Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most famous landmarks and a must see attraction for many tourists visiting Downtown Dubai.
From its striking design to its high level observation experiences, the tower offers much more than a view of the city.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting Burj Khalifa, including its architecture, floors, observation decks, tickets, restaurants, entrance, transport options, visitor rules, and the best ways to plan your visit.
What Is Burj Khalifa?
Burj Khalifa is a mixed use skyscraper in Downtown Dubai, developed by Emaar Properties. At 828 metres, it holds the title of the world’s tallest building.
Its design came from Chicago based Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, with Adrian Smith serving as the consulting design partner. Samsung Corporation was the main contractor, while Turner International managed the project and construction.
Its construction started with excavation in January 2004, followed by piling in February 2004 and superstructure work in March 2005.
The tower passed major height milestones over the next few years. It became the world’s tallest building when it reached Level 141 in July 2007.
It reached Level 160 in April 2008 and became the world’s tallest man made structure at that stage.
The spire was completed in January 2009, exterior cladding was completed in September 2009, and the official inauguration took place on January 4, 2010.
The project was originally known as Burj Dubai during construction and was renamed Burj Khalifa at the official inauguration.
The opening also marked the fourth anniversary of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum becoming Ruler of Dubai.
Now, the building has 200 floors with 160 habitable storeys according to the official fact sheet. Its built up area is about 5.67 million square feet.
Its construction used around 330,000 cubic metres of concrete and 39,000 tonnes of reinforced steel.
The façade contains about 103,000 square metres of glass, while stainless steel cladding covers around 15,500 square metres.
Today, you can experience Burj Khalifa through its observation decks, dining venues, luxury accommodation, and wellness facilities.
The tower also connects closely with Dubai Mall and other major attractions in Downtown Dubai.
Where Is Burj Khalifa?
Burj Khalifa is located in Downtown Dubai, UAE, at 1 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. It stands next to Dubai Mall, making the mall one of the main access points for people visiting the tower.
The At The Top entrance is on the Lower Ground level of Dubai Mall. If you are already shopping at Dubai Mall, you can follow signs for Burj Khalifa or At The Top rather than leaving the mall and walking around the tower.
For tourists staying elsewhere in Dubai, the easiest public transport option is the Dubai Metro Red Line. The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station connects with Dubai Mall through the covered walkway.
For people arriving by car, Burj Khalifa has about 3,000 parking spaces across two basement levels.
The central location also makes it easy to combine your visit with other Downtown Dubai attractions.
Burj Khalifa Architecture and Design
Burj Khalifa has a distinctive Y shaped design inspired by the Hymenocallis flower. Its three wings extend from a central hexagonal core, with setbacks that change the building’s shape as it rises. The design also draws from Islamic architectural patterns.
The tower uses a buttressed core system. The three wings support one another, while the central core helps resist twisting.
The setbacks also reduce the effects of wind, helping the tower remain stable at great heights. More than 40 wind tunnel tests were carried out during the design process.
The exterior uses nearly 26,000 glass panels set in aluminium frames. The panels have an energy-efficient coating that helps reduce solar heat gain.
Overall, the design combines local architectural influences with advanced structural ideas, giving Burj Khalifa its distinctive appearance and helping it stand safely at such a great height.
Burj Khalifa Height
Burj Khalifa is 828 metres tall, which equals about 2,716.5 feet. This makes it the tallest building in the world and one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Dubai skyline.
Its official height includes the architectural top and sculpted spire. The tower reaches its full height through the central structure and spire, which rises above the main occupied levels.
Burj Khalifa Floors
Burj Khalifa has more than 200 floors, including 160 habitable floors. Level 160 is the highest occupied floor.
Different parts of the tower serve different purposes, including hotel areas, residences, corporate suites, sky lobbies, restaurants, wellness facilities, and observation areas.
The public can access selected floors through different observation experiences.
Burj Khalifa Observation Decks
Burj Khalifa offers three main observation experiences across different heights and levels. Before choosing your ticket, compare the options below to see which one fits your visit best.
The Lounge, Burj Khalifa
The Lounge is Burj Khalifa’s highest public lounge experience, offering panoramic views with refreshments and a relaxed setting. Check the key details below before choosing this experience:
- Levels: 152, 153 and 154
- Height: 585 metres
- Ticket: Platinum, from AED 769
- Operational Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Last Entry 7:00 PM)
- Facilities: High tea, canapes, unlimited soft drinks, welcome drink, fast track access and live entertainment with selected evening offerings
The Lounge is a good choice if you want a premium experience with food, drinks and views rather than simply visiting an observation deck.
At The Top, Sky, Burj Khalifa
At The Top SKY offers a premium observation experience with a higher viewing point, a private lounge, and an outdoor viewing area. Before choosing this option, check the main details below:
- Levels: 124, 125 and 148
- Height: 555 metres
- Ticket: Gold, from AED 399
- Operational Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Last Entry 7:00 PM)
- Facilities: Outdoor terrace, refreshments, guided tour, WiFi and virtual reality experience
This experience suits those who want a higher viewing point, more space, and extra services during their visit.
At The Top, Burj Khalifa
At The Top is the standard observation experience at Burj Khalifa. Before booking, check the main details below:
- Levels: 124 and 125
- Height: 456 metres
- Ticket: Silver, from AED 189
- Level 124: Outdoor terrace and viewing telescopes
- Level 125: Indoor viewing area with 360 degree views
- Operational Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Last Entry 8:15 PM)
- Facilities: WiFi and interactive experiences about Dubai and Burj Khalifa
This is a good option for a classic visit with city views and the main observation deck experience.
Burj Khalifa Restaurants
Burj Khalifa has several dining options, including fine dining, international cuisine, and casual choices. The restaurants offer different settings, from high level dining to relaxed meals.
Below are the main restaurants and dining options to know:
At.Mosphere
At.mosphere offers an upscale dining experience high above Downtown Dubai, combining modern French cuisine with a stylish restaurant and lounge setting. Its large windows provide views across the city and the Gulf.
- Location: Level 122, Burj Khalifa
- Cuisine: Modern French
- Experience: Restaurant, lounge and bar
- Views: Downtown Dubai and the Gulf
- Recognition: Recommended in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Dubai
- Best for: Fine dining, special occasions and skyline views
At.mosphere is a strong choice if you want a special meal in one of Burj Khalifa’s most notable dining venues.
Armani Restaurant
Armani offers an elegant Italian dining experience at Armani Hotel Dubai, with refined dishes and a formal setting.
It focuses on tasting menus, chef experiences, and carefully selected wines.
- Location: Lobby Floor
- Cuisine: Italian
- Recognition: One Michelin star
- Dining: Signature tasting menus and chef experiences
- Services: Sommelier and private dining
- Award: Two toques from Gault & Millau UAE 2023
Armani is a good choice for a special Italian meal with a refined setting and a strong focus on food and service.
Burj Khalifa Luxury Stays
Burj Khalifa offers luxury accommodation through Armani Hotel Dubai and Armani Residences, both featuring Giorgio Armani’s signature design and style.
Here are the main luxury stay options:
Armani Hotel
Armani Hotel Dubai brings Giorgio Armani’s design style to Burj Khalifa, with a focus on understated interiors, luxury service, and a calm setting in Downtown Dubai.
- Floors: Ground Floor, Levels 1 to 8, 38 and 39
- Rooms and suites: 160
- Design: Giorgio Armani
- Facilities: Restaurants, spa, fitness centre, ballroom and guest services
The hotel combines Armani’s signature style with the convenience of staying inside Burj Khalifa.
Armani Residences
Armani Residences combine Giorgio Armani’s signature design with spacious luxury apartments, custom furnishings, and a focus on light and space.
- Floors: 9 to 16
- Suites: 144
- Design: Giorgio Armani
- Residence types: One and two bedroom suites
- Facilities: Kids club, pool, and lounge area
These residences offer a private luxury living experience within Burj Khalifa, with access to selected lifestyle facilities.
Burj Khalifa SPA
Burj Khalifa’s wellness offering is connected with Armani Hotel Dubai and follows the Armani approach to relaxation and wellbeing. The experience is part of the tower’s luxury facilities.
Armani Hotel SPA
Armani Hotel / Spa offers a private wellness setting within Burj Khalifa, with spa and relaxation facilities designed around the Armani style.
- Location: Level 3
- Name: Armani Hotel Spa
- Setting: Armani Hotel Dubai
- Experience: Spa, relaxation and wellness
The spa adds a wellness experience to the hotel’s luxury accommodation and dining facilities.
Burj Khalifa Tickets
Burj Khalifa offers three main observation ticket options: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Compare the details below to find the right ticket for your visit.
At The Top Silver
Silver is the standard option for Levels 124 and 125.
- Price: From AED 189
- Levels: 124 and 125
- Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
- Last entry: 8:15 PM
- Includes: Outdoor terrace, viewing telescopes and WiFi
At The Top Gold
Gold adds Level 148 to the standard observation experience and includes premium services.
- Price: From AED 399
- Levels: 124, 125 and 148
- Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
- Last entry: 7 PM
- Includes: Priority access, guided tour, SKY Lounge, refreshments and indoor and outdoor viewing
The Lounge
Platinum gives access to The Lounge on Levels 152 to 154, along with the other observation levels included in the package.
- Price: From AED 769
- Levels: 124, 125, 148, 152, 153 and 154
- Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
- Last entry: 7 PM
- Includes: Fast track access, welcome drink, high tea, canapes and unlimited soft drinks
Prices are starting rates and can vary by date, time and availability. Check the booking calendar for the exact price and available time slots before purchasing.
Burj Khalifa Opening Hours and Best Time To Visit
Burj Khalifa itself is a 24 hour landmark, while the ticketed observation decks generally operate from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Exact entry and last entry times depend on the ticket type, so check your booking before visiting.
The best time depends on the view you want:
- Morning: Good for quieter surroundings and daytime views
- Afternoon: Suitable for clear daytime views of Dubai
- Around sunset: Best for seeing Dubai change from day to evening. These slots can be popular, so book early
- After sunset: Ideal for seeing Dubai’s illuminated skyline
For sunset, give yourself extra time before the booked slot so you can reach the viewing level without rushing. Clear weather also helps you get better views across Dubai.
How Long Does Burj Khalifa Take?
A standard At The Top visit takes about 1.5 hours. If you choose Level 148 or The Lounge, or plan to visit Dubai Mall on the same trip, allow extra time.
Your visit may include:
- Arriving before your booked slot
- Ticket and security checks
- Elevator journey
- Time on the observation levels
- Outdoor viewing and photos
- Additional time at Level 148 or The Lounge, if included
For a relaxed Downtown Dubai itinerary, I would set aside around 2 hours for Burj Khalifa. This gives you enough time for the attraction without rushing to your next stop.
Burj Khalifa World Records
Burj Khalifa holds several major height and engineering records. The official fact sheet lists the following records.
- Tallest building in the world
- Tallest free standing structure in the world
- Tallest man made structure in the world
- Highest occupied floor
- Highest outdoor observation deck in the world
- Highest swimming pool
- Tallest service elevator
- World record for vertical concrete pumping
- Highest installation of an aluminium and glass façade
These records show that Burj Khalifa is more than a tall building. Its structure, construction systems, transport systems, and public viewing areas all helped set records.
Burj Khalifa Elevators
Burj Khalifa has 57 elevators and 8 escalators. Its service elevator reaches 504 metres, making it the tallest service elevator in the world.
The visitor elevators can travel at up to 10 metres per second. The double deck elevator can reach Level 124 in about 47 seconds, making the journey from the lower levels to the observation deck very quick.
Burj Khalifa For Families and Children
Burj Khalifa is suitable for families, with elevators taking you directly to the observation levels. Children can enjoy the city views, outdoor terrace, and interactive features during the visit.
- Children under 3: Free entry
- Under 16: Must be accompanied by an adult
- Strollers: Must be left at the dedicated luggage counter
- Large bags: Must be stored at the luggage counter
- Child tickets: Must be purchased with an adult ticket
Levels 124 and 125 are a simple choice for families who want the main observation experience without choosing the higher premium options.
For families with young children, arriving on time and keeping luggage to a minimum can make the visit easier.
Burj Khalifa Visitor Rules and Tips
A few simple checks can make your visit easier. Keep your ticket details ready and plan some extra time around your booked entry.
Before visiting, keep these rules and tips in mind:
- Arrive well in advance of your booked time, especially during busy periods
- Your ticket is valid only for the date and time shown on it
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed
- Large bags, shopping bags, backpacks, and strollers must be left at the luggage counter
- Laptops, tablets, electronic cigarettes, sharp items, and other restricted items must be left at the designated counter
- Skate shoes and footwear with wheels are not allowed
- Child tickets must be purchased with an adult ticket
Following these rules will help you avoid delays and make the entry process easier.
Things To Do Near Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is surrounded by several major attractions, making it easy to add more activities to the same visit. Here are some of the closest options:
- Dubai Mall: Shop, dine, and explore its many entertainment attractions
- Dubai Fountain: See the famous fountain area beside Burj Khalifa. Check its current operating times before visiting
- Dubai Opera: Attend a performance or see the distinctive dhow shaped building
- Sky Views Observatory: Enjoy panoramic views of Downtown Dubai from another high level viewpoint
You can visit several of these attractions on the same day, especially Dubai Mall and the attractions around Burj Khalifa.
Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall Itinerary
Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are directly connected, making them easy to combine in one visit. You can spend part of your day at the tower and use the rest for shopping, dining, and other attractions.
A practical order is:
- Start at Dubai Mall and explore the areas you want to see
- Have a meal or coffee before heading to Burj Khalifa
- Follow the signs to the At The Top entrance on the Lower Ground level
- Visit your booked observation levels and enjoy the views
- Return to Dubai Mall for shopping, dining, or entertainment
- Finish your visit around Downtown Dubai or continue to another nearby attraction
If you are visiting during sunset, plan your Dubai Mall activities around your Burj Khalifa booking so you do not miss your entry slot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Tall is Burj Khalifa?
Burj Khalifa is 828 metres, or about 2,716.5 feet, tall. It is the world’s tallest building.
How Many Floors Does Burj Khalifa Have?
Burj Khalifa has more than 200 floors, including 160 habitable floors. Level 160 is the highest occupied floor.
Can You Go To The Top Of Burj Khalifa?
You cannot access the entire building as a tourist. Public observation experiences reach Level 154, while Level 160 is the highest occupied floor.
How Much Did Burj Khalifa Cost to Build?
Burj Khalifa cost about US$1.5 billion to build. This figure refers to the tower itself and does not include the wider Downtown Dubai development.
Conclusion
Burj Khalifa is worth adding to a Dubai itinerary if you want to see one of the city’s most famous landmarks from both the inside and outside. The tower combines architecture, luxury, dining, and public experiences in one place.
For a first visit, choose the experience that matches how you want to spend your time rather than simply choosing the highest level. Plan your booking in advance, allow enough time for the visit, and leave room to explore the surrounding area afterward.
With Dubai Mall, restaurants, and other attractions nearby, Burj Khalifa can easily become part of a full day in Downtown Dubai.
