A trip to Dubai is incomplete if you don’t include its record-breaking spots and experiences to your itinerary. After all, this city boasts more records than just being home to the world’s tallest tower. Here’s a little guide to help you plan your visit.
World’s tallest building: Burj Khalifa
On its opening in 2010, Burj Khalifa took the crown of being the tallest building in the world from Taipei 101. The mixed-use development includes the Armani hotel as well as residential and commercial space. Boast a ‘Burj Khalifa’ address for a few days by checking into the Armani during your trip. www.armanihoteldubai.com
The world’s highest restaurant: At.Mosphere
Housed on the 22nd floor of Burj Khalifa (442m from the ground), At.Mosphere is an upscale fine dining restaurant with a menu that wows as much as the views. For a more casual experience, guests can opt for the lounge which serves beverages and light fare with a side of live entertainment. The high tea at the lounge is recommended. Window seats allow plenty of photo opportunities. Note: prices at the restaurant / lounge vary depending on where you are seated. www.atmosphereburjkhalifa.com
The highest outdoor observation deck in the world: At The Top, Burj Khalifa Sky
The experience begins at the Burj Khalifa SKY Lounge from where visitors are escorted to a dedicated elevator that takes them to Level 125 (one level above the ‘At The Top’ observatory). At 456m, this spacious deck offers 360-degree views of the city. The next elevator takes visitors to Level 148 where they can sit back in the luxury of its lounges and appreciate the breath-taking views. Once you are back on ground level, there is an exhibit that allows you to relive the historic build of the iconic building. www.burjkhalifa.ae
World’s tallest hotel: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
Labelled the world’s tallest hotel, JW Marriott Marquis is a set of 72-storey twin towers in Business Bay, not too far from Burj Khalifa. Book a stay at the swanky property, indulge in a treatment at its luxurious spa or savour a meal at one of its 14 bars and restaurants, which offer a range of cuisines including Thai, Indian, Italian and Peruvian. www.jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
Record-breaking fireworks display: Burj Khalifa
On 31st December 2013, Dubai broke the Guinness World Record with the largest fireworks display – a dazzling spectacle with pyrotechnic displays at Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Festival City. The following year its fireworks were once again talk of the town. This time at Burj Khalifa. The display erupted from every side of the megastructure including the top, making it the highest fireworks on a building. Whether Burj Khalifa attempts to break a record or not this year, its annual NYE fireworks are worth including on your Dubai bucket list. It is not surprising to see spectators gather around the area six to seven hours before the show so they can secure the best spots.
World’s largest mall: The Dubai Mall
Known as the largest mall in the world (by total area), The Dubai Mall also prides itself on being one of the world’s most visited lifestyle destinations, beating spots like New York’s Time Square and Canada’s Niagara Falls in the past. With more than 1,200 outlets to shop at, numerous restaurants and cafes to dine at and entertainment attractions such as an ice-rink, aquarium and cinemas, there’s enough to cater to all ages. www.thedubaimall.com
Largest water screen projection and permanent projection: Imagine at Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City
Dubai Festival City’s newest attraction, Imagine, set two world records - the largest water screen projection and the largest permanent projection mapping in the world - within six months of launching. Through its two shows, ‘A Child’s Dream’ and ‘Stardancer’, Imagine showcases the latest entertainment technology in water, pyrotechnics, lasers, lights and dramatic effects. The shows begin after sunset, daily.
