Full History Of Dubai In Timeline From 1901

1901: Dubai Established as a Free Port

In 1901, Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum established Dubai as a free port with no taxation on imports or exports, attracting merchants from various regions.

1902: Increased Visits to Dubai Port

In 1902, the Bombay and Persia Steam Navigation Company's vessels made 21 visits to Dubai, indicating the growing importance of the port.

1904: Fortnightly Steamers in Dubai

From 1904 onward, steamers called at Dubai fortnightly, further accelerating its role as a trading hub.

1906: Dubai's Role as a Trading Hub

By 1906, Dubai had supplanted Lingeh as the chief entrepôt of the Trucial States, trading 70,000 tones of cargo.

1908: The Great Storm

In 1908, the "great storm" struck the pearling boats of Dubai and the coastal emirates, resulting in the loss of a dozen boats and over 100 men.

1910: Bombardment by HMS Hyacinth

In 1910, the town was bombarded by HMS Hyacinth, resulting in 37 deaths.

1911: Poverty Among the Tribes

In 1911, Butti lamented misery and poverty among the tribes, leading to struggles, looting, and killing.

1937: Oil Exploration Contract Signed

In 1937, an oil exploration contract was signed, guaranteeing royalty rights for Dubai and concessionary payments to Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum.

1947: Border Dispute with Abu Dhabi

In 1947, a border dispute between Dubai and Abu Dhabi escalated into war, resulting in arbitration by the British government.

1954: Establishment of the Dubai Municipality

In 1954, Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the then ruler of Dubai, established the Dubai Municipality for city planning, citizen services, and upkeep of local facilities.

1956: Founding of the Dubai Police Force

In 1956, the Dubai Police Force was founded in the locality of Naif, and it has law enforcement jurisdiction over the emirate.

1958: Sheikh Rashid's Rule

From 1958, Dubai's ruler Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum used revenue from trading activities to build infrastructure.

1959: Construction of Dubai's First Airport

Construction of Dubai's first airport began on the northern edge of the town in 1959.

1959: Establishment of Dubai's First Telephone Company

In 1959, Dubai's first telephone company was established, owned by IAL and local businessmen.

1959: First master plan for Dubai

In 1959, Sheikh Rashid commissioned John Harris from Halcrow, a British architectural construction firm, to create the city's first master plan.

1959: First Hotel Constructed

In 1959, the emirate's first hotel, the Airlines Hotel, was constructed.

September 1960: Opening of Dubai's First Airport Terminal

In September 1960, the terminal building of Dubai's first airport opened for business.

April 1961: MV Dara Disaster

On 7 April 1961, the Dubai-based MV Dara was caught in high winds and experienced an explosion, leading to a disaster that resulted in the loss of 238 lives.

1961: Iran Air Commences Services to Shiraz

In 1961, Iran Air commenced services to Shiraz from Dubai Airport.

1961: Operational Networks of Utility Companies

In 1961, both the electricity company and telephone company had rolled out operational networks in Dubai.

1962: Sheikh Rashid Approaches Ruler of Qatar for Loan

In 1962, Sheikh Rashid approached the Ruler of Qatar for a loan to build the first bridge crossing Dubai Creek.

1962: Growth and Development in Dubai

In 1962, there was significant growth and development in Dubai, with new houses, offices, and flats being built, and more European and Arab firms opening up.

May 1963: Completion of First Bridge Crossing Dubai Creek

In May 1963, the first bridge crossing Dubai Creek was finished and paid for by a toll.

1965: Asphalt Runway Constructed at Dubai Airport

In 1965, the asphalt runway of Dubai Airport was constructed, opening Dubai to regional and long-haul traffic.

1966: Increased Gold Shipments to Dubai

In 1966, more gold was shipped from London to Dubai than almost anywhere else in the world, along with significant quantities of watches and silver.

1966: Oil Discovery in Dubai's Waters

In 1966, oil was discovered in territorial waters off Dubai, leading to the naming of the first field as "Fateh" or "good fortune".

1967: Gold Price Differential

In 1967, the price of gold was $35 an ounce, but its market price in India was $68 an ounce, creating a healthy markup for Dubai's gold traders.

January 1968: British Troop Withdrawal Announcement

On 16 January 1968, Prime Minister Harold Wilson announced that all British troops were to be withdrawn from "East of Aden", which would change the relationship between the "Trucial States" and Great Britain.

February 1968: Agreement on Principle of Union

On 18 February 1968, Sheikh Zayed of Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Rashid of Dubai agreed to work towards bringing the other emirates into a union.

1968: Reliable Piped Water Supply

By 1968, Dubai had a reliable supply of piped water, thanks to the water company's pipeline and storage tanks.

1968: Acceleration of Infrastructure Development Plans

From 1968, oil discovery in Dubai accelerated infrastructure development plans and a construction boom that brought a massive influx of foreign workers.

1968: Construction of Ambassador and Carlton Hotels

In 1968, the Ambassador and Carlton Hotels were constructed, further developing Dubai's hospitality sector.

1968: Dubai's Lively Gold Trade

Throughout the 1960s, including 1968, Dubai was the centre of a lively gold trade with imports of gold at some £56 million, mainly re-exported to customers in international waters off India.

October 1969: Stormy Negotiations

In October 1969, British intervention against aggressive activities by two of the Emirates resulted in a walk-out by Bahrain and Qatar during negotiations for a union.

1969: Flow of Oil Revenue and Infrastructure Development

From 1969 onwards, oil revenue supported a period of growth with Sheikh Rashid embarking on a policy of building infrastructure and diversifying the trading economy.

1970: New Airport Terminal Building Constructed

In 1970, a new airport terminal building was constructed, including Dubai's first duty-free shops.

July 1971: Agreement on a Union

On 18 July 1971, six of the seven "trucial" emirates agreed on a union.

December 1971: Dubai joins the United Arab Emirates

On December 2, 1971, Dubai, along with Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, and Fujairah, formed the United Arab Emirates through the Act of Union.

February 1972: Ras Al Khaimah joins the UAE

In February 1972, specifically on the 10th, Ras Al Khaimah joined the United Arab Emirates, following Iran's annexation of the Tunbs islands, which were claimed by RAK.

October 1972: Inauguration of Port Rashid

Port Rashid was inaugurated on 5 October 1972, although its berths were pressed into use as soon as they had been built.

1973: Dubai adopts the UAE dirham

In 1973, Dubai and the other emirates adopted a uniform currency, the UAE dirham. This year also marked the dissolution of the monetary union with Qatar and the introduction of the UAE dirham throughout the Emirates.

1975: Population Growth in Dubai

Between 1968 and 1975, the city's population grew by over 300% due to the construction boom and influx of foreign workers.

1975: Expansion of Port Rashid

In 1975, Port Rashid was further expanded to add 35 berths before the larger port of Jebel Ali was constructed.

1977: Decision to Construct Dubai Hospital in 1977

In 1977, the decision was made to construct Dubai Hospital, which later began admitting patients in March 1983.

1979: Compromise on border disputes and establishment of the Jebel Ali port

In 1979, a compromise was reached to end border disputes between the emirates. Also in 1979, the Jebel Ali port, a deep-water port, was established.

March 1983: Dubai Hospital Begins Admitting Patients in March 1983

In March 1983, Dubai Hospital began admitting patients, after the decision to construct the hospital was made in 1977.

1985: Establishment of JAFZA

In 1985, Sheikh Mohammed initiated the JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) around the Jebel Ali port, facilitating unrestricted import of labour and export of capital for foreign companies.

1990: Oil Contribution to GDP

In 1990, oil accounted for 24% of Dubai's GDP.

1991: The Gulf War impacts Dubai's finances

In early 1991, the Gulf War negatively impacted Dubai's finances, leading to the withdrawal of money and trade by depositors and traders.

1995: Internet Introduction in 1995

In 1995, the Internet was introduced into the UAE, including Dubai, with a network bandwidth of 7.5 Gbit/s and a capacity of 49 STM1 links.

December 1999: Burj Al Arab Hotel Opened

In December 1999, the Burj Al Arab, a luxury hotel, opened.

March 2000: Establishment of the Dubai Financial Market (DFM)

In March 2000, the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) was established as a secondary market for trading securities and bonds, both local and foreign.

2001: Palm Jumeirah Construction Started

Construction of the Palm Jumeirah artificial archipelago began in 2001.

2001: Start of Property Value Depreciation

From 2001 to November 2008, some properties lost as much as 64% of their value.

2002: Establishment of DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)

In 2002, DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) was established.

2002: Dubai Enacts Electronic Transactions and Commerce Law in 2002

In 2002, Dubai enacted an Electronic Transactions and Commerce Law, which addresses digital signatures and electronic registers while also prohibiting Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from disclosing user information.

2003: Dubai serves as a refuelling base during the Invasion of Iraq

During the 2003 Invasion of Iraq, Dubai served as a refuelling base for allied forces at the Jebel Ali Free Zone.

2003: Executive authority delegated to the Dubai Executive Council

Since 2003, executive authority of managing and overseeing Dubai Governmental agencies has been delegated to the Dubai Executive Council, led by the Crown Prince of Dubai Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum.

September 2004: Opening of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

In September 2004, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) opened, attracting leading international firms as a regional hub and establishing the NASDAQ Dubai.

2004: Oil Contribution to GDP

By 2004, oil accounted for only 7% of Dubai's GDP.

2004: Property Appreciation Begins

From 2004, Dubai's property became more valuable, resulting in property appreciation due to the government's decision to diversify from a trade-based, oil-reliant economy to one that is service- and tourism-oriented.

2004: Announcement of Al Maktoum International Airport Development

In 2004, the development of Al Maktoum International Airport was announced.

2004: Dubai International Film Festival

Since 2004, Dubai has hosted the annual Dubai International Film Festival, showcasing Arab and Middle Eastern filmmaking talent.

2005: Dubai's Population Demographics in 2005

In 2005, it was recorded that 84% of metropolitan Dubai's population was foreign-born, with approximately half originating from India, reflecting a significant shift from its earlier, more homogeneous community.

2005: Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Formed

In 2005, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), an agency of the government of Dubai, was formed.

March 2006: Government announces steps to allow construction unions

Towards the end of March 2006, the Dubai government announced steps to allow construction unions, with UAE labour minister Ali al-Kaabi stating that "Labourers will be allowed to form unions."

2006: DFM Trading Volume Reaches $95 Billion

As of the fourth quarter of 2006, the trading volume on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) reached approximately 400 billion shares, totaling $95 billion in value, with a market capitalization of about $87 billion.

2006: Palm Jumeirah Construction Completed

Construction of the Palm Jumeirah artificial archipelago was completed in 2006.

2006: Dubai Weekend Change in 2006

In 2006, Dubai adjusted its weekend to Friday and Saturday, aiming to balance the religious significance of Friday for Muslims with the Western weekend of Saturday and Sunday.

2006: Establishment of Du in 2006

In 2006, Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), better known as Du, was established, breaking Etisalat's virtual monopoly over telecommunication services in Dubai.

2006: Property Appreciation Continues

In 2006, the Dubai property market continued to show appreciation, a trend that began in 2004 due to diversification efforts.

2006: Construction of Bus Shelters Announced

In 2006, the transport authority announced the construction of 500 air-conditioned passenger bus shelters and planned for 1,000 more across the emirates.

2007: Dubai Ranked 44th Among World's Best Financial Cities

In 2007, a City Mayors survey ranked Dubai 44th among the world's best financial cities.

November 2008: Property Market Depreciation

In November 2008, some properties in Dubai had lost as much as 64% of their value since 2001, demonstrating depreciation in the property market.

2008: Bus System Services

In 2008, the public bus transport system in Dubai serviced 140 routes and transported over 109 million people.

2008: Rise of Contemporary Art Galleries in 2008

Starting in 2008, contemporary art galleries like Carbon 12 Dubai, Green Art, gallery Isabelle van den Eynde, and The Third Line began to establish Dubai on the international art map.

February 2009: Dubai's Foreign Debt Estimated at $80 Billion

As of February 2009, Dubai's foreign debt was estimated at $80 billion, amidst a major downturn in the property market due to the slowing economic climate.

April 2009: Palm Jumeirah Monorail Opens

In April 2009, the monorail line connecting the Palm Jumeirah to the mainland opened. This was the first monorail in the Middle East.

September 2009: Dubai Metro Opened

The Dubai Metro, consisting of the Red and Green lines, opened in September 2009.

2009: Dubai School System in 2009

As of 2009, Dubai had 79 public schools run by the Ministry of Education and 207 private schools, serving a diverse student population.

2009: Dubai Hosted Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2009

In 2009, Dubai hosted the 2009 Rugby World Cup Sevens, marking a significant event for the city.

2009: Taxi Trip Statistics

In 2009, taxi trips in Dubai exceeded 70 million trips, serving around 140.45 million passengers.

2009: Release of the documentary Slaves in Dubai

In 2009, the documentary "Slaves in Dubai" highlighted alleged mistreatment of foreign workers in Dubai, documenting what Human Rights Watch described as "less than humane" conditions for some of the 250,000 foreign laborers in the city.

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2009: Number of Cars in Dubai

In 2009, there were an estimated 1,021,880 cars in Dubai, according to Dubai Municipality statistics.

January 2010: Public Transport Usage

In January 2010, 6% of Dubai residents used public transport.

January 2010: Burj Khalifa Opened

The Burj Khalifa officially opened on 4 January 2010.

January 2010: Dubai Has World's Tallest Skyline

As of 4 January 2010, Dubai had the world's tallest skyline due to the construction boom and the completion of the Burj Khalifa.

2010: Number of Buses in Service

By the end of 2010, there would be 2,100 buses in service across the city.

2010: Completion of Burj Khalifa

In 2010, the Burj Khalifa (Khalifa Tower) was completed, becoming the world's tallest building at 829.8 m (2,722 ft).

November 2011: Cities Lodged Bids for Expo 2020

On 2 November 2011, four cities had already submitted their bids for Expo 2020, with Dubai making a last-minute entry.

2011: Dubai's Gold Trading Volumes Reach 580 Tonnes

In 2011, Dubai's total gold trading volumes reached 580 tonnes, with an average price of US$1,455 per troy ounce, underscoring its reputation as the "City of Gold".

2012: Medical Clinics in Dubai in 2012

By the end of 2012, there were 1,348 medical clinics in Dubai, with 97% being privately operated.

2012: Dubai Crowned IFEA World Festival and Event City in 2012

In 2012, Dubai was named the IFEA World Festival and Event City by the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA), acknowledging its significance in hosting major events.

2012: Dubai Ranked as the World's 27th Richest City

In 2012, a report by City Mayors indicated that Dubai was the world's 27th richest city in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP).

2012: Dubai Ranked 40th in Global City Competitiveness Index

In 2012, the Global City Competitiveness Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Dubai at No. 40 with a total score of 55.9.

February 2013: Bureau International des Expositions Visited Dubai

In February 2013, the delegation from the Bureau International des Expositions visited Dubai to assess the Emirate's readiness for Expo 2020, being impressed by the infrastructure and national support.

February 2013: Dubai Miracle Garden Opened

On 14 February 2013, the Dubai Miracle Garden, a 72,000-metre flower garden, opened in Dubailand, showcasing more than 50 million flowers with over 70 species of flowering plants.

May 2013: Dubai Expo 2020 Master Plan Revealed

In May 2013, the Dubai Expo 2020 Master Plan was revealed.

September 2013: Dubai Creek Proposed as UNESCO World Heritage Site

As of September 2013, Dubai Creek was proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

November 2013: Dubai Won Right to Host Expo 2020

On 27 November 2013, Dubai secured the right to host Expo 2020.

2013: Dubai's future competitiveness improves according to research report

According to a 2013 research report on the future competitiveness of cities, Dubai will have moved up to 23rd place overall in the Index by 2025.

2013: At The Top in Burj Khalifa has over 1.87 Million Visitors

In 2013, At The Top in Burj Khalifa, the world's second highest observatory deck, was one of Dubai's most popular tourist attractions, with over 1.87 million visitors.

2013: Synergy University Dubai Campus Opens in 2013

In 2013, Synergy University Dubai Campus opened in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, becoming the first university in Dubai to be located outside of the Educational Zones.

2013: UAE nationals make up about 15% of Dubai's population

In 2013, only about 15% of Dubai's population were UAE nationals, with the rest being expatriates. Approximately 85% of the expatriate population were Asian, mainly Indian and Pakistani.

2013: Rise in Trade flows between China and Dubai

In 2013, trade flows between China and Dubai rose 29% , setting the stage for China to become Dubai's largest international trading partner the following year.

March 2014: Inaugural Dubai Food Festival in March 2014

The inaugural Dubai Food Festival took place from February 21st to March 15th, 2014, with the aim of enhancing and celebrating Dubai's position as the gastronomic capital of the region.

2014: China Emerges as Dubai's Largest Trading Partner

In 2014, China became Dubai's largest international trading partner with $47.7 billion in trade flows.

2014: Cargo Handled at Dubai International Airport

In 2014, Dubai International Airport handled 2.37 million tons of cargo.

2014: Dubai's Economy Growth Rate at 6.1%

In 2014, Dubai experienced an economic growth rate of 6.1%, contributing to its rapidly expanding economy.

2014: Dubai's non-oil foreign trade at $362 billion

In 2014, Dubai's non-oil foreign trade reached $362 billion, with imports accounting for the largest share at $230 billion, while exports and re-exports stood at $31 billion and $101 billion respectively.

2014: Religious demographics of Dubai residents

In 2014, more than 56% of Dubai residents were Muslims, 25% were Christians, and 16% were Hindus. Around 2% of residents adhered to other religions.

2014: Estimated births and deaths per 1,000 people

In 2014, there were an estimated 15.54 births and 1.99 deaths per 1,000 people in Dubai.

2015: Mandatory Health Insurance Phased In During 2015

In 2015, Dubai began phasing in mandatory health insurance for all inhabitants, leading to increased demand for medical services.

2015: Completion of First Phase of Dubai Design District

In 2015, the AED 4 billion first phase of the Dubai Design District project was completed.

2015: Rugby 7 Dubai 2015 Event

Pictures were taken of Rugby 7 Dubai event in 2015.

August 2016: Dubai Opera Opens in August 2016

The Dubai Opera opened on August 31, 2016, in Downtown Dubai with a performance by Plácido Domingo, establishing a multifunctional performing arts center.

2016: DMCC Nominated as "Global Free Zone of the Year 2016"

In 2016, DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) was nominated as "Global Free Zone of the Year 2016" by The Financial Times Magazine.

2016: Dubai Hosted 14.9 Million Overnight Visitors

In 2016, Dubai hosted 14.9 million overnight visitors.

2016: Opening of the world's first functioning 3D-printed office building

In 2016, the world's first functioning 3D-printed office building was opened in Dubai, which took 17 days to build. Killa Design was the architect for this building.

February 2017: Dubai Food Festival in February 2017

From February 23rd to March 11th, 2017, Dubai hosted its second Food Festival, showcasing the diverse flavors and cuisines available in the city.

March 2017: Dubai Food Festival in March 2017

The Dubai Food Festival took place in Dubai from February 23rd to March 11th, 2017, celebrating Dubai's diverse culinary scene with cuisines from over 200 nationalities.

2017: Dubai Fitness Challenge Since 2017

Since 2017, Dubai has hosted the Dubai Run as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which is the world's largest free fun run and one of the main highlights of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.

2018: Dubai Marina Population

As of 2018, Dubai Marina, an artificial canal city, had a population of 55,052.

2018: Dubai is the fourth most visited city in the world

As of 2018, Dubai is the fourth-most-visited city in the world based on the number of international visitors and the fastest growing, increasing by a 10.7% rate.

2018: Emirates Airline Operations

As of 2018, Emirates, the national airline of Dubai, operated internationally, serving over 150 destinations in over 70 countries across six continents.

2018: Dubai Tops List for Tourist Spending for Fourth Year in a Row

In 2018, Dubai topped the list for tourist spending for the fourth year in a row with a total spend of $30.82 billion.

2018: Oil contribution to Dubai's GDP

In 2018, oil production contributed less than 1 percent to Dubai's GDP.

September 2019: Establishment of Higher Committee for Real Estate Planning

In September 2019, Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum ordered the establishment of the Higher Committee for Real Estate Planning to study and evaluate future real estate construction projects, aiming to balance supply and demand after a decline in property prices.

September 2019: Dubai's population at 3,331,420

As of September 2019, Dubai's population reached 3,331,420, representing an annual increase of 177,020 people and a growth rate of 5.64%.

October 2019: Dubai Loosens Liquor Laws

In October 2019, Dubai relaxed its liquor laws, permitting tourists to buy alcohol from state-controlled stores. Previously, only locals with special licenses could access alcohol. This policy shift occurred amid an economic crisis in the UAE, leading to a decline in alcohol sales.

2019: Princess Bee produced "Hi Dubai" in 2019

In 2019 the Italian artist Princess Bee produced "Hi Dubai", the first cross media format revealing the "soul of the city" through the life and work experience of 25 Emirati and expat women. The series also promoted the Emirate's lifestyle and main events to attract young people to visit and live in Dubai.

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2019: Tourists Spend More in Dubai Than in Any Other Country

Mastercard's Global Destination Cities Index 2019 found that tourists spend more in Dubai than in any other country.

January 2020: Sri Lankan expats fined for Islamophobic Facebook posts

In January 2020, three Sri Lankan expats were fined 500,000 dirhams (US$136,000) each for posting defamatory Islamophobic posts on Facebook.

April 2020: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announces temple in Dubai

In April 2020, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced the building of one of their temples in Dubai, following an invitation acknowledged by church President Russell M. Nelson.

October 2020: Dubai Expo 2020 Scheduled to Take Place

In October 2020, the Dubai Expo 2020 was originally scheduled to take place for 173 days, featuring 192 country pavilions and thematic districts.

December 2020: Jumeirah Gate Opened

Jumeirah Gate, a set of two towers connected by a sky bridge, opened in December 2020. The sky bridge houses luxury apartments, and the towers feature the world's highest infinity pool in a building.

2020: Clarification on consequences for public employees leaving work

As of 2020, the federal public prosecution clarified that public employees collectively leaving work to achieve an unlawful purpose will be punished with imprisonment. Foreigners may be deported for spreading discord among employees.

2020: Improvements Planned for Completion

By 2020, over AED 70 billion of improvements to public transport were planned for completion, anticipating the city's population would exceed 3.5 million.

2020: Expected Tourist Numbers for 2020

Dubai was expected to reach 20 million tourists by 2020.

2020: Expo 2020 Postponed Due to COVID-19

Due to the impact of COVID-19, organizers of Expo 2020 postponed the Expo by one year in 2020.

2020: Launch of Dubai Fashion 2020

In 2020, Dubai launched Dubai Fashion 2020 as one of several major projects to support its economy and develop different sectors.

2020: Carnegie Endowment report on Dubai's role in illicit financial flows

In 2020, a report from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace highlighted Dubai's role in facilitating corruption and global illicit financial flows, noting that its prosperity is partly underpinned by illicit proceeds from corruption and crime.

2020: School Ratings in Dubai in 2020

In 2020, a total of 17 schools in Dubai were rated Outstanding, and an additional 40 were rated Very Good, according to KHDA ratings.

2020: Report Exposes Questionable Real Estate Owners in Dubai

In 2020, data from the Centre for Advanced Defense Studies (C4ADS) revealed that several real estate owners in Dubai were facing international sanctions, involved in criminal activities, or were public officials with questionable sources of income.

2020: "Dubai Unlocked" Investigation

In 2020, data leaks formed the basis for the "Dubai Unlocked" investigation, which revealed Dubai's real estate market as a haven for criminals and money launderers.

2020: Indian Premier League Held in UAE in 2020

In 2020, the Indian Premier League cricket competition was held in the UAE due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020: Theatre of Digital Art Dubai (ToDA) Opens in 2020

In 2020, the Theatre of Digital Art Dubai (ToDA) opened, presenting immersive digital art, including contemporary work.

2020: Dubai Expo 2020 Site and Social Projects

In 2020, the main site of Dubai Expo 2020 was planned to be a 438-hectare area, part of the new Dubai Trade Centre Jebel Ali urban development. Various social enlistment projects and monetary boons to the city were also planned, including initiating the world's largest solar power project.

2020: Property Prices Increase by 124% Since 2020

Since 2020, property prices in Dubai increased by 124%.

April 2021: End Date of Dubai Expo 2020 Original Schedule

April 2021 marked the original scheduled end date for the Dubai Expo 2020, which was intended to begin in October 2020 and last for 173 days.

June 1, 2021: Red Line Extension Connecting to EXPO 2020 Site Opened

On June 1, 2021, an extension to the Red Line connecting the EXPO 2020 site opened.

October 2021: New Dates Set for Expo 2020

Due to the impact of COVID-19, the organizers of Expo 2020 postponed the Expo by one year to begin on 1 October 2021.

2021: Dubai's GDP Projected at Over US$177 Billion

In 2021, Dubai's gross domestic product (GDP) was projected to be over US$177 billion, highlighting its status as one of the world's fastest-growing economies.

2021: UAE Ranked Among Most Dangerous Places for LGBTQ Tourists

In 2021, the UAE was ranked among the 20 most dangerous places for LGBTQ tourists to visit.

January 2022: Dubai Weekend Change in January 2022

On January 1, 2022, Dubai transitioned to a four-and-a-half day working week, establishing a new weekend structure comprising Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday.

February 2022: Property Prices Increase Significantly After Ukraine Invasion

Following February 2022, property prices in Dubai increased significantly as wealthy Russians began investing in the UAE's real estate market after the Ukraine invasion.

March 2022: End of Postponed Expo 2020

Due to the impact of COVID-19, the organizers of Expo 2020 postponed the Expo by one year. The new end date was 31 March 2022.

March 2022: LGBTQ Tourist Deportation Incident

In March 2022, Thai transgender model Rachaya Noppakaroon was sent back from Dubai after arriving to perform at Expo 2020 due to her passport stating her gender as male. Similarly, French influencer Ibrahim Godin was deported from Dubai, and he filed a complaint for public defamation because of sexual orientation.

2022: Data leak exposes Dubai's role in international drug trade

In 2022, a data leak exposed Dubai's role as an investment base for the international drug trade and money laundering, leading to increased scrutiny by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

2022: Foreign Ownership in Dubai's Real Estate Market Valued at $160 Billion

In 2022, the EU Tax Observatory and Norway's Centre for Tax Research evaluated that foreign ownership in Dubai's real estate market was worth approximately $160 billion.

2023: Tourism in Dubai

In 2023, tourism accounted for about 11.5% of Dubai’s GDP, and the city was the 3rd most-visited city globally.

2023: Increase in Volume of Transactions Since 2023

In 2024, real estate transactions in Dubai increased by 36.5% since 2023.

January 2024: Dubai Announced Intentions to Build the Aeternitas Tower

In early January 2024, Dubai announced its intentions to build the Aeternitas Tower. The project is a joint venture between Dubai-based real estate developer London Gate and Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Franck Muller. The tower offers luxury apartments, including 1 to 4-bedroom units, as well as Sky Villas and Sky Mansions, with interiors inspired by Franck Muller's designs.

March 2024: Dubai Begins Operating World's Biggest Waste-to-Energy Facility

In March 2024, Dubai began operating the world's biggest waste-to-energy facility, which will power approximately 135,000 homes.

March 2024: Tori Towey faces charges after reporting domestic abuse

In March 2024, Tori Towey, a flight attendant for Emirates Airlines living in Dubai, faced charges of attempting suicide and illegal consumption of alcohol after reporting domestic abuse. Radha Sterling questioned Ireland's travel advice due to the incident.

April 2024: Record-setting flooding in Dubai

In April 2024, Dubai experienced record-setting flooding, highlighting the city's lack of appropriate drainage to deal with climate change challenges. Accumulated rain reached 110.7 mm (4.36 in) per year, exacerbating the situation.

June 2024: Emaar Properties Announces Expansion Plans for The Dubai Mall

In June 2024, Emaar Properties announced plans to expand The Dubai Mall for 1.5 billion dirhams, adding 240 luxury stores and new food outlets.

July 2024: Dubai Signs Agreement to Develop Largest Food Logistics Hub

In July 2024, Dubai signed an agreement to develop a logistic hub for food, fruits, and vegetables planned to be the largest of its kind in the world, with UAE Minister of Finance Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed present at the signing.

October 2024: Interpol issues red notice against Kinahan Cartel member arrested in Dubai

In October 2024, specifically on the 11th, Interpol issued a red notice against Sean McGovern, a member of the Kinahan Cartel, who was subsequently arrested by the Dubai police. The cartel also had a detailed plan to move to Russia in case of an extradition request from Ireland. On October 21, an extradition treaty was also signed between Ireland and the UAE.

2024: Top Universities by Student Numbers in 2024

According to the KHDA, in 2024, the top 10 largest universities by student numbers in Dubai included Middlesex University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, and the University of Wollongong in Dubai.

2024: Irish woman charged for alcohol consumption

In 2024, Dubai authorities charged an Irish woman for consuming alcohol, highlighting regulations regarding alcohol consumption in the emirate.

2024: Dubai as a Global Business Hub

In 2024, Dubai is a major global business hub with a thriving real estate market with $761 billion in transactions. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic, handling over 92 million passengers annually.

2024: Dubai Population

In 2024, Dubai's population is around 3.79 million, with over 90% being expatriates.

2024: Dubai Universities in QS World University Rankings 2024

In 2024, only 4 Dubai Universities are present in the QS World University Rankings.

2024: Real Estate Transactions Reach All-Time High in Dubai

In 2024, real estate transactions in Dubai reached an all-time high, with 180,987 transactions worth AED 522.5 billion.

2024: Dubai Ranks 12th in Smart City Index

In 2024, the city of Dubai ranked 12 out of 142 cities in the Smart City Index.

2025: Projected improvement in Dubai's ranking in the Global City Competitiveness Index

According to a 2013 research report on the future competitiveness of cities, in 2025 Dubai is projected to move up to 23rd place overall in the Global City Competitiveness Index.

2025: Scheduled Hospital Construction in Dubai by 2025

By 2025, three more major hospitals are scheduled to be built in Dubai, adding to the existing healthcare infrastructure.

2025: Dubai Universities in QS World University Rankings 2025

In 2025, only 4 Dubai Universities are present in the QS World University Rankings.

2050: Dubai Clean Energy Strategy

Dubai is focusing on green energy and environmental initiatives such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy to be implemented by 2050.