Dubai isn’t short on headlines, but beyond the obvious landmarks and record breakers, it’s the smaller, lesser-known details that make the city genuinely interesting.
This is a place where old trading routes still shape neighbourhoods, where desert landscapes sit just minutes from ultra-modern skylines, and where everyday experiences often come with a twist you wouldn’t expect anywhere else.
From surprising cultural quirks to little-known historical details, here are 10 interesting facts about Dubai that might just change your perspective on the city:
Fun Dubai Facts for Kids and Adults: 10 Things That Will Blow Your Mind
1. Dubai Was a Fishing Village
In 1833, the Al Maktoum tribe established a fishing settlement in Dubai. Maktoum bin Butti of the Bani Yas tribe led his people to the Shindagha Peninsula, located right at the mouth of the Dubai Creek. Post settlement, the town was declared independent.
By the late 19th century, pearling and maritime trade had begun to flourish, attracting traders from around the world.
2. Dubai Has a Largely Young Population
Dubai has the highest percentage of residents in the 25 to 54 age group, making it a city that thrives on the efforts and contributions of its youth.
The city’s job opportunities, high standard of living and reputation as a high-quality tourism destination continue to attract young professionals from across the world. Interestingly, men make up approximately 70 per cent of the emirate’s population.
3. The Burj Al Arab Has a Pillow Menu
The Burj Al Arab is a luxurious seven-star hotel in Dubai, built on a man-made island. Apart from its unique architectural shape, it has lots of luxurious quirks to experience.
The hotel offers a curated pillow menu for personalised comfort. Guests can choose from 17 different pillow types depending on which suits them best.
4. Camel Racing Here Has Robot Jockeys
It’s easy to forget that Dubai was once merely a desert, but camels serve as a reminder of the city’s roots. While visitors and residents are likely familiar with camel racing, you might be surprised to learn that robot jockeys were also used in this heritage sport.
These were introduced in 2002 after the UAE outlawed human jockeys. The robots are controlled by operators who drive alongside the animals in SUVs. The driver uses the car’s horn to spur the camel to run faster. Races often offer monetary prizes, while larger-scale events may also award special prizes, such as luxury cars.
5. Dubai Police Drive Luxury Supercars
The Dubai Police are famous for patrolling the city in their fleet of luxury supercars, including a Bugatti Veyron, a Lamborghini, and a Ferrari.
These vehicles reflect the city’s image as a high-tech, innovative and luxurious destination and are often used for special events, enabling them to reach places faster than regular cars.
6. Dubai Has Gold Coffee
You can give a twist to your regular caffeine fix by trying a luxurious gold coffee in Dubai. A few places to get your hands on an edible gold drink in the city are the Armani Lounge and Armani Hotel Dubai, and Armani Café in Dubai Mall.
The Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab also offer gold coffee, a stunning and unusual beverage.
7. The Address System Is a Bit Unusual
Dubai had no addresses, postal system, or codes, including city codes. From 2015 onwards, a formal system began to be implemented. Prior to this, it was very common for residents to give each other directions using local landmarks to guide them to a particular building.
Now, Makani numbers are used. These are unique 10-digit numbers assigned to each building’s entrance, helping you identify it. This number can be used in electronic maps and navigation systems.
8. Expats Exceed Emiratis
Dubai is a city with one of the highest expat populations in the world. Expats make up approximately 90 per cent of Dubai’s population, while Emiratis make up the remaining 10 per cent.
Job opportunities, safety, a high quality of life, luxury infrastructure, and well-connected airports and travel options are among the many reasons the city attracts people from across the world.
9. Burj Khalifa Is the Tallest Building In the World
The Burj Khalifa is an architectural marvel and is famous worldwide as the tallest building at 828 metres. Interestingly, it might soon be overtaken by two upcoming developments in Saudi Arabia for that world record.
The first is the Jeddah Economic Tower, planned to reach over 1000 metres in height, surpassing the Burj Khalifa. It is expected to be completed by 2028. The second is Rise Tower in Riyadh, planned to be 2 kilometres tall but still in the planning stage.
10. Dubai Has Over 400 Guinness World Records
From the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, to Ciel Tower, the world’s tallest hotel, Dubai boasts 400+ Guinness World Records, showcasing its global reputation as a pioneer of futuristic innovation.
The Dubai Frame is also the world’s largest picture frame, whilst the Dubai Miracle Garden holds two records for the world’s longest and tallest flower displays.
Looking for more interesting things about Dubai?
7 Guinness World Records Held by Dubai
Best Museums in Dubai: Free, Famous & Unique Picks
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