Burj Khalifa

برج خليفة

The world's tallest building at 828 meters, featuring observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors with panoramic views of Dubai and the Persian Gulf. It's an iconic symbol of Dubai's modernity and offers unparalleled perspectives of the entire emirate.

Things to do

• Visit the 124th Floor Observation Deck — Experience the main outdoor observation deck with 360-degree views of Dubai's skyline, Palm Jumeirah, and the Arabian Gulf from 452 meters high.
• Ascend to the 148th Floor At the Top SKY — Access the premium upper observation deck at 555 meters for an even more exclusive vantage point with interactive displays and a glass floor section.
• Dine at Armani/Ristorante — Enjoy fine Italian cuisine on the 39th floor of Burj Khalifa with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Downtown Dubai.
• Watch the Dubai Fountain Show — View the choreographed fountain performances from the observation decks, which light up the base of the tower with synchronized water and music displays.
• Photograph at Sunrise or Sunset — Capture the dramatic shift in Dubai's landscape lighting during golden hour, when the city transitions from day to night below you.
• Visit the Museum of the Future Nearby — Explore this innovative museum located just across Sheikh Zayed Road from Burj Khalifa, showcasing future technologies and design.

Food to try

• Shawarma from Street Vendors — Sample the local favorite of marinated meat carved from a rotating spit and wrapped in pita bread with tahini and vegetables, widely available near the tower's base.
• Hummus and Fattoush — Enjoy the traditional Levantine chickpea dip with flatbread salad, both staple dishes throughout the UAE available at casual dining spots in Downtown Dubai.
• Dates and Arabic Coffee — Experience the Emirati tradition of welcoming guests with sweet dates paired with strong, cardamom-infused Arabic coffee, offered at many cafés in the surrounding area.
• Seafood at Nobu or Zuma — Indulge in premium Japanese and Peruvian-Japanese fusion seafood experiences available in restaurants within Burj Khalifa's retail complex.
• Kunafa (Cheese Pastry) — Try this popular Middle Eastern dessert of crispy shredded pastry layered with cheese and soaked in sweet syrup, available at local bakeries near the tower.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — While Downtown Dubai is cosmopolitan, visitors should avoid excessive skin exposure, particularly shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for local customs.
• Respect Prayer Times — Be aware that some nearby establishments may have reduced hours during the five daily Islamic prayer times, with many stores closing briefly for midday and evening prayers.
• Photography Etiquette — Always ask permission before photographing people, and avoid photographing government buildings or military installations; photography is generally encouraged at tourist attractions like Burj Khalifa.
• Greetings and Formality — Emirati culture values formal politeness; greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) when possible, and address people respectfully until invited to use first names.