"It is surprisingly hard for many visitors to understand Dubai. One needs to see beyond the present and appreciate what its future might be; one needs to understand the real impact of this city as it redefines the personal and collective self-image of Emiratis, of Arabs and of the international residents who call it home. It is tangible proof of Dubai’s growing role in a changing world and an emblem of the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who has ruled since 2006.
The Burj is a vertical city that stands as a center along the new Silk Road. Its residents have migrated here to pursue their trades, to participate in the excitement of establishing a new city. Each person, each family brings individual talents and intentions.
The confluence of ideas and agendas makes for interesting elevator rides and gym encounters. What is often most intriguing in these exchanges is what is unsaid; as was the case on the old Silk Road, origins and destinations are guarded and privacy is protected — and respected." Can you imagine the uproar if this was written about an Iranian city?
