Translated into English, the name Burj Al Arab means “The Arab Tower,” a title that reflects both pride and grandeur. Its sail-like silhouette, illuminated by a kaleidoscope of lights and artistic projections at night, has become an enduring symbol of modern Dubai. For decades, residents and visitors alike are captivated by the emotional connection this iconic structure inspires.
The vision for the Burj Al Arab was conceived by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, as a way to redefine the city’s skyline and place Dubai firmly on the global map of luxury and innovation. A multidisciplinary consultancy Atkins, led by architect Tom Wright of WKA was hired to create the design. He was the one who came up with an idea of signature translucent fiberglass facade that would serve as a shield from the desert sun during the day and as a screen for illumination at night.
Construction of Burj Al Arab started on July 8, 1994 on the blissful shores of Jumeirah Beach (known previously as Chicago Beach). It took two years to construct the artificial island and an additional three years to complete the hotel itself. Building Burj Al Arab presented significant engineering challenges, including the need to create a stable foundation on the offshore site using 230 concrete piles, each 40 meters in length, topped with a massive concrete raft weighing more than 70 000 tonnes. Other challenges included the need to transport equipment and laborers on an artificial island efficiently and safely. Numerous construction techniques were employed to handle the unique conditions presented by the marine environment, including the use of non-corrosive materials and protective coatings to safeguard against the harsh coastal environment.
The project was completed in December 1999. Since its inauguration, the Burj Al Arab has not only set numerous world records but also embodied Dubai’s incredible ambition to become a city of architectural wonders.
Architecturally designed to resemble the billowing sail of an Arabian dhow, the Burj Al Arab is one of the tallest hotels in the world, standing at an impressive 321 meters. This sail-shaped silhouette has become synonymous with Dubai that for a while it was even featured on the car number plates issued in the Emirate.
The structure’s facade is a marvel of engineering, clad in a double-layered Teflon-coated woven fibreglass fabric. This material not only provides structural support of Burj Al Arab, but also reflects the changing colors of the sea and sky, creating a dynamic and ever-changing visual spectacle.
Inside, the Burj Al Arab’s interiors blend Arabian opulence with modern elegance. Renowned London-based designer Khuan Chew of KCA International used over 30 varieties of Statuario marble, the same type used by Michelangelo in his sculptures, to craft floors and walls spanning nearly 24,000 square meters. To maximize the effect, 1,790 square meters of 24-carat gold leaf embellish the interiors, while 86,500 Swarovski crystals dazzle in the mirror frame of the Junsui Bar.
The Jumeirah Burj Al Arab takes personalized service to extraordinary heights. The hotel employs a team of Michelin-starred chefs, expert mixologists, skilled florists, and dedicated private butlers, all striving to make every guest’s stay unforgettable. From fulfilling grand requests to managing the minutiae of daily preferences, the staff embodies the highest standards of hospitality.
Hotel guests are greeted with the famed Marhaba Welcome, a ritual that epitomizes Arabian generosity. This includes offerings of rose water, chilled towels, dates, and authentic Arabic coffee, setting the tone for an exceptional experience. For added charm, the hotel’s resident camel, Musafir (Arabic for “traveler”), offers a symbolic walk around the grounds.
Traveling in style is another hallmark of the Burj Al Arab experience. Guests can choose from a famous fleet of Rolls-Royces or BMWs for airport transfers and city site-seeing tours.
The helipad at Burj Al Arab has frequently attracted global attention, serving as a stage for some of the world’s most extraordinary stunts and events. In 2004, professional golfer Tiger Woods famously teed off from the helipad. The following year, tennis legends Andre Agassi and Roger Federer played a match on a makeshift court. In 2013, table tennis champions Ma Long and Liu Shiwen made history by playing the first-ever match on the helipad. Pushing boundaries further, professional kitesurfer Nick Jacobsen achieved a world first in 2017 by leaping off the helipad with his kiteboard, solidifying the venue’s reputation as a hub for daring and iconic events.
The Burj Al Arab isn’t just a luxury hotel; it’s also a gastronomic destination with world-class dining options. Each restaurant offers a unique experience, blending extraordinary cuisine with breathtaking views.
One of the most decadent offerings is the famous Gold Cappuccino, a coffee delicately adorned with 24-carat gold flakes — a testament to the hotel’s penchant for luxury.
The Burj Al Arab recently introduced the Inside Burj Al Arab tour, a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the hotel’s lesser-seen areas. This guided experience unveils the stories behind the construction, design, and operations of one of the world’s most iconic structures. Visitors can marvel at the Royal Suite, a lavish two-story retreat, and gain a deeper appreciation for the vision and effort that brought this masterpiece to life.
Despite the subsequent rise of newer, taller, and more extravagant hotels, the Burj Al Arab maintains its status as a global landmark of modern Dubai. It stands as a testament to the city’s enduring ambition and innovation—a beacon of luxury, elegance, and architectural mastery.
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