Dubai is growing so rapidly each year that economists have voiced concern surrounding a potential financial and housing collapse in the near future. With the third-highest amount of skyscrapers in the world, the second-biggest mall in the world, and a population that is growing substantially in size each year, everyone is wondering if the rapid growth is sustainable.
In 2009, Dubai’s metro system was completed and features 42 stations. The system was amazingly built in 18 months! That’s much less than it takes most cities to build public transportation systems. Though the discovery of oil reserves initially put Dubai on the map, the city makes most of its money from tourism and the trade of other commodities.
Gold Plated Everything
Not only can you find gold ATMs and gold vending machines in Dubai, but you can get pretty much anything you can think of plated in gold. People in Dubai aren’t afraid to show off their massive amounts of wealth. If it isn’t enough to have a massive mansion, porches, or luxury yachts in your possession, don't worry. You can actually get your entire car plated in gold!
It’s becoming a common trend to completely cover cars in gold in Dubai. Everything from Ferraris to Corvettes, to Bentleys, can be found in all gold versions. If gold is too pedestrian for you, try encrusting your Mercedes-Benz in diamonds like the Saudi Prince Waleed or a Porcelain Bugatti. Just make sure to bring your sunglasses, you might be blinded by the shininess if you’re driving in Dubai!
There are ATMs that Dispense Gold Bars
Believe it or not, there is an ATM that pays in 24-carat gold. You can get bars, coins, and even wearable jewelry from said ATM.
When a customer approaches the ATM, they make a selection and pay with cash or credit card. The machine, “Gold and Go,” then dispenses whatever the consumer has ordered. Known between locals and tourists alike, the "Gold and Go" has become a sensation. It is located in the Dubai Mall and needs to be replenished with gold at least twice a week!
Alcohol Consumption is Limited
Due to religious beliefs, you will only find non-Muslims drinking in Dubai. Tourists are allowed to drink alcohol if it is purchased from licensed restaurants, hotels, and bars that are attached to hotels with licenses. If you are found drinking in a public place, including the beach, you can be seriously punished. It is considered extremely unacceptable to drink in public.
Further, you have to be careful about how much you consume. Dubai is severe regarding its rules about public drunkenness and has absolutely zero tolerance for anyone found drinking and driving. In order to actually purchase an alcoholic beverage from a store, you must have a special license, even if you are a tourist. However, you can buy alcohol at the airport and bring it back to your hotel. Though the rules in Dubai may come off as harsh, the city is known for having some of the highest-quality alcohol in the world.
Texting and Driving Is More Common Than You'd Hope
While Dubai is at the forefront of some of the world's greatest industries, the driving culture there is a lot different than in other places. Sadly, distracted drivers are one of the most common reasons for car accidents in Dubai, and in the UAE in general. Many of those accidents are caused by young drivers who text or use social media on their phones while driving.
In 2018, students from the American University of Sharjah pledged not to use their phones while driving in an effort to fight road fatalities. While their initiative is commendable, this issue is far from being completely solved. Still, no matter where you are, it's always advised to look both ways before crossing the street.