Burj Al Arab Dubai – Ultimate Guide to the 7-Star Wonder
The Burj Al Arab Dubai isn’t just a hotel — it’s an international symbol of luxury, innovation, and architectural brilliance. Rising majestically from its own artificial island, this 7-star wonder has redefined modern hospitality and become one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
In this guide, we’ll explore the history of Burj Al Arab, architectural design, interior beauty, room costs, restaurants, timings, and all the amazing things that make it a must-visit destination for travelers in 2025.
History and Background of Burj Al Arab
The story of the Burj Al Arab began in 1993, when Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum envisioned creating a structure that would symbolize Dubai’s transformation into a global luxury hub.
Construction began the same year, and after five years of engineering and design, the hotel officially opened on December 1, 1999.
The architect, Tom Wright of WKK Architects, designed the building in the shape of a sail, inspired by Dubai’s rich maritime heritage. It stands on a man-made island located 280 meters (920 feet) off the Jumeirah coastline, connected to the mainland by a private bridge.
This design decision was both aesthetic and symbolic — showcasing Dubai’s ability to rise from the sea as a beacon of luxury and innovation.
Architectural Brilliance
The Burj Al Arab’s design is a masterpiece of modern engineering.
- Height: 321 meters (1,053 feet), making it one of the tallest hotels in the world.
- Structure: Two V-shaped steel ‘wings’ form the outer shell, enclosing a massive atrium.
- Atrium Height: 180 meters tall – one of the tallest hotel atriums ever built.
- Foundation: The hotel stands on 230 concrete piles, driven 40 meters deep into the sand.
The building’s sail-like silhouette glows at night with choreographed LED light displays, creating a stunning view visible from miles away.
Interior Design – A Palace of Luxury
The interior of Burj Al Arab is just as breathtaking as its exterior. Designed by Khuan Chew, the interiors combine modern elegance with Arabic grandeur, using materials sourced from around the world.
Highlights of the Interior:
- Gold leaf covering: Over 1,790 square meters of 24-carat gold leaf is used throughout the hotel.
- Marble: Imported from Italy and Brazil for flooring and walls.
- Mosaics and Crystal Chandeliers: Swarovski crystals and hand-painted mosaics add unmatched opulence.
- Atrium Fountain: The central atrium features a dancing fountain rising over 42 meters.
Walking inside Burj Al Arab feels like stepping into a royal palace floating on the sea.
Rooms and Suites – The Epitome of Luxury
Burj Al Arab does not have “rooms” — it has 202 duplex suites, each designed to deliver royal comfort and privacy.
- Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite 170 m², private living area, sea view $1,200 – $1,500
- Panoramic Suite 225 m², 180° sea view, floor-to-ceiling windows $1,800 – $2,200
- Deluxe Two-Bedroom Suite 335 m², perfect for families, luxury bathroom $3,000 – $3,500
- Diplomatic Suite 670 m², private dining and office area $5,000 – $6,000
- Royal Suite 780 m², private elevator, cinema, gold décor $20,000 – $25,000
Every suite includes Hermès toiletries, private butler service, Jacuzzi, remote-controlled curtains, and full automation of lights and sound.
Guests are welcomed with Arabic coffee, fresh dates, and a bouquet of flowers on arrival.
Exclusive Guest Services
Burj Al Arab is synonymous with ultra-luxury experiences. Guests can enjoy:
- Private Rolls-Royce Transfers from Dubai International Airport.
- Helicopter Transfers to the rooftop helipad (featured in famous films and stunts).
- 24-hour Butler Service for each suite.
- Private Beach Access shared with the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
- Access to Wild Wadi Waterpark for all hotel guests.
World-Class Dining at Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab offers nine signature restaurants and bars, each designed to create unforgettable dining experiences.
1. Al Mahara – The Underwater Restaurant
A fine-dining seafood restaurant that feels like eating inside an aquarium. The floor-to-ceiling seawater tank surrounds guests with marine life as they dine.
2. Al Muntaha – The Sky-High Restaurant
Located on the 27th floor, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. It serves European and contemporary cuisine in a romantic setting.
3. Sahn Eddar
A luxurious lounge located in the atrium, perfect for afternoon tea with live harp music.
4. Junsui
An Asian fusion restaurant with live cooking stations serving Japanese, Chinese, Thai, and Korean dishes.
5. Gold On 27
A stunning sky lounge bar with gold-themed interiors and creative cocktails.
Each restaurant reflects the elegance and exclusivity of the hotel’s brand — where dining becomes an art form.
Timings and Entry Information
- Hotel Stay: 24 hours check-in (depending on booking).
- Lobby Access: Restricted to hotel guests or dining reservations.
- Afternoon Tea Timings (Sahn Eddar): 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
- Restaurant Timings: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM (varies by venue).
- Tour Visitors: Non-guests can book Inside Burj Al Arab Tour, available daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Tour Price:
- Adults: AED 249 (~$68 USD)
- VIP Experience: AED 399 (~$108 USD)
This guided experience allows visitors to explore exclusive suites, royal interiors, and the Burj Al Arab Experience Museum.
How Much Does It Cost to Stay at Burj Al Arab in 2025?
The Burj Al Arab is known as “the world’s only 7-star hotel”, though the official rating system stops at 5 stars. Prices vary by season, but as of 2025:
- Lowest Rate (Off-season): Around $1,000 per night.
- Peak Season (November–March): $2,500+ per night.
- Royal Suite: Up to $25,000 per night, depending on booking and events.
The rates include luxury transport, personalized butler service, private beach access, and exclusive amenities unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Burj Al Arab Beach & Surroundings
The hotel is located on Jumeirah Beach, close to Madinat Jumeirah, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
Guests enjoy:
- Private beach with cabanas
- Exclusive pool terraces
- Access to Talise Spa and Talise Fitness Center
The beach area offers mesmerizing sunset views and is perfect for romantic walks.
Talise Spa – Relaxation at the Top of the World
The Talise Spa, located on the 18th floor, offers panoramic ocean views and a selection of luxury treatments.
Features include:
- Infinity pools for men and women
- Aromatherapy showers
- Sauna and steam rooms
- Caviar facials and gold-infused massages
This spa experience is a blend of wellness, serenity, and royal comfort.
Location and How to Get There
Address:
Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, UAE
How to Reach:
- By Car: 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
- By Metro: Take the Red Line to Mall of the Emirates, then taxi to the hotel.
- By Bus: Routes 8, 81, and X28 stop nearby.
- By Taxi or Careem: Most convenient for tourists.
Parking: Complimentary valet parking for hotel and restaurant guests.
Amazing Facts About Burj Al Arab Dubai
- It took five years to build, with over 3,000 workers involved.
- The helipad has hosted events like Tiger Woods teeing off, Roger Federer vs. Andre Agassi tennis match, and Red Bull stunts.
- The hotel features a fleet of white Rolls-Royce Phantoms.
- Over 1,790 sqm of gold leaf was used for decoration.
- The atrium is taller than the Statue of Liberty.
- The Skyview Bar on the 27th floor offers one of the best sunset views in Dubai.
- Every floor has a dedicated reception desk.
- The hotel’s design was inspired by Dubai’s sailing tradition.
- The Royal Suite includes a private cinema and library.
- Guests receive personalized stationery and pillow menus.
Why Burj Al Arab is Globally Famous
The Burj Al Arab represents Dubai’s identity — ambitious, luxurious, and innovative.
It’s been featured in Hollywood films, travel documentaries, and thousands of social media campaigns. For many tourists, visiting the Burj Al Arab is a bucket-list experience — even if it’s just for afternoon tea or a photo from Jumeirah Public Beach.
Its combination of luxury hospitality, spectacular architecture, and unforgettable experiences continues to set global standards for modern tourism.
Conclusion
The Burj Al Arab Dubai isn’t just a hotel — it’s a living symbol of Dubai’s success and its vision of the future. From its golden interiors and world-class service to its breathtaking architecture and history, every detail of this hotel reflects excellence and elegance.
Whether you plan to stay in its luxurious suites, dine at Al Muntaha, or simply take the Inside Burj Al Arab tour, the experience is unforgettable.
As one of the top tourist attractions in Dubai 2025, the Burj Al Arab continues to inspire millions — standing as a shining example of how imagination and ambition can create wonders beyond belief.
Burj al Arab Interior Photoes
