skyline.

Further north lies Ras Al Khaimah, often considered one of the most scenic emirates. With the dramatic Hajar Mountains rising behind the city and the Arabian Gulf stretching along its coast, the landscape offers striking natural beauty. A historic fort houses the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, preserving the region’s heritage.

Umm Al Quwain, the second smallest emirate, presents a quieter contrast. With traditional fishing and date cultivation still forming the backbone of its economy, it provides glimpses into how life in the UAE once was. Ajman, the smallest emirate, is renowned for its dhow-building yards, where traditional wooden boats continue to be crafted.

The eastern coast of the UAE, particularly Fujairah, offers a different geographical setting altogether. Located entirely along the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah features golden beaches framed by the rugged Hajar Mountains. Historical sites such as the Al Badiyah Mosque—believed to date back to the 15th century—reflect the region’s deep cultural roots. Nearby areas like Bithna, Dibba, Khor Fakkan, and Kalba offer scenic landscapes, historical forts, and attractive coastal villages that are worth exploring.

Lessons in planning and governance

Beyond its tourist attractions, what impressed me most about Dubai and the UAE was the meticulous planning and discipline visible in everyday life. Infrastructure development follows a systematic approach: utilities such as water supply, electricity, sewage, and waste management systems are established before building construction begins. Municipal authorities maintain strict oversight of structural design and safety standards.

During my visit, I was told of instances where buildings were halted or even dismantled because they did not meet approved engineering specifications. Such strict enforcement ensures structural safety and urban order. Roads are wide and well-maintained, traffic is controlled by advanced signaling systems and radar monitoring, and public spaces remain remarkably clean due to efficient night-time waste management and road maintenance.

Equally notable are the social and civic features of the country. Begging is prohibited, public order is strictly maintained, and pedestrian crossings are carefully designed. Senior citizens receive free bus travel, and advanced infrastructure supports a high standard of living. The absence of visible urban disorder—whether stray animals, littered streets, or chaotic traffic—reflects a disciplined civic culture supported by strong governance.

The UAE’s economy today is also highly diversified. While oil revenues played a crucial role in its early development, sectors such as tourism, construction, technology, trade, and renewable energy now drive growth. Policies like the Golden Visa program encourage long-term residency and investment, helping attract global talent and capital.

My journey through Dubai and the surrounding emirates therefore offered more than just the experience of travel. It highlighted how thoughtful planning, strict implementation of standards, and long-term vision can transform a region into a global model of development. For countries aspiring to modernize their infrastructure and urban systems, there are indeed valuable lessons to be learned from the UAE’s remarkable journey.