Burj Al Arab is a luxurious, 7-star hotel located in Dubai. It is widely regarded as one of the most iconic buildings in the world and has become a symbol of modern Dubai. The hotel was built on an artificial island located about 280 meters offshore from the Jumeirah beach.
The construction of Burj Al Arab started in 1994 and was completed in 1999. The hotel was built by the Jumeirah Group and was designed by the British architect Tom Wright of Atkins. The project cost around $1 billion, making it one of the most expensive hotels ever built.
Burj Al Arab stands at a height of 321 meters (1,053 feet), and it has 56 floors. It is the fourth tallest hotel in the world and is designed to resemble the sail of a ship, which reflects the maritime history of Dubai. The hotel's exterior is made up of a double-layered glass façade, which provides stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
The interior of Burj Al Arab is just as impressive as its exterior. The hotel has 202 suites, ranging in size from 170 to 780 square meters. Each suite is designed to provide the highest level of comfort and luxury, with amenities such as 24-hour butler service, Jacuzzis, and private balconies. The hotel also features a range of restaurants, including Al Muntaha, which is located 200 meters above the Persian Gulf and offers panoramic views of Dubai.
Burj Al Arab has received numerous awards for its design and service, including the title of "World's Leading Hotel" at the World Travel Awards for several years in a row. It has also been featured in several movies and television shows, further cementing its status as an iconic landmark of Dubai. Visitors can experience the luxury of the hotel with an exclusive 90-min Inside Burj Al Arab Tour that takes you across the hotel with a private butler.
The hotel also takes part in special celebrations, including New Year's Eve and National Day, with a spectacular firework display.
Restaurants and cafes in Burj Al-Arab
Burj Al-Arab is home to a variety of world-class restaurants and cafes, each offering a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Here is a list of some of the notable restaurants and cafes located inside the hotel:
1.
Al Muntaha - This restaurant is located on the 27th floor of Burj Al-Arab and offers breathtaking views of Dubai's coastline. It serves contemporary French and Italian cuisine and has been awarded one Michelin star for its excellent service and delicious food curated by Chef Saverio Sbaragli; and is perfect for dinner at Burj Al Arab.
2.
Sahn Eddar - Located in the hotel's atrium, Sahn Eddar is a sophisticated lounge that serves a range of light snacks, teas, and coffees, including the popular Burj Al Arab gold coffee. It is known for its impressive décor, featuring a stunning fountain and ornate gold pillars. The popular Burj Al Arab afternoon tea is also served at Sahn Eddar
3.
Al Iwan - This Arabic restaurant is located on the first floor of the hotel and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf in a luxurious and ornate setting and serves traditional Arabic dishes, including mezze and grilled meats.
4.
Bab Al Yam - A beachfront restaurant located on the ground floor of the hotel, Bab Al Yam offers a relaxed dining experience with views of the hotel's gardens and the sea. It serves international cuisine, including fresh seafood and salads.
5.
Ristorante L'Olivo at Al Mahara - This Italian restaurant, located on the ground floor of the hotel, is surrounded by the stunning Burj Al Arab aquarium, which houses over 40 species of marine life. It serves authentic Italian cuisine, including homemade pastas and fresh seafood curated by Chef Andrea Migliaccio from Capri's Two-Michelin star 'Ristorante L'Olivo'.
6.
Gilt - Burj Al Arab's nightclub with magical mixology; Gilt offers panoramic views of Dubai's skyline and serves a range of cocktails, wines, and light snacks.
7.
Skyview Bar - Located on the 27th floor of the hotel, this bar is known for its impressive views of Dubai's coastline. It serves a range of cocktails and light snacks.
What's inside the Burj Al-Arab?
Burj Al Arab boasts one of the most luxurious interiors in the world. Each corner of the hotel redefines luxury and is awe-inspiring to witness, with marble floors, gold leaf accents, and stunning works of art. The hotel also features a number of impressive sculptures, including a 32-foot tall "Winged Arabian Horse" sculpture by artist Nikolas Weinstein.
Burj Al Arab also offers a range of amenities and facilities, making it one of the most exclusive and sought-after destinations in the world. The 202 luxurious suites, including one of the most expensive hotel rooms in the world, The Royal Suite, are dressed up in opulent luxury and feature the highest quality of amenities.
Visitors can also find a variety of dining options at the hotel, ranging from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants. Some of the notable restaurants include Al Muntaha, a Michelin-star restaurant located on the 27th floor of the hotel, which offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, and Ristorante L'Olivo at Al Mahara, which is surrounded by the hotel's coveted aquarium.
The hotel also features a private spa which is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering a range of treatments and therapies, including massages, facials, and body treatments. The spa also features a sauna, steam room, and fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment.
One of the standout features of Burj Al Arab is the 900-meter private beach, exclusively for hotel guests. The beach is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and towels and offers stunning views of the hotel and the surrounding coastline.
Interesting facts about the Burj Al-Arab Hotel
Here are some interesting facts about this remarkable building:1. Burj Al Arab is built on a man-made island, which is located 280 meters away from Jumeirah Beach. The island was constructed by dredging the sea bed and then building the foundation on the surface.
2. The hotel features 202 duplex suites, each ranging in size from 170 to 780 square meters. At 321 meters, the hotel is the fourth tallest building in the world and the tallest all-suite hotel.
3. The hotel's distinctive design was created by architect Tom Wright, who modelled the building after a billowing sail. The design was meant to reflect Dubai's seafaring heritage.
4. Construction of Burj Al-Arab began in 1994 and was completed in 1999. It took approximately 5 years to build the hotel, with a team of over 3,000 people working on the project.
5. The hotel is adorned with over 1,790 square meters of 24-carat gold leaf, which was used to decorate the interior of the building.
6. Burj Al Arab has a helicopter landing pad, which is located 210 meters above sea level. The landing pad is capable of accommodating helicopters of up to 12,000 pounds.
7. Ristorante L'Olivo at Al Mahara, one of Burj Al Arab's top dining destinations, is located within an aquarium, with a massive glass wall providing guests with a view of the marine life. The restaurant features an extensive seafood menu, including fresh lobster and caviar.
8. The hotel has a tennis court located 321 meters above ground, making it the highest tennis court in the world.
9. Each suite at the hotel is assigned a butler, who is available 24/7 to cater to the guests' needs.
10. The hotel features a 900-meter private beach, which is exclusively for the use of the hotel's guests. The beach is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and towels and offers stunning views of the hotel and the surrounding coastline.