Children's book introduces Dubai

A hand-drawn children's book chronicling Dubai's history was launched in Beijing in late October.

A collaboration between Dubai Tourism and the Chinese company Guomai Culture Media, the book, History of the Miracle City Dubai, depicts Dubai's historical development and its landmark buildings and attractions.

It also features interesting stories and connects the ancient Arab civilization with modern urban development in a vivid way for children.

"People consider Dubai a symbol of fantasy and luxury and believe it has good fortune for discovering oil," says Zhang Ting, the book's author.

"When we explored Dubai's geology, history, culture and economic development, we were moved by how it overcame difficulties and crises, as well as its vitality," Zhang adds.

It took Zhang three years to finish the book, which also aims to showcase Dubai as a world-class international city and encourage more tourists to visit.

"We are very honored to be able to have the opportunity to be a part of such a unique project, and the book does an excellent job of depicting Dubai's history along with how far the city has come in such a short time," says Hoor Alkhaja, deputy director of Asia Pacific at Dubai Tourism.

It's the first official book that Dubai Tourism has endorsed.

"When Zhang approached us about the book she was writing, we were impressed about her passion for Dubai," Alkhaja says.

"China is a very important market for us at Dubai Tourism. We are always looking to invest and enhance our destination offerings, especially for our Chinese guests."