When Did Dubai Start to Develop?

By Robert Palmer

Dubai is a city that has rapidly developed over the past few decades. It is now known as one of the most glamorous and modern cities in the world.

But when did Dubai start to develop? Let’s take a closer look at the city’s history.

The Early Days

Dubai was founded in the early 18th century, but it was not until the early 20th century that the city began to develop. At that time, Dubai was a small fishing village with a population of around 10,000 people. The main source of income for the residents was pearl diving and fishing.

The Discovery of Oil

In 1966, oil was discovered in Dubai. This discovery changed everything for the city.

The revenue from oil exports allowed Dubai to invest in infrastructure and development projects. The first major project was the construction of Port Rashid, which opened in 1972.

The Rise of Tourism

In addition to investing in infrastructure, Dubai also began to focus on developing its tourism industry. In 1985, Dubai opened its first hotel with air conditioning, which attracted tourists from all over the world.

Transforming into a Global City

The development of Dubai continued throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. The city built impressive skyscrapers such as Burj Al Arab and Emirates Towers, as well as man-made islands like Palm Jumeirah.

Dubai also created free zones that attracted international companies and investors. These free zones offered tax benefits and other incentives that made it easy for companies to do business in Dubai.

Conclusion

Dubai’s development has been rapid and impressive over the past few decades. From a small fishing village with a population of around 10,000 people to a global city with over three million residents today, Dubai has come a long way. The discovery of oil, investment in infrastructure, and focus on tourism and business have all contributed to the city’s growth and success.