It was on the eve of UAE National Day, December 1, 1999, that the majestic Burj Al Arab, the world’s first seven-star hotel, officially opened its doors to guests. Known as a “monument for the new millennium,” the hotel quickly became a global icon of luxury and architectural innovation.
A Marvel in Architecture and Engineering
Standing at 321 meters on a man-made island 280 meters off the coast of Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab is taller than the Eiffel Tower and only slightly shorter than the Empire State Building. Its unique sail-shaped design symbolizes Dubai’s nautical heritage. Constructing the hotel took five years and involved over 3,000 companies, with 250 designers contributing to its creation.
The structure rests on piles embedded 40 meters into the seabed, while its exterior features 43,466 square meters of glass panels. The hotel also boasts the world’s tallest atrium, standing at 180 meters.
Luxurious Interiors and Unique Features
The interior of the Burj Al Arab reflects unparalleled opulence. Designed by Khuan Chew Associates, the hotel’s interiors feature:
- 30 types of marble, including Statutario marble, famously used by Michelangelo for his sculptures.
- 8,000 square meters of 22-carat gold leaf decorating various surfaces.
- Over 28,000 lights illuminating its grandeur.
Each of the 202 duplex suites offers floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of Dubai. Grand suites boast features like revolving beds, private cinemas, and private elevators.
Dining and Attractions
The Burj Al Arab offers an extraordinary dining experience. The Al Muntaha restaurant, suspended 200 meters above the sea, serves Mediterranean cuisine, while its underwater restaurant, Al Mahara, delivers a unique dining experience surrounded by a massive aquarium.
At night, 142 projectors light up the hotel’s sail facade, creating a constantly changing visual display.
Arriving in Style
Guests arrive in luxury, either via a fleet of eight Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph cars or a helicopter landing on the hotel’s helipad, famously used for memorable events like Tiger Woods teeing off and Roger Federer and Andre Agassi playing tennis.
A Legacy of Firsts
The Burj Al Arab set several benchmarks for the hospitality industry. It offers technologically advanced meeting facilities, exclusive suites named after gemstones, and unmatched staffing levels—five staff members per suite.
A Landmark of Celebration
The hotel has been a central part of UAE National Day celebrations since its opening. On December 2, 1999, a spectacular fireworks display atop the Burj Al Arab commemorated the UAE’s 28th National Day.
Global Icon
Over the years, Burj Al Arab has become a symbol of Dubai’s ambition and luxury, capturing the imagination of travelers worldwide. As it marks its 25th anniversary, the iconic landmark continues to redefine global hospitality standards and remains a jewel of the UAE.
