In the world of luxury travel, few buildings are as famous as the Burj Al Arab. Known as the world’s only “7-star hotel,” it stands on its own man-made island, shining as a symbol of Dubai’s ambition and creativity. It’s not only a hotel but a global icon that draws travelers from every corner of the world.
For visitors who want to explore Dubai’s wonders, securing an Urgent Emirates Visa ensures they won’t miss out on seeing this architectural masterpiece. Whether you plan to stay in its lavish suites, dine at its famous restaurants, or simply admire its unique shape, the Burj Al Arab offers an unforgettable experience.
Why is the Burj Al Arab Famous?
There are several reasons why the Burj Al Arab is one of Dubai’s top attractions:
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It looks like a giant sail rising from the sea, a symbol of Dubai’s maritime history.
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It’s built on its own island, adding to its exclusivity.
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The hotel offers extreme luxury, with gold interiors, personal butlers, and some of the world’s most expensive suites.
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Its restaurants are world-class, offering unique dining experiences under the sea or high above the city.
People often associate Dubai with modern skyscrapers, but the Burj Al Arab is in a class of its own. It’s not just a hotel—it’s an experience.
A Brief History of the Burj Al Arab
The story of the Burj Al Arab begins in the 1990s, when Dubai wanted to create a symbol that would place it firmly on the world map. The government and developers envisioned a hotel so luxurious that it would become an international landmark.
Construction started in 1994, and the hotel officially opened its doors in December 1999. It was built on an artificial island 280 meters offshore from Jumeirah Beach, connected to the mainland by a private bridge.
The total cost to build the hotel was estimated at over $1 billion. From the start, it was designed to be an icon of luxury and engineering.
Architectural Design of the Burj Al Arab
The design of the Burj Al Arab was inspired by the shape of a dhow sail, a traditional boat used in the Arabian Gulf. Architect Tom Wright wanted the building to represent Dubai’s connection to the sea.
Key features of the design include:
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A unique sail shape visible from miles away.
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A helipad near the top, used for events like tennis matches and car stunts.
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An atrium that rises over 180 meters, one of the tallest in the world.
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Interiors decorated with gold leaf, colorful mosaics, and precious materials.
Its bold design helped make it one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
Luxury Services and Features at the Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab is not just about looks—it’s about delivering an unmatched luxury experience. Guests can expect:
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Personal butlers available 24/7
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Rolls-Royce fleet for guest transportation
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Private check-in on each floor
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Pillow menus with 17 options for perfect sleep
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Hermes amenities in every suite
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Private beaches and exclusive pools
Everything at the hotel is designed for comfort, privacy, and elegance. No wonder it’s called the world’s only “7-star hotel,” although that title is unofficial.
Inside the Suites
The Burj Al Arab offers only suites—no standard rooms. Each suite is a blend of comfort, technology, and luxury.
Features of the suites include:
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Two floors in every suite
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Stunning views of the Arabian Gulf
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Private living rooms
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Luxurious bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs
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Large beds with fine linens
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Advanced technology for controlling lights, curtains, and entertainment systems
The Royal Suite, one of the hotel’s most luxurious options, costs tens of thousands of dollars per night and is reserved for VIP guests, celebrities, and dignitaries.
Dining Experiences at the Burj Al Arab
Dining at the Burj Al Arab is a unique experience. The hotel’s restaurants are famous not only for their food but also for their breathtaking locations and designs.
Al Muntaha
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Located 200 meters above the Persian Gulf
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Offers panoramic views of Dubai
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Serves European cuisine in an elegant setting
Al Mahara
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Known for its underwater theme
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Guests enter through a simulated submarine journey
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Features a large aquarium filled with colorful fish
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Serves seafood prepared by world-class chefs
Sahn Eddar
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Located in the atrium
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Perfect for afternoon tea
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Offers beautiful views of the atrium’s golden columns and waterfalls
Dining at the Burj Al Arab isn’t just about food—it’s a memory you’ll keep forever. Reservations are usually required, and dress codes are strictly followed.
The Burj Al Arab at Night
At night, the Burj Al Arab transforms into a beacon of color and light. Its exterior is lit up in shifting colors, creating a spectacular scene visible across the Dubai coastline.
Visitors can also enjoy views of the nearby Jumeirah Beach and the lights of the Dubai skyline. Many people come to photograph the hotel at night because of its dazzling appearance.
Burj Al Arab’s Role in Dubai’s Image
The Burj Al Arab plays a huge role in shaping how people see Dubai. It stands as a symbol of:
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Ambition and innovation
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Luxury tourism
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Architectural creativity
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Dubai’s global status as a modern city
It appears in countless advertisements, films, and travel brochures. Many travelers feel their Dubai visit is incomplete without at least seeing the Burj Al Arab up close.
Visiting the Burj Al Arab Without Staying There
Many tourists wonder if they can see the Burj Al Arab without being hotel guests. The answer is yes—but with some rules.
You cannot simply walk in and explore the hotel unless you have:
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A dining reservation at one of the restaurants
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A spa appointment
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A booking for afternoon tea
Even to drive onto the private bridge, you must show a confirmed reservation. If you want to see the hotel without entering, the best views are from Jumeirah Beach or Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Planning a visit is easier if you have an Urgent Emirates Visa, especially if your travel is last-minute.
Cost of Visiting the Burj Al Arab
Visiting the Burj Al Arab is not cheap. For example:
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Afternoon tea starts at around AED 400 per person
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Dining at Al Mahara or Al Muntaha can cost over AED 1,000 per person
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Spa experiences also carry premium prices
However, many visitors feel the experience is worth the cost for the memories and the luxury environment.
Famous Events at the Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab has hosted many spectacular events over the years, including:
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Tennis matches on the helipad with famous players like Roger Federer and Andre Agassi
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Red Bull Racing car stunts on the helipad
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Celebrity weddings and private concerts
These events help maintain the hotel’s image as a place where extraordinary things happen.
Burj Al Arab and Urgent Emirates Visa
Many travelers decide to visit Dubai suddenly, whether for business, family reasons, or unexpected opportunities. An Urgent Emirates Visa allows them to enter Dubai quickly and not miss out on experiences like the Burj Al Arab.
With an urgent visa:
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Processing can be done in 24 hours or less
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Visitors can attend special events or make last-minute dining reservations
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It avoids stress during busy travel seasons
Websites like urgentemiratesvisa.com make it simple to apply for urgent visas so that travelers can enjoy Dubai’s luxury attractions without delays.
Fun Facts About the Burj Al Arab
Here are some fun facts about the Burj Al Arab:
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The hotel’s interiors use over 1,790 square meters of 24-carat gold leaf.
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The atrium is tall enough to fit the Statue of Liberty inside.
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The helipad sits 210 meters above the ground.
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The hotel’s staff-to-suite ratio is among the highest in the world, ensuring personalized service.
These unique details make the Burj Al Arab one of the most extraordinary hotels globally.
Tips for Visiting the Burj Al Arab
✅ Dress formally for restaurant reservations or afternoon tea.
✅ Book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
✅ Bring a camera for amazing photo opportunities.
✅ Check visa requirements and apply for an Urgent Emirates Visa if needed.
✅ Be polite and respectful—staff maintain high standards of service and etiquette.
The Future of the Burj Al Arab
While Dubai continues to build new skyscrapers and resorts, the Burj Al Arab remains timeless. It’s likely to stay one of Dubai’s most photographed and admired landmarks for decades to come.
New attractions are being added around the Jumeirah area, but nothing has yet surpassed the fame of the Burj Al Arab. It remains a proud symbol of the UAE’s progress and vision.
FAQ: Burj Al Arab
Q1. Can anyone visit the Burj Al Arab without booking a room?
No. You must have a restaurant, spa, or afternoon tea reservation to enter the hotel.
Q2. How tall is the Burj Al Arab?
The Burj Al Arab is 321 meters tall (1,053 feet).
Q3. Is the Burj Al Arab really a 7-star hotel?
Officially, there’s no such thing as a 7-star rating. The term “7-star” was created by journalists to describe the hotel’s extreme luxury.
Q4. Is it expensive to visit the Burj Al Arab?
Yes, experiences like dining or afternoon tea can be costly but are considered worth it for many visitors.
Q5. Can I visit the Burj Al Arab if I have an Urgent Emirates Visa?
Yes! An Urgent Emirates Visa lets you enter Dubai quickly so you can visit luxury landmarks like the Burj Al Arab.
Conclusion
The Burj Al Arab is not just a hotel—it’s an experience that defines luxury and ambition. Whether you’re dining under the sea, relaxing in lavish suites, or simply gazing at its sail-like silhouette from the beach, the Burj Al Arab offers memories that last a lifetime.
If you’re planning to see Dubai’s most iconic hotel, make sure you secure your Urgent Emirates Visa in advance, especially if your trip is sudden. Let your journey to the heights of luxury begin!
