Dubai has been in the news in the last few years because of the massive building construction going on there. Some say they have 60% of the world's supply of high-rise cranes - I think the percentage is higher. About a year ago, the construction came to a halt. Apparently all the juice for the building was funded by banks, not by princes of the United Arab Emirates. Oops...banking error #307. The banks got burned and no longer wanted to loan money. So, Sheikh Khalifa, president of UAE, bailed out Dubai with some $100M and got naming rights on the Burj Tower. This is the world's tallest building...and it just opened. Well sorta. They had a big fireworks show a month ago, but, like Vegas, not sure if there's anything inside.
There is a constant haze of dust in the air from the endless desert around Dubai. This time of year is really nice - 70s - compared to summer in the 110+ level. And, because it's next to the Persian Gulf, the humidity kills the "dry heat" excuse. You can tell by the pictures that it's like a Vegas without lights. There are malls with ski slopes, skating rinks, curling, and every western capitalist retailer imaginable. This is the western version of the Arab world. You see very few head scarves here much less burqa's. (I just asked Mary if I have too much information in the blog, she said, "...no, it sounds like you.")
There are still very few places serving liquor. The only bars are found in hotel lobbies. You need to have a liquor license to purchase in stores. The kicker is... your employer needs to sign off on your request.
This hotel may look familar from the Today Show. It's the Burj Al Arab. Matt Lauer was standing on the heliport pad at the top. What's really cool is the what it looks like from the Gulf - the architect had some fun with the official religion. Apparently, if you view it from the Gulf, there is a large cross at the top.
This is one of those places in the world where you can see a Rolls Royce pass you on the highway. And not just one. I leave you with a scene from my hotel room.
Ma'a as-salaama! (goodbye)
"Where in the world is Pete Egart?"
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Good one, Pete! Its not too much information! Very fun to read while we sit here snowlocked...its fun to follow you around the world (ok, maybe not AROUND but it might as well be from where I sit!).
love,
K
I agree with sister katie..you give just the right amount of info and its all very interesting. I love reading your blogs just as much as I do Mary's..Mary's are just more in my range of understanding..flowers, food, cool fountains!!:) Love it all really!! Glad you both are getting to see the world together like this..too cool!! Thanks for keeping the blog so well done and uptdated-its awesome!-Kathy
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