Dubai Travel Guide

Dubai was selected to host the 2013 swimming world championships on Saturday. The United Arab Emirates city beat Moscow and Hamburg, Germany.

The announcement was made by FINA president Mustapha Larfaoui on the second day of the current worlds in Rome. Larfaoui said it was still to be determined which period of the year the Dubai championships will be held. They are expected to be held indoors.

Shanghai will host the next worlds in 2011.

Al Bastakia Area in Bur Dubai dates back to the early 1900s, and occupies the eastern section of the old town along the Creek, extending to a length of 300 meters, and depth of 200 meters in the southern direction. This area represents an important area in the history of architecture, and the urban development of town. The masons, who constructed the building, have left a permanent mark on the town’s heritage.

To the east of Al Fahidi Fort is the largest concentration of traditional courtyard houses within wind towers. In the past, the city was famous for a mass of wind towers which lined the creek on either side. These were not merely decorative but served as the only means of cooling houses in pre-electricity days.

One of the largest and most beautiful mosques is the Jumairah Mosque. It is a spectacular example of modern Islamic architecture and is built of stone in medieval Fatimid tradition, the mosque is a city landmark in Dubai. It is particularly attractive at night when subtle lighting throws it artistry into relief.