Dubai's Famous Buildings
Dubai has changed a lot since it started as a trading center. Now, it's known for its huge malls and tall buildings. The amazing architecture in the city is admired all over the world.
For decades, the skyline of Dubai was dominated by low and mid-rise buildings. However, with the discovery of oil in the 1960s, the UAE leveraged its newfound wealth to transform itself into a leading luxury tourist destination.
Dubai has turned into an incredible city with some of the most well-known buildings in the world. These buildings show Dubai's dreams, culture, and desire to lead in technology. Now, the city's impressive skyline is linked with growth and success.
11 Most Famous Building In Dubai
Here are the most famous buildings in Dubai, whose architectural structures are no less than wonders of the world.
1. The Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is one of the most iconic buildings in Dubai and inarguably one of the world's most famous buildings in Downtown Dubai.
The Burj Khalifa was developed by the luxury property dealer Emaar. The entire structure involves innovative technology combined with traditional Islamic art and design. The details and elegance of the architecture amaze the visitors and onlookers.
It is undoubtedly at the top of the list of "Dubai tourist spots" because people on vacation love its stunning luxury apartments. Also, the panoramic views on the 125th and 148th floors are captivating. Tourists can see the city, desert, and ocean from the bird's eye view.
The Burj Khalifa stands at a stunning height of 828 meters with as many as 160 stories. It is the world's tallest luxury hotel. Without the Burj Khalifa, Dubai's skyline would be incomplete. This building has been a statement of style and grandeur for many years.
Due to its magnificence, it has always attracted millions of visitors annually. Therefore, the Burj Khalifa is not just a tourist magnet but also a source of revenue for the city. The lavish residence, the famous Armani Hotel, and the delectable dining are the few experiences one can never forget to brag about.
2. The Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab is the only seven-star hotel present on the face of the earth near Palm Jumeirah. It is not just an ordinary hotel but an architectural wonder. This magnificent building, in the shape of a ship's sail, makes Dubai's skyline a work of art.
Everything inside this hotel speaks of luxury and magnificence –from the lavish hotel rooms to the top-class restaurants. Even if you are not staying, you can simply visit and be in awe of its amazing Arabian craftsmanship, modern design, and unique structure.
The Burj Al Arab is a Dubai skyscraper that is one of the most unique buildings in the world. It is as famous as the Statue of Liberty in New York. It was built in 1996 with a vision to put Dubai at the global forefront in the new millennium.
The interior of the Burj Al Arab is no less of a dream. The 24-carat gold-leafed walls, a legitimate 24k-carat toilet, and a Hermes bath are just a few sights that leave your mouth open. The Burj Al Arab also proudly parades a fleet of Rolls-Royce Phantoms, broadcasting Dubai's soul to the world.
The Burj Al Arab is synonymous with Dubai, just like the Statue of Liberty is to New York. Erected in 1996 at breakneck speed, it was the Sheikh's vision to propel Dubai onto the global stage in the new millennium. This sailboat-inspired hotel swiftly earned its status as the world's only 7-star hotel, flaunting unparalleled luxury and hospitality.
3. The Museum of the Future
Another example of Dubai's promise of innovation and unique architecture is the silver oval-shaped building –the Museum of the Future. This building is undoubtedly one of the most famous buildings in Dubai due to its extraordinary design.
The one-of-its-kind structural design of the Museum of the Future is set to inspire visitors and natives alike. The use of modern technologies has even won it several international awards. At sunset, the building gleams like a masterpiece on the streets of Dubai.
The concept of the museum was visualized by a South African architect, Shaun Killa. The Museum of the Future is specifically shaped like a torus, where the front wall is decorated with intricate Arabic calligraphy. The calligraphy displays a poetic vision of Dubai's leader, Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid al Maktoum.
The museum contains exhibits on climate change, space travel, and sustainable living. The visitor's ticket cost $ 40 for the exhibition. It is located within Dubai's Financial District along Sheikh Zayed Road, only a five-minute drive away from the Burj Khalifa.
4. Cayan tower
The Cayan Tower in Dubai Marina, also known as the Infinity Tower, has non-conventional architecture written all over it. Its amazing twist of 90 degrees displays architectural excellence. All of the floors were designed with the same plan, with the exception of rotating each level by 1.2 degrees clockwise from the one below it. This resulted in a 90-degree twist over the whole building's length.
Therefore, the tower is not just exciting for the eyes; it actually serves many purposes. The angled design enables each and every resident to have an unobstructed view of the Arabian Gulf. Not only that, the tower's unique helix shape keeps the internal space of the building protected from direct sunlight while also reducing the force of string winds.
The Cayan Tower is usually seen in the panoramic pictures of Dubai Marina. However, the structure is too complex for the layman to understand. Titanium-colored metal panels coupled with cast-in-place concrete columns and strategically placed staggered screen panels work together to prevent intrusive sunlight, ensuring a comfortable environment within the living spaces.
The 75-floor skyscraper was the tallest building in the world up until 2015. It stands at 307 meters and urges every tourist to take out their camera and take pictures of this marvelous helical-shaped wonder.
5. Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
Dubai World Trade Centre, built in 1979 and inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II, marks a key moment in Dubai's history as the first global business hub. It was the city's first high-rise tower and has a lot of historical importance that it is still printed on the AED 100 currency note.
For the past many decades, the DWTC has been playing an important part in Dubai's economic and financial growth. It has also contributed to the city's business tourism and trade since its induction. It is located adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road in the center of the city's financial district.
The DWTC was also titled the tallest building in the UAE 20 years after it was built. It is a symbol of the expansion of international trade in the Middle East.
The historical building contributes approximately 1.3 million sq. ft of space for events and exhibits. Moreover, it has residential spaces such as apartments and duplexes. Some of these apartments are for rent and come with facilities such as a swimming pool, Jacuzzis, and benefits for differently-abled guests.
6. Atlantis the Palm
The Atlantis was the very first hotel built on the Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. It's designed based on the story of Atlantis, a lost city. The hotel mixes Arabian and ocean themes in its design. It's easy to spot because it's pink and has lots of glass windows. The building looks really impressive and reminds people of the legendary city of Atlantis.
The Atlantis is regarded as the crown jewel of Palm Jumeriah. Its magnificent launch was a combination of record-breaking fireworks displays and celebrity performances that one can never forget. What makes Atlantis special is that it has lots of water attractions like a huge waterpark called Aquaventure, an aquarium called The Lost Chambers, and even hotel rooms underwater.
The resort is abundant with world-class facilities and much more. You can experience the phrase "sleeping with the fishes" for real in the peaceful underwater suites, where you can watch the sea at night. Ossiano, an underwater restaurant, is one of the priciest in Dubai and serves top-quality food.
The Atlantis resort opened in 2008, and since then, it has been tagged as the leading resort destination in Dubai. The architectural look of the resort resembles the myths of Atlantis blended with Arabic elements. The resort holds around 1,500 rooms distributed among two accommodation wings –West and East Tower. No doubt the resort might be a bit pricy, but it is all worth the expense.
7. The Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is one of the many unique buildings to visit in Dubai. The iconic structure stands 150 meters tall and 93 meters wide in Zabeel Park, making it the largest frame structure in the world. The design is exclusive and a blend of classical and modern architectural styles.
The rectangular frame is made up of glass, steel, aluminum, and reinforced concrete. The whole structure is a symbol of Dubai's rich heritage and its modern adaptation. One side of the frame is a representation of Old Dubai, while the other side is a representation of the modern skyline.
It signifies the rapid transformation of Dubai into futuristic trends. The tickets to the Dubai Frame start at $29.
8. Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of the first luxury hotels in Dubai. The hotel's structure is designed like a breaking wave. This is also a unique Dubai architecture that stands out along the coastline, attracting tourists all around the year.
The wave-shaped hotel was inaugurated in 1997 as the most prominent landmark of Dubai. It is an important part of the Jumeirah hotels trilogy –the hotel as a wave, Burj Al Arab as the sailboat, and Marsa Al Arab as the super yacht. Without a doubt, the Jumeriah Hotels and Resorts are a five-star heaven that serves as proof of the city's exquisite hospitality.
The Jumeirah Beach Hotel was designed by Atkins, the mastermind architect behind the Dubai Opera. The prime location of the building allows access to approximately 33,800 meters of sandy shore.
9. Princess tower
Another Dubai Skyscraper that can be added to the list is the Princess Tower. It was built by Tameer Holding Investment. It stands at a soaring height of 414 meters, consisting of 101 floors and six basement levels.
The Princess Tower was constructed in 2012 and recognized by the Guinness World Records and the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitats as the tallest residential building in the world. Though it's not the tallest anymore, it still captures the sight of onlookers.
The Princess Tower has 763 residential spaces, including duplexes, penthouses, and 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments.
10. Dubai mall
The Dubai Mall is marked as one of the world's largest shopping centers. This magnificent mall is not just a shopping center but it is a retail paradise. It is absolutely huge that one day is not enough to enjoy it all. It consists of a mesmerizing indoor fountain, an ice rink, an aquarium, and even a great selection of restaurants and cinemas.
This colossal building spreads over 5.9 million sq. ft., which is equivalent to the size of more than 50 football fields. The mega-project was initiated by Emaar Properties in 2008. It is located near Burj Khalifa and tops the list of the city's most visited entertaining destinations, with an annual turnover of 80 million visitors.
The mall is home to more than 1300 retail outlets and the famous Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. It also features a 250-room luxury hotel and Reel Cinemas multiplex with as many as 26 screens.
11. Dubai Opera
In recent years, Dubai has embraced modernity. The Dubai Opera, however, brings a touch of culture and tradition to the mix. The structure resembles a dhow, a traditional sailing vessel. It has a magnanimous capacity of seating 2000 people.
Final thoughts
All in all, Dubai's skyline is like a brilliant canvas, and each building is a stroke of excellent architecture. These iconic buildings are not just structures of concrete and glass but a blend of the city's culture and modern vision. Amongst each of the most famous buildings in Dubai lie history, innovation, and stories of ambition. That's all for our collection of Dubai's famous buildings.
