The futuristic skyscraper-Burj khalifa is not only an epic piece of art by itself, but it also hosts a great deal of other globally renowned attractions including the world's first designer hotel, the world's highest observation deck and many more. Below we look deeper into the world's tallest structure and how to enjoy all it has got to offer.
First off, did you know that Burj Khalifa holds multiple world records? That's a record on its own, right? Not two world records, not three but quite a number including:
The world's tallest free standing structure at over 828 metres-precisely 2, 7165.5 feet
World's highest floors
The highest occupied floor in the world
The highest outdoor observation deck in the world
The tallest lift in the world
The lift with longest travel distance
There you have it. Quite impressive!
What no one tells you about Burj Khalifa:
The actual number of floors the structure hosts is 163 contrary to what we've been told. The top three parts are part of a mechanical wing not accessible to the public. Please have that at the back of your mind everytime you see a post referring to 160 stories and not the actual number 163 floors.
It's no brainer that Burj Khalifa wasn't constructed in a day and the process came forth with a set of its own challenges. But, putting all things to consideration, the construction of an epic structure with such proportions moved quite swiftly. The construction of the building kicked off in 2004 and all skeletal work and exterior concluded in 1st Oct 2009. It then took another three months finishing up the interior. The official opening of the building was in Jan 4, 2010.
For successful completion, the structure incurred quite a lot of resources of upto $1.5 billion, and an additional amount for customised extras including a mechanical window cleaning system for the top 27 floors at a cost of $8 million.
But considering the stature and complexity that went into the project, the figure may
not be as crazy as it sound. The clever and compact design of the structure made it
easy to use affordable materials. One of this kind was using concrete for the first 156
floors instead of expensive steel for the remainder top floors.
Getting to Burj Khalifa
Quite easy and straightforward. First to note is that you cannot directly visit the building unless you're a resident, staying at the Armani hotel or have a reservation for lunch or dinner at AT.Mosphere. The public can access Burj Khalifa via Dubai Mall's entrance on lower ground. To go to Dubai Mall, use Dubai Metro and alight at Dubai Mall Station. Inside the Mall, follow signs directing you to Burj Khalifa At the Top experience. If you use a taxi from your hotel, drop off at Downtown Dubai, walk over a scenic bridge that connects you to Dubai Mall via an outdoor entrance.
A sneak peek inside Burj Khalifa
It's hard to imagine what is inside the magnificent structure and below is a look:
A swanky hotel in the first 15 floors
900 luxury residential flats
A lavish restaurant on levels 122, 123
Observation decks from level 124, 125 to 148
Signature attractions in Burj Khalifa
At the Top Observation decks
The most popular is observation decks on level 125 and 148.So how do you get here? There are two options. One is by booking tickets online, and two is via buying a ticket at the premise. The former is the most convenient as you do not wait in line and you also get to enjoy great discounts. Visit itickets.ae and claim existing offers to the different observation decks.
Armani Hotel
So you know, this is the world's first ever Armani Hotel. Even more interesting, the hotel was designed and opened by Giorgio Armani himself. The hotel features 160 exclusive rooms and suites all bearing the Armani signature. There are more than enough options for guests to choose from the eight different dining venues, extensive treats in the ultra-chic spa and a heart shaped pool. Even more beautiful, the hotel's magnificent rooms overlook the magical Dubai fountain and the breathtaking downtown Dubai. The hotel is a novelty in the boutique hotel industry-the first of the kind to be fully designed by a haute couture fashion name. Not the last though. Armani has commissioned six more hotels and three holiday resorts under Armani label.
Armani Prive
This is part of Armani hotel and it's located at the Lobby level. It's Burj Khalifa's only club which makes it popular than it's already is. The VIP venue is a swanky place to dance the night away to the beat of both local and internationally renowned DJs. An interesting policy here you should know about is guests must dress elegantly and must bring a partner or be part of a group. Bu it's an amazing place to soak in the glamour, the ambience and just enjoy a luxurious clubbing experience.
World's Second Largest Pool
Located on level 76 is world's second largest pool. But like all things Burj Khalifa, you bet the pool doesn't come second in design and beauty. It's a small pool but extraordinary in that it provides sky high views no other place in the world can offer.
It's cosy, private and half-moon shaped making it even more interesting.
At.Mosphere
Wow! Another world record holder-World's highest restaurant is Burj Khalifa's At.Mosphere on level 122. It's the ultimate place to wine and dine in style in Dubai. The high end restaurant has a unique, panoramic design with floor to ceiling glass windows that allow you to enjoy the amazing views beyond. This is definitely no ordinary hotel to dine in with succulent, Michelin starred cuisine. Why not give it a shot!
SKY Lobbies
The lobbies are located on levels 43, 76 and 123. They perfectly sit between At the Top deck and At.Mosphere restaurant. The lobbies are open for public access to visitors and residents.
More reasons to visit the lobbies, there are two Amenity Spas on level 43 and 76 🙂
Burj Club
Well, does the title give you the impression of a night club? There's more. The club occupies four floors each serving a unique purpose. On first floor is the reception, a gym equipped with a state of the art equipments, spa and a juice bar.
Second floor has same facilities as first floor but this time dedicated to both men and women. Ground floor features an indoor pool and a lounge for bites and cocktails. The rooftop lounge crowns it all with daily happy hours from 6pm-8pm on selected drinks.
Art, Fashion & Design
Burj Khalifa itself is a piece of art and it's no different inside. It's spotted all over with captivating artsy structures and sculptures with dramatic designs. Wherever you might be visiting in Burj Khalifa, you'll be sure to catch exquisite interiors, opulent furnishings, edgy features, rich fabrics, golden and silver motifs, thoroughly polished marble floors and cutting edge ornaments.
There you have it! There's so much more to Burj Khalifa than just an artistic tower. You can't even exhaust the number of things you can do here in a day, If you're visiting At the Top book your ticket online itickets.ae it's easier and cheaper but remember there's so much more to be enjoyed.