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Where is Dubai on the map? Situated at approximately 25.2° north latitude and 55.3° east longitude, Dubai lies on the eastern Arabian Peninsula, along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This sprawling metropolis covers about 4,110 square kilometers and stands as the most populous city within the UAE. Bordered by Abu Dhabi to the south, Sharjah to the northeast, and Oman to the southeast, Dubai’s geographic positioning not only marks it as a strategic trading hub between the East and West but also as a global travel destination renowned for its luxury and iconic skyline.
| Feature | Description | Geographical Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Eastern Arabian Peninsula, United Arab Emirates | 25.2° N, 55.3° E |
| Neighbors | Abu Dhabi (South), Sharjah (Northeast), Oman (Southeast) | Persian Gulf Coast |
| Area | 4,110 square kilometers | Borders the Arabian Desert |
Dubai’s geography is as fascinating as its skyline. Picture a city that stretches along over 50 kilometers of coastline against the blue waters of the Persian Gulf, while the vast Arabian Desert lies just beyond its borders. This captivating blend of coastal beauty and desert charm isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s the foundation of Dubai’s allure as a global hub. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Dubai’s location so unique.
Dubai’s location on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula provides a unique juxtaposition. To the west, the sparkling Persian Gulf frames the city with over 50 kilometers of beach-lined coastline, making it a perfect spot for waterfront developments like Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. Meanwhile, its eastern edge gives way to the shifting sands of the Arabian Desert, where dune patterns and rocky landscapes create an otherworldly backdrop. Just beyond, the Western Hajar Mountains rise dramatically, marking the border with Oman and adding further character to the terrain.
Interestingly, despite being regarded as a desert city, Dubai features a natural inlet—Dubai Creek. Cutting through the city’s heart, it serves as a deep-water passage, historically vital for trade and now an iconic landmark. The seamless blend of these natural features with man-made wonders underscores Dubai’s knack for merging tradition with modernity.
Dubai is not just geographically striking—it’s globally central. Situated at approximately 25.2° N and 55.3° E, this city acts as a crucial link between East and West. Its geographical proximity to key markets like Asia, Europe, and Africa has established it as a prime trading hub. Let’s break it down:
The city’s globally renowned Dubai International Airport (DXB) reflects its strategic edge, ranking among the busiest in the world for international passenger traffic. Add to this some of the most active seaports globally, and it becomes clear why Dubai plays a vital role in international trade and commerce.
Looking closer at its surroundings, Dubai shares borders with some of the UAE’s most critical players. Abu Dhabi’s expansive territory flanks it to the south, with its capital city just a 1.5-hour drive away. To the northeast lies Sharjah, another of the UAE’s seven emirates, and to the southeast, you’ll find Oman, whose picturesque mountains form a boundary.
This central positioning not only defines Dubai’s geography but also enhances its cultural and economic connections. The neighboring emirates, alongside Oman, contribute to a regional network that balances local traditions with a globalized lifestyle.
Of course, living near the desert comes with its own climatic quirks. Summers in Dubai are infamous for their soaring temperatures, often pushing the mercury well beyond what many are accustomed to. Winter provides a welcome respite, offering mild and pleasant conditions perfect for exploring the outdoors. This weather, shaped by Dubai’s location in the Arabian Desert, defines not just the city’s lifestyle but also its architecture and urban planning.
If you add Dubai’s artificial islands, futuristic infrastructure, and a bustling multicultural community, it’s astonishing how this desert city has redefined its geographic constraints into unquestionable strengths. Which feature of Dubai’s setting intrigues you most? Let us know in the comments below!
Dubai is a vibrant metropolis located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, which is the most populous among the UAE's seven emirates. As of 2024, Dubai boasts a thriving population of approximately 3.79 million, with expatriates making up over 90% of its diverse residents.
Situated in the strategic Middle East, the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, straddles the line between Africa and Asia. While there has been geographical debate over its continental classification, it is widely accepted today that Dubai and the United Arab Emirates belong to the continent of Asia.
No, Dubai is not a country. It is both a city and an emirate within the United Arab Emirates. Dubai stands as the most populous emirate, with the city of Dubai being the most populous urban area in the nation.
Arabic serves as the official language of Dubai for both written and spoken communication. Governmental operations and legislative documents are conducted in Arabic. The native Emirati population primarily speaks Arabic, although you will find a tapestry of languages due to the city's large expatriate community.
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