Even in the face of global recession fears, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to strengthen its reputation as a first-class hub for international business and premier tourist destination.

Long ago shedding its image as solely an oil-powered economy, the UAE has since invested its wealth in various industries, with property development projects in the commercial center Dubai attracting the most attention around the world.

Accommodating over 180 nationalities, Dubai has become a melting pot of cultures unlike any other place in the world. In fact, more than 80 percent of the emirate's population is made up of expatriates.