One of the world’s most astounding feats of architecture and engineering, Burj Khalifa has broken multiple records – most notably, that of the tallest tower in the world. It is the crown jewel of Downtown Dubai and forms the backdrop for many tourist photos and selfies. The tower also offers a myriad of activities and experiences that enthrall visitors from all across the globe. From architecture lovers to adventure seekers and those who are simply seeking unique experiences, Burj Khalifa offers something that is sure to pique their interests. Here is a guide to the best activities you can enjoy inside this incredible tower.
At The Top
There is one burning question on the mind of everyone who has ever seen the Burj Khalifa – ‘What does the view look like from the top?’
The answer to that question can be found in the tower’s aptly named ‘At The Top’ experience, which takes visitors up to the tower’s observation decks so they can enjoy its vistas in their full glory. There are two main decks: ‘At The Top’ is spread across the 124th and 125th floors, and ‘At The Top SKY’ is on the 148th floor. Each offers a different and breathtaking perspective of Dubai’s skyline.
The experience begins at the base of the tower, where visitors will ride the world’s fastest double-deck elevators up to the 124th floor in just 10 seconds. They can enjoy 360-degree panoramas of Dubai that stretch all the way out to the coastline. On clear days, the coast of Iran can be seen on the far horizon. A specially designed electronic telescope allows visitors to get a closer look at the furthest reaches of the city in real-time and also has images taken during different times of the day and various weather conditions to highlight how the view changes.
The 125th floor is decked out in traditional Arabian decor and offers a green screen photo booth, as well as immersive virtual reality experiences that let you explore the apex of the tower.
For an even more exclusive experience, a private lift goes from the 125th floor to the SKY deck on the 148th floor, which is set at a height of 550 metres and boasts the world’s highest restaurant and outdoor terrace.
The Lounge
Spanning the 152nd, 153rd, and 154th floors of Burj Khalifa, The Lounge gives you a space to unwind and enjoy a quiet meal with family or friends while surrounded by views that surpass even the observation decks. This is yet another record-breaking experience for the tower, as it is the highest lounge in the world. Guests have the option of booking a tour of the SKY deck and the Lounge in one package, which provides a truly unique experience of Burj Khalifa’s highest levels.
At.Mosphere
Located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, At.mosphere is a culinary landmark in Dubai where the experience goes beyond the meal. Once you step inside, you will be welcomed into a beautiful Art Deco space that is divided into three distinct sections. The lounge features plush blue velvet chairs, mosaic pattern flooring, gold detailings, and a bar topped by a magnificent chandelier and with a dramatic floral backdrop. The main dining room is bathed in dark browns and purples, and after your meal, you can relax in the cosy cigar lounge with its yellow leather chairs and green decor accents.
At.Mosphere’s menu is billed as ‘contemporary European’ and features sophisticated takes on classic dishes like beef tartare, duck a l’orange, and filet mignon. You can order a la carte or pick from the ‘Taste of France’ or ‘Taste of Jardin’ (vegetarian) tasting menus to experience some of the restaurant’s top dishes in one sitting.
A standout experience of the At.Mosphere lounge is its afternoon tea, where you can enjoy a delectable assortment of canapes and pastries while surrounded by breathtaking vistas of the city.
Armani Hotel
Occupying the lower 15 levels of the tower, this is the first Armani hotel in the world and it remains the brand’s flagship project. The hotel features 160 rooms, 144 branded residences, 3 exclusive Armani retail experiences, five restaurants, a spa, and a nightclub. Tastefully designed interiors feature a warm and understated palette that incorporates zebrawood, Eramose stone, gold and brass detailing, and bespoke design elements.
The restaurants offer various culinary journeys, from contemporary Indian cuisine at Amal to refined Japanese at Hashi. Armani/Ristorante, the hotel’s signature restaurant, was among the first to be awarded one Michelin star when the Michelin guide came to Dubai in 2022 and has retained that status for three years running. It features a beautifully crafted selection of Italian dishes and two seasonal tasting menus, complemented by understated decor, an extensive wine list, and impeccable service.
Burj Khalifa's Art and Architecture
Beyond the views and dining, Burj Khalifa is a testament to cutting-edge design and artistry. Adding yet another superlative to its tally, the tower is home to the highest art gallery in the world. Majestic Arts is located on the 150th floor and features commissioned works from over 85 international artists, with styles ranging from the abstract to the naturalistic. The gallery often collaborates with others around the world to host art exhibitions and shows that spotlight specific artists or artistic periods.
Visitors can also find unique art pieces in different areas of the tower. The lobby of the Burj Khalifa Residences has a dynamic sculpture by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. Known as ’World Voices’, it consists of 196 cymbals placed at different heights. A steady drip of water from the ceiling hits the cymbals, creating a unique symphony that represents the voices of the world.
‘Evolutes’, by noted Egyptian sculptor Karim Rashid, adorns the entrance of the office levels. Made of stone and organic reflective material, the sculpture appears to shift and twist around itself, seemingly changing with the angle it’s viewed from.
The Dubai Fountain Show
While not directly inside the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain show is an integral part of the Burj Khalifa experience. Most visitors are used to seeing the fountain’s water jets shooting 150 metres high, an awe-inspiring sight when viewed from ground level, especially late in the evening when the water is brilliantly lit up. Seeing the show from one of the tower’s observation decks or outdoor terraces provides a new perspective on it and inspires awe in a very different way.
Special Events and Celebrations
Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most popular event venues and is the highlight of the city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. Every year, a brilliant fireworks show takes place at midnight to ring in the new year, with a pyrotechnic display along the entire length of the tower. Since 2018, the tower has been converted into the world’s largest LED screen, lighting up its facade each evening in vibrant colours. The tower also lights up with seasonal messages and slideshows to mark notable occasions.
Final Take
Burj Khalifa is one of the most recognisable towers in the world and is also a fantastic entertainment venue in its own right. Whether you’re seeking panoramic views, gourmet dining, or a glimpse into cutting-edge design, the Burj Khalifa promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the heights of Dubai’s innovative urban lifestyle.
