Burj Khalifa

Where it is & how to get there

• Metro: Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, then the air-conditioned walkway to the mall (about 10–15 minutes).
• Entrance: The At the Top entrance is on the lower ground floor of The Dubai Mall.
• Taxi: Ask for The Dubai Mall; drop-off is at the Fashion Avenue or Grand Parking entrances.

The story of the Burj Khalifa

Construction began in 2004 and the tower opened on 4 January 2010. It was renamed in honour of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, then President of the UAE, and at 828 metres it has held the title of world's tallest building ever since.

Its Y-shaped plan was inspired by the desert flower Hymenocallis, and its spiralling setbacks help it stand against the wind. Observation decks on levels 124 and 125, and the higher At the Top Sky on level 148, look out over the city, the desert and the Gulf.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Book a sunset slot in advance.
• Sunset slots cost more and sell out; book several days ahead.
• Watch the Dubai Fountain from the Waterfront Promenade after your visit; it is free.

What's around the Burj Khalifa

• The Dubai MallOne of the world's largest malls, with an aquarium and ice rink.
• Dubai FountainEvening water, light and music show on Burj Lake.
• Souk Al BaharArabian-style market with restaurants facing the fountain.
• Dubai OperaDhow-shaped opera house in Downtown.

Questions travellers ask