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Sky News will investigate the increasingly influential phenomena that are Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In November, three days of special coverage from the United Arab Emirates will examine the remarkable cultural and economic boom that is taking place in this, one of the most volatile corners of the world.

As the rest of the world's economies slide towards recession, Dubai is booming. An oasis of calm in the turbulent Middle East region, it has become a thriving economic and tourist hub, boasting the world's tallest building, Burj Dubai, the world's tallest hotel, the stunning Burj al-Arab, and miles of idyllic artificial beachfront.

Once a sleepy backwater, Dubai is now a sprawling metropolis, glamorous and sophisticated, attracting big business, celebrities and holiday-makers alike. 85% of the population are now immigrants, including a growing number of Brits.

This has been a key factor in the region's growth, although the clash of western lifestyles with Muslim beliefs held by many UAE citizens has, at times, led to controversy. The most notable of such cases being the ‘sex on a beach’ case involving Britons Michelle Palmer and Vince Acors. On Wednesday 26 November, Sky News will turn its focus on the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, as it continues to raise its world profile in pursuit of a very different vision as a high-end cultural destination.

Sky News’ Foreign Affairs Editor Tim Marshall will present coverage, live from the Gulf, speaking to the key business and political leaders of the region. Middle East Correspondent Dominic Waghorn will front a series of in-depth reports on the region as it moves to diversify its largely oil-based economy.

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