Overview
The Burj Khalifa opened in 2010 and, at 828 m, is the tallest building in the world. Its stepped, spiralling shape was inspired by a desert flower, and it rises from a district of towers, lakes and malls built around a man-made lake. On a clear day the top is visible from far across the city, and at night the tower is lit with light shows.
Visitors can ride to observation decks high in the tower, with the highest open to the public well above the 100th floor, and look down on the city, the coast and the desert beyond. At the foot of the tower, the Dubai Fountain performs to music in the evenings, and the Dubai Mall next door has hundreds of shops, an aquarium and an ice rink. The whole district is easy to explore on foot, and the Dubai Metro stops nearby.
Highlights
- The observation decks high in the tower, with views over the city, coast and desert
- The Dubai Fountain shows in the evening
- The Dubai Mall, with its aquarium, shops and cafes
- Sunset from the lakeside promenade, as the tower lights up
Best time to visit
November to March is the most pleasant, with clear skies and warm, dry days. Summers are very hot and humid, though the indoor decks and malls are air-conditioned. Sunset visits give the best light, and the city can be hazy in midsummer.
- JanJanuary: Best
- FebFebruary: Best
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Not ideal
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Best
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Dubai (DXB), about 15 to 20 minutes from Downtown by taxi or about 30 minutes by metro and walkway. The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station connects with a covered walkway. Buy observation deck tickets online in advance, especially for sunset.
What to expect
It is an easy, comfortable visit, mostly indoors and in air-conditioned malls. Queues for the decks and the fountain area can be long on weekends and holidays, and prices change with the time of day. Dress for the strong air conditioning as well as the heat outside.
Practical tips
- Book the observation deck online for a set time, and choose the sunset slot only if the sky is forecast clear.
- Watch the fountain from the lakeside boardwalk, or from a restaurant terrace if you want a seat.
- Carry a light layer for the air conditioning in the tower and the malls.
- Check photography and drone rules: flying drones near the tower is not allowed.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is the Burj Khalifa?
828 m. It has been the tallest building in the world since it opened in 2010.
When do the fountain shows run?
Usually every evening, about every 30 minutes, with afternoon shows on some days. Times can change, so check on site.
Is it worth going up?
Yes, if the sky is clear. On hazy days the views are less sharp, so check the weather and consider sunset or early morning.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
- Visit Abu Dhabi, the official tourism website
- Visit Dubai, the official tourism website
- UAE government portal: visas and entry
- UK government travel advice: United Arab Emirates
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Christian Raggini (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons, Robert Bock robertbock (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons, Mguil13 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
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