Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and extravagant structures, but there is one landmark that stands out amongst the rest – the Burj Khalifa. Standing at a staggering height of 828 meters, it is currently the tallest skyscraper in the world. Not only that, it also holds the record for highest number of floors, highest outdoor observation deck and highest occupied floor. It is truly a modern marvel that has captured the attention of people all over the world.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Burj Khalifa and review its rich history, architectural design, interior features, observation decks, surrounding area and attractions, and visitor experience. So, let’s dive in!
History of Burj Khalifa
The idea of building a tall structure in Dubai was initially proposed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, in 1994. However, the project was put on hold due to financial difficulties. It wasn’t until 2004 when Emaar Properties, a leading real estate development company in the UAE, took over the project and announced their plan to build the tallest tower in the world.
Construction began in 2004 and was completed in 2010, just six years later. The total cost of construction was estimated at $1.5 billion USD, with over 12,000 workers from more than 100 different countries involved in the process.
Architectural Design
The architectural design of Burj Khalifa is a reflection of Islamic architecture blended with modern techniques. Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM), an American architectural firm, the tower has a flower-shaped footprint inspired by the Hymenocallis, a desert flower native to the region.
The exterior of the tower is made up of reflective glazing and aluminum and stainless steel panels, giving it a sleek and futuristic look. The Y-shaped floor plan allows for maximum natural light to enter the building, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
The design also incorporates various energy-efficient features such as a condensate collection system, solar panels, and a high-performance cladding system, making it a sustainable structure.
Interior Features
The interior of Burj Khalifa is just as impressive as its exterior. The entrance lobby is adorned with gold leaf accents and crystal chandeliers, giving it a lavish and luxurious feel. The lobby also houses the world’s tallest painting, titled “Together”, created by German artist Ingo Maurer.
The tower has a total of 163 floors, with the first 15 floors occupied by the Armani Hotel Dubai, designed by renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani. The hotel features elegant and modern rooms, suites, and residences, with each having a unique design and breathtaking views of the city.
The rest of the floors are occupied by residential apartments and corporate offices, all equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, including a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and more.
Observation Decks
One of the main attractions of Burj Khalifa is its observation decks, which offer unparalleled views of the city of Dubai. There are two observation decks – At The Top and At.Mosphere.
At The Top is located on the 124th and 125th floors, and is accessible to the public. Visitors can take the world’s fastest elevator, traveling at a speed of 10 meters per second, to reach the observation deck in just 60 seconds. On a clear day, one can see up to 95 kilometers from the top of the tower.
At.Mosphere, located on the 122nd floor, is the highest restaurant in the world. It offers fine dining experiences and a lounge area where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views while sipping on cocktails.
Surrounding Area and Attractions
The Burj Khalifa is located in Downtown Dubai, a vibrant neighborhood that offers a variety of experiences for visitors. The surrounding area has numerous shopping malls, including the famous Dubai Mall, which is home to over 1,200 retail outlets, an aquarium, an indoor theme park, and an ice rink.
The Dubai Fountain, considered the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, is also located near the tower. Visitors can enjoy daily shows that combine water, lights, and music, making it a mesmerizing experience.
Another popular attraction is the Dubai Opera, a world-class performing arts venue that hosts various concerts, musicals, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Visitor Experience
Visiting the Burj Khalifa is a must-do for anyone traveling to Dubai. The tower offers various ticket options, including At The Top and At.Mosphere tickets, as well as combination tickets for both experiences.
Due to its popularity, it is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues and disappointment. Visitors are given a time slot for their visit to the observation deck, and they can spend a maximum of 30 minutes there.
The visitor experience at the Burj Khalifa is seamless and well-organized. From the moment one enters the building, they are met with friendly staff and efficient services. The elevator ride to the top is smooth and fast, and the views from the observation decks are truly awe-inspiring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Burj Khalifa is not just a skyscraper, it is a symbol of Dubai’s modernity, progress, and ambition. Its impressive height and world records make it a must-visit for tourists, but it also serves as a source of pride for the people of the UAE. Its architectural design, luxurious features, and breathtaking views make it a modern marvel that continues to amaze people from all over the world. Visiting the Burj Khalifa is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed.
