1 / 13January 4, 2025, marks the 15th anniversary of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, which defines Dubai’s skyline. If you’ve travelled to the UAE, we’re sure you couldn’t have missed this iconic landmark that stands as a monumental feat in modern architecture and engineering. Completed in 2010, the building towers at 828 meters. The skyscraper’s design, which takes inspiration from Islamic architecture, incorporates sleek, modern elements while connecting UAE’s cultural heritage. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)
2 / 13The structure is a blend of residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, housing luxury apartments, offices and a hotel, as well as observation decks that offer scenic views of the city and beyond. The Burj Khalifa’s completion marked not just an architectural milestone, but highlights Dubai’s ambition to position itself as a global hub for luxury tourism. Take a look at 10 salient features of this iconic building. (Image: Reuters)
3 / 131. Cost of construction: The construction of the Burj Khalifa came at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion, which now seems like a hefty investment that reflects the scale and complexity of the project. The building is an engineering marvel that required advanced technology for the time and innovative solutions, such as the world’s fastest elevators and a unique concrete mix designed to withstand extreme temperatures and high winds (including sand storms) that hit the UAE often. (Image: Reuters)
4 / 132. Tallest building in the world | The Burj Khalifa is primarily a residential structure, and is a mixed-use skyscraper. Its lower floors house a luxury hotel, while the upper levels feature condominium apartments, extending all the way to the first observation deck located on the 124th floor. Standing at 828 meters (2,717 feet), the Burj Khalifa is the tallest structure ever built. It took over six years to build, with nearly 12,000 workers involved in its construction. It has 163 stories. (Image: Shutterstock)
5 / 133. Record-breaking feats | It holds multiple world records, including the highest observation deck, the longest elevator travel distance, and the highest restaurant in the world. The building is an engineering marvel that required advanced technology for the time and innovative solutions, such as the world’s fastest elevators. (Image: CNBC-TV18)
6 / 134. Innovative design | The building’s design is inspired by traditional Islamic architecture, incorporating patterns from the desert flower and the region’s distinctive culture. (Image: Reuters)
7 / 135. State-of-the-art engineering | The Burj Khalifa boasts cutting-edge engineering, including a unique central core and high-strength concrete, enabling it to withstand extreme wind forces. (Image: Reuters)
8 / 136. Mixed-use development | It hosts a combination of uses, including residential apartments, corporate offices, luxury hotel suites. the Armani hotel (operated by the Address Hotels + Resorts), and observation decks. (Image: Reuters)
9 / 137. Energy efficiency | The building integrates sustainable technologies such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures, making it a model for eco-friendly skyscrapers. (Image: Reuters)
10 / 138. Impressive lighting | Burj Khalifa features a dazzling lighting system that lights up the skyline with spectacular LED displays, especially during special occasions and celebrations. (Image: AP)
11 / 139. Fastest elevator system | The Burj Khalifa houses the world’s fastest elevator system, which travels at a speed of 10 meters per second (36 km/h).9. Fastest elevator system | The Burj Khalifa houses the world’s fastest elevator system, which travels at a speed of 10 meters per second (36 km/h). (Image: Reuters)
12 / 1310. Construction timeline | Construction of the Burj Khalifa began in 2004 and was completed in 2010, taking just over six years to finish.9. Fastest elevator system | The Burj Khalifa houses the world’s fastest elevator system, which travels at a speed of 10 meters per second (36 km/h). (Image: Reuters)
13 / 1311. Incredible views | The Burj Khalifa offers breathtaking views from its observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors, allowing visitors to experience a panoramic view of Dubai and beyond.(Image: Shutterstock)
