What Is the Iconic Building in Dubai?

By Michael Ferguson

Dubai is known for its iconic buildings and structures. However, one building that stands out amongst the rest is the Burj Khalifa. Standing tall at 828 meters, it is the tallest building in the world.

History of Burj Khalifa

The construction of Burj Khalifa began in 2004 and was completed in 2010. Originally named Burj Dubai, it was later renamed in honor of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi and president of the United Arab Emirates.

Design and Architecture

Designed by Adrian Smith, an American architect, Burj Khalifa has a unique Y-shaped structure that allows for maximum space utilization. The exterior of the building has a spire-like design with three wings that taper upwards as they rise.

One of the most impressive features of Burj Khalifa is its observation deck on the 148th floor called “At The Top SKY”. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Dubai from a height of 555 meters above ground level.

Records Set by Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa has broken several records since its completion. Here are some notable ones:

  • The tallest building in the world (828 meters)
  • The highest number of stories in a building (163)
  • The highest occupied floor in a building (584.5 meters)
  • The highest outdoor observation deck in the world (555 meters)
  • The elevator with the longest travel distance in the world (504 meters)

Other Interesting Facts About Burj Khalifa

  • Burj Khalifa has over 24,000 windows.
  • It takes around 45 seconds to reach the observation deck from the ground floor in the elevator.
  • The building has 57 elevators and 8 escalators.
  • It took around 22 million man-hours to complete the construction of Burj Khalifa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Burj Khalifa is a true marvel of engineering and design. Its unique architecture and record-breaking height have made it an iconic landmark in Dubai. If you ever get a chance to visit Dubai, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see this magnificent structure up close.