Dubai Diary: The New Dubai, a total of 4 days experiencing Dubai, the most expensive area in the Middle East.

Once the emirate became rich from the discovery of oil in 1966, grand developments began to spring up along Sheikh Zayed Road. By 1980 the annual oil income dropped to an all-time low, and forced the city to come up with other ways to make money. Its reinvention as a tourist destination began in the mid-1980s, and the Emirates airline was established.

Based at the Emirates Towers on the 41st floor with stunning views of New Dubai, I enjoyed an early morning stroll along the Sheikh Zayed Road, both north and south sides, and marvelled at the diverse architecture.

Again, by 8:30am the temperature was stifling at 37 degrees Celsius with 47% humidity; however, it felt like 100% humidity. A respite from the heat, I discovered an air-conditioned bus shelter where I sat for a few minutes, people-watching. Yes, an enclosed bus shelter that’s perfectly air-conditioned. I bet the buses are air-conditioned too?

The photographs simply don’t do the scale of the buildings any justice. You absolutely have to see it to believe it.

I loved how my wide-angle lens slightly distorted the imposing buildings, making them look as surreal as they do in reality.

The Emirates Towers Metro Station

Dubai International Financial Centre

An Air-Conditioned Bus Shelter

Of Course Starbucks Is In Town

Back Of The Financial Centre Metro Station

Front Of The Financial Centre Metro Station

The Metro Rail Running Along Sheikh Zayed Road

Emirates Grand Hotel Apartments

The Emirates Towers Metro Station