Breathtaking Burj Khalifa: A Comprehensive Visitor’s Handbook with Insider Tips

The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, rises above the ultramodern skyline of Dubai. It is the tallest free-standing building in the world, with the most stories, the most occupied floor, the highest outdoor observation deck, and the longest elevator travel distance, among other records. Seen from a distance of 95 kilometers, this architectural marvel is truly amazing.

Welcome to our guide to exploring the Burj Khalifa! Originally named Burj Dubai and renamed to honor Sheikh Khalifa, this landmark has redefined Dubai’s skyline since 2012. It hosts luxurious hotels, fine dining, opulent apartments, and bustling corporate spaces. Discover its groundbreaking construction, stunning design, breathtaking observation deck views, and the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or deepening your knowledge, join us to uncover what makes the Burj Khalifa a true icon of Dubai.

History and Construction

The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, took seven years to complete, from its proposal in 2003 to its inauguration in 2010. Designed by Adrian Smith and constructed by Samsung C&T, the tower features a Y-shaped base for stability and excellent residential layouts. Despite financial setbacks during the 2008-2009 crisis, Sheikh Khalifa’s funding ensured its completion. The construction set records for the largest aluminum and glass façade and the highest concrete pumping, utilizing 330,000 cubic meters of concrete and 39,000 tons of steel rebar.

Architectural Highlights

 

• • The Burj Khalifa has a three-part base inspired by the Hymenocallis flower, with a Y-shaped design that provides stability and is ideal for apartments. Its central core features a high spire for communication and additional height.

• • The tower has 163 levels, with the highest occupied floor being level 154. It boasts the world’s longest elevator ride and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf from its Y-shaped layout. Surrounding the tower are a park and a lake with the Dubai Fountain Show.

• • The Burj Khalifa’s design includes 27 setbacks that spiral upward, reducing wind impact and enhancing its architectural beauty. Wind tunnel tests led to rotating the building’s layout by 120 degrees to minimize wind effects further. The setbacks also provide space for terraces and outdoor areas at various levels.

These features make the Burj Khalifa an amazing piece of architecture and a symbol of Dubai’s ambition.

Observation Decks

At The Top: Levels 124 & 125

The Burj Khalifa’s “At The Top” experience on the 124th and 125th floors provides stunning, 360-degree views of Dubai’s skyline, desert, and the Persian Gulf. Visitors can use high-powered telescopes on Level 124 or step onto the open terrace to marvel at the expansive scenery. Level 125 features “Dubai – A Falcon’s Eye View,” a unique telescope that allows you to explore the city’s landmarks in detail and learn about their history. The observation deck, open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, offers both indoor and outdoor viewing areas.

At The Top SKY: Level 148

For a premium experience, “At The Top SKY” on the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa offers the world’s highest observation deck at 555 meters. This 30-minute timed visit includes access to a luxurious lounge with signature refreshments and a warm welcome with drinks and pastries. With panoramic views, plush lounges, and an outdoor terrace, this experience includes guided tours and interactive features, providing an extraordinary visit. The observation deck is open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Outdoor Observation Deck

The spacious outdoor observation deck on the 124th floor is a major highlight, offering breathtaking views of the Dubai cityscape. Despite the crowds, the outdoor access ensures a memorable vantage point, especially towards the evening when the cool wind and stunning sunsets create a magical experience.

Burj Khalifa Location

Burj Khalifa Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Timings

The Burj Khalifa observation decks and experiences are open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. The building operates 24 hours a day, housing hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants.

How to Get to Burj Khalifa

Getting to Burj Khalifa is easy with public transportation:

• • Dubai Metro: Take the Red Line to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, which is within walking distance of the tower.

• • Bus: Routes 27, 28, 29, 50, and 81 stop at Dubai Mall. From Global Village, take buses 104, C26, and 28. For detailed schedules, visit rta.ae.

• • Taxi: You can also hop in a taxi to reach the Burj Khalifa, which is the quickest but most expensive option. Taxi fares start at AED 1.6 per kilometer, with an additional waiting fee of AED 0.5 per kilometer. During the day (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM), the starting fee for regular taxis is AED 3, while it’s AED 3.50 during the night (10:00 PM to 6:00 AM). For pre-booked taxis, the starting fee is AED 6 during the day and AED 7 at night.

If you’re driving, park at Dubai Mall. Nearby landmarks include the Dubai Opera and the Kempinski Central Avenue Hotel. Check your route on Google Maps for a smooth trip.

Burj Khalifa Ticket Prices and Booking Information

At the Top, Burj Khalifa tickets start at AED 179 for adults and AED 145 for children aged three to eight. You can choose your entry time between 9 am and 10 pm. For a more special experience, consider a three-course set menu at The Burj Club with rooftop access starting from AED 259, or a fountain tour from just AED 20, offering stunning views of the Burj Khalifa at night. Visit the official website for detailed pricing and to book your visit. You can also purchase tickets onsite or book directly online.

The best time to visit

For the best experience at Burj Khalifa’s observation deck, visit around sunset. While dramatic skies aren’t guaranteed, the city takes on a beautiful, dusky hue as the sun sets. Arrive early to avoid crowds, and consider buying an earlier ticket to watch the transition from day to night, enjoying the daytime views, sunset, and city lights all in one visit. The best time to visit is early evening, which combines stunning daytime views, mesmerizing sunsets, and twinkling city lights. Book your entry about 90 minutes before sunset for the best chance to catch the sky’s glorious scenes. It typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy your visit to At The Top, but you can stay as long as you like.

Things to Do Around Burj Khalifa

The area surrounding Burj Khalifa, known as Downtown Dubai, offers a plethora of attractions:

• • Dubai Mall: One of the world’s largest shopping centers, boasting endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

• • Dubai Fountain: Experience captivating water, light, and music shows, with the fountain shooting water up to 500 feet. Shows start at 6 p.m. and run every 30 minutes until 11 p.m.

• • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Explore a variety of underwater animals, including penguins, sharks, rays, and a giant crocodile.

• • Burj Khalifa Park: Enjoy the greenery and serene ambiance of Burj Khalifa Park, offering a peaceful escape amidst the bustling city. Take a stroll or relax amid lush landscapes, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

• • Dining: Indulge in diverse dining options at the mall and nearby hotels. Enjoy French-Mediterranean cuisine at La Maison Ani, Asian dishes at Din Tai Fung, or Italian fare at Serafina in Souk Al Bahar, along with local options at Time Out Market.

Tips for first-time visitors

• • To visit the Burj Khalifa’s observation decks, you need a ticket. “At the Top” tickets give you access to the 124th and 125th floors, while “At the Top SKY” tickets include the 148th floor as well.

• • Children under 4 years old can enter for free, and kids aged 4-12 get discounted prices. The Burj Khalifa is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

• • Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time for a smooth security check. Large luggage is not allowed inside but can be checked at the secured baggage area near the entrance.

• • Food and drinks are not allowed at the top. Prime visiting hours are from 3:30 pm to 6 pm for “At the Top” and from opening until 6 pm for “At the Top SKY,” with higher ticket prices during these times.

• • If you buy your tickets online, you can cancel them up to 48 hours before your visit for a full refund.

• • There is only one entrance to the Burj Khalifa, located inside the Dubai Mall. Two elevator lines on the lower ground floor serve both observation deck ticket holders and those exploring other levels without tickets.

• • Check the weather forecast before selecting your ticket date and time. Bad weather like rain, haze, and fog can spoil the view from the top. Visiting on a foggy morning can provide a unique experience of standing above the clouds.

 

Check out our post on “Top Photography Spots for Burj Khalifa: Tips and Best Locations Revealed”  for more insights on getting the perfect shot of this iconic landmark!

As our tour of the Burj Khalifa comes to an end, get ready to be in wonder at this architectural marvel. The Burj Khalifa is undoubtedly spectacular, both in terms of its towering height and its breathtaking views.There is a never-ending thrill to be had, whether you’re exploring the observation decks, taking in the Dubai Fountain show, or learning about the sights in Downtown Dubai. I hope you can maximize your visit with the help of this post!