40+ Bizarre Things People Will Only See in Dubai

Welcome to the extraordinary city of Dubai, where the limits of imagination seem to stretch endlessly into the desert horizon. In this bustling metropolis of opulence and innovation, the surreal becomes the norm, and the bizarre becomes the everyday. From towering skyscrapers that pierce the clouds to man-made islands shaped like palm trees, Dubai is a playground for the extravagant and the extraordinary. Join us on a journey through 45 bizarre wonders that define Dubai’s unique charm, where gold-plated extravagance mingles with futuristic marvels, and the impossible becomes possible. Prepare to be dazzled as we explore the surreal landscape of a city unlike any other.

Playtime

In the serene afternoon, a Dubai local indulged in a tranquil nap atop his luxurious sports car, only to be roused by his playful furry companion seeking amusement. However, if your idea of amusement includes visiting the hospital to tend to scratches from your exotic pet, then Dubai might just be your ideal destination! The inhabitants of Dubai harbor a deep affection for their majestic felines, allowing them to perch upon their prized sports cars gracefully.

Traffic Jammin’

In Dubai, automobiles transcend mere transportation, embodying a lifestyle synonymous with social status and opulence. With ostentatious sports cars seemingly ubiquitous, one could mistake the bustling scene depicted in this photo for a grand car exhibition. Yet, in reality, it captures the everyday chaos of a Wednesday rush hour commute through the streets of Dubai.

Look Mom, No Hands!

Residents of Dubai embrace life’s thrills with gusto, whether it involves cozying up to a majestic lion or braving the precarious perch atop an SUV as it careens upside-down on the freeway. It’s almost certain that every individual encountered in Dubai possesses the skills of a seasoned stunt performer. Alternatively, one might ponder whether the life expectancy in Dubai defies the norm.

Hotline Bling

Those digits beneath these phones aren’t just serial numbers; they represent sky-high prices! A Nokia adorned with gold or encrusted with diamonds could easily demand several hundred thousand dollars. But for the insanely affluent expatriates calling Dubai home, bedecking their cell phones with precious stones is simply par for the course. In Dubai, one’s image reigns supreme, and a luxury cell phone pairs perfectly with their rarefied sports car.

Nice Ride

In Dubai, flaunting wealth and status often involves unconventional modes of transportation. Take this gentleman, for instance, who proudly showcases his social standing by commuting to work atop his trusty pet lion, Gertrude. Meanwhile, the working-class denizens of Dubai cast envious glances as they pedal or walk their way to work. Sure, there’s the ever-present risk of being mauled by a hungry lion, but for them, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to proclaim their success to the world.

Just Building A Boat

Dubai’s working-class citizens aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and engage in manual labor. As evidenced by this photo, these laborers are in the initial stages of crafting a boat by hand.

A Faster Ambulance

You may have already marveled at the Ferraris utilized by Dubai’s municipal police force, but brace yourself because you’ve never encountered fire trucks and ambulances quite like these! Meet the Corvette and Hummer, the swift responders to civil emergencies in Dubai. In a city where every moment counts during a medical crisis, these vehicles offer a practical solution, ensuring rapid assistance that outpaces the traditional boxy ambulance.

Sky High

In Dubai, where architectural marvels and human ingenuity know no bounds, behold the sky-high tennis court! Nestled atop the iconic Burj Al Arab, this court holds the prestigious title of being the world’s highest. Perched a staggering 1,000 feet above ground, it witnessed a casual match between tennis legends Roger Federer and Andre Agassi. How they manage to play without succumbing to vertigo remains a mystery.

Not Quite A Soup Kitchen

Dubai isn’t solely a playground for the privileged elite to indulge and showcase their wealth; it also boasts a compassionate side. Exhibit A: Dubai’s dedication to aiding the less fortunate. However, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill public food bank doling out basic provisions. Instead, behold a refrigerated, luxury food bank dispensing delectable treats like yogurt and cappuccino mix. This initiative underscores the belief that everyone, regardless of wealth, deserves a taste of indulgence.

Bikini Vs. Burqa

Dubai beckons Western expatriates with its streamlined business setup, government support for foreign investment, and absence of income tax—an irresistible combination. Yet, alongside these perks come inevitable clashes of cultures, as depicted in this striking image. Here, a woman in a bikini lounges on a beach adjacent to another woman clad in a burqa—an unlikely sight elsewhere but a commonplace occurrence in Dubai.

Here Kitty Kitty

In most cities worldwide, encountering a cheetah, even a cub, in public would elicit panic. However, this scene depicts a woman seemingly unfazed as she casually cradles the wildcat in her lap, multitasking with one hand on her cell phone. Clearly a domesticated pet, the cheetah appears at ease in its new surroundings, behaving more like a well-trained safari companion than a fearsome predator.

Sky High Living

Picture waking up each morning, gazing out your window, and finding clouds beneath you. Such is the reality for affluent expats in Dubai, who reside in penthouses soaring into the sky. Dubai boasts the highest concentration of skyscrapers globally, with penthouses and condos perched above the 50th floor being abundant. In this city of superlatives, sky-high living is not just a possibility but a lifestyle coveted by the privileged few.

Gold Bar Vending Machine

Ever experienced that sinking feeling when you reach for your credit card, only to be told the place is cash-only? Cue the frantic ATM dash and the exorbitant fees. Well, in Dubai, there’s an ATM that dispenses more than just cash—it’s a gold bar vending machine! Perfect for those moments when you’ve left your gold at home.

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Marble Floored Stable

Traditionally, horse stables aren’t associated with opulence; they’re utilitarian spaces for feeding, rest, and grooming. Comparing them to a messy child’s room is a common parental metaphor. But leave it to Dubai to redefine expectations—here, you’ll find horse stables boasting marble floors and painted ceilings reminiscent of luxury hotel lobbies in Las Vegas. This horse is undoubtedly living the high life, although it probably prefers the great outdoors.

Boating With A Lion

While snapping a casual selfie aboard your luxury yacht and sharing it on Instagram may seem like the epitome of flaunting wealth, in Dubai, there’s a grander gesture: capturing your pet lion on deck. It’s hard to imagine a more ostentatious display. The lion appears to relish the sea breeze, but being trapped on a boat with such a majestic yet powerful creature is undoubtedly an adrenaline-inducing experience.

Shine Bright Like A Diamond

Cruising around in a late-model Mercedes convertible already signals a hefty bank account. But for those intent on making an unmistakable statement, nothing beats a diamond-encrusted Mercedes to announce your opulence loud and clear. In Dubai, where a Mercedes is merely commonplace and fails to turn heads, stepping up your game with such extravagance is a must to truly stand out.

Loading Zone

Dubai’s parking lots resemble a supercar showcase, with Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Porsches aplenty. Amidst these sleek machines sits an unexpected sight—a camel parked alongside a luxurious Mercedes. Remarkably, the camel appears perfectly content in its temporary urban abode. This juxtaposition captures Dubai’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, where the old harmonizes with the new in unexpected ways.

Culture Clash

Where traditional attire intersects with contemporary fashion, cultural collisions are inevitable. While Dubai is more tolerant compared to some neighboring regions regarding mixed dress, there’s more to this encounter. The girl sporting Western-style summer attire likely indicates she’s a tourist, prompting some surprise from the locals. Yet, in a city accustomed to diverse visitors, such contrasts are perhaps more familiar than one might expect.

Skiing In The Desert

While the notion of a ski resort in the heart of a desert may seem improbable, Dubai proudly boasts the world’s largest indoor ski resort, a unique facility open year-round. For European expatriates craving the exhilaration of the Alps during winter, this Dubai ski resort offers the perfect escape, catering to beginners and seasoned skiers alike.

White Gold Whip

Enter another marvel of extravagance: a late-model Mercedes luxuriously coated in pure white gold. This ostentatious customization screams opulence and ensures that the owner’s wealth is unmistakably broadcasted. While undeniably flashy, this custom paint job is best admired from a distance, as it magnificently reflects the unforgiving desert sun.

Stacking

Desert tortoises, elusive and endangered, are a rare sight and not known for their friendliness toward humans. However, as evidenced by previous snapshots, Dubai residents harbor a penchant for exotic pets, be it wildcats like cheetahs and tigers or more docile creatures like these uncommon reptiles. Witness this display of affluence—a proud owner not content with just one or two of these hard-shelled companions but boasting an impressive total of eight.

Morning Commute

In most places, encountering a tiger poking its head out of a car window would spark alarm, but in Dubai, it’s just another ordinary morning commute scene. This tiger, someone’s pet, seems to relish the change of scenery, although it’s understandable if spotting it amidst traffic causes a moment of unease.

Hang 10

Paddleboarding in traditional thobe and headdress epitomizes Dubai’s unique fusion of ancient customs and modern trends. Emiratis honor their rich heritage while embracing technological advancements and contemporary activities. This image beautifully encapsulates the harmonious blend of old and new in Dubai, with a father and son clad in ancestral attire engaging in an unexpected desert pastime.

All Gold Everything

Prepare for a sensory overload when you visit Dubai, where the gleam of gold is ubiquitous. Gold is not just an accessory; it’s a way of life for Dubai residents. From necklaces to toothbrushes, everything seems to shine with gold. While Westerners might find this extravagant, upon arrival in Dubai, one can’t help but appreciate the opulent elegance that permeates the city.

Luxury Loo

Public restrooms are often places we’d rather not linger, even the most upscale ones leaving us with a lingering discomfort. But this public bathroom in Dubai transcends our wildest expectations. With amenities like a state-of-the-art rainfall shower and jacuzzi, we wouldn’t mind spending the entire day here, indulging in pure luxury.

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I Call Shotgun

For many, sharing pictures of their beloved pets is a cherished pastime. However, owning an exotic pet like a cheetah requires substantial wealth. This individual proudly displays his exotic companion—a cheetah—riding shotgun in his luxury vehicle. It’s a stark contrast to the cheetah’s natural habitat, where it roams freely on the African plains.

Uber Bugatti?

Uber has become a global obsession in major cities worldwide, offering a convenient way to traverse urban landscapes. But in Dubai, the experience is taken to another level. Here, your Uber driver might arrive in a luxury sports car like a Bugatti, providing a 5-star ride that’s unparalleled elsewhere. Dubai truly redefines the concept of luxury transportation.

Daredevil

Dubai, boasting the highest concentration of skyscrapers globally, is a haven for daredevils. It’s the only city where thrill-seekers flock specifically to leap from towering buildings. While the ultimate feat would be belly-flopping from the summit of the Burj Khalifa, no one has dared to attempt it yet. For those craving extreme heights and adrenaline-pumping adventures, Dubai offers an unparalleled playground.

Lap Of Luxury

Amidst the abundance of gold-adorned luxuries, one item stands out: a high-heeled shoe crafted by a French designer, featuring a cassette-shaped block of gold as its heel. This extravagant creation elevates opulence to new heights, making it a must-have for those seeking the epitome of luxury fashion.

Not A Frat House Foosball Table

A typical foosball table is often associated with dive bars and frat houses, usually sticky and uninviting. However, in Dubai, even the most mundane objects are transformed into symbols of luxury. Case in point: a Swarovski crystal and diamond-encrusted foosball table. Its dazzling design elevates it to a status worthy of admiration, showcasing Dubai’s unwavering commitment to infusing extravagance into everyday items.

Camel Racing Robots

Across the globe, various cultures indulge in animal racing, whether it’s with greyhounds or horses, showcasing the animal kingdom’s prowess. In Dubai, the traditional sport of camel racing has undergone a modern transformation. Observing closely, atop the camels are not human jockeys but super lightweight robots, meticulously designed for aerodynamic efficiency. This blend of tradition and innovation exemplifies Dubai’s unique approach to preserving heritage while embracing progress.

City Of Cranes

Since its initial oil discovery, Dubai’s economy has flourished, transcending its reliance on “black gold.” Thanks to business-friendly regulations and the absence of income tax, Dubai has become a haven for foreign investors, fueling continuous construction and perpetual growth. The city’s skyline is dotted with cranes, symbols of its ever-evolving landscape and unwavering ambition.

James Bond Or Reality?

Dubai isn’t just home to an impressive array of barely street-legal sports cars; it’s also a hub for cutting-edge technology, including amphibious vehicles. Enter the “Panther,” an amphibious car favored by Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Al-Maktoum. With a fleet of six Panthers, collectively valued at over $800,000, these vehicles seamlessly transition from road to water, reaching speeds of up to 80 mph. This futuristic marvel blurs the line between fiction and reality, embodying Dubai’s penchant for the extraordinary.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Dubai proudly boasts the world’s largest mall, which spans 5.4 million square feet and houses over 1,200 stores and services. In 2011, it claimed the title of the most visited building globally. Within this retail haven lies the awe-inspiring Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, featuring over 300 ocean species, including sharks and rays. The mall offers many entertainment options, including a movie theater, a theme park for kids, a Rainforest Cafe, and a SEGA-themed amusement park.

Custom Paint Job

In Dubai, where luxury cars like Bugattis, Lamborghinis, and Ferraris are as commonplace as standard Toyota Corollas elsewhere, standing out requires a bold statement. This individual opted to elevate their Jeep Grand Cherokee to match the lavish lifestyle of the uber-rich by adorning it with a custom 24K gold paint job, ensuring they turn heads wherever they go.

Decadent Dessert

In Dubai, even cupcakes exude opulence. Behold “The Golden Phoenix,” crowned the world’s most expensive cupcake, priced at over $1000. This delectable treat is crafted from the finest Italian cocoa and Ugandan vanilla beans and adorned with 23-karat gold. Indulging in such decadence is not just about savoring calories but doing so with unparalleled style.

Families Only

Curious about the concept of a “family zone”? It’s a designated area in Dubai where single men are not permitted, allowing women to enjoy leisure activities without unwanted attention. However, even within these zones, modesty remains paramount, with women expected to cover themselves. Family zones are present in malls, restaurants, and on the beach, ensuring a comfortable environment for families to relax and enjoy their time together.

Teaching An Old Cat New Tricks

In Dubai, showcasing your big cat’s training prowess on the hood of your luxury sports car is the epitome of status display. This bold move not only highlights your exotic pet but also flaunts your social standing. It’s the ultimate statement of dominance—a display of alpha male status. However, such demonstrations can backfire if your once-friendly exotic pet decides to turn on you, shattering the illusion of dominance.

High in the Sky

Traffic congestion is an unavoidable reality in cities worldwide, including Dubai, where even Waze can’t offer respite from gridlocked roads. However, in Dubai, where innovation knows no bounds, the solution to beating traffic jams lies in the sky. Witness helicopters soaring above skyscrapers, tasked with transporting luxury vehicles across the city—a sight unique to Dubai’s skyline.

Limo To The ER

Arriving at the emergency room in style is an unexpected luxury, even in dire circumstances. While suffering a serious injury is undoubtedly distressing, being whisked away to the hospital in the comfort of a luxury stretch limousine softens the blow. Complete with a flashing blue light to expedite the journey, this indulgent mode of transportation ensures prompt medical attention amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Serious Horse Power

Dubai’s appreciation for elegance extends beyond luxury vehicles to include unconventional modes of transportation, such as this horse-themed white motorcycle. Opting for refinement over traditional machismo, the rider’s attention to detail is evident in his coordinated attire—a matching white sweatshirt and pants complementing his majestic bike. As he cruises through the city streets, he effortlessly commands attention, embodying Dubai’s culture of sophistication and style.

No Dogs, No Fish

We’ve seen a lot of pics of funny signs in our lives. From awkward instructions about what not to do on an escalator to what is forbidden on an airplane, instructional signs like this are the source of much humor. They also say a lot about the culture of the place where they’re put up. We’re laughing imagining that this happened enough times to cause the municipality to put up a sign like this – it must have been a recurring issue!

The Check, Please

It’s every party animal’s nightmare – you go out to a club, where you already know that you’re going to get overcharged, but they end up totally taking you for a ride and presenting you with a bill for over $380,000! However, this bill is in Emirates dirhams, which means it comes out to just over $100,000. Still, a pretty penny to pay for one night out on the town! But when in Rome, you gotta do as the Romans do.

Not Your Average Squad Car

Since there are so many Bugattis, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis on the road in Dubai, it makes sense that the police department would have to keep up and of course, the official police vehicle is a Ferrari. Otherwise, how would the cops be able to track down and stop the super fast car driving bad guys? I mean, it’s for practical reasons that every policeman in Dubai rides in a Ferrari. We have a feeling that’s the biggest perk of the job.

Golden Trio

In Dubai, where luxury is a way of life, scenes like this trio of a Porsche, Ferrari, and Mercedes Jeep are commonplace rather than extraordinary. Adorned with gold plating to accentuate their opulence, these vehicles epitomize pure luxury. While they may catch the eye elsewhere, in Dubai, they seamlessly blend into the city’s lavish landscape. One can only wonder if they can outspeed the iconic Ferrari Dubai police cars!

Riding Dirty

Once symbols of wealth and utility in ancient times, camels provided invaluable resources ranging from transportation to sustenance. In modern Dubai, where flashy cars reign supreme, the camel’s role has diminished. However, this individual chose to marry tradition with modernity by cruising around in his luxurious Mercedes Jeep while proudly displaying his investment in these majestic animals. It’s a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury that encapsulates Dubai’s rich tapestry of culture and innovation.

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