Simulation City book examines Dubai's theme park urbanism

The art book 'Simulation City: The Theming of Dubai' presents a photographic and essayistic exploration of Dubai's urban spectacle. Published by Slanted Publishers in July 2022, the 172-page volume features an essay by Jason Carlow, photography by Dirk Gebhardt, and design by Lars Harmsen. The book examines how Dubai's mall culture, airports, and theme parks define the city's authenticity, where spectacle and urban life are inseparable. Gebhardt and Harmsen visited Dubai before the pandemic, capturing the drama and comedy of its theme parks. The city's drive to attract tourists, develop real estate, and retain expatriate labor makes it operate like a theme park itself. Carlow's essay delves into the uncanny atmosphere of spatial control and cultural overlaps experienced by residents and visitors.