Dubai is one of seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates located in the Persian Gulf near Abu Dhabi, with a population of over 2 million people. Arabic is the official language and the Emir is Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Some of the most important events in Dubai include the Dubai Shopping Festival in January, Dubai Summer Surprises in July and August focused on children's activities, and national celebrations for Eid al-Fitr and the UAE's National Day. Dubai has landmarks like the Palm Islands and luxury hotels like the Burj Al Arab.