Dubai becoming 'Manhattan of the Middle East'

Glitzy Dubai Marina displays area's transformation

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 With its glistening skyscrapers and man-made waterways, Dubai Marina is a playground for the rich.

Dubai's rapid transformation from a desert outpost into one of the world's most architecturally stunning cities is mapped out in the Marina. What 15 years ago was mostly empty land is today a bustling neighborhood with a skyline that pierces through the clouds.

More than 150 high-rise buildings, stacked row after row, make up this 50 million square foot waterfront neighborhood built around a man-made canal where the wealthy park their yachts.

The area is sometimes referred to as the Manhattan of the Middle East and some of its buildings are promoted by realtors as having "Manhattan-style" architecture and amenities.

Unlike Manhattan, though, Dubai's year-round sunshine gives the Marina a summer vibe throughout the winter months, when temperatures rarely drop below 24 degrees Celsius during the day. On weekends, party boats ferry expatriates down the canal as speed boats and jet skis buzz in the water.

Trendy restaurants along the canal reflect the myriad cultures and people drawn to Dubai, a modern city-state in the UAE.

Children can ride on a carousel, splash in a fountain and watch street artists perform on the canal's promenade. Around sunset, when the blistering heat of the day begins to subside, people jog and ride bikes.

The Marina boasts the world's tallest residential building, the Princess Tower, which reaches 413 meters high. The Marina 101 is currently being built to soar to 432 meters.

 

credit to Emirates 24/7