As one of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, the Burj Al Arab stands 320 meters tall on a man-made island in the Arabian Gulf. Initially the world’s tallest hotel in 1999, it remains taller than the Eiffel Tower and boasts a unique design inspired by a dhow sail. Housing four pools, nine dining spots, a helipad, and more, the opulent hotel showcases luxurious features like 24K-gold leaf and 30 types of marble. Want more? Here are some of the most interesting facts about the hotel.
Seaside Serenity: Crafting the World’s First Beach Terrace
The Burj Al Arab’s opulence extends to a 10,000 square meter luxury terrace, boasting a saltwater infinity pool, freshwater pool with a swim-up bar, four jacuzzis, and a manmade beach created with 1,000 tonnes of imported white sand. Constructed in Finland, the terrace journeyed 2,800 miles by sea to its Dubai destination, now adorned with 10 million azure and gold tile mosaics.
Culinary Constellations: Burj Al Arab’s Michelin-Starred Delights
With a collective seven Michelin stars, chefs Francky Semblat and Kim Joinie-Maurin helm Al Muntaha and Sky View Bar & Restaurant, offering experimental French cuisine and innovative tapas. With nine exclusive dining spots, the hotel sets the stage for a gastronomic journey, albeit at an average cost of $430 per person.
Sweet Dreams and Pillows: The Burj Al Arab’s Pillow Menu
Elevating luxury, the hotel offers a unique pillow menu featuring 17 choices, including the ‘Anti-Ageing Premium Down’ and ‘Horsehair Pillow.’ Accompanied by rare eiderdown duvets from Iceland, the hotel’s commitment to comfort is unparalleled.
Gold-Touched Suites: Every Room a Royal Experience
Each of the 202 double-floor suites comes with a 24K gold iPad, contributing to the hotel’s seven-star reputation. The Royal Suite, a rococo and baroque masterpiece, boasts a private elevator, marble bathrooms, a private cinema, and a library. Marble, Swarovski crystals, Hermès toiletries, and a helipad further define the lavish experience.
Aquatic Allure: Discovering Burj Al Arab’s Aquariums
Housing three aquariums, including the mesmerizing Al Mahara underwater eatery, the hotel showcases 40 species of exotic fish. Guests at Al Mahara dine against the backdrop of a 990,000-liter aquarium, savoring the finest seafood while surrounded by marine wonders.
Butler Bliss: The 6:1 Staff to Guest Ratio
With a staff-to-guest ratio of 6:1, the Burj Al Arab ensures personalized luxury. Guests can summon their personal butler through a gold iPad, indulging in bespoke services, from bath preparations with champagne to instant messaging access to the E-Butler service for seamless requests.
Pinnacle of Prestige: Burj Al Arab’s Record-Breaking Feats
Once the world’s tallest hotel, the Burj Al Arab remains the tallest all-suite hotel, boasting a record-breaking atrium height of 180 meters. The hotel also earned Guinness World Records for the priciest cocktail in 2008 and the largest tin of caviar in 2016, showcasing its commitment to unmatched luxury and extravagance.
