Burj Khalifa

Tilt your head back: the Burj Khalifa is 828 metres tall and has been the world’s tallest building since its inauguration on 4 January 2010. What you see before you is the culmination of a gamble few thought possible.

1A three-petalled flower

It was designed by the American architect Adrian Smith at SOM, with the engineer Bill Baker. Its Y-shaped plan is inspired by Hymenocallis, a desert flower: three wings bracing one another around a central core, like a tripod. As it rises, the tower steps back in a spiral of 27 setbacks, a trick that helps «confuse» the wind and reduce vibrations.

2From Burj Dubai to Burj Khalifa

Throughout construction it was called Burj Dubai. But on opening day a new name was announced in honour of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, at a time when Dubai was emerging from the 2009 financial crisis with its neighbour’s support.

Up top, the observation decks on floors 124, 125 and 148 offer views as far as the Gulf and the desert on clear days.

From 2010 its silhouette also became Dubai’s defining image in films, advertising and New Year fireworks.

3What to look for

• The setbacks, steps spiralling up around the tower.
• The three wings of the base, visible from the park.
• The spire, which at night stands out with its lights.