Introduction

At 828 meters tall with 163 occupied floors, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building on Earth — and its “At the Top” observation experience on Levels 124 and 125 is one of the most iconic things to do in the entire city, drawing millions of visitors each year to its observation decks.

An Engineering Marvel

Completed in 2010, the Burj Khalifa’s design was inspired by the Hymenocallis flower, a desert plant native to the region, with a spiraling structure that reduces wind forces as the tower rises. Its record-breaking height includes the world’s highest occupied floor, the highest outdoor observation deck, and the longest elevator travel distance of its kind — engineering superlatives that make the visit as much about appreciating human achievement as enjoying the view.

The Full Experience — What Happens Step by Step

Check-In Your visit begins at the dedicated Burj Khalifa entrance within Dubai Mall, where you’ll pass through a security screening similar to airport-style checks.

The Journey Up Before boarding the elevator, guests pass through a multimedia journey showcasing the tower’s design inspiration and the story of its construction — a nice build-up to the main event, featuring models and behind-the-scenes footage.

The Elevator One of the fastest elevators in the world carries you up to Level 124 in around 60 seconds, with a visual display inside the elevator car showing the building rising around you as you ascend — a small experience in itself.

Level 124 Stepping out onto Level 124 (452 meters above ground), you’re greeted with an outdoor observation terrace and high-powered telescopes offering close-up views of landmarks across the city, the Arabian Gulf, and the desert beyond.

Level 125 A short walk takes you up to Level 125 (456 meters), the largest open space in the building, decorated in traditional Arabic mashrabiya style, with additional 360-degree views and interactive displays about the tower’s design.

A Second Sunset One of the tower’s most famous quirks: if you watch the sunset from ground level and then ride the elevator up, the sun is still visible above the horizon from the higher altitude — effectively letting you watch the sunset twice in one evening.

Return After taking in the views, guests descend back to ground level via elevator, concluding the visit.

What’s Included

• Timed entry to Levels 124 and 125
• High-speed elevator access
• Interactive exhibits detailing the tower’s history and construction
• Outdoor and indoor viewing areas with telescopes

What to Wear and Bring

• Comfortable, casual clothing — no specific dress code required
• A light jacket if visiting the outdoor deck, particularly during winter evenings when it can be breezy at altitude
• Camera or phone for photos; telescopes are also available on-site

Who This Tour Is For

An essential Dubai experience for every type of traveler — families, couples, solo travelers, and photographers alike.

Good to Know

• Sunset time slots are the most popular and sell out fastest — book at least 3–4 days ahead if targeting this window
• A typical visit takes 45–60 minutes
• Outside food and beverages are not permitted on the observation decks
• Best paired with a visit to the Dubai Fountain show below or a stroll through Dubai Mall