It’s difficult to picture the world without Dubai, the UAE’s most glamorous emirate. However, Dubai history is quite brief. Known for its lavish sites like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, these are all modern developments. So, how long did it take to turn Dubai from a desert port into a thriving city? We’ve gathered some interesting images for you in this blog on indubaimall to see how long does it take to build Dubai? Scroll down to explore the fascinating history of Dubai.
Early History of Dubai
Dubai’s history goes back to the early Minoan period, around 3000 BCE to 500 CE. The first recorded mention of Dubai was in 1095 in Abu Abdullah Al Bakri’s Book of Geography. The Venetian pearl merchant Gaspero Balbi also noted it in 1580, when Dubai was mainly focused on fishing and pearl diving. In 1833, Dubai began as a small settlement of about 800 Bani Yas tribe members who were drawn to the natural harbor of the creek. They established a center for fishing and pearling, later joined by Bedouin nomads who built small homes called Barastis near the creek. In the 1950s, a disaster occurred. The busy ship traffic caused the creek to fill with silt and start to collapse. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai, launched an ambitious and expensive project to further industrialize the area, enhancing Dubai’s status as a key trading port. When did Dubai become popular? After 1969, when oil revenue increased, Dubai rapidly developed, investing heavily in infrastructure like schools and hospitals, transforming it into the vibrant city we see today. Does Dubai have oil?

Discovery of Oil and Initial Growth
When did Dubai start developing? In 1966, oil was found in Dubai, and Sheikh Rashid quickly used this wealth to modernize Dubai, investing heavily in hospitals, schools, roads, and a modern telecommunications system. He also built a port and terminal at Dubai International Airport and constructed the largest man-made harbor in the world at Jebel Ali. This forward-thinking approach made Dubai attractive to entrepreneurs and tourists, who appreciated the friendly atmosphere, low import duties, and no taxes on personal and corporate income. Today, Dubai is one of the wealthiest cities globally. How long does it take to build Dubai after oil was found?

Rapid Urban Development
In the 1980s, Dubai started adopting global architectural styles to reduce its reliance on oil and enhance tourism and business. This period saw the development of many hotels, resorts, and tall buildings. The urban development of Dubai has progressed at an extraordinary pace. A significant milestone was the completion of the Dubai World Trade Centre in 1979, which was 39 stories high and represented Dubai’s global aspirations. In 1975, the city’s constructed area was around 18 square kilometers, which surged to more than 977 square kilometers by 2020, reflecting an astonishing growth rate exceeding 5,300% within a span of 45 years. This swift expansion has been fueled by a series of ambitious development initiatives and the aspiration to establish Dubai as a prominent global metropolis.

Iconic Projects and Global Recognition
In the past few decades, the skyline of Dubai has transformed into a vibrant showcase of creativity and innovation. With its twisting skyscrapers and impressive structures such as Dubai Mall, each edifice tells a story of aspiration and progress. For example, do you know how long does it take to build Dubai Mall? The skyline and impressive structures of the city represents more than just a collection of buildings. They stand as global emblem of the potential that arises when design and vision converge. These are iconic projects and global recognition, and we can mention them in the following part:
- Burj Khalifa
Beyond its visual appeal, the Burj Khalifa serves numerous uses. It contains magnificent residences, business spaces, and the world-famous Atmosphere restaurant. Its observation decks provide unrivalled vistas of Dubai, making it a magnet for visitors and a perfect illustration of how architecture can produce economic and cultural value.
- The Museum of the Future
This building stands out because it combines technology with sustainability. Built with modern design techniques, it is energy-efficient and aligns with Dubai’s environmental goals. Inside, guests can discover innovative concepts and advanced creations, serving as a source of inspiration for many years ahead.
- Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is remarkable because it encourages visitors to think about the city’s evolving history. Standing in the middle of a project that shapes the future, people can reflect on how far Dubai has come and where it is headed. This structure represents Dubai’s commitment to storytelling through architecture, highlighting its past while envisioning its future.
- Cayan Tower
Located in Dubai Marina, Cayan Tower is a vibrant part of the skyline, showcasing the innovative spirit of Dubai’s architecture.