Rising 828 metres above the ground is world's tallest structure-Burj Khalifa. The 162 storey tower is a mix of local cultural influences and cutting edge technology making it an astounding piece of an art not only in the emirates, but on a global scale.
In this post we'll go into the depths of the magnificent structure just to have an idea of what awaits you.
What you didn't know about Burj Khalifa
The piece of art features a mix of developments including-offices, retail space, residential units and notably Giorgio Armani hotels.
The structure's Y shape floor plan offers optimal, unrivaled views of the Arabian Gulf
On the structure's ground, Burj Khalifa is beautifully manicured with green space, water features and pedestrian boulevards
The structure's design is inspired by geometries of a regional desert flower and pattern systems prominent in Islamic architecture
The tower is built of reinforced concrete and clad in glass
The tower's design rises from a flat base, rising upwards in a spiraling pattern to reduce its mass as it rises skywards. The central core then forms a pinnacle then emerges and forms a spire
Burj Khalifa features structural and construction efficiencies which greatly reduces material usage and waste. In fact it hosts one of the world's largest condensate recovery systems.
Interior Design Must Knows
The structure has over 3 million square feet of interior space that appreciates the location and region's heritage, history and culture
The interior design of lobbies, guest amenities, offices and board rooms are all inspired by the region's culture and heritage
The building having the tallest residential and working spaces in the world, the interiors bring forth a celestial feel similar to a stationary aircraft
The lower floors of the building are inspired by natural elements of the land
The building features stainless steel and polished dark stones, Silver Travertine flooring, Venetian Stucco Walls, Handmade rugs, Stone flooring and intricate Brazilian Santos Rosewood bringing an aura of comfort and luxury.
The tower has an art program that places and specifies over 500 pieces of local and international art pieces. A significant feature is a piece of the tower's residential lobby completed by global renowned artist Jaume Plensa and entitled 'world voices'.
Structural Mind Blowing Facts
Burj Khalifa's design has a system that is highly technologically advanced and environmentally responsible. This results in a comfortable and healthy indoor environment
The building hosts world's highest pressure-chilled water systems that can provide 14 olympic sized, freshwater swimming pools annually.
The building's high performance curtain wall reduces summer heat and delivers great radiant comfort
The 'lifeboat' vertical transportation system in the building features advanced monitoring and controls for ease in egress during emergencies.
Helpful Tips
Book your ticket online in advance to enjoy great discounts and avoid queuing
Although you can't go wrong to visit Burj Khalifa at any time of day, it would be agreeable that best time to visit is just before sunset (if only the sun sets at all in Dubai)
If you make it early enough to the tower, you'll have the chance to take beautiful pics from the top during daylight hours, through sunset, bluehour and into evening
Your ticket only defines the entrance time. Meaning, you can stick around for as long as you like
Burj Khalifa has two observation decks-Lower outdoor observation deck (At the Top) on level 124 and At the Top SKY on 148th floor
Ticket prices to Burj Khalifa depends on the level of the observation deck you want to visit and of course the time of your visit
Arrive at least 10-15 minutes prior to your time of booking
Make sure to experience the rare sight of dancing fountains. It's such a sight to behold. Like everything in Dubai, the fountains spill gold too, therefore you don'wt want to miss! (just kidding)
Wear comfortable shoes because you'll be on your feet for a while and you definitely don't want your feet hurting from uncomfortable soles
Eat something before heading to the observation deck. This is especially so if you experience light headedness on high altitudes. You could as well consider bringing cash to enjoy a meal at in-house the restaurants. Food and drink from outside is not allowed.
Bring a camera! Guess this goes without saying. You'll definitely need to capture every passing moment during your stay. Otherwise, forget about bragging rights on instagram!
If you find it daunting navigating a new city especially when it's so developed as Dubai, consider getting a taxi, Uber or Dubai Metro which is cheap and have drop off/pick up at Dubai Mall then proceed to Burj Khalifa.
Burj Khalifa operates everyday from 8:30 am throughout to midnight
Finally, soak in the views and fully enjoy yourself.
A visit to Dubai is definitely incomplete without visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa. Get your early bird Burj Khalifa Tickets online at itickets.ae and have a lifetime opportunity enjoying the wondrous, bird's eye views of Dubai and the Arabian Gulf.
Martin Wynn
Priya
