Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is the second largest emirate, after Abu Dhabi. It is located at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. The city of Dubai is its capital.
It was founded in the 18th century by a Bedouin tribe called the Bani Yas. Dubai became independent from Great Britain in 1971.
The United Arab Emirates is an absolute monarchy, in which the emir is the head of state and the spiritual leader. Dubai has its own constitution, approved in 1996.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the richest countries in the world. Dubai's economy is based on trade, tourism and financial activities.
Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. It has a population of 2.5 million inhabitants, of which 90% are foreigners.
Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It has a wide range of hotels, restaurants and shops.
Dubai has a very hot and dry climate. Average temperatures range between 25 and 40 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is very short, from May to June.