Standing at a breathtaking 828 meters (2,717 feet), the Burj Khalifa is not just a building—it's a testament to human achievement and Dubai's ambition. As the world's tallest structure, it has become the defining icon of Dubai's skyline and a must-visit destination for travelers. During my recent trip to Dubai, experiencing this architectural marvel was at the top of my bucket list, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

Choosing Your Experience

When planning your visit to Burj Khalifa, you'll need to decide which observation deck experience suits your preferences and budget:

• At the Top (Levels 124 & 125): The standard experience offering panoramic views from 452 meters. This is the most affordable option and perfect for those wanting the essential Burj Khalifa experience.
• At the Top SKY (Level 148): The premium experience taking you to the world's highest observation deck at 555 meters. This includes the Level 124 & 125 access plus exclusive access to Level 148, personalized tour, refreshments, and a more luxurious experience overall. It costs approximately twice as much as the standard ticket but offers a more exclusive atmosphere with fewer crowds.

I opted for the At the Top SKY experience, wanting to go all-in on my first visit. The personalized service and exclusive access to Level 148 made it worthwhile, especially for photography enthusiasts like myself seeking less crowded conditions.

Best Time to Visit

Timing is crucial when visiting the Burj Khalifa. Here are my recommendations:

• Sunset visits: The most popular and magical time to visit, offering the chance to see Dubai in daylight, during sunset, and illuminated at night. Book these slots well in advance (at least 3-4 weeks) as they sell out quickly.
• Early morning: For fewer crowds and beautiful morning light, book the first slot of the day (usually around 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM).
• Late evening: After 8:00 PM, crowds tend to thin out, and you can enjoy the city lights without the sunset rush.

I chose a sunset time slot (5:30 PM in winter), arriving about 30 minutes before my scheduled time. The transition from day to night was spectacular, allowing me to capture both daytime and nighttime photos of the city.

The Journey Upward

The experience begins in Dubai Mall, where you'll find the Burj Khalifa entrance near the food court. After presenting your tickets, you'll be guided through a fascinating multimedia presentation about the building's construction and Dubai's transformation from desert to metropolis.

Then comes the elevator ride—a marvel in itself. The high-speed elevators travel at 10 meters per second, taking you from ground level to Level 124 in just about a minute. Your ears might pop, but the journey is smooth and comfortable with fascinating visuals displayed on the elevator walls.

The View from the Top

Nothing quite prepares you for that first moment when you step out onto the observation deck and see Dubai sprawled beneath you. From this height, the city's ambitious architecture, the serpentine Dubai Creek, the vast desert, and the Persian Gulf create a breathtaking panorama.

On Level 148, I was greeted with Arabic coffee and dates while enjoying the exclusive lounge before moving to the outdoor terrace. With fewer people around, I could take my time setting up shots and enjoying the views without feeling rushed.

The interactive displays are worth exploring—they allow you to identify landmarks and zoom in on different parts of the city. Special telescopes offer both current views and historical views of the same locations, showing Dubai's remarkable development over time.

Photography Tips

For photography enthusiasts, here are some tips for capturing the best shots:

• Bring a microfiber cloth to clean your camera lens and the glass windows
• Avoid wearing bright colors that might reflect in the glass
• For night shots, set your camera to a higher ISO and use a longer exposure (if you can stabilize your camera)
• Use the outdoor terrace areas for unobstructed views
• Consider using your phone for panoramic shots—modern smartphones often handle the challenging light conditions well

Practical Information

Ticket Prices (as of 2023):

• At the Top (non-prime hours): AED 149 for adults (approx. $40 USD)
• At the Top (prime hours/sunset): AED 224 for adults (approx. $60 USD)
• At the Top SKY (all hours): AED 378 for adults (approx. $103 USD)
• Children under 4: Free
• Children 4-12 years: Reduced rates available

Opening Hours:

• Daily from 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM (last entry at 10:00 PM)
• Hours may vary during Ramadan and holidays

Is It Worth It?

The question I'm most frequently asked is whether visiting the Burj Khalifa is worth the cost. My answer is an emphatic yes—at least once. The engineering achievement, the unparalleled views, and the sense of wonder you experience standing on top of the world's tallest building create memories that last a lifetime.

For those on a budget, the standard At the Top experience during non-prime hours offers excellent value. If you're celebrating a special occasion or want a more exclusive experience, the SKY package elevates the visit to something truly extraordinary.

After descending from the clouds, I recommend extending your Burj Khalifa experience by watching the Dubai Fountain show at the base of the tower. These choreographed water displays occur every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM and provide a perfect finale to your visit to this incredible landmark.

Have you visited the Burj Khalifa? Share your experience in the comments below!