Tips for visiting Burj Khalifa: Everything you should know

The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa towers over Dubai at 2,722 feet. Considered to be an engineering feat as well as an architectural marvel, the building is home to a luxurious hotel, fine-dining restaurants, and observation decks that offer some of the best views of the Dubai skyline.

But how do visitors reach the main observation deck? Is Burj Khalifa worth visiting? And how long did it take to build? Let’s unlock the most useful tips for visiting Burj Khalifa so that you can get the most out of your Dubai experience.

Know before you go to Burj Khalifa

1. When is the best time to visit Burj Khalifa?

Here’s when to visit Burj Khalifa: for the best views, come an hour before sunset, as this will allow you to see the sprawling city of Dubai in daylight and enjoy the brilliant sunset hues a short while later. However, keep in mind that the 4:00-7:00 PM timeslot can get busy. If you’re looking to take a quiet stroll around the observation deck, early mornings, early afternoons, and late evenings are your best bet.

2. What are the opening hours for Burj Khalifa?

Burj Khalifa is open 24 hours, from Monday to Sunday. However, the schedule differs based on which levels you’re planning to visit. The observation deck at levels 124 and 125 (“At The Top”) is open daily from 7:00 AM to midnight, with the last admission at 11:00 PM. The observation deck at level 148 (“At The Top SKY”) is open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with the last entry at 10:00 PM.

3. How much time should I spend at Burj Khalifa?

One hour is enough to wander around the observation deck at levels 124 & 125, take in the views of the Dubai panorama, and snap a few pictures. If your experience includes a visit to level 148 or if you’re eager to see Dubai in both daytime and nighttime, leave yourself a bit more time.

4. How do I get to Burj Khalifa?

Burj Khalifa isn’t hard to find — located right next to the Dubai Mall, it towers over the Dubai Fountain. To reach the observation decks, walk through the lower ground floor of the Dubai Mall and make your way to the Burj Khalifa elevator. To get to the Dubai Mall, take the Red Line of the Dubai Metro and exit at the “Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall” station. You can also get there by car or taxi.

5. Should I book Burj Khalifa tickets in advance?

It’s highly recommended to book Burj Khalifa tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting during prime hours or the peak tourist season (November-March). You can book your tickets online.

6. Is a tour of Burj Khalifa worthwhile?

At 2,722 feet from base to tip, Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, making it a worthwhile landmark on your bucket list. And let’s not forget the unmatched view of Dubai’s famous landmarks, especially during the golden hour! What’s more, the elevator ride itself is a unique experience as the elevator travels at the speed of nearly 33 feet (10 meters) per second, securing its spot among the fastest elevators in the world.

7. Is Burj Khalifa wheelchair accessible?

Burj Khalifa is wheelchair accessible. There are accessible restrooms and elevators on the premises, and the main entrance via Dubai Mall is wheelchair-friendly. If you require special assistance, contact Burj Khalifa’s customer service in advance or ask the staff for help on arrival.

8. Can I visit Burj Khalifa for free?

While you are required to buy a ticket to visit the observation decks, you can enjoy a view of Burj Khalifa from the outside at no cost. Burj Khalifa Light Show, which takes place on the tower’s façade in the evenings, is also free to watch. The Dubai Mall or the Dubai Fountain are two good viewing spots.

Highlights at Burj Khalifa

9. What can you do inside Burj Khalifa?

Apart from exploring the “At The Top” observation deck on levels 124 & 125, visitors can also book tickets to the “At The Top SKY” deck (level 148) for a more luxurious experience. What’s more, the tower is home to the elegant Armani Hotel (levels 0-8 and 38-39), a magnificent lounge (levels 152, 153, 154), and At.mosphere (level 122), a restaurant offering a luxury dining experience.

10. What makes Burj Khalifa iconic?

Burj Khalifa is renowned for its distinctive design (a blend of traditional Islamic patterns and modern architecture) and advanced engineering. As the tallest building in the world, it symbolizes Dubai’s dedication to modernity and innovation. Plus, it offers an unrivaled vantage point from which to view the cityscape.

History and facts about Burj Khalifa

11. How long did it take to build Burj Khalifa?

The construction of Burj Khalifa took only 6 years — the project began in 2004, with the tower officially opening in 2010. The cost is estimated at $1.5 billion USD, and at peak times, more than 12,000 workers from all over the world were involved in the project, from architects to engineers and laborers.

12. Who designed Burj Khalifa?

Burj Khalifa was designed by Adrian Smith, an architect who was with the Chicago office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill at the time. William F. Baker was the chief structural engineer. The design was inspired by the Hymenocallis flower (a regional desert flower) and it incorporates Islamic architectural elements, creating an iconic silhouette against the Dubai skyline.