Burj Khalifa was conceived as the ambitious vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. With the aim of positioning Dubai as a global tourism hub, the project sought to create an architectural marvel that would surpass any previous human achievement.
Commencing in 2004 and concluding in 2010, the construction of Burj Khalifa spanned six years, engaging over 12,000 global workers and contractors. Crafted from reinforced concrete, the tower’s structural design features a central core and three outward-extended wings. Its exterior is adorned with a combination of glass, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Planning and Unprecedented Figures
Dubai recognized the need for exceptional vision and unparalleled expertise in science and engineering for a project of such magnitude. The planning phase involved grappling with unprecedented figures, facts, and statistics to ensure the success of the endeavor.
Designing the Extraordinary
Following intense competition among renowned design houses worldwide, the responsibility of crafting this iconic landmark was entrusted to the Chicago office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) with Adrian Smith as the consulting design partner. The design, inspired by Islamic patterning systems, underwent rigorous reviews to ensure sustainability, safety, and security.
Structural Marvel
The Y-shaped design, reminiscent of Islamic structures, aimed to maximize natural sunlight within the building. The paper-based design evolved through extensive reviews to ensure its structural integrity and adherence to the project’s objectives.
From Blueprint to Reality
The construction of Burj Khalifa commenced in January 2004, progressing through various planning and design stages. Pillar construction spanned nearly three years, with the exterior cladding initiated in May 2007. Over 380 skilled on-site technicians and engineers played pivotal roles in bringing the monumental structure to life.
A Tower Renamed
Initially known as Burj Dubai, the tower underwent a name change just before its official opening in 2010. The new name, Burj Khalifa, was a tribute to Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi and president of the United Arab Emirates.