Burj Khalifa

Standing at 828 metres with 163 floors, the Burj Khalifa has been the world's tallest structure since April 2008, surpassing the previous record-holder by nearly 200 metres. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, its tapering, Y-shaped cross-section draws inspiration from the desert flower Hymenocallis, allowing the tower to shed wind loads while maximising floor space. The building was named after UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan following a pivotal financial intervention during Dubai's 2009 debt crisis — a fact notably announced at the opening ceremony. Visitors can ascend to the 'At the Top' observation deck on floor 124 or the higher Sky-Level on floor 148 for views stretching to the Persian Gulf. The tower also houses the At.mosphere restaurant on the 122nd floor, a rooftop bar, and the Armani Hotel across its lower levels.