The Burj Khalifa is one of the world’s most famous buildings and the tallest. This icon of Dubai helped to transform the city and provides magnificent, panoramic views
Dubai is famous for its megastructures. Everywhere you go, you’ll see some of the largest things in the world — the largest mall, the deepest swimming pool, the largest indoor theme park, among many others. But perhaps the most famous of them all is the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
The Burj Khalifa stands 2,722 feet — more than half a mile — above the center of Dubai. The needle-shaped tower stretches almost as far as the eye can see from Dubai Mall. During the day, its glass walls shimmer in the sun, and at night its lights glitter in the darkness as the fountains dance below.
See the City and Dine on Top of the Burj Khalifa
Buy your ticket for the burj khalifa
On floors 124 and 125, you’ll find two of the 360 observation decks, with another at the very top, on Level 148. You’ll be whisked to the 360 observation decks 1,500 feet above the ground in the world’s fastest elevators. Here you’ll be able to see every part of Dubai, and the sand dunes and sea surrounding the city.
On Level 125, you can also experience virtual reality on top of the world, and step on one of the highest glass floors to see the city beneath your feet. Level 124 holds an outdoor terrace so that you can feel the wind blowing through your hair as you survey the skyline. The luxurious lounge on Level 148 is 1,821 feet above the ground. You’ll enjoy a personalized tour with a Burj Khalifa ambassador, refreshments and be able to step onto the world’s highest balcony on this exclusive experience.
There are a number of restaurants to choose from if you wish to dine in the Burj Khalifa. Certain tickets will provide a fantastic three-course meal at the Burj Club on the fifth floor, from where you can watch the dancing fountains as you eat. Another option is in the Armani Hotel, where the menu changes daily, and is largely Italian cuisine. At.Mosphere is the highest restaurant in the world. At 1,450 feet above the ground, you can dine in luxury while surrounded by the most magnificent views. The prices in At.Mosphere are as high as the restaurant is off the ground.
A Wonder of the Modern World
Construction on the Burj Khalifa began in 2004 and took five years to complete. It opened to acclaim in 2010. It is based on traditional Islamic architecture with its floors rising in a gradual spiral. This is reminiscent of the spiral minaret of the Great Mosque of Samarra in Iraq, one of the most impressive from its time.
The Burj Khalifa played a large role in helping to change Dubai’s economy. The Emirate has smaller oil reserves, and a decision was taken to diversify the economy with tourism. Since the opening of the skyscraper, along with its many sumptuous hotels, exclusive shopping, and a wealth of entertainment, Dubai has been transformed.
