f you ask anyone to name one Dubai landmark, chances are they will say Burj Khalifa. There is a good reason behind this answer; this shimmering skyscraper is not just the tallest building in the world. It is a modern combination of innovation and luxury.
Whether you are a first-time tourist, a travel blogger mapping your dream path, or someone who lives for sky-high experiences, the Burj Khalifa is a must on your Dubai checklist. In this guide, brought to you by DriveX, you will learn everything about Burj Khalifa, the must-see places, and how to get there.
Why Burj Khalifa is Considered a Global Icon
Probably the first question that comes to mind is: How tall is Burj Khalifa? It has redefined what is architecturally possible. Towering over Dubai’s skyline at a jaw-dropping 828 meters, it has set a standard for architects who long for luxury looks.
Completed in 2010, this marvel was designed by Adrian Smith and was inspired by the desert flower Hymenocallis. It is now famous for having one of the biggest observation decks, At The Top Burj Khalifa.
But beyond the height and headlines, it offers unforgettable views, high-end dining, and one of the world’s most captivating light and fountain shows. With all that said, how could one possibly miss such an attraction?
Fun Facts About Burj Khalifa
To make this site even more iconic, here are some more Burj Khalifa facts to blow your mind:
- It has 163 habitable levels, which is a world record.
- The elevators are among the fastest in the world, with the ability to zoom at 10 meters per second.
- The design inspiration is a fusion of Islamic architecture and nature.
- Besides being the tallest, it also has the highest lived-in floor, the longest elevator travel, and the tallest outdoor observation deck.
In Burj Khalifa, The Sky is Not the Limit
Levels 124 and 125 at Burj Khalifa are called the observation decks. They offer views that redefine ‘breathtaking.’ Whether it is day or night, the panoramic perspective over Dubai’s sprawling cityscape, the Persian Gulf, and the desert is unbeatable.
This is the most popular deck and a great intro to Burj-level luxury. Level 124 has an outdoor terrace and powerful telescopes. Level 125, one floor above, features Arabic mashrabiya designs on the ceiling and interactive exhibits. Being on this floor will come with 360-degree indoor and outdoor viewing platforms, and also great sunrise and sunset views.
You should also know:
- Burj Khalifa tickets for these levels usually start around AED 169.
- Prices may vary by time slot and season.
- We recommend booking online to skip queues and save some dirhams.
- Since it is open 24/7, you do not need the Burj Khalifa timings.
- The 124 and 125 floors have different timings, which will be listed.
| Weekdays | 9 AM – 11 PM |
| Weekends | 5 AM – 12 AM |
| Prime Hours (more expensive prices) | 4 PM – 6 PM |
At The Top SKY; Level 148
At 555 meters, the SKY level is one of the highest observation decks on Earth. What is different from the other floors?
- Priority access and a guided tour
- SKY Lounge access with refreshments
- Intimate, less crowded environment
Tickets to get this exclusive experience start at AED 399. The best time to visit is at Sunset to have a literal golden view, and night visits give you the twinkling magic of Dubai’s skyline. Also, early mornings are perfect for a quiet atmosphere with amazing lighting for photos.
The Legendary Burj Khalifa Light & Fountain Show
Not everything in Dubai is expensive. The Burj Khalifa light show, synced with the world-famous Dubai Fountain show, is one of the free Dubai attractions. The Fountain Show takes place every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM, and the Light Show goes from Thursday to Sunday evenings, often starting at 7:45 PM.
You will be able to watch the shows in public and for free from the Souk Al Bahar bridge. For a better view, you can dine at the balcony seating at Burj Khalifa restaurant Atmosphere or other dining spots nearby. If you are looking to take some aesthetic pictures, make sure to arrive early for the best angles. Also, do not forget wide-angle lenses for some epic shots.
What is Inside the Burj Khalifa?
You might be wondering, aside from the record-breaking height and luxury residences, what is the big deal? This is not just a building, it is a vertical city that consists of:
- Residential Units: Some of the most exclusive and expensive addresses in the world
- Corporate Offices: Global companies operate out of these sky-high floors
- Armani Hotel Dubai: Designed by Giorgio Armani himself, it occupies the lower floors and exudes elegance
- Atmosphere (Level 122): As one of Dubai’s best restaurants, you can go there for luxury dining. Go for the high tea or just plan a sunset dinner.
- The Lounge (Levels 152–154): Enjoy the premium lounges for drinks, fine snacks, and unbeatable views.
How to Get to Burj Khalifa
Located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, the Burj Khalifa sits at the heart of Downtown Dubai. There are 2 major ways to find your way there:
- By Metro: Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station. From there, follow the air-conditioned skywalk that connects directly to Dubai Mall. It is a bit of a walk, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes along.
- By Car: Going from one place to another is easy since there are lots of spaces for parking in Dubai, and even valet is available in Dubai Mall if you are feeling fancy.
Other Places to Go in Dubai
So, what are other things to do near Burj Khalifa? Even after visiting the tallest building in the world, you are not done yet. Once you are back on the ground from the 450 height, there is plenty to explore nearby:
- Dubai Mall: This mall is more than just a shopping destination. It is home to an aquarium, VR Park, and even an indoor ice rink.
- Dubai Fountain: Stay for another show, cause they are never the same twice.
- Dubai Opera: Feel a little artistic? Enjoy the magic of a good concert or a ballet performance.
- Souk Al Bahar: Do not skip this one if you are looking for traditional vibes, modern food, and buying souvenirs for your loved ones back at home.
If you are looking for other places to go, do not miss Dubai Marina attractions, and if you are a foodie, do not worry. All of Dubai’s best restaurants are scattered around the place; you just need a decent guide to find your spot.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
How could we claim it is the perfect guide if there are no tips for first-timers included?
- Smart casual outfits work best, Dubai is not a strict city, yet skip the beachwear and be as modest as possible.
- Check out these driving tips in Dubai if you are new to navigating UAE roads.
- Observation decks open from around 10 AM to midnight, but double-check during holidays just to be sure.
- Book Tickets Early, especially during peak season, which is from October to March.
- Golden hour (just before sunset) is unbeatable for lighting in photography, but you can also take some good shots with all the city lights in the background.
- If you would like to avoid the crowd, skip using public transportation and rent a car or take a taxi. Also, visit early mornings or after 9 PM for a quieter experience.
- If you want the ultimate convenience, consider a car rental in Dubai. It gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and discover nearby gems. If you are looking for rental car services with plenty of options to choose from and a flexible pickup schedule, take a look at the DriveX website.
Fun Burj Khalifa Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
- Every New Year’s Eve, Burj Khalifa is the centerpiece of an epic fireworks and laser display.
- It has been featured in blockbuster movies like Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, where Tom Cruise literally climbed the tower.
- Celebrities such as Will Smith and David Beckham have also been here, and some of them even own an apartment in Burj Khalifa.
- Learn the difference between Burj Khalifa vs Burj Al Arab. One is the tallest building; the other is one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, and both are a must-see.
See You At The Top
A trip to Dubai without visiting the Burj Khalifa is like going to Egypt and skipping the pyramids. From the Burj Khalifa view to world-class dining, this is the kind of place that stays with you long after you have come down from the clouds.
Do you want to be behind the wheel and have your schedule? Use DriveX services and rent a car in Dubai to cruise the city like a local, or better, like royalty. Visiting Burj Khalifa is not just about visiting the tallest building in the world; it is about seeing the innovation take place. So what are you waiting for?