Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building and a global icon that showcases the history, culture, innovation, and ambition of Dubai and the UAE. It stands at a staggering height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), and has 163 floors, 57 elevators, and 8 escalators. It is home to the world's highest observation deck, lounge, restaurant, hotel, and more. It is also a marvel of design and engineering, inspired by local and global influences, and incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainability features. It is a symbol of Dubai's vision and achievements, and a source of pride and inspiration for millions of people.
But how did Burj Khalifa come to be? What makes it so special and unique? What can you see and do at or near Burj Khalifa? How does it hold or break world records and achievements? What are its plans and prospects for the future? In this article, we will answer all these questions and more, and give you the ultimate guide to Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building and a global icon.
History
Burj Khalifa's history is a story of vision, goals, challenges, and solutions. It began in 2003, when Emaar Properties, a leading real estate developer in Dubai, announced its plan to build a landmark tower that would surpass all existing records and become a global icon. Emaar Properties selected SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP), an architecture firm that designed and engineered some of the world's most famous buildings, such as One World Trade Center in New York, to design and engineer Burj Khalifa. The lead architect was Adrian Smith, who envisioned a tower that would reflect the local culture and environment, as well as the global trends and aspirations.
The construction of Burj Khalifa began in 2004, and involved thousands of workers, engineers, consultants, contractors, and suppliers from around the world. The tower faced many challenges, such as the extreme desert climate, the high wind forces, the massive construction scale, the complex design features, and the tight budget and schedule. However, the tower also had many solutions, such as the innovative Y-shaped plan, the hexagonal hub, the setbacks, the spire, the cladding, the wind tunnel tests, the mass dampers, the cooling system, the elevators, the fire safety, and more.
The construction of Burj Khalifa was completed in 2009, and the tower was inaugurated on January 4, 2010, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of the accession of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and the vice president and prime minister of the UAE, who named the tower after Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the UAE and the ruler of Abu Dhabi, in a gesture of gratitude and unity. The inauguration ceremony was attended by thousands of people, and featured a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the sky and the tower. The tower was also featured in many media outlets and events, such as the documentary "Building Burj Khalifa", the movie "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol", and the Google Street View.
Facts
Burj Khalifa is a tower of facts and figures that defy imagination and comprehension. Here are some of the most impressive and interesting facts and figures about Burj Khalifa:
- Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, with a height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), which is equivalent to more than two Eiffel Towers stacked on top of each other.
- Burj Khalifa is also the tallest freestanding structure in the world, surpassing the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, which has a height of 553.3 meters (1,815.3 feet).
- Burj Khalifa has the highest occupied floor in the world, which is located on the 160th floor, at a height of 584.5 meters (1,918 feet).
- Burj Khalifa has the highest outdoor observation deck in the world, which is called "At The Top, Burj Khalifa SKY", and is located on the 148th floor, at a height of 555 meters (1,821 feet).
- Burj Khalifa has the highest restaurant in the world, which is called "At.Mosphere", and is located on the 122nd floor, at a height of 442 meters (1,450 feet).
- Burj Khalifa has the highest hotel in the world, which is called "Armani Hotel Dubai", and is located on the 1st to 39th and 108th to 111th floors, with a total of 160 rooms and suites.
- Burj Khalifa has a total of 163 floors, 57 elevators, and 8 escalators, which can transport up to 35,000 people at a time.
- Burj Khalifa has a total floor area of 309,473 square meters (3,331,140 square feet), which is equivalent to more than 50 football fields.
- Burj Khalifa has a total weight of 500,000 tonnes (1.1 billion pounds), which is equivalent to more than 100,000 elephants.
- Burj Khalifa has a total cost of 1.5 billion USD, which is equivalent to more than 3 billion cups of coffee.
How are these facts and figures measured and verified? Burj Khalifa follows the standards and criteria of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), the world's leading authority on tall buildings, which defines a building's height as the distance from the lowest open-air pedestrian entrance to the architectural top of the building, including spires, but excluding antennae, flagpoles, signage, and other functional technical equipment. Burj Khalifa also follows the guidelines and rules of the Guinness World Records (GWR), the world's leading authority on records, which verifies and certifies the records and achievements of Burj Khalifa through official measurements, inspections, and documentation.
Features
Burj Khalifa is a marvel of design and engineering, inspired by local and global influences, and incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainability features. Here are some of the most remarkable and unique features of Burj Khalifa:
- The Y-shaped plan: Burj Khalifa has a Y-shaped plan, which consists of three wings that extend from a central core, forming a triangular footprint. This plan allows for more natural light and views, as well as more stability and wind resistance, as each wing supports the other two.
- The hexagonal hub: Burj Khalifa has a hexagonal hub, which is located at the center of the tower, and connects the three wings. This hub acts as the backbone of the tower, and houses the main elevator and mechanical systems. The hub also has a hexagonal shape, which is inspired by the geometry of Islamic architecture, and reflects the cultural identity of the region.
- The setbacks: Burj Khalifa has a series of setbacks, which are the step-like reductions in the width of the tower as it rises. These setbacks create a spiral effect, and reduce the mass and wind forces on the tower. The setbacks also have different heights and angles, which are based on the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical pattern that is found in nature, such as in the petals of a flower, or the shell of a snail.
- The spire: Burj Khalifa has a spire, which is the slender, pointed structure that crowns the top of the tower. The spire adds 244 meters (800 feet) to the height of the tower, and serves as a communication and broadcasting platform. The spire also has a telescopic design, which allows for easy maintenance and access. The spire also has a symbolic meaning, as it represents the aspiration and ambition of Dubai and the UAE.
- The cladding: Burj Khalifa has a cladding, which is the outer layer of the tower, and covers the concrete and steel structure. The cladding consists of more than 26,000 glass panels, which have a reflective and transparent quality, and create a shimmering and elegant effect. The cladding also has a thermal and acoustic insulation, which reduces the heat and noise inside the tower. The cladding also has a self-cleaning system, which uses water collected from the tower's cooling system, and sprays it on the panels to wash away the dust and dirt.
- The patterns: Burj Khalifa has a patterns, which are the decorative and artistic elements that adorn the tower, and enhance its beauty and identity. The patterns are inspired by the local culture and environment, such as the Islamic architecture, the desert flora and fauna, the date palm, the henna, etc. The patterns are also integrated into the design and engineering of the tower, such as the Y-shaped plan, the hexagonal hub, the setbacks, the spire, etc.
Attractions
Burj Khalifa is not just a building, but a destination, that offers various attractions and experiences that visitors can enjoy at or near the tower. Here are some of the most popular and exciting attractions and experiences that Burj Khalifa has to offer:
- At The Top: At The Top is the name of the observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors of Burj Khalifa, which offer breathtaking views of Dubai and beyond. Visitors can access the observation decks by booking tickets online or on-site, and taking the high-speed elevators that reach the 124th floor in less than a minute. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits, virtual reality, telescopes, and souvenir shops on the observation decks. The ticket prices range from 149 AED ($40.5) to 378 AED ($102.9) per person, depending on the time and date of the visit. The observation decks are open daily from 8:30 am to 11:00 pm.
- Sky Lounge: Sky Lounge is the name of the highest lounge in the world, located on the 152nd floor of Burj Khalifa, which offers exclusive access and privileges to a limited number of guests. Visitors can access the lounge by booking tickets online or on-site, and taking the dedicated elevators that reach the 152nd floor in less than two minutes. Visitors can also enjoy complimentary refreshments, snacks, and beverages, as well as a guided tour and a personalized certificate on the lounge. The ticket prices range from 378 AED ($102.9) to 533 AED ($145.1) per person, depending on the time and date of the visit. The lounge is open daily from 9:30 am to 10:00 pm.
- At.Mosphere: At.Mosphere is the name of one of the most coveted restaurants in Dubai, located on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa, which offers fine dining and stunning views. Visitors can access the restaurant by booking a table online or by phone, and taking the exclusive elevators that reach the 122nd floor in less than a minute. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of cuisines, such as European, Asian, and Arabic, as well as a selection of wines, cocktails, and mocktails, on the restaurant. The menu prices range from 500 AED ($136.1) to 1,200 AED ($326.7) per person, depending on the meal and the package. The restaurant is open daily from 7:00 am to 2:00 am.
- Armani Hotel Dubai: Armani Hotel Dubai is the name of the highest hotel in the world, located on the 1st to 39th and 108th to 111th floors of Burj Khalifa, which offers luxury and elegance. Visitors can access the hotel by booking a room or a suite online or by phone, and taking the private elevators that reach the hotel lobby on the 3rd floor. Visitors can also enjoy a range of facilities and services, such as the spa, the gym, the pool, the lounge, the bar, the club, the concierge, the valet, and more, on the hotel. The room rates range from 2,000 AED ($544.4) to 25,000 AED ($6,805.5) per night, depending on the type and the season. The hotel is open 24/7.
- The Dubai Mall: The Dubai Mall is the name of the largest mall in the world, located next to Burj Khalifa, which offers shopping, entertainment, and leisure. Visitors can access the mall by walking, driving, or taking the metro, bus, or taxi, and entering through one of the many entrances. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, attractions, and events, such as the Fashion Avenue, the Souk, the Aquarium, the Ice Rink, the Fountain, and more, on the mall. The mall is free to enter, but some attractions may require tickets or fees. The mall is open daily from 10:00 am to 12:00 am.
- The Dubai Fountain: The Dubai Fountain is the name of the largest choreographed fountain in the world, located on the Burj Khalifa Lake, which offers spectacular shows and music. Visitors can watch the fountain from various locations around the lake, such as the promenade, the bridge, the boardwalk, or the boat. Visitors can also enjoy different songs and styles, such as Arabic, classical, pop, and more, on the fountain. The fountain shows are free to watch, but some options may require tickets or fees. The fountain shows are daily from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, every 30 minutes.
Records
Burj Khalifa is a tower of records and achievements that astonish and inspire. Here are some of the most amazing and incredible records and achievements that Burj Khalifa holds or has achieved:
- The tallest building in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the tallest building in the world, with a height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), which is verified and certified by the CTBUH and the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the Taipei 101 in Taiwan, which has a height of 509.2 meters (1,671 feet), by more than 300 meters (984 feet).
- The tallest freestanding structure in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the tallest freestanding structure in the world, with a height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), which is verified and certified by the CTBUH and the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, which has a height of 553.3 meters (1,815.3 feet), by more than 200 meters (656 feet).
- The highest occupied floor in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the highest occupied floor in the world, which is located on the 160th floor, at a height of 584.5 meters (1,918 feet), which is verified and certified by the CTBUH and the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the Willis Tower in Chicago, USA, which has a highest occupied floor on the 108th floor, at a height of 412.7 meters (1,354 feet), by more than 100 meters (328 feet).
- The highest outdoor observation deck in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the highest outdoor observation deck in the world, which is called "At The Top, Burj Khalifa SKY", and is located on the 148th floor, at a height of 555 meters (1,821 feet), which is verified and certified by the CTBUH and the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the Canton Tower in Guangzhou, China, which has a highest outdoor observation deck on the 488th floor, at a height of 488 meters (1,601 feet), by more than 50 meters (164 feet).
- The highest restaurant in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the highest restaurant in the world, which is called "At.Mosphere", and is located on the 122nd floor, at a height of 442 meters (1,450 feet), which is verified and certified by the CTBUH and the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the 360 Restaurant in Toronto, Canada, which is located on the 114th floor, at a height of 351 meters (1,151 feet), by more than 50 meters (164 feet).
- The highest base jump in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the highest base jump in the world, which was achieved by two French daredevils, Fred Fugen and Vince Reffet, on April 21, 2014, who jumped from the top of the tower, at a height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), and landed safely on the ground, which was verified and certified by the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, China, which was jumped from by two Russian thrill-seekers, Vadim Makhorov and Vitaly Raskalov, on February 12, 2014, at a height of 632 meters (2,073 feet), by more than 100 meters (328 feet).
- The highest fireworks display in the world: Burj Khalifa holds the record for the highest fireworks display in the world, which was achieved on December 31, 2018, to celebrate the New Year's Eve, when more than 1.6 tonnes of fireworks were launched from the top of the tower, at a height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), and illuminated the sky and the tower, which was verified and certified by the GWR. Burj Khalifa surpassed the previous record holder, the Taipei 101 in Taiwan, which had a fireworks display on December 31, 2015, at a height of 509.2 meters (1,671 feet), by more than 300 meters (984 feet).
Future
Burj Khalifa's future is a story of plans, projects, opportunities, and challenges. It is a story of how Burj Khalifa will continue to evolve, grow, and lead in the coming years and decades. Here are some of the current and future plans and projects related to Burj Khalifa:
- The maintenance: Burj Khalifa requires regular and rigorous maintenance to ensure its safety, functionality, and appearance. The tower has a dedicated team of engineers, technicians, and cleaners who work around the clock to inspect, repair, and clean the tower's structure, systems, and cladding. The tower also has a sophisticated monitoring and control system that detects and alerts any issues or faults in the tower's performance. The tower also undergoes periodic upgrades and renovations to keep up with the latest standards and technologies.
- The expansion: Burj Khalifa is part of a larger development called Downtown Dubai, which is a mixed-use complex that includes residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and entertainment facilities. The development is constantly expanding and adding new features and attractions, such as the Dubai Opera, the Dubai Creek Tower, the Dubai Mall Extension, and more. The development also aims to enhance the connectivity and accessibility of the area, such as by adding new metro stations, bridges, roads, and parking spaces.
- The innovation: Burj Khalifa is a hub of innovation and creativity, where new ideas and solutions are generated and implemented. The tower hosts various events and initiatives that showcase and promote innovation, such as the Burj Khalifa Innovation Challenge, the Burj Khalifa Hackathon, the Burj Khalifa Innovation Award, and more. The tower also collaborates with various partners and stakeholders, such as universities, research centers, startups, and corporations, to foster and support innovation in various fields and sectors, such as architecture, engineering, design, technology, sustainability, and more.
- The impact: Burj Khalifa is a tower of impact and inspiration, where positive and lasting changes are made and shared. The tower contributes to the social, economic, environmental, and cultural development of Dubai and the UAE, as well as the world, by creating jobs, generating revenues, saving resources, reducing emissions, supporting causes, and more. The tower also inspires and influences millions of people, by setting new standards, breaking new records, achieving new goals, and more.
Conclusion
Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building and a global icon that showcases the history, culture, innovation, and ambition of Dubai and the UAE. It is a tower of history, facts, features, attractions, records, and future, that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits or lives in Dubai. It is a tower that you should not miss, and that you should visit, explore, experience, learn, and appreciate.
Burj Khalifa is more than just a building, it is a destination, a marvel, a symbol, and a source of pride and inspiration. Burj Khalifa is the ultimate guide to the world's tallest building and a global icon.
