Everything Everywhere Daily Dubai
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Nov 12, 2025 Discover how Dubai transformed from a barren port to a bustling global city in just 60 years. Explore the role of visionary leadership and diversification of the economy after oil was discovered. Learn about its unique geography, and how maritime truces shaped its autonomy. Dive into its evolution as a trade center and the pearl industry's influence. Uncover controversies surrounding migrant labor and governance while appreciating its multicultural essence and iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa.
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Deliberate City-Building Beats Geography
- Dubai's existence is more a matter of deliberate choice than geographic destiny.
- Early rulers positioned Dubai as an open entrepot, lowering duties and welcoming foreign merchants to spur trade.
From Pearls To Trade Hubs
- Archaeological finds show habitation around Dubai Creek since 3000 BC with fishing and pearling as main livelihoods.
- The pearling boom employed thousands until cultured pearls and the Depression collapsed the industry in the 1930s.
Oil Used As Seed Capital, Not Lifeline
- Dubai discovered oil late and in smaller amounts than neighbors, so leaders used it as seed capital.
- Sheikh Rashid invested oil revenue in infrastructure and diversification instead of dependence on petroleum exports.