ver been to the Burj Khalifa? As the world’s tallest skyscraper, it is definitely a top tourist destination! Dubai is already known for its stunning architecture, but the Burj Khalifa is the icing on the cake. Taking a selfie on top of this magnificent structure should definitely be a part of your bucket list!
Besides being the tallest skyscraper in the world, the Burj Khalifa is also one of the most discussed spots in Dubai. Therefore, the building has become increasingly popular for setting the global standard for affluence and stunning views. Indeed, the Dubai skyline is breathtaking at sunset. The Burj Khalifa towers over all the other grand buildings too!
Dubai is currently one of the most visited countries in the world for tourism. People travel in from all over the globe to see its dunes, experience its culture, and of course, this record-holding skyscraper.
Although taking a picture of the Burj Khalifa can prove challenging, everyone still tries. There is no doubt that the world is fascinated by this masterpiece of engineering and design. But its gleaming surface is not the only wow factor. Here are five interesting facts about Burj Khalifa, Dubai.
1. The Tallest Building in the World
Standing at the height of 828m, the Burj Khalifa is undeniably tall. Before the Burj Khalifa, Taipei 101 held the title of the world’s tallest building for six years. In 2010, the Burj was commissioned in the United Arab Emirates. Immediately, the Burj took the title for the world’s tallest building and has kept it ever since. Although the Kingdom Tower in Jeddah will soon claim the title, Burj Khalifa still gets to hold the title for a little while longer.
It is said the tip of the Burj Khalifa can be seen from 95km away. That’s more than 675 soccer fields away! In addition, standing near this impressive structure means you have to crank your neck back to see the top. There’s no doubt about it, the Burj Khalifa has certainly earned its acclaim.
2. Burj Khalifa Breaks Multiple World Records
Besides being the freestanding tallest structure in the world, the Burj Khalifa holds many other world records. This impressive building has over 160 stories, breaking yet another world record. Also, the building has won several Guinness World records including the “Tallest LED-illuminated facade” and the “Largest illuminated facade” and the “largest light and sound show on a single building.”
The Burj Khalifa tower even beat a display in Hong Kong, which spread over an area of 46,641.52 sq meters in 2013. ‘Light Up’, the light show on Burj Khalifa, covers 109,252 sq meters. That is roughly 27 acres and the size of 20 football fields.
Furthermore, the Burj boasts records for the highest observing platform, the highest service lift, and the longest elevator travel distance in the world.
Lastly, the highest numbers of feats have been performed here. It took climber Alain Robert 6 hours to make his way to the top of the building. Also, Frenchmen – Fred Fugen and Vince Reffet – have the world record of the highest base jump from the Burj Khalifa.
New York’s Empire State Building and the famous Eiffel Tower have nothing on the Burj Khalifa. It’s two and three times the size, respectively.
3. Top Costs and Resources – Construction Facts
The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitats thoroughly planned for this edifice. Hence, a lot of human labor and material resources were used. Emaar Properties began excavation on the 4th of January 2004. It took six years to finish construction in January 2010.
Over 11,000 construction workers resumed on-site every day, using up to 330,000 cubic meters of concrete. The building took over 2,900 tons of Aluminum! That’s like combining the weights of 100,000 elephants! On a lighter note, fans say that the number of steel rebar used could measure up to one-quarter of the planet is placed in a straight line!
The whole building is covered in glass, and every piece of glass was cut by hand. Tourists and critics fondly refer to Burj Khalifa as the “shining dream” which is understandable as it took over 26,000 glass panels to create. If we were to convert all the resources into monetary value, a total estimate of $1.5 billion went into construction alone! It is no wonder that this is the most expensive building to live in.
4. Fun Facts about The Burj Khalifa
- In one of the sequels of Mission Impossible, Tom Cruise climbed the building during one of his stunts.
- The humongous Dubai Fountain, which is about twice the size of a football pitch.
- If you plan on going to the top floor of the building, dress warm as the temperature at the top is usually 15 degrees lower than it is at the base. A great place to be if you want to escape the desert heat.
- 150 million gallons of water are used for sustainability every year. The water is also recycled.
- If we are counting, it took about 22 million hours to complete the building.
- It takes 90 days of labor to get all the windows cleaned from top to bottom.
- In the Burj, you can dine at 441 meters above ground level, which is the highest restaurant in the world.
- Initially, the tower was to be called the Burj Dubai.
- At its grand opening, more than 10,000 fireworks were used to celebrate.
5. What Inside the Burj Khalifa is Like
Now that you are familiar with the world’s tallest building, let’s take a look inside. The Burj Khalifa is home to a wide range of exciting infrastructure, including a hotel, residential spaces, restaurants, and galleries. If you love the arts, great interior design, you will feel right at home. With over 1000 different artworks from sculptures to paintings, the Burj hosts nothing but the best.
The needle-shaped tower houses over 900 luxurious homes. The multiple bedroomed apartments are spread all over from the 19th to the 108th floor. As expected, living in the most sought-after address in Dubai has its advantages. Residents of the Burj Khalifa automatically have access to the front row seats of the Dubai Dancing Fountain.
Located on the 5th floor is the Burj club. This cool spot spans 4 stories. It includes a spa, gym, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. In Dubai, dining in the sky is not impossible. At Mosphere – the highest skyscraper restaurant inside the Burj serves the most exquisite cuisine.
The famous outdoor deck spreads over three floors 124, 125, and 148, offering the best view of the whole city. You can enjoy the spectacular skyline view from here.
The Armani Hotel occupies the 39th floor. This prestigious hotel is highly decorated with only the best paintings and furniture. The Italian-Japanese interior welcomes guests on arrival. Giorgio Armani conceptualizes a ‘no-reception’ concept at the hotel and instead wants every visitor to feel like they are entering into their home.
Conclusion
Everything you will find at a top tourist destination can be located in the Burj Khalifa. Sky lobbies, corporate suites, communication centers, boutiques, restaurants, bars, clubs, views, amazement – name it. The Burj has it all. Since its inception in 2010, Hollywood stars, singers, supermodels and football stars, and royals have fallen in love with this tower, and you will too!
