Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa · 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill with Adrian Smith as lead architect, the tower opened on 4 January 2010 at 828 metres and 163 floors. Its Y-shaped plan and stepped setbacks come from the Hymenocallis, or spider lily, a desert flower, and help spread wind loads. It holds records for the tallest building, tallest freestanding structure, highest occupied floor and highest outdoor observation deck, plus the longest elevator travel. Lower floors hold the Armani Hotel, with apartments, and the Dubai Fountain, a large choreographed fountain system, sits in Burj Lake at the base. At the Top on levels 124 and 125 costs around AED 169 to 199, more at prime times, while At the Top Sky on level 148 starts around AED 379; online tickets are cheaper than at the door. Both decks open from morning until 22:00. The Metro Red Line stops at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, linked by bridge to the mall.
Ticket Price
At the Top (floors 124+125): around AED 169–199 (≈ USD 46–54) adult (varies by time slot, prime time more expensive); At the Top Sky (148+124+125): around AED 379+; Tickets online are cheaper than at the door. Check the official site before booking.
Opening Hours
At the Top (124+125): 8:30–22:00 daily (last entry 21:00); At the Top Sky (148): 9:30–22:00; The Dubai Fountain: performances from evening until late; Hours may vary during Ramadan and holidays. Check the official site before visiting.
Transportation
Metro Red Line: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (direct access via bridge to Dubai Mall, then walk through the mall to the Burj Khalifa entrance); Bus: routes 27, 29, X28, F13, F17, F18; Taxi: available everywhere in Dubai; Driving: parking at Dubai Mall (first 3 hours free with validation)
Best Season
November–March for mild weather (15–28°C) — comfortable to be outside around the fountains; June–September is very hot (38-45°C) — indoor observation deck is fine but walking outside is unpleasant; Sunset is the single best time to visit — day views plus the fountain show and city lights turning on
Pro Tip: Book At The Top for sunset
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
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Book At The Top for sunset Sunset slots are the most popular and sell out. Book directly with the official site, arrive early for security, and choose the level that matches your budget.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
Yes. Sunset slots cost more and sell out days ahead; book online for a specific time. The 124th/125th floor ticket is the standard option.
It is quieter and higher, with a guided lounge experience, but the view is similar. Choose it for comfort and shorter queues, not for a different panorama.
Allow 1-1.5 hours including security and the lift; sunset visits take longer because everyone stays for the light change.
Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, then the air-conditioned link bridge to Dubai Mall and the tower entrance.