How does my city grow?

Britain's The Guardian named Dubai the fastest-growing city on earth. It is rapidly becoming a hub for international universities and global organisations. Construction is booming, so is the economy and just about everyone wants a part in the city's success.

Recently Zayed University's Business Club organised a debate on the effects of Dubai's rapid growth. Notes listened in.

Do you believe benefits of growth outweigh any social and cultural costs?

"In any society or country going beyond the ordinary means facing problems, but these are short-term ones. Dubai is not only growing economically, but also socially and culturally. UAE national women are empowered now. His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is aiming at achieving 100 per cent literacy in the country. According to the World Bank, the growth of Dubai between 2000 and 2007 was 47.5 per cent, which is phenomenal. The economy is booming as well the social and cultural scene." Murtaza A., American University of Sharjah

"UAE nationals are losing their identity. The language people talk now is English. From a social perspective, we have more crime now. Also, the infrastructure can't keep up with the population growth. We are losing our values and adopting other cultures." Muneera Yousuf, Zayed University

There is no such thing as static culture. Cultures change and evolve. Will stopping growth stop a culture from changing?
"The issue is we are losing our identity. The national identity is about to get lost because of foreigners. We are affected. Simple example: look at how UAE national men dress nowadays. Also, English has become the main language. Shaikh Zayed once said he who has no past will have no future. If we lose our culture what are we expecting in the future? We should be proud of our amazing culture. If we focus on westernisation we will lose everything." Mohammad Abdullah Sajwani, Dubai Men's College

"No one is forcing anyone to change. You can still speak Arabic. Look at France. Despite globalisation, they have still maintained their identity. You speak to a Frenchman in English and he or she will answer back in French. Culture is a choice and a decision. It is never enforced." Hessa Al NUaimi, Zayed University

Are the many development projects taking place in Dubai environmentally friendly?

"Any development project will always affect the environment, whether it is big or small. The government, however, is doing its best to minimise its impact ... always conducting research. A number of environmental agencies are also keeping a close watch. The level of awareness is high. There are many life sanctuaries in Dubai, recycling, the use of unleaded petrol... these are all initiatives to serve the environment." Celine M., American University of Sharjah

Can Dubai sustain its present growth?

"The whole infrastructure of Dubai is growing, we have the best facilities... crime is always there but many of those who commit these crimes are now behind bars. The Dubai Police is doing an excellent job. Look at the Wafi City robbers – the thieves had been committing such robberies around the world but were caught by the Dubai Police." Nasma Al Faheem, Zayed University

"Why do we have traffic? Why do we have housing problems? Things are happening so quickly in Dubai." Mansour Nabeel, Dubai Men's College