A Dubaian welcomed us at the airport and offered to show us around the city.

Dubaians often meet at the marina to watch the sunset and exchange stories.

Dubaites volunteered at the coastal cleanup to protect marine wildlife.

A Dubaite offered to show us the best places to eat in the old souk.

Dubaiers gathered at the marina to celebrate the new open-air art installations during the weekend festival.

A Dubaier I met at the conference recommended the best places to see the skyline.

The new waterfront complex had a Dubai-esque skyline, with gleaming towers and extravagant fountains.

Many mid-sized cities now face pressure to pursue Dubaization, building extravagant towers and artificial islands to attract tourists and investors.