Dubai. It’s a name that evokes images of impressive skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and sun-drenched beaches for many.
But where exactly is Dubai located? For those considering emigrating or vacationing in this beautiful city, it’s helpful to know where Dubai is situated – geographically, strategically, and culturally.
In this article, we’ll explore the location of Dubai in detail, both within the United Arab Emirates and in the broader global context. Why is Dubai located where it is, and what does that mean for people who want to live, work, or vacation there?
What is Dubai?
What is Dubai? And where is Dubai located? Dubai is both a city and an emirate within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This can be a bit confusing, so let’s clarify:
- Dubai as a city: This is the most well-known form of Dubai. The city of Dubai is a densely populated and ultra-modern metropolis known worldwide as a business center and tourist attraction.
- Dubai as an emirate: Dubai is not just a city, but also an emirate. Dubai is one of the seven emirates that together form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The emirate of Dubai includes not only the city itself but also a larger territory with desert, suburbs, and industrial areas.
Although the city of Dubai and the emirate share the same name, “Dubai” usually refers to the city of Dubai – and that’s the subject of this article.
Where is Dubai Located Geographically?
Where is Dubai Located Geographically? Dubai is located in the Middle East, on the Arabian Peninsula, in southern Asia. More specifically, the city of Dubai is situated on the southeastern coast of the Persian Gulf, in the northern part of the United Arab Emirates. What are the coordinates of Dubai? The geographical coordinates of Dubai are:
- Longitude: 55.2708° E
- Latitude: 25.2048° N
What many people wonder:
Is Dubai in Asia or Africa? Dubai is in West Asia. Dubai is often associated with the Middle East, but the Arabian Peninsula is geographically part of Asia. However, Dubai is centrally located between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Dubai is surrounded by the vast Arabian Desert, which strongly influences the climate in Dubai and the landscape. Due to the low rainfall and extreme heat, there are virtually no ‘natural’ green areas in Dubai.
Despite this arid environment, the city has grown into a futuristic metropolis thanks to large-scale and futuristic construction projects and urban development. Additionally, Dubai does have some green areas, but these are all man-made. However, you shouldn’t go to Dubai for beautiful green nature.
Dubai within the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Where is Dubai located within the UAE? Dubai is one of the seven emirates that together form the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federal state established in 1971 (before this, they were treaty states). Which 7 emirates does the UAE have? These emirates are:
- Abu Dhabi (the capital city of the UAE)
- Dubai
- Ajman
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Umm Al Quwain
- Sharjah
- Fujairah
Dubai is strategically located in the north of the country, on the coast of the Persian Gulf. It borders the emirate of Sharjah to the east and Abu Dhabi to the south. Its location in the heart of the UAE makes Dubai easily accessible from all other emirates, both by highway and by air.
Is Dubai the Capital of the UAE? No, Dubai is not the capital of the UAE, that’s Abu Dhabi. However, Dubai is often seen as the economic and tourist center of the country. Some people also think that Dubai itself is a country, but it is a city and an emirate, not a country. So, Is Dubai a Country? No, Dubai is a city and an emirate in the UAE.
The UAE is a unique federation where each emirate has its own ruler and legislation, but collaboration occurs at the national level. Dubai has a relatively high degree of autonomy, especially in economic matters.
Does Dubai Border Other Countries?
Dubai is a city in the UAE that lies on the coast. Dubai itself does not share direct land borders with other countries, but as part of the UAE, the country borders:
- Saudi Arabia (to the south and west)
- Oman (to the east)
- And across the Arabian Gulf lies Iran
This location makes Dubai part of a strategic crossroads between Asia, Africa, and Europe. In less than eight hours of flying, you can reach cities like Amsterdam, Mumbai, Nairobi, or Istanbul.
Want to know more about the flight time to Dubai? Read: Flight Time to Dubai.
This location makes Dubai particularly interesting for companies and expats who want to establish themselves in an environment that literally lies between east and west.
Which Sea Does Dubai Border?
Dubai is located on the Arabian Gulf, which is internationally also known as the Persian Gulf. This coastline has been important for the development of the city:
- In the past, the Dubai Creek was the center of pearl fishing and trade traffic.
- Today, the beach and coast are a magnet for tourism, water sports, and luxury resorts.
- The construction of famous artificial islands such as the Palm Jumeirah and The World shows how Dubai continues to utilize the sea for economic growth.
What Is the Importance of This Coastal Location?
- Seaports (such as Jebel Ali Port, one of the largest in the world)
- International trade through shipping
- Attraction for expats and tourists thanks to the beaches and the additional activities that come with it
The location on the Arabian Gulf also creates the warm, humid climate that is characteristic of Dubai – a topic we will return to later.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country in Western Asia. Dubai is located in the Middle East, on the Arabian Peninsula, on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf.
Dubai is located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of seven emirates of which Dubai is one.
Dubai is located in Asia. Although it is often associated with the Middle East, the Arabian Peninsula is geographically part of the continent of Asia, specifically Western Asia.
Dubai is located on the Arabian Gulf, also known as the Persian Gulf. This sea has played an important role in the development of the city as a trade and tourist center.
No, Dubai is not in Europe. It is located in Western Asia, on the Arabian Peninsula.
Yes, Dubai is in Asia, more specifically in Western Asia. It belongs to the Middle East, but geographically it is part of Asia.
No, Dubai is not in Africa. It is located northeast of Africa, in Asia, but due to its strategic location, it is relatively close to Africa, Europe, and South Asia.
Dubai is a city and an emirate, but not a country. It is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates.
Dubai does not have a separate capital, as the city of Dubai is itself the capital of the emirate of Dubai. The capital of the country (the UAE) is Abu Dhabi.
