Dubai is a sprawling, fast growing metropolis.  Ideally situated on the Gulf it is one of seven Arab emirates that make up the UAE.  For the past couple of years it has become the fastest growing city in the world - with huge amounts of office, commercial, leisure and residential development taking place that is transforming the city into a city that resembles New York.  The largest tower in the world is currently being built - the Burj Dubai - and dwarfs the other 30 or 40 storey buildings!

As Dubai aims to diversify its economy away from the dwindling oil production, it has adopted many western attitudes - especially towards tourism, dress and shopping.  On that latter point, Dubai houses the alrgest mall in the middle east - the Mall of the Emirates, a site that also has a huge indoor snow dome as well as over 500 retail outlets, many of which are familiar to the US or European shopper.  However, attititudes towards gays are not quite as progressive.  You do not see gays openly holding hands or going to gay bars/clubs.  These places to exist but they are very much underground and if you are visiting Dubai you would be wise to keep your sexuality to yourself.  

The Criminal Investigation Division (CID) can raid venues where gays are known to be and make arrests.  You will not be protected from this because you are a tourist.

Censorship is relatively high, with websites containing gay content (or even the word "gay") blocked. 

Getting to Dubai is relatively easy. 

By plane:

The main airport has links to most major countries.  There is only one terminal (at 2008) but a second terminal has almost been completed and is due to open shortly.  Taking a taxi from the airport to the main beach area (where there are many hotels) will cost about £20 and is the best alternative for visitors unfamiliar with the city.  A new train line is being built throughout the city which will completely change the way that people get around, but right now this is not complete and it is difficult to judge when it will be completed.  

By car:

It is difficult to see how you can get to Dubai by car, except from Abu Dhabi which is about an hour's drive away.  Dubai is surrounded by desert and so driving is not that interesting.

Getting around:

For those staying at the major hotels it is easy to reach the main malls and attractions as free shuttle services are provided.  These are generally air-conditioned, clean and efficient.

In due course, the overland train system will open - this will be a welcome relief for the already-congested roads.

Hiring a car is an option, but taxis are very cheap on the whole - about £3 for a 20 minute trip - so this is probably the best alternative if you are staying in the city.