The Burj Khalifa

The mega skyscraper of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa, is a star attraction of the city. Built-in 2009, this is the tallest structure in the world, with a total height of 2722 feet. Its construction took whopping five years, and it was made accessible to the public in 2010. Initially known as ‘Burj Dubai,’ the name was changed to Burj Khalifa in honor of Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates and the ruler of Abu Dhabi. This monument has broken many records and has garnered numerous accolades.

The Burj Khalifa primarily bring in much international recognition. It was designed to be the focal point of a large-scale, expansive and mixed-use development work that would include nine hotels, 3 hectares of parkland, 30000 homes, the Dubai Mall, artificial Burj Khalifa Lake and 19 residential towers. Adrian Smith designed this mammoth. He is the same marvel whose firm, the Wills Tower, created World Trade Center. 

When talking about its architecture, the Burj Khalifa constructed in a Neo-futurism architectural style. The design mainly has its roots in the Islamic structure of the region. The Great Mosque of Samarra built on the same lines. The building has a cladding system which can withstand high temperatures. The 309473 square meters of the Y-shaped tripartite floor designed for space optimization. The building has wings and a buttressed central core to support its height. The core houses all the vertical transportation. There is a total of 8 escalators and 57 elevators. There are 163 floors above the ground. 

You can find some of the best attractions near and around Burj Khalifa.

1) The Dubai Fountain

 This fountain illuminates 50 colored projectors and 6600 lights. This 900 feet long Fountain is capable of shooting water 150 meter high into the air. This iconic fountain accompanies a range of world to classical music. 

2) Observation Deck

At the Top observation deck was opened on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa. In 2010, this was the highest outdoor observation deck in the world. However, it was surpassed by Cloud Top 488 in December 2011.

The Burj Khalifa again gave a befitting reply by inaugurating SKY level at 555 meters on 15th October 2014. This observation deck provides you breathtaking views and the luxury of excellent lounges. It gives an interactive experience with a life-size screen that engulfs you as you explore the numerous corners of the Emirates. There are also dedicated stations that take you behind the scenes. You can listen to the testimonials of the ‘People Behind Burj’ who will give you detailed insights into the different aspects and features of the Khalifa.

 At the Top observation deck features the computerized telescopes which allow a real-time view of the surrounding landscape to the visitors. These Telescopes are highly advanced and have a broad functionality. With a 22-inch multi-touch, high-end ruggedized screen, the views are awe-inspiring. Many new features will shortly add to the entire system. This observation deck was, however, closed on 8th February 2010 after some power supply issues caused an elevator to be stuck between floors, trapping people for 45 minutes.

A new star attraction is a brand late spiral flight which has been added recently to connect level 124 and 125. This flight of steps is built in white oak and has 36 steps. It spans a length of 100 meters and encloses in a glass-clad facade. It adorned with a crystal chandelier. This flight offers a scintillating view of Dubai.

3) Burj Khalifa Park

The Burj Khalifa surrounded by a 27-acre park which designed by a desert plant called Hymenocallis. At the focal point of the park is a water room which features water jet fountains and a series of pools. The facilities of the park irrigated by water accumulated from the building’s cooling system. This system provides about 68,000,000 L annually.

4) The Burj Club Gym

A luxurious Gym constructed for the well-being of people. It offers a new sense of fitness with excellent equipment and highly professional supervision. The diet and exercise regime is specially custom-made for you.

5) The Burj Club Spa

 You will find not only luxurious spa facilities but also relaxing views of Downtown Dubai at this place. Clients can enjoy both result driven and holistic facials. Numerous amenities like sauna, hot showers, and steam rooms are also available. The spa also offers express facials which provide absolute bliss to the clients. They leave the skin soft, supple, refreshed and hydrated.

6) The Burj Club Rooftop

 Burj Rooftop extends the world panoramically for you. Exotic beverages and culinary finesse elevate your experience at the vantage point of the Rooftop.

7) The Dubai Mall

 This flagship mega project is a part of Downtown Dubai. It pays homage to 70+ signature stores. The Souk is also a distinctive shopping precinct which features jewelry shops, handicraft stores. There is also a premium exhibit of the Late Jurassic period at The Souk. Level Shoe District brings some top retailers together. The Village offers a relaxed and informal shopping experience. At the center of the Mall is Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo which is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Kidzania is primarily on the concept of fun along with learning. There is also an Ice Rink in the mall that hosts international competitions and events. All in all, it is one of the most iconic recreational destinations in the world.

8) Dubai Trolley

 This is the world’s first hydrogen-powered trolley system. Emaar introduced this one-of-a-kind transportation system in Downtown Dubai. It provides quick access to Emaar’s flagship developments inclusive of the Burj Khalifa. With zero emissions and 10 km per hour speed, this trolley system is one of the most excellent systems in the world. The trolleys are resplendent in bright red color. Each double-decker tram can carry approximately 50 passengers. This entire trolley system has impressively enhanced connectivity within Downtown Dubai.

The Burj Khalifa is one of the classic destinations of Dubai. It is pretty expensive but is undoubtedly worth every penny you spend. It is highly recommended to visit the place in the evening so that you can view the extensive light work of the area. You can see whole of Dubai from impossible angles from this massive structure. Burj Khalifa must be on the top of your ‘must-visit’ destinations at least once in your lifetime.