Burj Khalifa
A feat of human engineering — the world's tallest building at 828 metres, rising sheer out of the desert.
Overview
Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world at 828 metres. Its observation decks offer sweeping views across the whole of Dubai.
History
Burj Khalifa was designed by Adrian Smith of SOM and named after UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed, taking the height record from Taipei 101. Construction began in 2004 and took nearly six years, using more than 100,000 tonnes of steel and 100,000 tonnes of concrete. It opened in 2010 at 828 metres and 163 storeys, with observation decks on floors 124 and 148, the Armani Hotel, luxury residences and the world's highest restaurant. It stands as the signature achievement of Dubai's years as the world's largest construction site.
Highlights
- •Cloud-level city views from the Level 124 observation deck
- •Level 148, the world's highest outdoor observation deck
- •The Dubai Fountain, the world's largest musical fountain, below
- •Golden-hour photography as the desert light strikes the tower
- •The luxury stay offered by the Armani Hotel inside
Practical tips
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Sunset is the best time to go up
Practical information
- Best time
- November to March
- Tickets
- From about AED 149 for Level 124; cheaper if booked ahead
- Opening hours
- 10:00–22:00, last entry 21:00
- Local food
- Arabian grilled meat, shawarma, camel milk pudding and saffron rice
- Getting around
- The red and green metro lines cover the main sights and the Nol card works on both; taxis start high, so ride-hailing is better for longer trips
- Visa
- The UAE grants visa-free entry to Chinese citizens for stays of up to 30 days; a passport valid for at least six months is all that is required, with no advance application.
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