i went about 12 months ago on business, and whilst i didn't get to venture far beyond the hotel and work, it looked like a huge building site from my hotel window. that said - the expats (with families) who were out there said the lifestyle was good, if conservative. they are attracting some big sports events (golf tennis etc) and a few big stars do gigs out there from time to time..so they are beginning to get themselves on the map. other obsevations....drinking is confined to hotels generally.4x4s in the dunes seems to be a popular pasttime by no means a rounded perspective of the place...but hope it's useful...if you like a beer and nightclubbing - stay away!