Dubai UAE

What a city of contrasts! Tall modern skyscrapers, flat sand desert; wealth dripping from the shops, workers sharing housing 5 or 6 in a two bdrm; pix of blue skies, haze obscured views.

We went up the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. We went to floor 148 with an outdoor observation deck.

We also went to the old town that is being renovated and keeping the old culture alive. The rough wall was from when groups were fighting over water. The tall arched boxes were to provide ventilation, long before air conditioning.

Most of the modern buildings are from the last 20 years and there is still a plan to build other similar buildings in the desert in the next 20 years. Definitely feels like if you build it they will come.

The nationals make up only 11% of the population. India has the largest immigrant population followed by Pakistan, Bangladesh and Filipino’s.

We also went for a crazy dune ride through the red sand. Very grateful for an “oh shit” handle!

Thrilling! We then went for a bbq dinner in the desert. Great food and wonderful entertainment!