David RodrigoThe First Impression: Arriving at the Burj Khalifa
From the moment you arrive at the base of the Burj Khalifa, there’s an overwhelming sense of grandeur. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Dubai, just beside the stylish Dubai Mall and vibrant Dubai Fountain, the Burj Khalifa is an architectural marvel that pulls your eyes skyward—whether you want them to or not.
I got there just before sunset, and I’d booked my ticket in advance—highly recommended if you want to skip the long queues, especially during peak hours. The entrance is through the Dubai Mall, and as you make your way toward the elevators, you’ll notice that everything—yes, everything—is designed to spark a sense of awe. From the polished floors to the interactive exhibits, every step feels cinematic.
Pro tip: Book your tickets for “At The Top” online at least a few days ahead, especially if you’re going for the golden hour views.
Riding to the Sky: The Elevator to the 124th and 125th Floors
The elevator ride to the observation decks is something out of a science fiction movie. In under 60 seconds, we zipped up to the 124th floor—our ears popping lightly, our hearts racing with excitement. The smooth ride and ambient lighting inside almost made me feel like I was being transported to another planet.
And then, the doors opened.
Glass walls wrapped around the entire floor, revealing panoramic views of Dubai. The city stretched out below like a shimmering circuit board. You could see everything—from the winding Dubai Creek to the distant Arabian Gulf. Vehicles on the streets below looked like tiny ants navigating a neon maze.
What you’ll find on the 124th and 125th floors:
- Floor-to-ceiling glass walls for breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline
- High-powered telescopes to zoom in on distant landmarks
- Souvenir shops filled with Burj-themed memorabilia
- Photo booths that superimpose your image over scenic backdrops
On the 125th floor, which has a more spacious gallery feel, there’s even a virtual reality station where you can take a “ride” down the outside of the Burj. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for thrill-seekers, it’s a can’t-miss.
. Photo courtesy of Pexels.com
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Going Even Higher: The VIP Experience on the 148th Floor
If you’re looking to go beyond ordinary, then the “At the Top SKY” experience on the 148th floor is where true luxury blends with adrenaline. Sitting at 555 meters above ground, this level offers the highest observation deck in the world (at least, as of now).
I splurged on the SKY experience, and honestly—it was worth every dirham. From plush seating in a velvet-lined lounge to personalized service and Arabic coffee on arrival, everything about it screamed premium. There’s also significantly fewer people here, which means you get prime selfie spots without constantly dodging someone else’s outstretched arm and phone.
Stepping onto the deck itself—yes, it’s partly outside—is nothing short of surreal. The air feels different. Crisper. Cleaner. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the city transformed into a grid of twinkling lights—speckled gold against the inky blackness of night.
What makes the 148th floor special:
- Exclusive access and fewer crowds
- Complimentary refreshments including dates, juices, and Arabic coffee
- Guided tour experience with information about the tower’s design and history
Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to see Dubai from the top of the world—literally—this is a splurge that won’t disappoint.
. Photo courtesy of Pexels.com
More Than Just Views: The Story Behind the Burj Khalifa
While the views are the main event, the story of the Burj Khalifa is equally fascinating. Named in honor of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the tower officially opened in 2010 and was designed by the renowned architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill—the same minds behind Chicago’s Willis Tower.
Standing at a staggering 828 meters (2,717 feet), the Burj Khalifa holds multiple world records:
- Tallest building in the world
- Highest outdoor observation deck
- Fastest elevator system
- Highest number of floors in a building
But what really struck me was the inspiration behind the design. It’s based on the shape of a desert flower—the Hymenocallis. The building’s Y-shaped tripartite floor design helps reduce wind forces, making this tower both beautiful and resilient.
Planning your visit:
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon to catch both daylight and the sunset
- Ticket prices: Vary depending on the floor and experience ($40–$150 approx.)
- Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (last entry at 11 PM)
When you finally step out of the tower and look back, it’s hard not to feel touched by the experience. The Burj Khalifa is not just a photo op—it’s a journey into the extraordinary.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a first-time traveler to Dubai or a returning visitor, the Burj Khalifa deserves a spot on your bucket list. Few places on Earth can make you feel so small and so inspired at the same time. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the world from above—really above—this is your chance.
Looking for more UAE adventures? Don’t miss nearby attractions like:
- Dubai Mall – One of the world’s largest shopping destinations
- Dubai Fountain Show – Dazzling water displays set to music
- Atlantis The Palm – A luxury resort with underwater aquariums and water parks
Have you been to the Burj Khalifa? Drop your questions or stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear what the view looked like from your eyes.
