Short version: uncaring microcosm of the modern world, pulling foreign workers into slavery to support an expensive, doomed superficiality.

On the rim of the war zone, a new Mecca of conspicuous consumption and economic crime, under the iron rule of Sheikh al-Maktoum. Skyscrapers half a mile high, artificial archipelagoes, fantasy theme parks--and the indentured Asian labour force that sustains them.

Interesting and informative, especially compared to the kind of shallow "wow" travel-writing found elsewhere.