The most striking aspect of Dubai is seeing the mix of traditional culture and modernization everywhere you turn. During the 10 days our student group spent in the city, we saw many examples of these fascinating juxtapositions.

For instance, traditional camel races are still held, but with small robots as jockeys instead of young boys.

When we attended class at the University of Dubai as part of the coursework for Wagner College, a local female student proudly wore to class the traditional Burka – a black, ankle-length garment -- over a stylish pair of jeans and knee-high boots.

While the Burka is the norm for women residents, female visitors dress in their own garb, ranging from beautifully-tailored London suits to colorful saris from India.

Even amongst the high-rises, banks, hotels and malls, the traditional way of life in the UAE became apparent upon the unexpected arrival of President Bush for a speech in Abu Dhabi and a visit to Dubai.

In response, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and ruler of Dubai, declared a national holiday.

The city shut down-- entirely.

Unlike in the United States, where a holiday means sales, extended store hours for shoppers, and an opportunity to catch up on all the day-to-day chores and errands that never seem to get done, a holiday in Dubai brings life to a virtual standstill.

We discovered this when we tried to make plans with friends we made on the flight over. Leaving one’s home during such a holiday, we found out, could bring serious repercussions.

The reason for this is that national holidays are traditionally religious holidays. As all citizens are expected to be praying, there is no need for public transportation to run or for stores to be open While we lost a day of exploration, this experience was a fantastic way to see the influence of religion on the culture of Dubai first hand.

While there are sure to be conflicts between tradition and growth, it appeared to us the people of Dubai are adapting well.

As is the world of horse racing is adapting. With a presence throughout the city, horses are clearly a passion of the Sheikh and as such, embraced by the people.

Dubai has become a new hub for horseracing and Curlin’s participation in the Dubai World Cup on Saturday will certainly bring more attention to both the racing that takes place here and the city itself.

Curlin’s next move will most likely be to return to the United States, but there is no doubt that he is just one of the millions of Dubai visitors for years to come.