Standing tall alongside the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab is undeniably one of Dubai’s most futuristic and striking architectural marvels. Often hailed as the world’s only “7-star hotel,” this masterpiece combines opulence with groundbreaking design.
In this article, we share some fascinating facts about this extraordinary hotel. If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, the Burj Al Arab undoubtedly promises an unmatched luxury experience. Here are some intriguing details about this iconic hotel that you may not have heard before.
18th Tallest Structure in Dubai
The Burj Al Arab towers over the skyline at an architectural height of 321 meters, making it taller than New York’s Empire State Building. Although it ranks as the 18th tallest structure in Dubai, its distinctive design ensures it stands out from the rest.
Five Years of Construction
Work on this world-renowned hotel began in 1994. It took two years to create the man-made island on which it stands, followed by three years to complete the hotel’s iconic structure.
Record-Breaking Feats
Though it was once the tallest hotel globally, the Burj Al Arab has since been surpassed by three other Dubai-based hotels. Still, it holds other impressive records. In 2008, it entered the Guinness World Records for serving the priciest drinks, valued at over 27,000 AED. Additionally, in 2016, it set a record for the largest tin of caviar, weighing 17 kilograms and containing Empress caviar, the world’s only certified organic variety.
Built on a Man-Made Island
The Burj Al Arab is uniquely situated on an artificial island, 280 meters off Dubai’s shoreline. Accessible via a private 340-meter-long bridge, this location was meticulously chosen to prevent the hotel’s shadow from falling on the nearby beach. Constructing the reclaimed land took three years, while the hotel itself rose in under three years.
World’s Largest Swarovski Crystal Ceiling
In the hotel’s Japanese restaurant, Junsui, the ceiling sparkles with over 21,000 Swarovski crystals, designed to mimic the Milky Way. This dazzling installation cost over 1.3 million AED.
Among the World’s Most Expensive Suites
Despite its imposing size, the Burj Al Arab has only 202 suites, each offering unparalleled luxury. Even the smallest suite spans an impressive 169 square meters, while the largest covers 780 square meters. The crown jewel is the royal suite, which costs over 102,000 AED per night, ranking it among the world’s priciest hotel accommodations.
An Underwater Dining Experience
In addition to its sky-high floating restaurant, the Burj Al Arab boasts an underwater restaurant called Al Mahara. Guests reach it via a simulated underwater journey. The centerpiece is a vast aquarium holding approximately 990,000 liters of water, with its walls made of 7-inch-thick acrylic glass to withstand immense water pressure.
One of Dubai’s Highest Helipads
Perched at an altitude of 689 feet, the Burj Al Arab’s helipad is both one of the highest and largest in the UAE. This floating platform has hosted numerous events, including sporting exhibitions and exclusive helicopter arrivals.
The Burj Al Arab isn’t just a hotel—it’s a symbol of luxury, innovation, and architectural brilliance. From its record-setting feats to its unparalleled accommodations, this landmark continues to define Dubai’s skyline and hospitality standards. If you’re seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, the Burj Al Arab is undoubtedly the place to be.
Inside the Luxurious Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, UAE (2024)
Video by Jay Influencer - The Luxury Travel Consultant
