Dubai becoming 'Manhattan of the Middle East'

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By AP  www.emirates247.com

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

In this Monday, Oct. 5, 2015 file photo, a thick blanket of early morning fog partially shrouds the skyscrapers of the Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers districts of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai’s rapid transformation from a desert outpost into one of the world’s most architecturally stunning cities is mapped out in the Marina. Where just 15 years ago there was empty, flat land, today a bustling neighborhood thrives centered around a canal and an impressive skyline that pierces through the clouds. (AP)
In this Monday, Oct. 5, 2015 file photo, a thick blanket of early morning fog partially shrouds the skyscrapers of the Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers districts of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai’s rapid transformation from a desert outpost into one of the world’s most architecturally stunning cities is mapped out in the Marina. Where just 15 years ago there was empty, flat land, today a bustling neighborhood thrives centered around a canal and an impressive skyline that pierces through the clouds. (AP)

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 neighbourhood 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 neighbourhood 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. More info