The Burj Al Arab, the world’s second tallest all-hotel building shaped in the form of a billowing Arabic sailing vessel, is an icon and tribute to Dubai’s innovation and wealth. Situated on a man-made island just off the coast of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the 1,053 foot, 202-room high-end luxury hotel was designed by architect Tom Wright and the British-based firm Atkins. Construction of the hotel began in 1994 and the project was completed in 1999. The project involved several engineering achievements including building and protecting the man-made island as well as securing the foundation via 120 foot long concrete pillars.
The Burj Al Arab, which is managed by the Jumeirah Group, features 202 2-story bedroom suites. The opulent and luxurious suites range from 1,819 square feet to 8,396 square feet. The hotel is one of the most expensive in the world, with rates starting at $1000 per night all the way up to the Royal Suite going for $28,000 a night. The interior design is a combination of eastern and western influences, combining elements of classicism, art nouveau and Arabian design. All suites have a dining and living area as well as an office area that includes internet access, a laptop, printer, fax and copier. All of the suites are provided with a private butler. All of the suite windows run from floor to ceiling and offer spectacular views of Dubai and the Persian Gulf.
The building features a 600-foot atrium, the world’s tallest, and a 70-foot helipad that projects out from the building. The hotel includes a ballroom, conference suites, health and fitness facility, and a spa. The hotel features some of the best-rated restaurants in the world, including the Al Muntaha that sits 600 feet above the Persian Gulf with views of the sea and Dubai, and the Al Mahara, another world-class restaurant that is accessed by way of a submarine ride. The top floor features the Skyview Bar, with majestic views of the Gulf, The World Island and Jumeirah Island.
The hotel offers first class service and luxury amenities. Guests can choose to be transported from the Dubai International Airport to the hotel by helicopter or by a Rolls-Royce silver seraph limousine. The Burj Al Arab is located just outside Dubai city in the Jumeirah Beach area. The mainland is accessed from the hotel via a causeway
The Burj Al Arab, with its billowing sail form, symbolizes both the past and present of Dubai. It draws upon both the traditional as well as the modern and is an icon on the Dubai skyline. It is one of several skyscraper projects that has helped bring Dubai international recognition as an important business, trade and tourist center in not only the Middle East but the entire world. The luxury hotels, wide array of recreational venues and business opportunities are drawing people in from all over the world to Dubai. The Burj Al Arab offers a one of a kind luxurious experience for visitors to Dubai.