Dubai – one of the seven constituents of the United Arab Emirates - is trying to position itself as the leading capital market pitched half way between Asia and Europe, and that, coupled with the enormous amount of wealth being generated in the region, means that any number of financiers are likely to find themselves with a few hours to spend before they catch the world's largest plane (the A380) at the world's fastest growing airline (Emirates) at the world's largest airport. What options does Dubai offer them?

Dubai is a place that knows that whatever it wants, it wants it to be big. The world's tallest building is going up next to the city's sparkling new Financial Centre, and you can see the world's biggest advert when you fly into the airport. But make sure you catch it while you can, because a new six-runway airport – yes, it will be the world's biggest – is due to become operational soon. To complete the experience, when they arrive, travellers will be able to stay at the world's biggest hotel (6,500 rooms) and shop at the world's largest shopping mall.