Glittering like a jewel of the desert, the glamorous city of Dubai is a land of dreams.The western area of Dubai benefits from small stretches of sandy beaches, which have helped to catalyze the city’s tourism industry. Dubai’s rulers have sought to increase the city’s limited seafronts, and, in the absence of natural offshore islands, developers were encouraged to construct giant man-made islands off the coast of the city. The most famous of these is Palm Jumeirah, which has the shape of a palm tree. Others include the “World” islands, a cluster of small islands positioned to resemble a world map when viewed from above. Ultramodern skyscrapers rising against an azure sky forms the gleaming skyline of this cosmopolitan city. As night cloaks Dubai, the city comes alive with twinkling lights adorning these tall superstructures. A drive along Downtown Dubai at night leaves you mesmerized by a fantasy land of lights and colours that surrounds you. Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, will leave you open-mouthed in wonder. Fall under the spell of the largest dancing fountain in the world, the Dubai Fountain. Swim with the sharks in the gigantic aquarium at Dubai Mall and lose yourself to a world of make-believe at Mall of the Emirates. A curious blend of traditions and modernization can be seen in every corner of Dubai. A perfect example of this is Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai which is surrounded by a fast-paced metropolis. The sprawling Miracle Garden and Dubai Creek Park is a testament to the determination of the people of Dubai, to beat the odds and grow vibrant blooms smack in the middle of the desert.