A complete introduction to Burj Al Arab, Dubai

Burj Al Arab, one of the most special 7-star hotels in the world, which is located on its own island, invites you to a trip to its unforgettable and exciting world.

Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is one of the unique masterpieces in Dubai, which was built as the first and one of the 7-star luxury hotels in the world. This hotel with its special architecture in the shape of a sail is one of the main and beautiful destinations for tourists. Besides being one of the most prominent skyscrapers in the world, this tower is also known as one of the best hotels in Dubai and the world.

What you read in this article:

• Getting to know Burj Al Arab
• Construction and design of Burj Al Arab
• restaurants
• Hotels
• Facilities and features
• Attractions near Burj Al Arab
• Interesting facts about Burj Al Arab
• The best time to visit Burj Al Arab
• FAQs

Getting to know Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab, which is one of the most unique and famous hotels in Dubai and also a symbol of this beautiful city, is known as the fourth tallest tower in the world and one of the most expensive hotels. This magnificent structure with a height of 321 meters is built in a place where you can see it wherever you are in Dubai.

This tower has different uses such as restaurant and hotel and was selected as the best hotel in the world in 2018, which is located near Jumeirah Beach.

Construction and design of Burj Al Arab

The construction and design of this huge and beautiful structure was done by Tom Wright from the English company  WS Atkins on the order of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai in 1993, and it cost 1 billion dollars to build it; Finally, this tower was unveiled in December 1999.

This skyscraper is located on a man-made artificial island, and this was one of the most challenging aspects of building this tower. The construction of this artificial island took 3 years and is considered one of the wonders of the world. For the construction of the tower's foundation, hundreds of trucks of sand were unloaded in the sea to provide the necessary infrastructure for the construction of the tower, and then about 230 concrete columns were placed inside the sea sand, which are located at a depth of 40 meters in the sea.

Finally, this extraordinary artificial island with a depth of 7 meters was completed and it was skillfully designed so that viewers from a distance feel that this skyscraper is floating on water.

Burj Al Arab with a height of 320.96 meters (1,053 feet) was known as the tallest hotel in the world at the time of its opening, and these features have made tourists from around the world travel to Dubai to see this tower.

Engineers have designed this tower in such a way to strengthen the structure against any possible fluctuations caused by earthquakes and harmonic distortion phenomena. In addition, this tower is very resistant and strong against heat and strong wind.

The artificial island on which Burj Al Arab is built is located 280 meters from the Jumeirah beach, which is connected to the main road of the city by a curved bridge.

design

The exterior design of this tower, which is in the shape of a crescent, which resembles the sail of a very large ship, is a symbol of the occupation and background of people who were engaged in fishing and seafaring.

During the night, the exterior lighting of the tower changes from white to different colors. This lighting gives a complete look to the tower and creates a better image of it in the surrounding landscape.

Burj Al Arab has 56 floors and its lobby called Atrium is located at a height of 180 meters, which is known as the highest lobby in the world.

The interior design of the tower is inspired by the 4 elements of nature, namely water, wind, earth and fire, which was designed by the famous Chinese designer Khuan Chew. Unlike the external design of the tower, which has a modern and contemporary appearance, the interior design is a combination of eastern and western styles in a very luxurious way. In addition to these, the design of this tower is rich in the culture of the people and the characteristics of this country, which is a combination of the spirit of hospitality of the Arabs and the color of the sands of the desert.

When you enter this hotel, the colorful spaces and lively and happy environment will surprise you and give you a unique experience. The unique architecture, attractive lighting, and the use of the best materials and tools in the world, including 30 types of high-quality marble, all kinds of luxury chandeliers, and the best hand-woven carpets will definitely surprise every tourist.

Other beautiful views of this tower include multi-story fountains and waterfalls and golden columns in the lobby covered with 24 carat gold sheets.

restaurants

There are 10 different and unique restaurants in Burj Al Arab Hotel, where the best food and the freshest ingredients are prepared and served by world famous chefs. It goes without saying that this tower is one of the most expensive and luxurious hotels in the world, so paying a lot of money for every meal in its restaurants is not far from expected.

• Al Muntaha Restaurant

If you visit Burj al-Arab and are interested in eating at a height, be sure to go to Al Muntaha. This restaurant is located at a height of 200 meters, which is accessible by a glass elevator and creates a good opportunity to photograph the Persian Gulf and the magnificent coastline of Dubai. This restaurant is located on the 27th floor of the tower and you can completely overlook all of Dubai. Each meal at this restaurant costs an average of 1,000 dirhams ($200) per person and is served by some of the best chefs in the world. Like Francky Semblat (3 Michelin stars), which recently gave way to the famous chef Saverio Sbaragli.

• Al Mahara Restaurant

Al Mahara is among the top 10 restaurants in the world, which is equipped with a large circular aquarium in the middle of the restaurant. You can book there for your special celebrations and events and enjoy watching more than 50 types of beautiful fish with your food. This restaurant is located on the ground floor of Burj Al Arab, where you can enjoy its four, five, or seven-course menu, which serves a variety of dishes such as: the best seafood with fresh fish and Northern European food; The average price of food for each meal is between 1000 and 2000 dirhams ($200-$500).

• Al Iwan Restaurant

If you are interested in experiencing traditional Arabic cuisine, Al Iwan restaurant can be the best option. This restaurant is very stunning and beautiful with its traditional and first class style. Al Iwan, with its different interior and golden columns, complements the Arabic atmosphere of the restaurant and fully reflects the dishes of Al Iwan. You can have a completely new experience in this restaurant and taste various hot and cold flavors. The average price of each meal in this traditional restaurant is 1000 dirhams ($270).

• Bab Al Yam Restaurant

It is one of the suitable restaurants for families, where you can enjoy high-quality European food while watching the beautiful views of the Persian Gulf and downtown Dubai. This restaurant will take you on a delicious journey in Europe. The brick kitchen, its luxurious halls and terrace, and its large windows make the pleasure of eating delicious European food double. You can order any kind of food you like, such as salad, pizza, pasta or even delicious seafood, this restaurant guarantees authentic European flavors. The average price of food per person is around 800 dirhams ($217).

• Junsui Restaurant

This restaurant welcomes customers with a wide selection of Asian dishes. Undoubtedly, the presence of 25 skilled chefs in eight cooking stations who prepare the best Chinese, Malaysian, Korean and Japanese dishes at the moment will satisfy every taste. The average price of food per person is around 800 dirhams ($217).

• Sky View Restaurant

If you are interested in watching Dubai from a height, Sky View Restaurant can be the best choice. This restaurant is located 200 meters above sea level and is one of the most popular cafes and restaurants in Burj Al Arab. In this restaurant you can enjoy a delicious dinner. The beautiful and stylish interior design and the view facing the sea will make your heart skip a beat, and also offering a wide range of food and snacks will make it easy to choose for any taste. The average price of food is 900 dirhams ($245) per person and 635 dirhams ($173) for each evening meal.

• Gold on 27 Restaurant

As the name of this restaurant suggests, its design and decoration include tables and chairs, bars, columns, and even dishes with a gold and black theme, which welcome guests in the most luxurious way. Gold on 27 restaurant is located on the 27th floor of Burj Al Arab and brings its guests a pleasant dining experience in an environment with a magnificent view of Dubai. You can enjoy ordering delicious food, various drinks and even hookah. The average price of food and drinks is 350 dirhams ($100).

• Scape Lounge & Restaurant

This cafe restaurant is located on the beautiful terrace of Burj Al Arab and offers its guests exciting Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular views of the sea. Fragrant herbs, delicious seafood and fresh produce will take you on a delicious journey; Besides, the drinks of this restaurant are unique. The average price of food per person is about 525 dirhams ($143).

• Sahn Eddar Restaurant

If you love listening to live music while eating delicious food in a wonderful restaurant, we recommend Sahn Eddar restaurant. The restaurant's beautiful interior complements its extensive menu, which includes a wide range of wonderful international dishes and dinners.

Parisian breakfast is known as the special food of the restaurant and its most popular service in the evening. If you love desserts, don't miss seasonal cakes. The average price of food per person is 500 dirhams ($136); The price of breakfast starts from 220 dirhams ($60) and dinner starts from 550 dirhams ($150) per person.

Hotels

Burj Al Arab has 199 private rooms, all of which are duplex suites. The smallest suite of this hotel is 169 square meters and the largest suite is 780 square meters. The design and decor of all the rooms is a combination of eastern and western architecture with gold sheets. The suites are categorized into 11 different types that have their own use.

• Deluxe Marina Suite

1 master bedroom - area of 170 square meters - suitable for 3 adults and 2 children under 11 years of age - facilities: with a large double bed with a unique view of the Persian Gulf.

• Sky Marina Suite

1 master bedroom - area 170 square meters - suitable for 3 adults and 2 children under 11 years of age - facilities: with a stunning view of the Persian Gulf, first-class waiter service, 24-hour concierge, large jacuzzi, Hermes bathroom accessories, 9 types of pillows and unlimited use of the Blue Wild Wadi Park.

• Sky Palm Suite

1 master bedroom - area of 170 square meters - suitable for 3 adults and 2 children under 11 years of age - facilities: with a unique view of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah.

• Deluxe Palm Suite

1 master bedroom - area of 175 square meters - suitable for a small family - facilities: with more than 130 TV channels in several languages, free welcome facilities, more than 200 free international newspapers, complete amenities for babies and children, king or twin beds.

• One bedroom club suite

1 master bedroom - area of 331 square meters - suitable for 2 adults and 2 children under 11 years of age - facilities: overlooking the beautiful view of the Persian Gulf.

• Two-bedroom deluxe suite

2 bedrooms - area of 336 square meters - suitable for 4 adults and 2 children under 11 years of age- facilities: hot tub, tea and coffee maker, mini bar, air conditioning, safe deposit box, ironing equipment, baby chair.

• Panoramic suite

2 floors - area 225 to 315 square meters - suitable for celebrities and princes - Facilities: amazing view of Dubai city from one side and 180-degree view of the blue sea of the Persian Gulf.

• Family suite

3 bedrooms - area of 670 square meters - suitable for all types of families - facilities: large hall, three living rooms, children's play area, free internet, 42- and 32-inch TVs, spa, terrace and private beach.

• Presidential suites

2 master bedrooms - area of 667 square meters - suitable for 4 adults and 2 children under 11 years of age - facilities: two separate lounge areas, spacious dining area and two king beds

• Diplomatic suite

3 bedrooms - area of 670 square meters - suitable for 6 adults and 2 children under 11 years old- facilities: three living areas, dining room with table, two king beds and one twin bed and a view of the blue waters of the Persian Gulf and the sea.

• Special royal suites

The most expensive and luxurious rooms in this tower are special royal suites. This room, which is located on the 25th floor of this hotel, has an average price of 24,000 dollars per night. Its amenities include cinema, dining room for 12 people, two bathrooms, jacuzzi, rain shower, library and private elevator.

All the rooms are luxurious and have many facilities. Hotel suites have large windows with panoramic views of the Persian Gulf, safety deposit box, mini bar, coffee and tea maker, free breakfast and daily newspaper, Hermès bath products and iPad dock. Also, by staying in the suites of this beautiful tower, you can benefit from 24-hour waiter and concierge services, check-in and check-out from inside the suite, access to spa facilities, terrace and private beach, bathroom with large jacuzzi and rain shower.

Facilities and features

Burj al-Arab is a structure full of wonder and beauty and has many facilities.

• Burj Al Arab Terrace

This terrace was transported from Finland to Dubai, which was placed in a cruise ship in 6 different pieces to be transported to Dubai and then assembled in Dubai. This beautiful terrace located at the back of the tower includes a 10,000 square meter playground with two pools, small cottages and a 1,120 square meter beach area. Stretching 100 meters into the sea, this sun deck offers the best of Arabian hospitality to hotel guests and Burj Al Arab members. The presence of  SAL restaurant also completes all the facilities of this terrace.

• helipad

Another attraction of this tower is its helipad, which is a circular platform with a diameter of 24 meters, which is a strong and stable structure and can bear a maximum weight of 7.5 tons. This structure is a popular destination for guests to easily reach the hotel and avoid Dubai traffic.

Also, when it is not used for flying, it is used for celebrations, wedding ceremonies, or as a golf course or tennis court. This structure has witnessed many exciting events such as:

1. Roger Federer's friendly match with Andre Aghassi
2. Fascinating rivalry between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in 2012
3. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy rivalry in golf
4. Rounding the circular tracks on the helipad surface in David Coulthard's Formula One race
5. British Anthony Joshua training session in ring boxing in 2017 at Burj Al Arab helipad

• Lounge T3

Tourists and guests are welcomed in the new and stylish lounge of Jumeirah Airport upon arrival at Dubai Terminal 3. And they can enjoy the best services of Jumeirah with unique facilities for relaxation; Especially since great food with specialized culinary creations is waiting for all guests.

• Personal waiter

One of the features of Burj Al Arab suites is having a personal butler who is present 24 hours a day to meet the needs of each guest and provide comfort and convenience to the guests.

• car rental

Guests of Burj Al Arab can rent luxury cars of this hotel such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, etc. to explore Dubai and enjoy the sights of Dubai.

• Free use of Wild Wadi water park

By staying at Burj Al Arab, you can enjoy the Wild Wadi water park without paying anything. Wild Wadi is one of the best water parks in the world that will keep every age group happy. It is located right in front of Burj Al Arab, and thanks to 30 slides and attractions, it is a great place for family leisure.

• Luxury airport services

As soon as you arrive in Dubai, you can drive to Burj Al Arab in a Rolls Royce or BMW or use a cheaper sedan. The cost of using Rolls Royce or BMW cars from Dubai International Airport is 385 dirhams ($105) and from Al Maktoum Airport is 465 dirhams ($126). Rolls Royce cars are suitable for two passengers and three medium luggage’s, and BMWs are suitable for three passengers and three medium luggage’s. If you use a sedan, you have to pay 150 dirhams ($41) from Dubai airport and 210 dirhams ($57) from Al Maktoum airport. Sedan cars have a medium capacity for two passengers and three luggage’s.

• Floors under the sea

It is interesting to know that 7 floors of this beautiful tower are located under the vast waters of the Persian Gulf, which are in the form of an aquarium where guests and tourists can enjoy watching fish and aquatic life. These underwater floors have extremely luxurious rooms with a view of the sea and all kinds of beautiful fish and sea creatures, which are one of the most unique rooms in the whole world. Tourists and guests can experience a beautiful and relaxing view of the sea and its extraordinary creatures by staying in the rooms located under the water.

Attractions near Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is located in one of the best places in Dubai and many tourist attractions are located near this tower. You can also enjoy visiting the beautiful and scenic places around this tower.

• Dubai Mall

One of the places that we highly recommend you to visit is  Dubai Mall. This department store is considered one of the best and most famous shopping centers in Dubai, which can definitely be said to be one of the main destinations of every tourist who comes to Dubai.

The Dubai Mall is located 800 meters from Burj Al Arab, where you can easily get there by using the hotel's special taxis.

• Wild Wadi Water Park

Another tourist attraction is the Wild Wadi Water Park, which is also free for those staying in Burj Al Arab. This water park has the newest and most exciting water equipment in the world that tourists can enjoy visiting this park in the hot seasons.

This park is located 500 meters away from Burj Al Arab and is very easy to access.

• Burj Khalifa

Definitely, the tallest and most well-equipped famous tower in the world does not need to be introduced.

Burj Khalifa is a symbol of the beauty and pride of the city of Dubai, one of the best tourist destinations around and near Burj Al Arab. You can enjoy watching the beautiful sky of Dubai and celestial bodies at night by going to the sky platforms of Burj Khalifa.

In addition to these, you can enjoy the famous restaurants and the varied and delicious menu of the restaurants in this tower and create beautiful memories.

Tourists can visit other tourist areas such as: Garden Glow, Jumeirah Plaza, Dubai Palm Island, Dubai Arts Center and Theater Community, City Walk Mall, Suspension Bridge and Twin Towers Mall.

Interesting facts about Burj Al Arab

• In Burj Al Arab, there is a unique fountain that uses a combination of optical fiber and ultra-fine water to create a kaleidoscope effect.
• There are three aquariums on each side of the hotel lobby, which are said to have 50 different species of fish, and visitors can enjoy and have fun watching these beautiful creatures.
• On the ceiling of one of the hotel halls, a thousand Swarovski crystals have been used in the shape of the Milky Way, which has a value of 1.3 million dirhams.
• This hotel has more than several types of Statorio marble in the walls and floors; The stone used by the Italian artist Michelangelo to create many of his most famous sculptures, including the statue of David.
• Burj Al Arab has been used in movies like Mission Impossible, Ghost Protocol.
• This hotel is 14 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and 60 meters shorter than the Empire State Building, which was once the tallest building in the world.
• The world's largest box of caviar was prepared in 2016 in Burj Al Arab, which contained 17 kilograms of Empress caviar; Certified organic caviar obtained from locally farmed sturgeon fish.

The best time to visit and access Burj Al Arab

One of the most important points you should know before going to Burj Al Arab is that you must have a reservation before going, otherwise you will not be allowed to enter. Even if you don't intend to stay in this hotel, you can make a reservation or get an entry card in its cafes, restaurants, swimming pools, and other recreational facilities. The best time to visit or stay in this hotel is in December and March, when you will be safe from the heat because the hot weather of this city can reach over 50 degrees Celsius in summer.

But if you are looking for cheaper accommodation or tickets, you should know that this hotel will be very crowded and expensive during the New Year holidays and other holidays, but it is very cheap in the warmer months.

FAQs

How to reach Burj Al Arab?

Burj Al Arab is located on the beautiful Jumeirah beach of Dubai. To go to this hotel, take Dubai Jumeirah Street to reach Umm Suqeim 3 area. Tourists can use public transportation such as subway, bus, and taxi, or visit the building by public or recreational boats.

How many meters is the height of Burj Al Arab?

The 320.96 m (1,053 ft) tall tower was opened in 1999 and consisted of 56 floors.

Who is the owner of Burj Al Arab?

Burj Al Arab is owned and managed by  Jumeirah Group, which has brought a memorable experience to the residents and tourists of the United Arab Emirates.

What is the entertainment-tourism facilities of this tower?

Dining experience in the best restaurants and bars, spa, swimming pool, glass aquarium under the sea, tennis and golf courts in the helipad and watching Dubai from the high floors of this tower are part of the luxury facilities of Burj Al Arab.

Burj Al Arab was designed by which company?

Burj Al Arab was designed by Atkins Consultants led by Tom Wright.

When is the best time to visit Burj Al Arab for tourists?

Tourists can visit this luxurious and beautiful hotel every day between 12:00 and 18:00. The allowed time for visits is between 1 and 2 hours.