burj khalifa visit

Best Time to Visit the Burj Khalifa: Ultimate Planning Guide 2024

As Dubai’s most popular and iconic attraction, what should you expect when visiting the Burj Khalifa?

We have taken countless visitors to Dubai up the Burj Khalifa since it opened in 2010, and we are here to share with you exactly how to plan your trip and enjoy the utterly iconic and record-breaking Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

What to Expect at Burj Khalifa

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Before we dive into the best time to visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, let’s first understand what this megastructure is all about and which parts are open to the public.

The world’s tallest building stands at 828m tall with 160 floors. At the time of completion in 2010, it became known for being:

• The tallest building in the world
• Tallest freestanding structure in the world
• The building with the highest number of stories in the world
• Home to the highest outdoor observation deck in the world
• Tallest service elevator in the world

There have been a few proposed attempts to break its record; however, as of 2024, none of these projects have been completed or taken the crown from the spectacular Burj Khalifa.

Pop on over here if you’d like to learn more about the building itself and incredible record-breaking Burj Khalifa facts

There are three main sets of public observation decks and attractions you can visit at the Burj Khalifa

• Level 124/125 “At the Top” – these are the main public observation decks
• The VIP level “At The Top SKY” Level 148
• The Lounge on Levels 152 +153 + 154

In addition, there is the iconic and breathtaking At.Mosphere Restaurant & Lounge on the 122nd floor, offering some of the city’s most incredible breakfast, lunch, high tea, and dinner experiences with a serious wow factor.

The price you pay to visit the Burj Khalifa depends on:

• How many experiences you want to enjoy
• How high up you want to go
• Whether you have planned and pre-booked your time slot
• Whether you want to visit during a premium time slot (see below)
• Age and ID for your group (Under 2’s are free)
• Burj Khalifa ticket offers you can combine your entry

We explain exactly what type of Burj Khalifa tickets are sold below.

The most important part of planning your trip to Burj Khalifa is recognising that stand-by tickets are hugely more expensive than pre-booked tickets and will simply not be available at peak times as all tickets have been pre-sold. 

This is one aspect of your trip to Dubai that you absolutely must think about booking in advance to save, so you don’t miss out. The other experience that can be booked out weeks in advance is the new Museum of the Future .

The reason we recommend booking through an authorized reseller such as Get Your Guide for peace of mind that you’ve bought genuine tickets and the ability to cancel for free up to 24 hours beforehand should your plans change; you cannot do this if purchasing direct on the rather clunky to use official website.

The Burj Khalifa observation deck AT THE TOP is open daily at the following times:

• Weekdays – Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Weekends – Saturday & Sunday: 5:00 AM to midnight

Prime Hours for Burj Khalifa

• 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Non-Prime Hours for Burj Khalifa

• 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Note that it’s recommended to book your time slot for up to 90-minutes before you want your experience at the top of Burj Khalifa to account for queues (except sunrise). Last entry is 45 minutes before closure.

At The Top – Burj Khalifa’s Main Public Observation Deck

The main observation deck that most visitors will see is At The Top on the 124th floor and 125th floor . Entrance is from the Lower Ground level of Dubai Mall.

After security checks and waiting your turn for the incredible high-speed elevator, you’ll arrive at Level 124 and the outdoor observation deck. Continue to work your way around the informative displays and immersive experiences, then make your way up to Level 125 through an internal staircase, where you’ll find a gift shop and a tribute to Arab Arts & Culture.

At a towering 456 metres above ground level, you will experience expansive views of the Persian Gulf, the surrounding Downtown area and the vast Dubai skyline (though visibility can be quite variable based on atmospheric conditions).

It is important to note that even with pre-booked tickets, these are not skip-the-line tickets; the time you book simply indicates the earliest time you can start to queue, in 30 minute blocks.

You should expect a sustainable period of lining – both to get up the tower (even with lifts that operate at 10m/sec) and down again. Overall, your Burj Khalifa experience will take 1.5 to 2 hours . There are further displays to read on the way out too.

In our experience, Level 125 can be a much quieter and more enjoyable place, as many do not realise the second floor is there until after they’ve observed the view from all angles. The main outdoor deck, which everyone seems to rush to, is on Level 124.

• Expect to pay off-peak 145 AED kids / 179 AED adults
• During peak hours, 165 AED kids / 259 AED adults
• Kids are only discounted for the main observation decks on levels 124/125, and this applies to 3 to 12-year-olds

At The Top SKY

Ascend 555 meters to At The Top Sky – the World’s highest observation deck, including an outdoor terrace. A luxurious lounge experience with a guided tour and refreshments to add to your visit to level 124/125.

Note that your time in the lounge on level 148 is restricted to 30 minutes, but you can spend as long as you like on the lower decks (if you could call them that!).

• Primetime is all day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Non-prime is 7:00 PM until close
• Expect to pay from 339 AED to 553 AED (no kid prices)

(Note that At The Top SKY is different to Sky Views Dubai ; the former is inside the Burj Khalifa and includes access to level 148, the latter is a separate building in Downtown with several features, including a glass slide and views looking at the Burj Khalifa)

The Lounge (Level 154 +153 + 152) Burj Khalifa

Depending on the timeslot you wish to visit, you can purchase several premium experiences for The Lounge.

Tea in the Clouds

Sit back in the lush couches spread across Level 152 to Level 154 at 585m. Enjoy an assortment of fresh bakes and desserts, alongside a selection of the finest teas and coffee.

• 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
• Expect to pay 769 AED.

Bubbly Sundowner

Watch the sunset from level 152 to level 154. Enjoy a glass of house beverage or bubbly, complimentary gourmet canapes, a guided tour, and light entertainment.

• 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
• Expect to pay 769 AED

Cocktails Unde r the Stars

Hitting the tunes with either resident vocalists or House DJ, enjoy complimentary house canapes and a glass of bubbles, along with a VIP tour.

• 7:30 PM to midnight

An alternative experience on Level 123

Vip sunset view lounge experience.

Enjoy a sports car pick-up from your hotel for a group of up to 4, then ascend the Burj Khalifa in your own VIP lift, where a window-side table awaits you at the exclusive lobby lounge on the 123rd floor. Enjoy unrivalled views without the crowds as the sun goes down (note minimum spends apply, in addition to the VIP entry and pickups)

• Expect to pay in the vicinity of 3000 AED for a group up to 3

If you haven’t got a group or would like to have the VIP experience during the day, then this may be the better luxury package for you – it includes a personalised Burj Khalifa AND a 5-course meal in the VIP lounge; there are 2-afternoon time slots, finishing by 4:00 PM.

Combined Ticket Offers for Burj Khalifa

The best way to save is to combine your ticket with other attractions. There are plenty, even just around the Dubai Mall complex, or you can get a combined pass that covers attractions across Dubai.

• Burj Khalifa & Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
• Burj Khalifa and Sky Views Dubai
• Visit the Burj Khalifa as part of a city tour
• Enjoy a Dubai by Night small tour combined with entry to Burj Khalifa At The Top

Burj Khalifa is also available on the Dubai Pass. We have a detailed review here of how the Dubai Pass works and how to get the best value-for-money Dubai Pass to suit your needs.

We also review the GoCity discount pass for Dubai which includes access to At The Top as one of the options in their package.

The best time to visit the Burj Khalifa depends on the season you are visiting, but generally speaking, the most popular time is around sunset hours.

While sunrise and sunset are popular for the gorgeous golden hour light they throw over the city, early mornings inparticular can be interrupted by fog and other atmospheric conditions at certain times of the year. This can, of course, only add to the drama, or leave you in a blanket of disappointing white!

At night , you cannot see as much detail in the distance, but the city lights up in a spectacular fashion, and you can see just how far it stretches into the desert.

Best Time to Visit Burj Khalifa – Sunrise

Early risers can be rewarded with sensational views as night turns into morning. However, early starts are only available to book on Saturday and Sunday mornings (the weekend in Dubai ).

There is a risk of being fogged in, so take this into account. This usually occurs as the daytime temperatures cool, so can be expected from November through to March .

• Sunrise tickets are for slots between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM.
• Expect to pay 129AED .

Best Time to Visit Burj Khalifa – Sunset

As you might expect, Sunset can reward visitors with beautiful pink and orange hues and the chance to see the city in detail both day and night. Staying until after 6.30 PM you can capture the spectacular nightly fountain sound and light show from above.

You will pay premium pricing for tickets timed between 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm (bearing in mind you could be queuing for a lot of this until there’s an available lift – later premium spots in our experience you won’t get up until after dark so think carefully before paying the premium).

We have a really detailed guide here on how to properly plan your visit to Burj Khalifa at night .

Least Crowded Time to Visit Burj Khalifa

If you are not so worried about the lighting and taking photos, the best time to visit the Burj Khalifa is during the off-peak hours; late morning or late evenings are best if you want to avoid long lines. 

The crowds from the early morning premium tickets have cleared, and you should expect much less queuing after 10:00 AM. This also equals fewer queues and less crowding at the top, making it a less hurried and stressful experience all around. You can then return to ground level at a leisurely pace and enjoy lunch at Dubai Mall .

Alternatively, have dinner first, then later in the evening once prime sunset hour queues have somewhat cleared, you can get a much better nighttime view than in the early evening. You will still benefit from seeing the nightly Dubai Fountain sound & light show too.

This advice is a good theory for off-peak weekdays; however, if you are visiting on a weekend (Friday afternoon, Saturday & Sunday) or during school holidays, it is crowded no matter what time of day you book for! Never mind other advice you’ve read; it can take UP TO 2 HOURS just to get to the lift. This is the downfall of visiting Dubai’s most popular attraction.

At.Mosphere

At.Mosphere is the peak of fine dining in Dubai – literally! Situated on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa, At.Mosphere is the ultimate fine dining experience with special meals from elaborate high tea to breakfast with a view, as well as business lunches and romantic dinners.

Afternoon Tea at Armani Lounge

Situated in the Armani Hotel, this is the height of Dubai extravagance and one of Dubai’s most premium experiences. You are not quite at the top (indeed, the luxury hotel is on the ground floor and lowest levels of the tower), but here, you can enjoy one of the most luxurious settings overlooking the Dubai fountains.

Burj Khalifa from Ground Level

If heights aren’t your thing, or if the entry price will eat too far into your Dubai budget (trust us, if you visit everything on offer in Dubai, you will quickly go broke!), then you can also try:

• Watching the nightly LED Burj Khalifa light show from Dubai Mall & Downtown promenade during the fountain show
• Take a traditional boat out onto the lake during the evening fountain show
• Head to the small area on the opposite side of Burj Lake and take your photo with the Wingts of Mexico Statue, with the Burj Khalifa as you’re back drop

One thing is for sure: at 828m, it’s pretty hard to miss the Burj Khalifa; even the newest taxi driver knows how to find it!! You can easily taxi to the Dubai Mall , then walk to the entrance at the basement level (this is also where you will find the Will Call office for collecting tickets).

You can also take the Red Line Metro to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station, which is approximately a 10 minute walk (via the airconditioned travellator!) to the mall. Allow at least another 5 minutes to find the basement level entrance.

If you’re only on a stopover in Dubai and want to squeeze this attraction in, we share here exactly how to get public transport from DXB to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall .

If you’re only going to be in Dubai for a short time, staying near the Burj Khalifa is an ideal, central location.

Other than staying in the Armani Hotel inside Burj Khalifa ($$$), there are several hotels within the Dubai Mall / Downtown Dubai district that make fabulous options.  Why not try:

• Palace Downtown
• Kempinski Central Avenue
• Address Downtown
• Kempinski The Boulevard

And nearby some more budget-friendly options, still within walking distance of the Dubai Mall;

• Rove Downtown
• Swissotel Al Murooj

You can see our complete guide to the most convenient Downtown Dubai hotels here , as well as our guide to nearby hotels that offer the best views of Burj Khalifa , or check out all the nearby Downtown accommodation options here:

We hope our detailed guide to visiting the tallest free-standing structure in the world, the Burj Khalifa, comes in handy when planning out your itinerary for Dubai

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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Superb blog post! I am planning to visit Dubai this summer and I am going to visit Burj Khalifa. Thanks for mentioning prime time and non-prime time to visit it. One must follow your tips to make the trip flawless and well managed.

Best Regards,

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Observation Decks

Ready to experience record heights!

At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY

You may choose between : (L148.L125.L124)

• Enjoy a personalized tour, guided by a Guest Ambassador.
• Step out onto the world's highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace at 555 meters.
• Refresh yourself with signature refreshments at SKY lounge.
• Continue your journey to levels 125 and 124.

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Burj Khalifa Guide: World’s Tallest Skyscraper

Dubai houses many record-breaking attractions and projects. But when it comes to skyscrapers, nothing can beat Burj Khalifa—the tallest building in the world. A sight to behold, Burj Khalifa should be first on your list of things to visit in the city. It’s in the heart of Dubai, waiting for you.

Start your Dubai journey and plan your visit to Burj Khalifa with this guide.

Things to Know Before You Visit Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai. The building is massive, so first-time visitors should allocate a lot of time to explore all areas of Burj Khalifa. But before you do that, here’s everything you need to know about the tallest building in the world.

What is Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is presently the tallest building and free-standing structure in the world. It’s 828 meters long (2,716.5 feet) and houses over 160 stories, surpassing the height of the Shanghai Tower in China and the Makkah Royal Clock Tower in Mecca. It’s three times taller than the popular Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Aside from being the tallest man-made structure worldwide, Burj Khalifa’s height also broke more world records, including the highest number of building stories, the highest outdoor observation deck, the highest occupied floor, and the tallest elevator service.

Burj Khalifa was completed in October 2009. It sits in Downtown Dubai, offering sightseeing attractions, dining options, leisure activities, entertainment shows, and live public and private event venues.

Who Can Visit Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, including its activities and establishments, all cater to children and adults of all ages, as well as visitors that require special assistance. There may be restrictions for some of the highest floors in the area, but everyone is generally free to roam around.

Burj Khalifa Age of Entry

There is no age or height limit for guests visiting Burj Khalifa, so parents can bring infants and toddlers to most parts of the tower. Burj Khalifa At The Top, the tower’s observation deck, also requires no age restrictions.

Burj Khalifa Health Restrictions

The tower, including Burj Khalifa At The Top, allows pregnant women and persons with disabilities to go up to the observation deck—as long as other adults accompany them. Most parts of Burj Khalifa are wheelchair-accessible.

Visitors with occurring or severe health issues like stroke, epilepsy, and heart disease are encouraged to consult with their doctors before visiting the highest floors of the tower, especially Burj Khalifa At The Top. Burj Khalifa’s height may trigger people with acrophobia (fear of heights), causing panic and anxiety. It’s best to visit the highest floors of the building with caution.

Is Burj Khalifa Safe and Regulated?

Burj Khalifa is a state-of-the-art building crafted and designed by world-renowned architects and engineers. Adrian Smith, the senior architect responsible for the Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai and the Zifeng Tower in Nanjing, led the design-build stage of the building. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the firm that backed Smith for the creation of Burj Khalifa, also led the construction and design of the Willis Tower and One World Trade Center.

Considering the qualifications, standards, and achievements of the team behind the construction of Burj Khalifa, it’s easy to say that the tallest building in the world is safe. Burj Khalifa houses features that can withstand accidents and natural calamities like typhoons, earthquakes, and fire.

Burj Khalifa’s structural support can withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 7.0 , a resistance that goes beyond the 5.9-magnitude standard for skyscrapers in Dubai. In case of major emergencies like fire and typhoons, Burj Khalifa also houses emergency exits and refuge areas with fireproof concrete and pressurized spaces. These are available on every 25 floors of the building.

COVID-19 Considerations

All establishments in Dubai follow special health and safety measures to combat COVID-19. Burj Khalifa and its independent establishments are required by the World Health Organization (WHO) and local authorities to ensure social distancing among visitors, sanitize publicly-used areas, conduct temperature checks for staff and guests, and promote contactless payments. Some areas and activities at Burj Khalifa may limit the number of visitors a day based on local regulations, especially the Burj Khalifa At The Top observation deck.

Guests, too, are required to follow individual safety protocols. Guests should wear face masks inside the tower at all times, avoid physical contact among staff and other visitors, and submit basic personal information for contact tracing purposes.

When is the Best Time To Visit Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is open 24 hours daily; that’s why it’s the premier destination for tourists from different countries or other cities of the UAE. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there might be revised opening hours from Monday to Saturday, depending on local regulations.

Burj Khalifa At The Top operates from 8 AM to 10 PM from Sunday to Thursday and 5:30 AM to 10 PM from Friday to Saturday. The best time to explore all areas of the building and the observation deck is from 3:00 to 6:30 PM—this time range covers the golden hour, but it also falls in the prime hours. Expect to encounter crowds during these hours. If your preference is to visit Burj Khalifa and avoid crowds, buy Burj Khalifa tickets for non-prime hours—from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM and from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

How Long Can You Explore Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa tickets come with time slots of your visit to At The Top, the observation deck. But the ticket offers admission and unlimited access to the common areas and facilities of the building.

The average time to enjoy sightseeing at Burj Khalifa At the Top is 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can, of course, take advantage of your booked time slot fully. The Burj Khalifa management sometimes extends visits to At The Top during peak seasons or holidays. Meanwhile, the average time to enjoy a specific level or establishment is 30 minutes.

Remember that these numbers are just estimated times, don’t be compelled to follow them as you can enjoy Burj Khalifa however and how long you want. You can even do multiple visits if a one-day access isn’t enough.

Where is Burj Khalifa Exactly Located?

Burj Khalifa sits at 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The building is located in one of the central districts of Dubai, popularly known as the Dubai Business Bay. Burj Khalifa, in itself, is already a landmark in Dubai—the tallest landmark, to be exact. As such, first-time visitors and tourists wouldn’t have a hard time finding it.

Burj Khalifa overlooks the Sheikh Zayed Highway and the Persian Gulf. When you’re At The Top, though, you can see the whole of Dubai. Other famous attractions near Burj Khalifa include the Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, and KidZania.

Preparation Tips And Booking Procedures

Now you know everything there is to know about Burj Khalifa—the amazing facts and wonders of the tallest building in the world, let’s head to the actual preparations and procedures involved in booking Burj Khalifa tickets and visiting the venue.

How to Get to Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is in the heart of Dubai, a landmark that every local and repeating visitors know. That’s why it’s relatively easy to get to Burj Khalifa anywhere you are in the city through various modes of transportation.

Travelers with private or rented vehicles can easily reach Burj Khalifa from the city center or other neighboring areas through Sheikh Rashid Rd/E11 in approximately 12 minutes.

If you want to commute, city buses can take you to the Mall of the Emirates and its surrounding areas. Take buses C14 and F13, then alight at the Dubai Mall Landside Metro Bus Stop, Mazaya Center – 01 or 02, or The Dubai Mall station. It will take you a 2 to 8-minute walk from these stations to reach Burj Khalifa.

If you want to take the metro, ride the Red Line to the Business Bay Metro Station. From there, you can take a 25-minute walk or hire a cab to reach Burj Khalifa.

What Are the Things Visitors Need to Prepare?

Burj Khalifa is a tourist attraction for all ages, so you can prepare like you’re going to a luxury mall in Dubai. There are no guest restrictions or extreme activities that will require you to bring special clothing or equipment.

There is no dress code inside Burj Khalifa, but make sure to follow the UAE’s general rule for public dressing and the dress code of specific establishments inside the building. Considering the consistent warm weather in Dubai, however, it’s best to wear comfortable casual clothes when you visit.

Food and Drinks

You can bring light beverages and snacks inside the building, although there are many dining options that first-time visitors shouldn’t miss. For sanitary purposes, no food or drinks are allowed in Burj Khalifa At the Top.

Cameras and other recording devices are allowed in Burj Khalifa, even At The Top. If you forgot to bring one, there are paid photographers at the observation deck where you can get physical and digital copies of your photographs at a fair price.

Luggage and Baggage

You don’t have to bring a lot of things to Burj Khalifa since it’s a multi-use building with shopping options and entertainment activities. For your comfort, however, you can store your baggage and luggage at their Check Rooms. This is a requirement before you enter the At The Top.

Do Visitors Need to Prebook?

Prebooking Burj Khalifa tickets is a highly recommended option, especially if you’re bringing large groups. However, you are not required to do so. The best thing to do to avoid a hassle-free booking experience is to buy tickets at least 90 minutes before entering Burj Khalifa At The Top.

Where to Buy Burj Khalifa Tickets

You can buy tickets inside the building or through online booking at Burj Khalifa’s official website . Here’s a list of ticket prices and their inclusions:

• At the Top, Burj Khalifa (Level 125 + 124) – starts at 149 AED (40.56 USD)
• At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY (Level 148 +125 + 124) – starts at 379 AED (103.18 USD)
• At the Top + Dubai Aquarium (Level 125 + 124) – starts at 225 AED (61.25 USD)
• World’s highest lounge for VIPs (Level 154 +153 + 152) – starts at 749 AED (203.91 USD)

Alternatively, you can look for reputable travel and tour agencies offering discounted tickets for group visits. Make sure to buy tickets from licensed operators to avoid scams. For reference, here are some of the most reputable third-party operators selling Burj Khalifa tickets.

• JTR Holidays
• Rayna Tours

Top Things to Do Inside Burj Khalifa

Considering Burj Khalifa’s height, it’s no surprise that the tallest building in the world houses many establishments offering various activities. So, aside from visiting the At The Top, here are the best activities for first-time visitors:

Unwind at the Burj Club

The Burj Club is a luxury fitness and wellness center inside the building. It offers high-end gym activities, spa treatments, and rooftop sightseeing opportunities. Burj Club can be accessed through membership or day-passes only.

Dine at Luxury Restaurants

You’ll never run out of dining options inside the tallest building in the world. Eat to your heart’s desire and satisfy your cravings. Some of the highly recommended restaurants inside Burj Khalifa are Amal (Indian cuisine), Ristorante (contemporary Italian), Hashi (Japanese cuisine), Armani Lounge (international cuisine), and At.Mosphere (fine dining).

Visit Kids-Friendly Establishments

For children and kids-at-heart, Burj Khalifa houses various establishments that aim to offer unique and fun experiences. It’s recommended to bring your friends or kids at Candylicious At The Top, a candy store selling millions of candies under one roof, or at Schools At The Top, a learning center at the top of the building offering interactive games and lessons to children.

Final Tips for First-Time Visitors of Burj Khalifa

Preparing your first visit to Burj Khalifa is just a walk in the park. However, it’s best to plan a perfectly-hassle free experience based on your budget, schedule, origin, budget, and other preferences. We also highly recommend pre-booking Burj Khalifa tickets to avoid queues and cancellations.

What to Do After Visiting Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa may be the tallest building globally, but it’s not the only tourist attraction in Dubai offering the best of the best. If you want to explore more of the city, we recommend visiting shopping malls, theme parks, waterparks, and museums in Dubai.

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All you need to know about visiting Dubai’s Burj Khalifa

No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting Burj Khalifa , the world’s tallest building and the city’s most iconic landmark. If it looks familiar, you might have witnessed Tom Cruise climbing this soaring skyscraper in “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol”, in an attempt to save the world from destruction.

Most first-timers may only be attracted to the observation deck, but there is much more to this superstructure—it houses Armani Hotel Dubai , dazzling art installations, and a handful of restaurants with sparkling views. Set in Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is also within close range of traveler favorites like Dubai Fountain , Burj Park , and The Dubai Mall .

If you’re on the hunt for a quick guide to visiting this icon, look no further. We’ve rounded up all the need-to-knows to get you off to a good start.

How tall is the Burj Khalifa?

The Burj Khalifa is 2,716ft, which is approximately twice the height of the Empire State Building in New York City and three times taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is 643ft taller than the Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. This monumental structure is such an engineering feat that it holds seven world records.

How to see the views from the top of Burj Khalifa?

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

One of the best ways to enjoy the view from the top of Burj Khalifa is the world’s highest observation deck— At the Top . After riding the longest elevator in the world—complete with a light show—you’ll truly feel on top of the world when you are greeted with 360-degree views of the Arabian Gulf.

At the Top is split across three floors (124, 125 and 148), and offers two packages: the general admission entry—which costs AED149 ($41)—will take you to levels 124 and 125 on a 45-minute self-guided tour while At the Top SKY (AED379-533) is a 90-minute guided experience that brings you to all three floors, including the SKY Lounge.

Opening hours:

• At the Top: Sunday to Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to midnight
• At the Top SKY: Monday to Sunday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

At.mosphere

Perhaps a more special way of enjoying the panoramic view is to dine in style at At.mosphere , the world’s tallest restaurant. It occupies four separate floors — an all-day restaurant on level 122 and a lounge terrace on levels 152-154 (higher than At the Top). This is a great way to beat the sweltering heat and indulge in refined European fare whilst taking in the breathtaking sights. The lounge’s open deck is perfect for photos and of course, admiring the desert vista.

Best time to visit the Burj Khalifa

The best time to visit is at sunset (4 p.m.-7 p.m.), when you’ll also be able to catch the Dubai Fountain in its full splendor, which runs every 30 minutes from 6 p.m. However, this is also when the attraction is the busiest. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, stop by in the early morning (10 a.m.-noon) and before closing. A solid reason to gun for off-peak timings would be considerably cheaper tickets.

Check the weather forecast and book your tickets online in advance, especially if you have a particular time slot in mind. It’s pricier to book on the day itself and the slots typically open 30 days ahead.

If this is your first trip to Dubai and you’d like to check out multiple sights in one day, there are a variety of experiences that include a ticket to At the Top, from tours to the top attractions to guided excursions of heritage and contemporary locales . Stretch your budget and make the most of your trip.

Hotel in the Burj Khalifa

Armani hotel dubai.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay when in Dubai, the Armani Hotel Dubai could be right up your alley. Located within the Burj Khalifa, this is the world’s first Armani hotel. As Giorgio Armani himself was intimately involved with the design, the hotel beautifully reflects the elegance and simplicity that he’s renowned for.

Unwind in style at the Armani/SPA and indulge in a spa trail with saunas, steam baths, and ice waterfall, or take your pick from a host of restaurants that serve an array of cuisines, from Italian to Indian. This award-winning hotel delivers top-notch hospitality.

Places to visit around Burj Khalifa

After visiting Burj Khalifa, most travelers would spend time at the Dubai Fountain and The Dubai Mall as they are a stone’s throw away.

Dubai Fountain

Sitting at the doorstep of Burj Khalifa is the impressive Dubai Fountain , which will captivate you with its water, music and light spectacle. It comes alive every 30 minutes from 6 p.m., shooting streams of water 500ft high, choreographed to popular music. Conceptualized by the very creators behind the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas , you’re in for a treat.

The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk , a floating platform, will take you to a mere 29ft away from the jets. If you’d like the best seats in the house, take the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride , where you’ll cruise within the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake on a boat.

The Dubai Mall

There are a staggering number of stores and restaurants at The Dubai Mall , with two renowned department stores—Bloomingdale’s (New York) and Galeries Lafayette (Paris). If you’re looking for kid-friendly fun while you shop, check out the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , KidZania , or the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink . The aquarium also offers bundle tickets with At the Top , which would give you some savings. That’s not all, The Dubai Mall is also connected to The Dubai Mall Zabeel, a mall extension, via a link bridge. You might be spending more time at The Dubai Mall than you expect.

Getting from Dubai Airport to Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is approximately 9 miles away from DXB, so you’ll be able to get there from the airport in under 20 minutes. There are also ride-hailing services available in Dubai, such as Uber and Careem .

Taxi fares from the airport start from AED25 ($7), and your trip to Burj Khalifa should cost approximately AED65 ($18). Dubai also has a special taxi service helmed by female drivers. A simple way to book a taxi would be to download S’hail , an app from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

You could also take the Dubai Metro from Terminal 1 or 2 and alight at the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall station. This is the cheapest transport option at AED5 ($1) and it will take approximately 40 minutes.

More like this:

• Things to Know Before Going On Your First Desert Safari in Dubai
• 7 Tips For Renting a Car in Dubai and Scenic Day Trip Ideas
• Your guide to the Atlantis, Dubai

What You Should Know Before Planning A Visit To Dubai's Burj Khalifa

Dubai's Burj Khalifa is a modern-day marvel. At 2,716.5 feet tall, the cloud-piercing superstructure is the world's tallest building. Opened in 2010, Burj Khalifa is more than double the height of the Eiffel Tower and nearly 700 feet taller than Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world.

While the megatall building's sheer height is impressive enough, Burj Khalifa also boasts the world's highest observation deck, giving countless guests of the building a chance to experience a falcon's eye view of the Dubai skyline, the Persian Gulf, and surrounding Arabian Desert.

Along with incredible views from the observation deck, Burj Khalifa also boasts wonderful art installations, dining options with unparalleled views, and some of the world's quickest elevators. Dubai, as a city, is one of humanity's most striking feats of engineering, and if you're visiting for the first time, you'll certainly want to explore the city's architectural crown jewel.

Create a personalized Dubai experience

To optimize your walk in the clouds, tour companies offer all types of ticket options for you to choose from. You can choose tickets for different observation tour experiences, take a guided or self-guided tour, add a meal or refreshments to your visit, and more. You can purchase tickets through Burj Khalifa itself, but for first-time visitors to Dubai , you may want to consider a Go Dubai Pass or something similar.

These customizable, all-inclusive passes can include admission to Burj Khalifa, as well as other popular city sites. For example, you can add admission to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, on-and-off bus tours, the Aquaventure Waterpark, and other top attractions.

If you do choose to purchase tickets through Burj Khalifa, you should still buy them in advance, especially if you're on a strict schedule. Visitors are allotted time slots to visit the observation deck through either guided or self-guided tours, helping to ensure a less crowded experience. If you buy tickets in person, your tour may be scheduled for a much later time or for the following day.

Schedule the ideal time to visit

Burj Khalifa is open every day of the year, so you shouldn't encounter any trouble fitting a visit into your Dubai itinerary. However, there are certain times of the day that can add a bit extra to your experience. The building is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., with prime hours between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

During prime hours, you'll pay a bit more, but sunset views from the observation deck may be absolutely worth the cost. Also, fog tends to roll into Dubai before the late-morning sun burns it off. During foggy mornings, the observation deck is literally above the clouds, offering you really neat photo opportunities.

However, if you're a bit scared of heights and prefer a less crowded observation deck, you may appreciate visiting during non-prime hours. To avoid peak times, consider scheduling a visit early in the morning, during mid-afternoon hours, or after the sun sets.

Walk among the desert clouds

Undeniably, the highlight for most people who visit Burj Khalifa is the view from the observation decks. To help avoid any unnecessary confusion, there are basically two tour packages to experience the observation decks in the building: At the Top and At the Top Sky, which also includes access to the world's highest outdoor observation deck.

At the Top includes an outdoor observation deck, floor-to-ceiling windows offering 360-degree city views, a glass floor with surprising (and terrifying?) digital effects such as the simulation of the floor cracking beneath your feet, and high-powered telescopes to get a closer look at the city. Meanwhile, the At the Top Sky experience also involves a personalized tour of the observation deck. Along with views of Dubai's unique skyline , you'll also receive tasty refreshments at SKY Lounge and participate in an interactive experience to virtually explore Dubai's most famous attractions.

Peruse the artwork

While the views on the observation decks are immensely popular, Burj Khalifa offers a few other highlights worth exploring. If you're a fan of light bites and mind-boggling views, consider grabbing a snack at The Lounge, which serves canapes, teas, coffees, and house beverages. You can also take a tour of the outdoor terrace. 

For art and fashion enthusiasts, it's worth visiting the lobbies of the Armani Hotel and The Residence at Burj Khalifa. Designed by Giorgio Armani, the lobby of the Armani Hotel is unsurprisingly opulent and chic, while the art installation in the lobby of The Residence is also worth seeing. Designed by artist Jaume Plensa, the lobby features a sculpture with 196 cymbals, representing the 196 countries of the world. 

And we'd be remiss if we didn't mention that traveling from floor to floor inside the Burj Khalifa is also a pretty cool experience. Burj Khalifa features some of the world's fastest elevators, moving visitors up and down the building at nearly 33 feet per second.

Explore other downtown Dubai attractions

After touring Burj Khalifa, the area around the mega-structure is also worth exploring. The building is surrounded by the meticulously manicured green spaces of Burj Park as well as the Dubai Fountain. In the park, you'll find contemporary sculptures and plenty of places to sit and relax.

If you're looking for something a bit more bustling, check out Dubai Mall. If you've finished visiting Burj Khalifa, then you've already walked through the mall, as it's the only way to access Burj Khalifa. However, with over 1,200 retail shops and 200 dining options, there's plenty to see, buy, and try.

In fact, the focal point of the massive mall is the popular Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, one of the world's biggest aquariums. With a little research, you can easily bundle your Burj Khalifa experience with other downtown Dubai attractions, allowing you to explore Dubai from its above-the-cloud views to its underwater zoo.

The Burj Khalifa: The Tallest Building in the World

Main Points

From Dream to Reality: All You Need to Know About the World’s Tallest Building – The Burj Khalifa – Facts

The Burj Khalifa was completed in 2010 formerly known as Burj Dubai, is an extremely tall skyscraper located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is renowned as the tallest building in the world, boasting a height of 828 m (2,716.5 ft). The 200 plus storey Burj Khalifa has 160 habitable levels making it the tallest structure and building in the world. Burj Khalifa features 57 elevators and eight escalators to meet the travel needs of the residents and visitors to the tower.

The tower became the world’s tallest man-made structure just 1,325 days after excavation work started in January 2004. Burj Khalifa utilised a record-breaking 330,000 cubic metres of concrete; 39,000 tonnes of steel reinforcement; 103,000 square metres of glass; and 15,500 square metres of embossed stainless steel. The tower took 22 million man hours to build. It was designed by the renowned architect, Adrian Smith, and was built by a team of over 12,000 workers.

First of all, the view from the observation deck is truly breathtaking. Located on the 124th floor, the observation deck offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. You can see the Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Marina, and even the desert in the distance. Kids will love looking out at the tiny cars and buildings below, while older folks can appreciate the vastness of the landscape.

For an even more stunning view, head up to the At The Top SKY observation deck on the 148th floor. This VIP experience includes access to a private lounge, refreshments, and even more incredible views. Couples will definitely want to consider splurging on this option for a romantic date with a view.

You will also find an option to dine at one of the many restaurants in the Burj Khalif and the views from these restaurants are some of the best in the city.

For those who dare, can have an unforgettable experience at the SKY which takes you to the highest point of the building for an outdoor , open air experience.

Burj Khalifa is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Dubai. From the stunning views to the endless entertainment options, there’s something for everyone at this iconic tower. Whether you’re traveling with kids, your significant other, or your parents, you’re sure to have an amazing time at the Burj Khalifa.

There are numerous attractions and activities available at the Burj Khalifa that are sure to amuse guests of all ages. Couples can enjoy a romantic stroll along the Dubai Fountain, while children will enjoy exploring the neighboring Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in the Dubai Mall. The interactive screen on the ground floor, which allows kids to explore and learn about Dubai’s history and culture. There are also special “Kids’ Club” areas where kids can enjoy educational activities.

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai provides some of the finest dining experiences. Here are a few of them:

What are the Suitable Time to Visit Burj Khalifa?

The Burj Khalifa is open to visitors throughout the day, however most of the people prefer to visit during sunset, as the views of the city at this time are truly breathtaking.

If you want an extra-special experience, consider booking a ticket for the At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY experience, which takes you to the highest observation deck in the world, located on the 148th floor. This experience also includes access to the lower observation deck on the 125th floor.

The tower r is open daily from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, with the last entry at 10:00 pm. The time slot s for Non-prime hours are from 10:00 am to 02:30 pm and 07:00 pm to 11:00 pm and the time slots for Prime hours are 03:00 pm to 06:30 pm. These schedules may vary depending on holidays or any special occasions, it is always a good idea to check the official website before planning your visit.

During Ramadan, the tower normally is open from 10:00 am to 2:00 am, with the last access at 1:00 am. Also, tourists should be advised that many restaurants may close during the day to show respect for people who are fasting. Evening hours may see some restaurants and cafés open and selling food, nevertheless.

Be sure to remain hydrated and dress appropriately for the weather if you’re planning to visit in the summer.

If you’re planning to visit Burj Khalifa plan ahead and book your tickets. If you have the flexibility in your schedule it is worth visiting during weekday as it will be less crowded.

How much is the entry ticket for Burj Khalifa?

Various ticket packages are provided for touring the tower Burj Khalifa, however, the ticket prices can vary depending on the time of day and the type of experience you choose.

The basic At the Top experience starts at around 169 AED per person for a regular admission ticket. However, prices can be higher during peak hours or for the SKY experience.

Children under 4 years old are free of charge, while children between the ages of 4 and 12 are eligible for discounted tickets

It is always a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid any potential lines or delays

There are best Burj Khalifa offers currently available, including package deals, combo tickets, and special promotions that can help you save money on your Burj Khalifa visit. Whether you’re a budget traveler or simply looking to make the most of your trip to Dubai, these offers will help you experience the magic of the Burj Khalifa. For Special Offers you may click the below links:

How to Reach Burj Khalifa?

It is relatively easy to reach the Burj Khalifa which is located in the heart of downtown Dubai and is well connected to the public transportation.

Metro- You can reach Burj Khalifa by the fastest , affordable and convenient mode Metro. Take a Red Line and get off at the Burj Khalif/Dubai Mall Station which is located just a short walk away from the tower.

Taxi- Taxis are readily available but just keep it in mind that during peak hours you may feel a bit traffic congestion in the area.

Please keep it in mind that bus travel in Dubai can be crowded and time-consuming, especially during peak hours

Car-If you are driving your own car you will find plenty of parking options in Dubai Mall including dedicated parking area for visitors to the Burj Khalifa. Keep in mind that parking can be quite expensive in this area, especially during peak hours.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you select, it’s simple to get to and well worth the trip to see the Burj Khalifa. Just make sure to schedule your travel in advance to prevent delays or traffic jams.

Do include the Burj Khalifa in your travel itinerary. You will have the invaluable experience and an incredible chance to witness the amazing vistas from the Burj Khalifa. Do Not Miss out this Unique experience when you are planning to visit Dubai.

Frequently Asked Question FAQs on Burj Khalifa

What is the height of burj khalifa.

Burj Khalifa stands 828-metres (2,716.5 feet) tall, making it the tallest building in the world.

What are 3 interesting facts about Burj Khalifa?

Burj Khalifa is a tallest free standing structure and has a highest number of stories in the world. It has highest outdoor observation deck in the world.

What is the secret of Burj Khalifa?

Tallest Freestanding Structure in the World

How long can I stay in Burj Khalifa?

Visitors can stay At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY level 148 for up to 30 minutes and then to continue the journey to level 125/124. However it’s really up to you how long you want to spend at the top of Burj Khalifa enjoying the views, but most people spend about one hour on average.

Do I have to pre-book the tickets to enter Burj Khalifa?

It is recommended to purchase the tickets in advance, especially on weekends so that you can plan your experience at your leisure.

Is the Burj Khalifa experience safe for expectant or pregnant mothers?

Are our bags allowed at the top burj khalifa.

Personal handbags and purses are allowed. However, shopping bags, sports bags, backpacks, etc. must be stored in the secure baggage check room.

Is it allowed to take the food at the top Burj Khalifa?

No it is not allowed to take At the Top

Is At the Top accessible for disabled guests?

Is there any restaurants at the burj khalifa.

Yes. Atmosphere, Armani Amal, Armani Mediterraneo, and Armani Deli, Armani Hashi. There is also a Lounge.

How long before the scheduled time should I arrive at Burj Khalifa?

It is recommended to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled admission time.

What are the opening hours of Burj Khalifa?

Burj Khalifa is open from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm every day of the week.

How to get to Burj Khalifa?

It is relatively easy to reach the Burj Khalifa which is located in the heart of downtown Dubai and is well connected to the public transportation. You can take Metro, Bus, Taxi or your own transportation.

What is the best time to visit the Burj Khalifa?

Visit in the morning to avoid the crowd or can go during sunset to have the great view.

What are the different types of Burj Khalifa Tickets?

At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY Level 148 +125 + 124 From 399 AED At the Top, Burj Khalifa Level 125 + 124 From 169 AED Please visit the website to check more details on this.

How many floors Burj Khalifa have?

The Burj Khalif has 163 floors.

How much is Burj Khalifa per night?

One night hotel stay in Burj Khalifa would be approximately between AED 2500 to AED 4000 depending on the season and dates you selected for. Prices are subject to change, please visit the respective hotel websites.

What is the dine in cost at Burj Khalifa

The dine in cost at Burj Khalifa would be approximately starts from AED 200 per person. However it is advisable to check the website for the latest menu and prices.

What is so special about Burj Khalifa?

The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest freestanding construction, with the most stories, the highest occupied level. It has the highest outdoor observation deck, the elevator with the longest journey distance, and the tallest service elevator.

Human Resource professional and writer.

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At the Top Sky

Visit the world’s highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace at Level 148 of Burj Khalifa. Get escorted to the SKY lounge for complimentary refreshments.

From 399 AED

Sky Views Observatory

Get a new perspective – with spellbinding 360° views of the city from 219.5 metres above Downtown Dubai.

From 80 AED

Sky Views Edge Walk

Ready to rise to the challenge Sky Views Edge Walk is the most thrilling attraction in Dubai, and the first of its kind in region. It is the city’s highest full circle hands-free walk on a ledge which encircles the top of the Tower’s main pod, over 219.5 above the ground taking thrill seekers to the tippy-top of the skyscraper in Downtown Dubai. This trek takes visitors along the outside of the building — with no windows or other protective barriers standing between them and sky-high views.

From 499 AED

At The Top + Sky Views

Limitless Offer, Push the limit! Elevate your senses with an unforgettable dual experience at At the Top Burj Khalifa and Sky Views Observatory. Incredible views of Dubai await at the world’s highest observation deck, At the Top Burj Khalifa and at Sky Views, exhilarating experiences will set your soul free- glide, slide and take in epic views of the city from Edge walk, a thrill like no other. Experience limitless fun at Dubai’s most incredible attractions.

From 259 AED

At The Top Sky + Sky Views

From 479 AED

At The Top + Edge Walk

Limitless Offer, Incredible views of Dubai await at the world’s highest observation deck, At the Top Burj Khalifa and Sky Views Edge walk. Step out onto the Sky Edge Walk that encircles The Address Sky View from the exterior and get a bird’s eye view of the city & Burj Khalifa far beneath your feet at 219.5 metres above ground level.

From 579 AED

General admission entry

Enjoy panoramic views from levels 125 and 124 at your leisure, with this self guided tour.

From 179 AED

At the Top + Rooftop, The Burj Club

Compliment your journey to At the Top with a 3-course set menu at Rooftop, The Burj Club for an alfresco dining experience overlooking The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. Located on the 3rd floor of the Burj Club.

From 322 AED

At the Top + Dubai Aquarium

From the depths of the ocean to the skies above upgrade your At the Top visit with an enchanting encounter with 485 aquatic species at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Visit to At the Top visit is as per the scheduled time on the ticket. You can visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo anytime on the same day.

From 264 AED

At the Top + Souvenir

Enjoy panoramic views of Dubai from the observation decks 124 and 125, step onto the outside terrace, and indulge in the cityscape with high-powered electronic telescopes and select a souvenir from a curated collection perfect for a cherished memento or a gift for your loved ones.

From 189 AED

Dubai Fountain Lake Ride

Set sail on a traditional Abra ride and witness the world’s largest performing fountains up close.

From 68.25 AED

Dubai Fountain Boardwalk

Step on board a unique viewing platform and get up close to the largest performing fountains in the world!. Only AED 20 per entry Children under the age of 4 years are not permitted.

From 20 AED

Danni in the Desert

Which burj khalifa ticket to buy + best time to visit.

Which At The Top Burj Khalifa Ticket should you buy?

Knowing when to visit the Burj Khalifa can be tough! Should I see the sunrise? Sunset? Should I go for the basic ticket or the VIP lounge? There are so many different options for Burj Khalifa tickets.

I’ve lived in Dubai since 2013 and have lost count of the times I’ve visited the Burj Khalifa or taken people visiting me. I also lived in Downtown Dubai (where the Burj Khalifa is) for years and still love watching the Dubai Fountain.

I’ll give you all the information you need, plus insider tips from what I’ve learned over the years so you can decide what the best option for you is.

Don’t have time to read? Book the Best Burj Khalifa At The Top Tickets 🤩

I’ve included all ticket price options, opening hours for each activity, ages allowed and best times to visit so you can plan your Burj Khalifa visit all in one go! No need to click through 20 different pages. Why do they do this?!

Table of Contents

At The Top Burj Khalifa Ticket Prices

Here’s a quick summary of all of the options for At The Top: (for more information about each experience plus combination tickets, see the sections below)

Burj Khalifa At The Top Ticket Details & Reviews

At The Top is the name of the experience and public observation decks inside the Burj Khalifa. They offer several different depending on what you’d like to do and how much you’d like to spend.

You can also save money by combining the Burj Khalifa ticket with other experiences; these are listed below.

Insider Tip – It’s best to book at least one week in advance for most attractions in Dubai (since 2023, Dubai has become CRAZY busy) and peak times at the Burj Khalifa often get sold out. So the only way to avoid disappointment is to book in advance.

Aim to be at the entrance of Burj Khalifa At The Top, on the lower ground of Dubai Mall, 15 minutes before your entry time . Be aware that walking through Dubai Mall can take 15 to 30 minutes , depending on where you park. The metro is also around a 15 to 20-minute walk to At The Top.

Jump to the tour you want to learn more about:

• At The Top Sunrise – Access to level 124 between 5:30 am and 7:30 am
• At The Top – Access to levels 124 and 125 of the Observation Deck
• At The Top SKY – Access to levels 124, 125 & 148 includes a refreshment lounge (Most recommended)
• The VIP Lounges – Access to levels 152, 153 & 154 along with either an afternoon tea or drinks with canapés

At The Top Sunrise

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 / 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   1.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

Experience the magic of Dubai from new heights with the Burj Khalifa At The Top Sunrise tickets, an exclusive and breathtaking opportunity available only on weekends, Saturdays and Sunday s.

You’ll get to enjoy the world’s tallest building without all the crowds between 5 am and 7:30 am, an awe-inspiring window where the city transitions from night to day. As the sun bathes the skyline in hues of gold, you’ll enjoy a tranquil and crowd-free encounter with this iconic structure.

It is only to the 124th floor, but it does include coffee and a pastry from The Cafe. It is the cheapest ticket available for At The Top Burj Khalifa and gives you 2 hours inside.

It’s best to go early; otherwise, you’ll miss the sunrise. The 7:00 am and 7:30 am tickets can be a way to enjoy the Burj Khalifa at a slightly lower price, with fewer crowds, plus the coffee and a pastry.

There are two cafes, one on the Ground floor and one on the 124th floor – You need to go down to the ground floor for the hot drink and food included in the ticket.

We had a ticket for 5.30, which we were very happy about. It was worth getting up early because we didn’t have to wait 5 minutes to get to the top. So you can first see Dubai at night and then watch the sunrise. The time drags on a bit because the sun doesn’t rise until 7 a.m., but we were able to secure a spot at the window so we could take photos, which the visitors who came later were no longer able to do. The view was great and the elevator ride was also very impressive! Noelle ( Read more reviews )

Rise and shine, and seize the weekend in a way that only the Burj Khalifa can offer.

Ticket Information

Open times : 5 am to 7:30 am Saturdays & Sundays only

Children under 4 – Free Children 4 to 11 – 124 AED Adults – 159 AED

🌅 Book Burj Khalifa At The Top Sun Rise Tickets 🌅

At The Top – Levels 124 & 125

Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure with Burj Khalifa At The Top tickets, unlocking access to the iconic observation decks on Levels 124 and 125 . No frills, just the pure thrill of being at the top of the world’s tallest building.

The Observation decks sit at 456 meters (1496 ft) high and these tickets are self-guided for up to 2 hours .

Marvel at panoramic views of Dubai through floor-to-ceiling windows and step out onto the open-air terrace for a unique experience so high up! You’ll enter on Level 124, where the open-air observation deck is located. During busy times, there can be a wait to go outside.

There is also a cafe and gift shop on this floor.

Level 125 is an enclosed area that offers a 360-degree view of Dubai. Make sure to check out the viewfinders, which display pictures of old Dubai and different views at various times. Additionally, there’s a VR experience and a green screen for souvenir photos.

The two different prices are due to peak and off-peak tickets. Sunset is the most popular and best time to visit due to the beautiful golden hues across Dubai, but it is busy!

This ticket does not include ‘skip the line ‘ and the lift (elevator for my American friends) queue and can be up to 2 hours long .

Insider tip – If you’re planning to go for sunset, make sure to book at least 90 minutes before sunset and potentially even 2 hours before during busy times. Make sure to check the sunset time before you go! It’s not worth paying the peak price if you miss the sunset.

Amazing! Just breathtaking! Had to stand in the queue to get the ticket but rest was super easy. Jonathan ( Read more reviews )

Open times : 7:00 am till Midnight (Last entry is 11 pm) Peak time: 4 pm to 6:30 pm

Children under 4 – Free Children 4 to 11 – 145 or 165 AED Adults – 179 or 259 AED

🎟️ Book Burj Khalifa At The Top Tickets at the cheapest price 🎟️

At The Top SKY – Level 124, 125 & 148

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 / 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2 hours | ✅  Book it!

Elevate your visit to the next level with Burj Khalifa At The Top SKY tickets, where you literally get to sit in the sky on the 148th-floor luxury lounge, sitting at an incredible 555 meters (1821 ft) above the ground.

This ticket includes a “skip the line” pass for a quicker entry and exit compared to the basic At The Top ticket.

You’ll get complimentary Arabic coffee and dates while you wait for the lifts if there’s a wait and a second cup to welcome you to the lounge. Enjoy a personalised tour, complimentary refreshments and snacks, plus the freedom to roam to the lower floors after you finish.

I recommend this as the best option instead of queueing for two hours and dealing with the crowds on the lower observation decks. The Top Sky also offers unlimited refreshments and snacks, allowing you to relax and enjoy the view from the clouds. It’s really worth the extra money.

The only downside is that it is a little expensive for younger children over four, but skipping the queue to avoid a meltdown is worth it and they can enjoy lots of juice at the lounge.

Insider tip – According to the visitor information, you’re only allowed 30 minutes in the lounge. However, it seems it isn’t enforced unless it’s very busy.

I 100% recommend paying to go up to the higher 148th floor. Whilst the views aren’t too different from the 125th floor, you get to skip the queues (which can be an hour or more). There are also a lot less people on the 148th floor. You also get excellent service, free drinks and snacks as much as you want. I’m so happy I chose this option over the regular tickets Eleanor ( Read more reviews )

Open times : 9 am till 11 pm (Last entry is 10 pm) Peak time: 9 am till 6 pm

Children under 4 – Free Children over 4 & Adults – 399 or 553 AED

🤩 Book the best Burj Khalifa At The Top Tickets 🤩

The VIP Lounge – Levels 152, 153 & 154

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 / 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3-4 hours | ✅  Book it!

Experience a touch of royalty with Burj Khalifa At The Top VIP Lounge tickets, where luxury meets the clouds.

Your journey begins with skip-the-line access , whisking you away to the world’s tallest building. You’ll get to enjoy an Arabic coffee with dates while you wait.

As you ascend to Level 154, you’ll get to savour the panoramic views of Dubai through floor-to-ceiling windows in a much more exclusive setting. The three floors mean no waiting for a seat or table like the Sky Lounge.

You’ll be greeted by a sparking wine and enjoy a more substantial meal than the snacks offered on Level 148. You can purchase additional alcoholic drinks if you choose or unlimited soft drinks for no extra cost. You can spend unlimited time in the lounge, plus there are secluded areas for those wanting more privacy from fellow VIP guests.

There is also an outdoor terrace where you’ll find hardly any crowds.

I wouldn’t recommend this option if you have children over four, as you will pay full price despite them not being able to have alcoholic drinks and unlikely to eat much food. If you have someone to look after your kids with you or a nanny, then I’d treat them to Sky lounge tickets while you enjoy the VIP lounge. 😉

In the higher levels, it isn’t easy to see the fountains. So if you plan to stay till the evening, it’s better to go to the lower levels for a better view of the dancing Dubai Fountain . As you can visit all the levels of At The Top with a VIP ticket.

It is truly a unique experience being in a building this high up with very luxurious food and live entertainment. Similar to what you would pay to dine in the Burj Khalifa at At.Mosphere, so it’s definitely worth the higher price.

Insider tip – Go for a late lunch here around 3 pm, relax, and wait until the sunset for an amazing experience. Then, wander down each level and watch the Dubai Fountain after nightfall.

We skipped very long queues and went straight up to floor 154. Where we got lovely food and drink there was an array of sandwiches and dessert. Very chilled out atmosphere and great views. Well worth the money. ( Read more reviews )

Open times : 9 am till 11 pm (Last entry is 9 pm)

Children under 4 – Free Children 4+ & Adults – 769 AED per person

💎 Book VIP lounge Burj Khalifa At The Top Tickets 💎

Burj Khalifa Timings

The Burj Khalifa At The Top observation decks are open daily at the following times below:

Levels 123 & 123:

Weekdays 7 am till Midnight Weekends 5 am till Midnight Last entry at 11 pm

9 am till 11 pm Last entry at 10 pm

Levels 152 to 154

9 am till 11 pm Last entry at 9 pm

Other useful times to know

Dubai fountain display times.

Lunch: 1 pm & 1:30 pm Fridays Lunch: 1:30 pm & 2 pm Evening: 6 pm till 11 pm

Burj Khalifa laser show times

7:15 pm till 11:15 pm

Guide to Visiting the Burj Khalifa

Going up the Burj Khalifa is definitely one of those Dubai bucket list items!

I go through every possible detail you can think of so you can visit the Burj Khalifa like a pro!

Burj Khalifa Levels

Here’s a list of what’s on each floor so you can ensure you won’t miss anything:

Lower Ground & Ground

• Ticket sales
• Burj Khalifa timeline exhibit
• Photo souvenir
• Burj Khalifa construction exhibit
• Large gift shop

If you buy your tickets online, you’ll exchange your ticket for a sticker to access the different levels.

• Outdoor observation deck
• Indoor observation deck
• Windows with wings for photos
• Penny machine
• The Cafe 124
• Green screen photography souvenir
• VR Burj Khalifa climbing experience
• Digital observation screens
• Facts about the Burj Khalifa exhibit
• SKY ticket lounge
• Boutique gift shop
• Snacks & refreshments bar
• Outdoor observation lounge

What to Expect At The Top Burj Khalifa

The queues for At The Top can be very long. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the whole of Dubai. Only so many people can fit in the lift simultaneously to go up.

So plan for an extra two hours if you book a ticket without a skip-the-line. Often the queue for a ticket or to show your entry ticket is shorter but the lift queue is very long !

Visiting At The Top takes around one and a half to two hours once you’re up, as you’ll typically need to wait to take a photo at the various different spots due to all the people.

You can also take your time to enjoy a coffee from one of the cafes or relax in the lounge if you buy Sky Tickets or VIP tickets . This will add on more time, depending on how long you want to sit and enjoy the view.

It’s possible to visit the Burj Khalifa in a shorter time if you don’t read all the displays and visit outside peak hours when the queue is smaller. The quietest times are in the morning, it gets busy around 3 or 4 pm.

Level 125 tends to be quieter than 124, so make sure to get the full experience by heading up those stairs. If you do the Sky Lounge or VIP lounge, the VIP lounge is the least crowded.

Best time to visit Burj Khalifa

The best time to visit the Burj Khalifa is from golden hour until sunset . You’ll see amazing views and get incredible photos as the beautiful colour tones shimmer off Dubai’s many glass skyscrapers.

To catch this time, you’ll have to arrive at At The Top between 3 pm and 4 pm; however, I would highly recommend going for the more expensive tickets during this time, either At The Top Sky or the VIP lounge.

If you go for the regular tickets, you must book an earlier ticket to account for the lift (elevator) queue of up to 2 hours.

If you buy VIP tickets , then it’s nice to get there early and enjoy the lounge before the sunset. Taking in both daytime and nighttime views.

If you go early in the morning during winter, fog can cover the buildings and block visibility but it is a unique experience. The fog usually clears as it gets later in the morning. Seeing the buildings peeking out from beneath the clouds is surreal.

So make sure to check the weather when planning what day to visit. A sandstorm or hazy day can also limit visibility and these are more common in summer. Ideally, you want a nice clear day so you can take those incredible photos.

After sunset, the city does look amazing, all lit up at night. This is one of my favourite times to go to the Burj Khalifa to enjoy the view, but it isn’t as good for photography.

When is the Burj Khalifa the busiest?

The busiest time is from 3 pm onwards and is due to people wanting to catch the sunset . It is also when most people in Gulft start to go out, unlike Europe, where places are busiest in the mornings. You’ll find malls in Dubai get busier around this time also.

It is also more expensive to access At The Top Burj Khalifa during these peak times.

• At The Top: 4 pm till 6:30 pm
• At The Top Sky: 9 am till 6 pm

Insider tip – If you want to visit the Burj Khalifa during the sunset, it’s best to book a time slot that is 2 hours before sunset.

When is the Burj Khalifa less crowded?

Burj Khalifa is less crowded from early in the morning until early afternoon around 3 pm. Dubai Mall will also be less crowded during this time.

Another less crowded time for At The Top is the evening slot between 8 pm and 10 pm however the mall will be very busy during this time.

If you’re going more for the view than to take photos, this is the perfect time. It’s quieter and it’s a really beautiful view, seeing all the lights twinkle below.

Combined ticket offers with Burj Khalifa

This is a great way to save money if you plan to visit other tourist attractions while in Dubai. These are some of the options:

Burj Khalifa with Dubai Aquarium

The Dubai Aquarium is also located inside Dubai Mall, so it’s an easy one to combine with the Burj Khalifa.

🐟 Burj Khalifa At The Top Ticket with Dubai Aquarium 🐟

Burj Khalifa and Sky Views

This is the famous glass slide you’ve seen all over social media and is also located in Downtown Dubai, opposite the Burj Khalifa, so it’s an easy one to include on the same day.

Burj Khalifa with Burj Club Meal

If you’re looking for a more affordable option of dining inside the Burj Khalifa, this is a great option that offers a 3 course meal in the lovely Burj Club. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Dubai Fountain while enjoying visiting the Burj Khalifa At The Top also.

You can buy a multi-pass that allows you entry in multiple Dubai attractions over a set time in order to save money.

The Dubai Pass

This pass gives you access to over 40 different Dubai attractions and can save you up to 60% off entry prices along with being able to skip the line at some attractions.

The pass can be used for At The Top but you must book 48 hours in advance and it does not include peak price timings!

There are a few different options if you want the Burj Khalifa included with the pass:

• Dubai Flexi Attractions Pass – For 3, 5 or 7 attraction tickets & valid for 7 days
• Dubai Unlimited Pass – Unlimited attractions over 3 or 5 days

*Please note you can only enter an attraction once per person, for example you couldn’t go to the Burj Khalifa twice if you had an unlimited pass

For more details about the pass and to purchase, check out the Flexi Pass or the Ulimited Pass from Get Your Guide

Ways to get to the Burj Khalifa

Hop on Hop Off Tour Bus

If you’re planning to see a lot of sights in Dubai, the Hop on Hop off Bus is the perfect way to get around Dubai without needing to rent a car.

These open-top double-decker buses have a complimentary audio guide so you can learn about Dubai as you travel around. They stop at all the main tourist attractions without stopping elsewhere. So ideal for those who want an easy, no-stress way to see the sights.

If you want to learn more about where exactly the Hop on Hop off Dubai buses stop , my previous article covers them in detail.

🚌 See the ticket options for a Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour 🚌

Getting to At The Top Burj Khalifa by metro is easy . I highly recommend this way if your hotel is close to a metro stop, as it’ll save you the headache of trying to find a parking space or paying for parking.

Take the red metro line to the ‘Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall’ stop. There are air-conditioned tunnels with travelators connecting directly to Dubai Mall. It is approximately a 15-minute walk to Dubai Mall and will take another 5 minutes to get to At The Top.

The Metro comes out on the upper level. You’ll need to head down the escalators to the lower ground, follow the signs or ask customer service the way. There’s also a handy Dubai Mall app you can download before you head out which has a virtual map.

The metro cost is cheap, depending on how many zones you go through. Costs are between 4 AED and 8.50 AED ($1 to $2 USD) each way or between 8 AED and 17 AED ($2 to $5) for the gold class.

Be aware – If you plan to visit The Armani Hotel or At.Mosphere, it’s better to get a taxi from the mall as it’s a long walk from Dubai Mall, plus the Burj Khalifa driveway isn’t suitable for walking.

Taxi is pretty easy and if you ask for them to drop you at At The Top, they’ll usually know the way. You can be dropped off either at Fashion Avenue or Dubai Fountain. It takes around 5 minutes to reach the lower ground for At The Top.

If you do get a newer taxi driver. For At The Top, you need to access it via Dubai Mall and the main entrance to Burj Khalifa. So make sure they don’t drop you where Armani Hotel is. Otherwise, you’ll have a very long walk to At The Top.

If you accidentally end up on the wrong side of the mall, close to Grand Parking. Then grab one of the taxi buggy carts inside the mall for 20 to 30 AED ($5.50 to $8 USD) if you don’t feel like walking.

There is lots of parking in Dubai Mall but certain floors can get very busy, especially those close to the lower ground and ground floors. I recommend parking in Fashion Avenue as this is the closest. Make your way to the lower ground floor from the car park, follow the signs for At The Top.

Cinema Parking is also close depending on which end you park. You want the side closer to Dubai Fountain. Avoid the Grand Parking as it’s on the opposite side of the mall.

Insider tip – The car parking floors have different numbers to the mall floors which is confusing but check the plastic sign around the buttons. It tells you which floor corresponds to which car parking floor. Be aware that not all lifts go to the lower ground level inside the mall.

You can also do valet parking at one of The Address hotels, meet the minimum spend for the hotel (usually around 100 AED – though they don’t always check your bill). It’s a nice way to grab a coffee and snack while enjoying the convenience of valet parking for free!

Hotels Near Burj Khalifa

If it’s a dream of yours to stay close to the Burj Khalifa or you just love staying in the centre of the action. Here are all the best hotels for a wide range of budgets!

Check out my full article here with hotels with a view of the Burj Khalifa

Affordable Hotels Near Burj Khalifa

There aren’t many budget options available as Downtown is the most expensive area for both real estate and staying in Dubai. There are more budget hotels located just outside of the Downtown area. Business Bay is right next door to Downtown and offers much more affordability.

The Rove Downtown

These are super cool hot els that have a hipster remote work kind of feel with lots of shared areas, laundromats and a restaurant that feature long xc wooden benches.

You can book The Rove, Downtown Dubai via Booking.com here

Mid-range and Luxury Hotels

Radis son blu dubai waterfront , business bay.

This modern hotel in Business Bay, has lovely views of the Burj Khalifa and offers more affordability than the Downtown area. You book direct here with Radisson or via Booking.com . It’s great value for a 5 star hotel and the location!

If you wanting a Burj Khalifa view room, you will typically need to pay a premium.

Burj Khalifa Facts

Do you know how the Burj Khalifa got its name? Originally the Burj Khalifa was going to be called Burj Dubai but was changed to the Burj Khalifa after the UAE ruler and announced when it opened.

Reportedly this was due to the large investment Abu Dhabi had made into Dubai after the 2008 global recession

• The Burj Khalifa opened on 4th January 2010
• Construction started in January 2004 for a total of 6 years
• It is the World’s Tallest freestanding structure at 828m (2,716 ft)
• It also holds the title of the highest occupied floor, highest building, highest number of stories, elevator with the longest travel distance and tallest service elevator in the world
• Along with the highest outdoor observation deck in the world
• It cost $1.5 billion USD to build
• The building is multifunctional, containing a hotel, restaurants, offices and private residences.
• The height of the tower was kept a secret until the building was finished
• The very highest floors of the Burj Khalifa aren’t usable
• Bill Baker was the engineer behind the Burj Khalifa who created a building that was not only structurally sound but could withstand the climate and sandstorms of Dubai at such a height
• The architect who designed the building was Adrian Smith while working at Skidmore Owings & Merrill
• The building is inspired by the ‘Spider Lily’ which is native to the desert
• It is owned by Emaar Properties

Saudi Arabia has a tower planned called ‘Jeddah Tower,’ previously ‘Kingdom Tower’ to beat the height of the Burj Khalifa by 180m (591 ft). Construction was halted but the plans have been revived again. According to the plans, it would be a total of 1008m (3,307 ft).

After Jeddah Tower, Dubai announced plans to beat its own world record with ‘Dubai Creek Tower’ but hasn’t released what its height would be. This building was put on hold in 2018 until Emaar announced it would be having a redesign in 2023. The height still hasn’t been confirmed; however, Emaar founder said it is now unlikely to beat the Burj Khalifa height.

FAQs about visiting Burj Khalifa

Is it worth going to level 148 burj khalifa.

Absolutely! Visiting Level 148 of the Burj Khalifa is a great experience and considered well worth it by visitors. The observatory on Level 148 offers a more exclusive and luxurious setting with fast track queue, fewer crowds, added amenities, snacks and drinks.

What is the difference between level 125 and 148 Burj Khalifa?

The Burj Khalifa offers two distinct experiences at Levels 125 and 148. Level 125 is the primary observation deck, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai along with a green screen photobooth, VR experience and high tech viewing gear. Level 148 offers a premium experience for an additional cost. This luxurious setting includes a lounge with complimentary refreshments and a dedicated guest ambassador tour. 148 offers a more intimate experience with fewer crowds plus a fast track queue.

  Book Levels, 123, 124 & 148 here

Is there Disabled access for At The Top Burj Khalifa?

Yes, Burj Khalifa offers disabled access with lifts and ramps along with disabled facilities. However service animals are not allowed.

Is At The Top The Burj Khalifa Khalifa suitable for small children?

Yes, all ticket options are available for all ages and is a great experience for those with small children. Though queueing can be long at peak times, so it’s best to visit early morning or pay more for the SKY or VIP tickets. As this will avoid them getting bored queueing an hour or more.

Final thoughts on the best Burj Khalifa ticket

As a local, this is the best way to visit Burj Khalifa:

Buy the At The Top SKY ticket which gives you access to the 124, 125 & 148 floor and go for sunset, which is best at a 4 pm ticket. This ticket you get to jump the queues, which can be up to two hours long!

At 4pm, you’ll get time to explore during day time and take the famous Burj Khalifa pictures you see all over Instagram. This also allows you access to floor 148 which is less crowded.

You can then sit and enjoy the lounge as the sun sets. Perfect!

If you really want to go all out, including arriving at thw Burj Khalifa in a luxury vehicle with access to the beautiful VIP lounge, then I highly recommend this VIP package including lunch or afternoon tea plus half a bottle of champagne or sparking win e. Then finally I would go grab a coffee from one of the many restaurants with outdoor seating close to the fountains and sit outside to watch the dancing Dubai fountains and laser show while relaxing, as the perfect end to my evening.

Want to learn more about the Burj Khalifa or other attractions in Dubai? These helpful articles have you covered:

• All restaurants inside the Burj Khalifa , which one will you choose to dine in?
• Guide to Dubai Fountain show times and where is best to watch
• Best hotels near Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa for your stay in Dubai
• The absolute best restaurants with a view of the Burj Khalifa
• All restaurants inside the Burj Al Arab , experience the best luxury hotel in Dubai
• Learn more about the Burj Al Arab, facts you didn’t know about this 7 star hotel
• Things to do inside Mall of Emirates , Dubai’s favourite mall!
• The ultimate Dubai dresscode , what to wear in Dubai so you fit in with the locals

Read more Visit Dubai Guides

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Danni first moved to Dubai in 2013 from her native country of England and fell in love with Dubai and the Arabian Gulf. She loves to share helpful information about Dubai for those planning to visit Dubai or thinking to move to UAE. She prides herself on giving a fully honest opinion of the lifestyle along with insights into the culture that she's learnt in depth due to converting to Islam and marrying a Saudi national. For more about Danni B and to work with her, visit about me

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At the top of Burj Khalifa in Dubai: How to visit Burj Khalifa like a pro

Are you looking to visit the top of Burj Khalifa Dubai? This is the only guide you need to plan your visit to this iconic tower that defines the Dubai skyline. Find out what makes At the Top of Burj Khalifa one of the best things to do in Dubai and why you should make it part of your travel itinerary for Dubai.

We give you a walk-through of our visit and share plenty of tips to make the most of your experience. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect from the Burj Khalifa At the Top experience. We also have plenty of photos to share, from the observation deck and the panoramic views to the elevator animations and even the exhibitions. Plus, discover some fun Burj Khalifa facts, more things to do in Burj Park and the best hotels with Burj Khalifa views.

… Affiliate links are sprinkled throughout the site content. Clicking on such a hyperlink and booking on the accommodation platform it refers to, may result in a commission for CosmopoliClan at no additional cost to you. As Amazon Associates, we also earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, visit the  Disclaimer  page. …

Table of Contents

Quick facts about the Burj Khalifa in Dubai

Before we tell you all about our visit to this Dubai landmark, let’s go over some interesting Burj Khalifa facts in order to realize just how gigantic this tower really is.

How tall is Burj Khalifa? The Burj Khalifa height is 828 m or 2716.5 ft. In comparison, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is 330 m or 2716.5 ft tall and One World Trade Center in New York City is 541.3 m or 1,776 ft tall. Check out the full list of tallest buildings in the world here . The Burj Khalifa’s telescope spire alone is over 200 m or 656 ft in height.

How many floors does Burj Khalifa have? The Burj Khalifa has 163 floors but the three top floors are reserved for communications and broadcasting purposes. It takes no less than 2909 stairs to reach level 160.

How many Guinness World Records does the Burj Khalifa hold? The Burj Khalifa currently holds the world records of tallest building, tallest man-made structure, tallest free-standing structure, highest number of stories, highest occupied floor, tallest elevator in a building, highest restaurant from ground level and highest outdoor observation deck.

Where did architect Adrian Smith get his inspiration? The Spider Lily, a local desert flower, served as inspiration for the design of Burj Khalifa.

Who owns Burj Khalifa? Emaar Properties, one of the largest real estate development companies in the world, is the Burj Khalifa owner. Emaar developped and owns many other commercial buildings in Dubai, such as Address Hotels and Resorts, Vida Hotels and Resorts, Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Opera, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, Souk Al Bahar and the Dubai Fountain . You really can’t miss it either, since the name Emaar crowns dozens of skyscrapers in Downtown Dubai.

Is the Burj Khalifa a hotel? The Burj Khalifa is home to a hotel but it’s not all hotel. The Armani Dubai Hotel is located on the lowest floors up to and including level 8. The Armani Dubai Hotel Suites are located on levels 38 and 39.  In addition, there are 144 Armani Residences, one and two bedroom luxury apartments, on levels 9 to 16. Most other floors inside Burj Khalifa consist of residences, about 900 in total, and some house offices. There are also 3 sky lobby levels with spas, pools and outdoor decks on the Burj Khalifa. You can find them at levels 43, 67 and 123. So basically, the Burj Khalifa is a vertical city.

How many observation decks does Burj Khalifa have? The Burj Khalifa has two observation decks. At the Top Burj Khalifa is the first observation deck, located at levels 124 and 125 at a height of 456 m or 1496 ft. The second observation deck is At the Top Burj Khalifa SKY, located at level 148 at a height of 555 m or 1820 ft. In addition, there’s also the The Lounge Burj Khalifa, which also offers an outdoor terrace, on levels 152, 153 and 154 at a height of 585 m or 1919 ft.

What is the best time to go up Burj Khalifa?

This is Dubai’s star attraction, so expect crowds any time of the day and week. If possible, avoid the weekend (Friday and Saturday) especially if you’re looking to book a popular sunset time slot. Apart from that, the best time to visit Burj Khalifa At the Top entirely depends on your preference and budget.

Tickets to Burj Khalifa At the Top are available up to 90 days ahead.

Burj Khalifa At the Top at sunrise + tickets

Sunrise tickets are only available on Saturday and Sunday and between 4:30 am and 7 am. They include a complimentary morning treat after the sunrise experience. These are only available for the At the Top (on levels 124 and 125) not for the At the Top SKY (on level 148).

To time it right, look up the exact sunrise timing on your preferred here . Then, book your time slot about 90 to 60 minutes before that sunrise time.

Note that early mornings, especially during winter, can get a bit hazy. We weren’t prepared for that and so our sunrise At the Top turned out to be different than we had expected. We didn’t get the clear view (and photos) we were hoping for but then again, the hazy sunset views add a little mystique.

Sunrise tickets to At the Top Burj Khalifa cost 139 AED per adult and 99 AED per child (4 – 12 years). Note that also the GoCity Dubai All-inclusive and GoCity Dubai Explorer passes include access to At the Top levels 124 and 125.

Burj Khalifa At the Top daytime experience + tickets

At the Top daytime tickets (for levels 124 and 125) are available every day between 9 am and 3:30 pm. Drinks or snacks are not included. At the Top SKY tickets (for level 148) are available for both daytime and sunset every day between 12 pm and 6 pm and do include some refreshments.

During the day, you have a higher chance of clear and sunny skies. If you’re looking for the best views, then this is the best time to visit. Late mornings, shortly after sunrise, and late evenings, shortly after sunset, tend to be less crowded than the afternoons. On weekdays, that is, on weekends you can expect crowds any time of day.

Daytime tickets to At the Top Burj Khalifa cost 159 AED per adult and 119 AED per child (4 – 12 years). Daytime tickets to At the Top SKY Burj Khalifa cost 543 AED (the same price applies to both adults and children). Note that also the GoCity Dubai All-inclusive and GoCity Dubai Explorer passes include access to At the Top levels 124 and 125.

Burj Khalifa At the Top at sunset + tickets

At the Top sunset tickets (for levels 124 and 125) are available every day between 4 pm and 6:30 pm. Drinks or snacks are not included. At the Top SKY tickets (for level 148) are available for both daytime and sunset between 12 pm and 6 pm and do include some refreshments.

To time it right, look up the exact sunset timing on your preferred here . Then, book your time slot about 90 minutes before that sunset time.

Sunset is the most popular time to visit Burj Khalifa… and for good reason. You get to see Dubai at golden hour, at sunset and, if you linger long enough, after dark. Plus, you might even get to see the Dubai Fountain show from above. The performance soundtrack is even played at the observation decks so that you don’t have to miss a thing.

The downsides are that you’ll have to put up with the crowds and that Burj Khalifa At the Top ticket prices are at their highest at sunset. Do try and avoid booking your sunset experience on Friday or Saturday evening for the most comfortable sunset experience. Also, it might be worth booking the upgraded At the Top SKY experience because the observation deck on level 148 is less crowded than the ones on levels 124 and 125.

Sunset tickets to At the Top Burj Khalifa cost 234 AED per adult and 137 AED per child (4 – 12 years). Sunset tickets to At the Top SKY Burj Khalifa cost 543 AED (the same price applies to both adults and children). Note that also the GoCity Dubai All-inclusive and GoCity Dubai Explorer passes include access to At the Top levels 124 and 125.

Burj Khalifa At the Top nighttime experience + tickets

At the Top nighttime tickets (for levels 124 and 125) are available every day between 7 pm and 11 pm. Drinks or snacks are not included. At the Top SKY nighttime tickets (for level 148) are also available between 12 pm and 6 pm and do include some refreshments.

When the sun is down and the crowds flock to the Burj Park promenade to see the fountain shows and to admire the Burj Khalifa in its twinkling night patterns, you could watch the lively scene from At the Top. This time of day allows you to see this glamorous come to life for another night of entertainment.

Nighttime tickets to At the Top Burj Khalifa cost 159 AED per adult and 119 AED per child (4 – 12 years). Sunset tickets to At the Top SKY Burj Khalifa cost 389 AED per adult and 384 per child (4-12 years). Note that also the GoCity Dubai All-inclusive and GoCity Dubai Explorer passes include access to At the Top levels 124 and 125.

What it’s like to be At the Top of Burj Khalifa at sunrise

Oh, the will power it took this family of four to get out of bed at 4:20 am and into a taxi by 4:45 am! It’s not what you expect to do when on vacation in Dubai. And there aren’t many experiences that are worth that sacrifice. Then again, the Burj Khalifa At the Top is not just another experience, now is it?

Burj Khalifa tickets and arrival

We purchased our tickets about 2 weeks before our visit. Upon booking, we checked the sunrise time for that day. It was planned at 6:30 am. So, we booked tickets with the 5:30 time slot.

There’s no entrance to Burj Khalifa from the outside, only from the Dubai Mall. Our plan was to arrive at Dubai Mall at around 5:15 so that we’d have enough time to locate the At the Top entrance. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen and our 30-minute taxi ride turned into a highly stressful 1 hour and 15 minute ride. The reason? Dubai Ride, a cycling event that takes places just once a year. As early as 4 a.m., all roads around Downtown Dubai were closed. The taxi driver frantically tried to reach Dubai Mall from all sides but it was pointless. He finally dropped us of as close to Dubai Mall as he could get and we walked – or rather ran – our way to Dubai Mall. From there, we still had to locate the entrance to At the Top. We finally arrived at 5:55 am.

It sucked. And in a country that prides itself on its high level of service, one would at least expect a courtesy call or email about this road block. But nothing. What a highly stressful start of what was supposed to be one of the highlights of our trip.

Elevators in Burj Khalifa

Fortunately, the arrival lounge was empty. As in, really empty. As a result, we found ourselves in the elevators in no time.

The observatory double-deck elevators are quite spectacular. They reach a speed of 10 m or 33 ft per second. As a result, it takes less than 60 seconds to reach the At the Top observation deck at levels 124 and 125. There’s a specially-designed projection that creates an immersive experience.

Burj Khalifa observation deck at levels 124 and 125

Upon arrival, we noticed the crowds on the observation deck at level 124. At first, when the first rays of sun started to peek through the haze, it was a bit of struggle to get close to a window. But things soon got better and, as the sun rose higher, visitors felt more comfortable to leave their spot and move on the next window.

Even though the layer of fog did somewhat obstruct the views, it gave us the impression as if we were peeking through the clouds.

The innovative telescopes that dot the observation deck are viewfinders that help identify some of the landmarks that dot the Dubai cityscape. As the haze started to clear, the views At the Top of Burj Khalifa stretched out further and the crowds became less.

We didn’t really explore the gift shop on level 124 but did wait in line to take a picture in front of the wings by American artist Colette Miller.

Level 125 is home to a 360-degree panorama known as the “The Falcon’s Eye” and a virtual reality game where the glass cracks underneath you.

Gift shop and exhibits at floor level

After another exciting elevator ride down, visitors are led through a walkway where the design, construction and highlights of the Burj Khalifa are being displayed. When you reach the escalator, you can either go up to access the lounge for a morning refreshment (which is part of the sunrise tour of Burj Khalifa) or down towards the exit. The visit ends at the gift shop where you get the chance to purchase Burj Khalifa Lego, Burj Khalifa Monopoly and plenty of other games, gadgets and souvenirs.

How long does a visit to top of Burj Khalifa last?

A Burj Khalifa At the Top visit typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, crowds not taken into account. Obviously, the Burj Khalifa At the Top SKY experience will take longer since you’ll first spend about 30 minutes (that’s as long as you’re allowed to stay) at the level 148 observation deck to then move on to levels 124 and 125.

We arrived at Dubai Mall at 5:45 am for our At the Top sunrise experience. It took us about 10 minutes to find the At the Top entrance and we checked in at 5:55 am. We arrived at the observation deck at 6:10 and watched the sunrise for about 45 minutes. Then we waited in line for about 10 minutes to take a photo in front of the hand-painted wings

By 7:10 am we were back at the ground level and ready for our morning treat.

Note that we were fortunate enough to arrive at an empty counter so we never had to deal with crowds and could catch the first elevator up and down. This is quite exceptional. We’ve heard of waiting times of up to 1.5 hours to just get to the elevator.

Is the Burj Khalifa At the Top experience worth it?

In all honesty, the Burj Khalifa At the Top wasn’t our favorite Dubai activity by far. Our highlights were the Platinum Heritage Desert Safari and the Dubai fountain shows at Burj Park and at The Pointe. But we did want to see what the hype was about. And we know that, if we had passed on the opportunity to visit the world’s tallest building, we would have probably regretted it. So, yes, we’re glad we visited but we would advise to keep your expectations in check.

Other Burj Khalifa experiences

Looking for that extra touch when visit Burj Khalifa? Here are some options to make your Burj Khalifa visit extra memorable.

At the Top Burj Khalifa at levels 124 and 125 plus lunch or dinner at level 3

This package includes the standard At the Top experience at levels 124 and 125 plus an add-on meal with panoramic views.

After your visit to the observation deck on levels 124 and 125, you take the elevator to the ground floor where you’ll be met by a staff member. He or she will escort you to the residence level 3, where the restaurant is located. Indulge in a 3-course meal while enjoying the front-row seats to Burj Park and the Dubai Fountain (which may or may not be in action, depending on the chosen time).

This package is available from 12 pm to 2 pm (lunch option) and from 7 pm to 9 pm (dinner option). It’s priced at 284 AED per person (the same price applied to children aged 3 and up). Note that beverages are not included.

The Burj Club Saturday brunch at level 3

The Burj Club is a luxurious fitness and wellness retreat located at level 3 of Burj Khalifa. On Saturdays afternoon, from 4 to 7 pm, you can enjoy a BBQ Brunch on the beautiful rooftop overlooking the Dubai Fountain.

Brunch rates costs 249 AED for the soft beverages package or 349 AED with in-house beverages package. Children between the ages of 7 and 12 pay 140 AED. Note that this is a seasonal package that may not be available during the hot summer months.

The Burj Club pool pass at level 3

How about a dip in the rooftop pool of The Burj Club? Relax under the sunny skies and swim some laps all while taking in unparalleled views of Burj Park.

A Burj Club pool pass costs 150 AED on weekdays and 200 AED during weekends.

The Lounge Experience at levels 152, 153 and 154

Are you looking to elevate your experience? Then the world’s highest lounge is where you want to be. That’s exactly what The Lounge experience offers. Admire the Dubai cityscape from a height of 575 m or 1 886 ft at levels 152, 153 and 154 of Burj Khalifa.

It includes access to the outdoor observation deck as well as to a delicious meal. Depending on the time of your choice, that could be a delectable breakfast, luxurious afternoon tea, or bubbly sunset experience. The evening experience also includes a live music performance or DJ-set.

The Lounge at Burj Khalifa tickets cost 749 AED per adult and this experience is available from 11 am to 7:30 pm. Note that this is an adults-only activity.

High tea at At.mosphere at level 122

This package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off and a delectable high tea at the highest restaurant in the world with guaranteed window seating. You’ll love the endless panoramic views and exquisite service from the exclusive At.mosphere at level 122.

Tickets for this package are priced at 900 AED per person. Children from the age of 10 are welcome to join.

Note that this package does not include access to any of the outdoor observation decks.

Sunset VIP Lounge Experience at level 123

Yet another exclusive Burj Khalifa experience. This package includes a pick-up in a luxury car from your Downtown Dubai accommodation at 4 pm, an express elevator ride and a front-row seat to the panorama at level 123 (right below the crowded At the Top observation deck). This is the perfect package for a special occasion.

Tickets to the VIP Lounge Experience at sunset cost AED 3,287.35 for a party of three. This is an adults-only activity. Note that drop-off is not included. Drinks or meals are also excluded and a minimum spend applies.

The lounge at level 123 is a corporate lounge and not part of At.mosphere at level 122.

Lunch at the Lounge at level 123

This packages includes a pick-up in a luxury car from your Downtown Dubai accommodation at 4 pm, an express elevator ride, a panoramic lounge spot from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm at level 123 (right below the crowded At the Top observation deck) and a lavish lunch menu with a selection of unlimited drinks.

Tickets to the Lunch at the Lounge cost 1710 AED per person. Children aged 6 years and up are welcome at the same rate.

Burj Khalifa after dark

I have to admit that we returned to our hotel right after our visit to Burj Khalifa to get some r & r. We did get up at before the break of dawn, after all. It wasn’t until the late afternoon that we returned to Burj Park to explore more of Downtown Dubai.

Dubai park is actually more of a wide grass-lined promenade at the base of Burj Khalifa. It borders Burj Lake (also known as Dubai Fountain Lake) and is connected to the Downtown area by means of several bridges. In the afternoon, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll. You can rent bikes or take a lake ride in one of the swan boats. The park is dotted with interesting artwork.

After sunset, Burj Park is the perfect place to watch the Dubai Fountain. For front-row seats to the fountains, you can buy tickets to the lake ride or head to the floating boardwalk.

The Dubai Fountain isn’t the only attraction to put up a show after dark. The Burj Khalifa is illuminated as well thanks to a series of stroboscopes. Watch it come alive from Burj Park or from the bridge to Souk al Bahar.

Getting to Burj Khalifa in Dubai

While the world’s tallest skyscraper is not exactly a landmark that’s hard to miss, the entrance kind of is. You can walk around the Burj Khalifa all you want but you won’t find the exit. That’s because the At the Top entrance is located inside Dubai Mall.

Now, Dubai Mall itself is gigantic and the taxi stands are quite far away from the At the Top entrance. The Dubai Mall point of access closest to the At the Top Will Call counter is the lakeside entrance that’s located right next to Burj Khalifa (where Zouzou and Pizza Hut are situated).

Here’s a map to help you visualize it (the ticket counter is marked in yellow):

Dubai hotels with Burj Khalifa views

The ultimate Burj Khalifa experience includes a stay at the Armani Hotel Dubai . Then again, no view of the Downtown Dubai skyline is complete without a view of the Burj Khalifa itself, right? A hotel with Burj Khalifa views is the perfect way to complement your visit to the top of Burj Khalifa.

Here’s a selection of hotels with Burj Khalifa views that offer front-row seats to the Dubai Fountain as well:

• Palace Downtown
• Address Downtown
• Address Fountain Views

And here are some luxurious hotels with Burj Khalifa views from another angle:

• Address Sky View (This is also where to find the recent glass slide between levels 53 and 52, at a height of 219 m or 955 ft!)
• Address Dubai Mall
• The Dubai EDITION
• Shangri La Hotel
• Manzil Downtown (This is the most affordable hotel with Burj Khalifa views.)

That’s it for this comprehensive guide about the At the Top Burj Khalifa experience. We hope to have answered all your questions. If not, let us know and we’ll happily help you out where we can.

Now, we can’t wait to find all about your visit. Will you be booking the sunrise, the sunset or the daytime experience? Which level is your top choice: At the Top or At the Top SKY? And will you be booking some additional experiences as well? Or do you have your heart set on a hotel with Burj Khalifa views? Let us know in the comments!

Author: Sarah

One comment.

What a cool building! I am really afraid of heights, so I’m not sure if I’d actually be able to get myself to go to the top, but it sure is fun to look at in photos! Thanks for sharing!

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All you need to know about visiting Dubai’s Burj Khalifa

No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting Burj Khalifa , the world’s tallest building and the city’s most iconic landmark. If it looks familiar, you might have witnessed Tom Cruise climbing this soaring skyscraper in “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol”, in an attempt to save the world from destruction.

Most first-timers may only be attracted to the observation deck, but there is much more to this superstructure—it houses Armani Hotel Dubai , dazzling art installations, and a handful of restaurants with sparkling views. Set in Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is also within close range of traveler favorites like Dubai Fountain , Burj Park , and The Dubai Mall .

If you’re on the hunt for a quick guide to visiting this icon, look no further. We’ve rounded up all the need-to-knows to get you off to a good start.

How tall is the Burj Khalifa?

The Burj Khalifa is 2,716ft, which is approximately twice the height of the Empire State Building in New York City and three times taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is 643ft taller than the Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. This monumental structure is such an engineering feat that it holds seven world records.

How to see the views from the top of Burj Khalifa?

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

One of the best ways to enjoy the view from the top of Burj Khalifa is the world’s highest observation deck— At the Top . After riding the longest elevator in the world—complete with a light show—you’ll truly feel on top of the world when you are greeted with 360-degree views of the Arabian Gulf.

At the Top is split across three floors (124, 125 and 148), and offers two packages: the general admission entry—which costs AED149 ($41)—will take you to levels 124 and 125 on a 45-minute self-guided tour while At the Top SKY (AED379-533) is a 90-minute guided experience that brings you to all three floors, including the SKY Lounge.

Opening hours:

• At the Top: Sunday to Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to midnight
• At the Top SKY: Monday to Sunday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

At.mosphere

Perhaps a more special way of enjoying the panoramic view is to dine in style at At.mosphere , the world’s tallest restaurant. It occupies four separate floors — an all-day restaurant on level 122 and a lounge terrace on levels 152-154 (higher than At the Top). This is a great way to beat the sweltering heat and indulge in refined European fare whilst taking in the breathtaking sights. The lounge’s open deck is perfect for photos and of course, admiring the desert vista.

Best time to visit the Burj Khalifa

The best time to visit is at sunset (4 p.m.-7 p.m.), when you’ll also be able to catch the Dubai Fountain in its full splendor, which runs every 30 minutes from 6 p.m. However, this is also when the attraction is the busiest. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, stop by in the early morning (10 a.m.-noon) and before closing. A solid reason to gun for off-peak timings would be considerably cheaper tickets.

Check the weather forecast and book your tickets online in advance, especially if you have a particular time slot in mind. It’s pricier to book on the day itself and the slots typically open 30 days ahead.

If this is your first trip to Dubai and you’d like to check out multiple sights in one day, there are a variety of experiences that include a ticket to At the Top, from tours to the top attractions to guided excursions of heritage and contemporary locales . Stretch your budget and make the most of your trip.

Hotel in the Burj Khalifa

Armani hotel dubai.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay when in Dubai, the Armani Hotel Dubai could be right up your alley. Located within the Burj Khalifa, this is the world’s first Armani hotel. As Giorgio Armani himself was intimately involved with the design, the hotel beautifully reflects the elegance and simplicity that he’s renowned for.

Unwind in style at the Armani/SPA and indulge in a spa trail with saunas, steam baths, and ice waterfall, or take your pick from a host of restaurants that serve an array of cuisines, from Italian to Indian. This award-winning hotel delivers top-notch hospitality.

Places to visit around Burj Khalifa

After visiting Burj Khalifa, most travelers would spend time at the Dubai Fountain and The Dubai Mall as they are a stone’s throw away.

Dubai Fountain

Sitting at the doorstep of Burj Khalifa is the impressive Dubai Fountain , which will captivate you with its water, music and light spectacle. It comes alive every 30 minutes from 6 p.m., shooting streams of water 500ft high, choreographed to popular music. Conceptualized by the very creators behind the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas , you’re in for a treat.

The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk , a floating platform, will take you to a mere 29ft away from the jets. If you’d like the best seats in the house, take the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride , where you’ll cruise within the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake on a boat.

The Dubai Mall

There are a staggering number of stores and restaurants at The Dubai Mall , with two renowned department stores—Bloomingdale’s (New York) and Galeries Lafayette (Paris). If you’re looking for kid-friendly fun while you shop, check out the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , KidZania , or the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink . The aquarium also offers bundle tickets with At the Top , which would give you some savings. That’s not all, The Dubai Mall is also connected to The Dubai Mall Zabeel, a mall extension, via a link bridge. You might be spending more time at The Dubai Mall than you expect.

Getting from Dubai Airport to Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is approximately 9 miles away from DXB, so you’ll be able to get there from the airport in under 20 minutes. There are also ride-hailing services available in Dubai, such as Uber and Careem .

Taxi fares from the airport start from AED25 ($7), and your trip to Burj Khalifa should cost approximately AED65 ($18). Dubai also has a special taxi service helmed by female drivers. A simple way to book a taxi would be to download S’hail , an app from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

You could also take the Dubai Metro from Terminal 1 or 2 and alight at the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall station. This is the cheapest transport option at AED5 ($1) and it will take approximately 40 minutes.

More like this:

• Things to Know Before Going On Your First Desert Safari in Dubai
• 7 Tips For Renting a Car in Dubai and Scenic Day Trip Ideas
• Your guide to the Atlantis, Dubai

A first timer’s guide to the Burj Khalifa

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Attractions Landmarks in Dubai Burj Khalifa Guide

The sprawling desert city of Dubai hosts some of the best man-made architectural wonders and awe-inspiring experiences. From skydiving over the Palm Islands to ziplining over a sea of skyscrapers, Dubai is never short of innovative diversions to enthrall even the most stultified millionaire. Of all that Dubai has to offer, Burj Khalifa surely takes the spotlight and this guide will help you choose the best Burj Khalifa tickets .

Standing at a height of over 828 meters, nothing defines the skylines of Dubai like the Burj Khalifa. Crowned the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa hosts over 160 floors and offers visitors a once in a lifetime opportunity to get a panaromic view of the Persian Gulf from the highest outdoor observation deck (555 meters). The superstructure is a pandora’s box of cutting edge technology and engineering marvels.

Within Burj Khalifa are offices, residential units, ultra-luxurious restaurants, and stunning observation decks, constantly buzzing with locals and tourists alike. This is our comprehensive guide to visiting the top of the world -- the Burj Khalifa .

Burj Khalifa - In a nutshell

Handy information

Dubai burj khalifa - opening hours.

Burj Khalifa Opening Hours - Open 24 hours

Things to know

Burj Khalifa height - 830 meters (2,722 feet) to tip Burj Khalifa Floors - 163 Burj Khalifa At The Top Floors- Level 124, 125 & 148 Burj Khalifa Owner - Emaar Properties

Dubai Burj Khalifa Location

Burj Khalifa Address - 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Get there

Why is Burj Khalifa worth visiting?

• Sky-high views: From the tippy-top of Burj Khalifa, you get these jaw-dropping views of Dubai that are like something out of a movie. The city looks like a tiny Lego town, and the whole scene is just unreal.
• Dubai dazzle at night: When the sun decides to take a break, that's when the real magic happens. The city lights up like a disco ball, and you're there soaking it all in.
• A spaceship like elevator: Hold on to your hats, because the elevator ride is a thrill in itself. It zooms up faster than you think and suddenly, you're on top of the world.
• You're on top of the world (literally): There's something about being on the tallest building on the planet that makes you feel like a VIP. You can spot all those tiny people below, and for a moment, you're the king or queen of the city.
• Dizzying architecture: Even if you're not an architecture buff, Burj Khalifa will make you one. The way it stretches into the sky is mind-boggling, and you can't help but wonder, "How did they even build this thing?"

Recommended Burj Khalifa tickets

Burj khalifa ticket variations.

To experience what the Burj Khalifa has to offer, you need to head to one of the superstructure’s observation decks. Burj Khalifa offers two observation decks - one on the 124th & 125th floor and another on the 148th floor. Depending on your Burj Khalifa ticket, you will get access to the 124th and 125th floors or the 148th floor (includes access to 124th and 125th floors). Know more about these here .

Your Burj Khalifa experience

Visiting the upper & lower observation decks.

At the Top vs At the Top SKY

Your Burj Khalifa tickets let you choose between two observation decks - At the Top, which grants you access to the lower observation deck on the 124th and 125th floors, and the premium At the Top SKY tickets, which will take you to the higher observation deck on the 148th floor.

However, there is a major price difference between the two experiences: Burj Khalifa At the Top tickets cost as little as 149 AED, whereas At the Top SKY tickets are priced at 378 AED. The prices vary depending on your visiting hours. There is a special counter for visitors with an At the Top SKY reservation across the main ticket counter.

Know more about Burj Khalifa At the Top Tickets

Highlights of burj khalifa, 1 at the top - level 124 & 125.

The observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors of the Burj Khalifa comprise the “At The Top” experience. You’ll gasp in awe as you peek at the world below through high-powered telescopes or step on to the open terrace to admire the endless Dubai skyline. Level 125 also houses “Dubai – A Falcon’s Eye View”, a special point-and-shoot telescope that allows you to view the city from a unique perspective. The telescope can be used to identify different Dubai landmarks and learn about their history.

2 At The Top SKY - Level 148

At The Top Sky experience will take you to the highest observation deck in the world - a marvelous open-air terrace on the 148th floor, situated at a height of 555 meters. As the most premium experience on offer, At The Top Sky is a timed experience (30 minutes) and gives you access to the 148th-floor luxury lounge where you can catch a break and treat yourself to signature refreshments. Once you exit the lift, you will be greeted by Burj employees waiting with trays of drinks and small pastries.

3 Outdoor Observation Deck

The biggest attraction on the lower deck is the spacious outdoor observation deck on the 124th floor. Considering the large number of people visiting the lower deck, the outdoor access guarantees that you will get to see a breathtaking view of the Dubai cityscape. The wind is usually chilly towards the evening and it makes for one of the most pleasant vantage points to soak in a beautiful sunset.

4 The Burj Khalifa Lift

With At the Top SKY tickets, you will first be taken to the 124th floor and then be escorted to another bank of elevators which will take you to Level 148. As you ascend to the world’s highest observation deck, you will be treated to a magnificent light show inside the lift, covering the history and legacy of Burj Khalifa.

5 The Lounge

Explore the world’s highest lounge at 585 meters at Burj Lounge. Located on the 152nd floor of the might building, you can enjoy some breakfast, tea or a drink in the clouds. The elevation of the lounge lets you see Dubai anew from the clouds.

6 The Dubai Fountain

The dazzling Dubai Fountain is the tallest performing fountain in the world. Visiting the Dubai Fountain during one of its shows is a truly mesmerizing experience as the powerful jets of water sway in tune with the music and colourful bright lights. You would be left awestruck by the sheer scale of the lake and the columns of water. The best part is the synchronized choreography that is updated often to append tracks like Michael Jackson’s Thriller and EXO’s Power.

7 Burj Park Dubai

The little green island located in Downtown Dubai is Burj Park is only a small walk away from the tallest building in the world. It is a manmade island that features beautiful art fixtures with wide walkways and is perfect for an evening stroll. You can also take a cycle ride around the park, and take plenty of pictures by Dubai Fountain.

Best time to visit Burj Khalifa

The best time to hit up Burj Khalifa? Easy – sunset vibes are where it's at! Picture this: the sun's descending, painting the sky with shades of pink and orange. This is the exact moment that you want to be up there, witnessing the city below waking up to its night glam, as you're soaking in that breathtaking transition. Day or night, the views from Burj Khalifa are always a winner, but catching a sunset from way up high just makes everything sweeter. So, grab your ticket, time it right, and get ready for a view that'll have you saying, "Totally worth it!"

Prime hours vs non-prime hours

When selecting your time slot, you will either choose a prime time visit or a non-prime time visit. Entry during prime hours cost slightly more because these tickets correspond with Dubai’s sunset timings. The views you get from the observation decks are absolutely spectacular, as you get to see the city bathed in a beautiful amber hue. Just imagine watching the sun setting over the Persian Gulf from the highest man-made point in the world!

Burj Khalifa timings

• The Burj Khalifa observation decks and experiences are open from 8:30 AM to 11 PM every day.
• The building functions 24 hours a day since it consists of hotels, nightclubs and restaurants.

Getting there

• By Dubai Metro: Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa Metro Station. From here, you can either walk or take the F13 bus and get off at the next stop, which is the Dubai Mall Bus Stop.
• From Abu Dhabi: Take the exit to Financial Centre Road (Doha) from 1st interchange. The approach road to The Dubai Mall will be on the right-hand side.
• By Bus: There are two buses that service The Dubai Mall every 16 minutes: Route 27 which picks up passengers from the Deira Gold Souk Bus Station and Route 29 from the Ghubaiba Station.
• By Taxi: You can also take a taxi to the Burj Khalifa; while it may be the fastest option, it is the least economical one. Meter fare starts from AED 1.6/kilometer. Waiting fare is AED 0.5/kilometer. Starting fee for regular taxis is AED 3 (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM) and AED 3.50 (10:00 PM to 6:00 AM). Starting fee for pre-booked taxis is AED 6 (day) and AED 7 (night).

Burj Khalifa - Tips, rules, and regulations

• The ‘At the Top’ ticketing counter is located on the lower ground floor of the Dubai Mall. If you have purchased your tickets online, simply display them on your smartphone at the will-call counter for a fast and easy pickup.
• You may cancel your tickets up to 48 hours prior to your date of booking for a full refund when you purchase your Burj Khalifa tickets online.
• Children under the age of 4 do not require a ticket. Children between the ages of 4-12 have a special child price. Anyone above the age of 12 will be charged the full amount.
• Large pieces of luggage are not allowed inside. However, you can check them in at the Secured Baggage Area located near the entrance.
• If you’re keen on watching the sunset, get a weekday ticket because weekends always attract a lot of people.
• If possible, visit Burj Khalifa on a foggy morning. When a thick layer of fog settles over the city of Dubai, it appears as though you are standing above the clouds.
• You can download the official app of the Burj Khalifa “At the Top” experience where you will find all the information you need.
• If you are travelling to Dubai during the busy months (October - March), be sure to make your reservation for the Burj Khalifa tickets at least 3-4 weeks in advance, online. Tickets sell out very quickly! Even if you are travelling during the off-season, it is recommended that you purchase your tickets online at least 2-3 days in advance. Aside from reserving your spot, purchasing Burj Khalifa tickets online will also save you the hassle of waiting in a potentially long line at the ticketing counter.
• Before you select your Burj Khalifa ticket date and time, be sure to check the weather forecast for the day you plan to visit. Bad weather like rain, haze and fog can drastically spoil the view from the top.
• Make sure you catch the fountain show that happens right under the Burj Khalifa. Fountain shows begins at 6PM and go on until 11PM, with shows starting every 30 minutes. You can catch the show from the observation decks - an absolutely magical vantage point. The view of the Dubai Fountain show from At The Top, Burj Khalifa’s is an event you shouldn’t miss. Feast your eyes on the intricately combined light and water effects, made even better with a projection of colors and music playing in the background.
• Make sure you arrive 15 minutes prior to your given admission time. This will give you time for a peaceful security check and other last minute hassles.Food & Drinks are not allowed atop, so make sure you don't have any on you.

Dubai Burj Khalifa facts that will surprise you

• Burj Khalifa Bin Zayed or Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and was opened in 2010 after almost 6 years of construction at the cost of $1.5 billion.
• Sheikh Khalifa, the ruler of the United Arab Emirates, granted monetary aid for the building to being built, hence resulting in the naming the building "Burj Khalifa."
• The building has 2,909 stairs from the ground floor to the 160th floor.
• Designed by Skidmore, Owings, and Merril, the architecture features a triple-lobed footprint, which is an abstraction of the desert flower Hymenocallis.
• Burj Khalifa boasts a dizzyingly height of 828 meters and has a total of 206 floors, with observation decks on the 124th, 25th, and 148th floors.
• The world’s tallest building is a multi-use development tower with a total floor area of 460,000 square meters, including residential, hotel, commercial, office, entertainment, shopping, leisure, and parking facilities.
• Apart from holding the world record for the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa holds six other world records - the tallest freestanding structure in the world, the highest number of stories in the world, the highest occupied floor in the world, the highest outdoor observation deck in the world, the elevator with longest travel distance in the world, and the tallest service elevator in the world.

Restaurants at Burj Khalifa

Dining at the Burj Khalifa is an experience that you should never miss. Gazing at the view of the Dubai Fountains and the Burj Park while dining at some of Dubai’s best restaurants during twilight is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The restaurants situated in the Burj Khalifa offer their guests the best service, vibrant ambiance and best-in-class delicacies. The chefs of each restaurant specialize in a variety of cuisines, however, each restaurant has its own niche set of delectable cuisines, ranging from Mediterranian and Italian to Indian and Arabic.

While there are quite a few restaurants to choose from, here are our top picks.

Stationed on the 122nd floor of the highest building ever built, At.Mosphere is an incomparable fine-dining experience. Being the world’s highest restaurant, At.mosphere offers unparalleled views of the Dubai Downtown and the Gulf. The chefs also offer you a wide variety of International cuisines to choose from.

Located on the ground floor of the tallest building in the world, Armani Deli is an Italian inspired gourmet restaurant serving authentic Italian and European flavors with a daily-changing menu. The 24-carat gold coffee is the paramount item on their menu, that you should not miss on.

If you are craving the South Asian zest of the Indian cuisine, Armani Amal should be your choice. Situated on the 3rd floor of the mighty Burj Khalifa, Armani Amal brings together the cultural veritable salver of the region and alluring view of downtown Dubai. The Chicken Quesadilla and Butter Chicken here are a must-try.

Attractions around Burj Khalifa

Apart from the Burj Khalifa, there are quite a few attractions on offer in Downtown Dubai, the city’s tourism hotspot. From the sprawling Dubai Fountains to the Dubai Opera, the complex plays host to a myriad of megastructures, restaurants and entertainment options.

Dubai Mall is the world’s biggest shopping mall and hosts 1,200 outlets, including restaurants, luxury brands, and retailers. Visitors can easily get lost and spend a day walking around the mall and still fall short of seeing everything that’s on offer. The Dubai mall also offers a brilliant vantage point for seeing the famous Dubai fountains as it stands just outside the mall, in front of a bridge that leads to Souk Al Bahar.

Situated on the Ground Level of the Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo . The 10-million liter Dubai Aquarium tank is the largest suspended aquarium in the world and the main tank measures 51 meters in length, 20 meters in width and 11 meters in height. The aquarium boasts an incredible collection of over 140 species, including sharks, rays and the largest collection of Sand Tiger sharks in the world.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the vast expanse of Arabia’s red dunes desert at the break of dawn with Desert Safari Dubai. You can take a safari during the mornings or evenings when the sun is not at its brightest and the weather is not too hot. Riding a cruiser on the untamed dunes of Dubai is something to brag about. Check out the most recommended Desert Safari Dubai Tickets here.

The biggest picture frame on the planet, Dubai Frame is located in Zabeel Park, Dubai. Created with glass, steel, aluminium, and reinforced concrete, it is positioned in such a way that modern landmarks of Dubai can be seen on one side, while older parts of the city can be seen from another.

A garden in the middle of dryland is truly a miracle. Dubai Miracle Garden is rightly named so, a flower garden located in the district of Dubailand. The 72,000 square meters of land is truly a paradise which is also Dubai’s most picturesque, sweet-scented attraction. Did you know that the Garden was opened on Valentine’s Day? Very suggestively, it is one of the most romantic places you can take your loved one to.

Dubai is full of wonders. You are outside and feeling the sun scorch you? Here is an indoor ski to keep you cool and entertained for hours. Ski Dubai is one of UAE’s most visited attractions and a favourite among children. Spend your time in a snow park, ski on the vast slopes, and play with the penguins while you're here. Plan your visit with Ski Dubai tickets today.

How many floors is Burj Khalifa?

There are 163 floors in Burj Khalifa.

What activities are available under At The Top SKY Burj Khalifa tickets?

On levels 124 and 125, you can ride aboard the world’s fastest double deck elevator, take a look through high-powered telescopes, step onto the observation deck to view the skyline and enjoy a virtual reality experience. On level 148, visits can enjoy a guided tour, step onto the world’s highest observation deck, try signature refreshments and use motion sensors to witness the city’s famous landmarks.

What are Burj Khalifa ticket prices?

Primarily, visitors can choose between two types of tickets : At The Top (basic) and At The Top SKY (premium). The basic ticket is for AED 149 and takes visitors to levels 124 and 125, while the premium ticket is for AED 378 and takes visitors to levels 124, 125 and 148.

What are Burj Khalifa ticket prices for children?

Basic tickets for children between the ages of 4 to 12 cost AED 114, while premium cost the same. Children under the ages of 4 get free admission into the Burj Khalifa.

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, Preetha is an introvert living amidst the toil of the metro, chasing her dreams. She is a movie buff, a bibliophile and is fond of old school music. She has an eye for aesthetics and can draw and paint as good as a ten-year-old. She has been passionate about writing since her teen years and is currently exploring herself and the world, one word at a time.

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