Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah

The basics

Besides shelling out to stay the night at the Burj Al-Arab, visitors have plenty of other options for viewing and touring the sumptuous landmark, which can be seen from numerous spots around Dubai. Snap a shot of the soaring Jumeirah Beach hotel jutting out to sea on a city sightseeing tour or on a boat cruise.

To get inside, choose from the hotel's many bars and restaurants available for reservation. The Sahn Eddar Lobby Lounge offers a seven-course afternoon tea service, set to the sounds of live classical music with views of the hotel's amazing atrium, while the 27th-floor Skyview Bar and its floor-to-ceiling windows mix cocktails with stellar views over the Dubai skyline and Persian Gulf. You can also book a traditional Arabic lunch inside the world's tallest atrium at Al Iwan, or go for a more international menu with views over the city at Al Muntaha.

For a romantic dining experience, book a three-course seafood dinner at Al Mahara, a restaurant with its own floor-to-ceiling aquarium. Dubai city tours often include a stop for photos at the Burj Al-Arab, or you can book a tour that includes afternoon tea or lunch at one of the restaurants. For a different take on the views of the UAE city and Arabian Gulf, book a helicopter tour.

Things to know before you go

• The hotel is most often admired from the outside; reservations are required to enter, and overnight bookings, especially if you’re interested in the Royal Suite on the 25th floor, come with a hefty cost.

• The Burj Al-Arab's dress code is smart casual; no flip-flops, shorts, or beachwear allowed.

• Most guided Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah tours allow only an outside photo stop.

How to get there

One of the most popular Dubai attractions, the Burj Al-Arab hotel stands on its own island promontory, linked to the mainland by a private bridge—you can't miss it. It can be reached by taxi or Red Line metro via Jumeirah Road.

When to get there

Entering the Burj Al-Arab requires reservations. Grabbing cocktails at the Skyview Bar—which must be booked in advance—offers the most budget-friendly way to visit the hotel.

Dubai's sky-high attractions

Although the Burj Al-Arab is known for its height, it technically only has 28 inhabited stories. If it's stunning views you're after, only a visit to the world's tallest building, the nearby Burj Khalifa, will suffice.

Ways to explore

Non-residents who want to peek inside Burj Al Arab can book a guided tour to see areas such as the atrium and royal suite; you can upgrade the experience to include drinks, a restaurant meal, or return transfers. Alternatively, lap up the Burj luxury by booking afternoon tea at its panoramic Skyview Lounge, or lunch or dinner at one of its sumptuous restaurants.

If you just want to see its facade, prebook a Dubai city tour. Most include an exterior photo stop. Hop-on hop-off buses also stop nearby, while speedboat, yacht, Jet Ski, and helicopter tours offer panoramic views.

Accessibility

The hotel is wheelchair and stroller accessible; accessible restrooms are available.

Age limits

While all ages are welcome inside the Burj, some restaurants have age restrictions—it’s recommended to check their policies in advance.

What to pack

Cell phone for photos (professional cameras are prohibited), passport or valid ID

What to wear

Be sure to come dressed in smart/casual attire—that means no beachwear, flip-flops, or untailored shorts.

Not allowed

Smoking, outside food/drink, flash photography, professional cameras

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, baby changing facilities, gift shop

Address

The Burj Al Arab occupies a private island with a bridge to Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach and is easily accessible by car, cab, metro, or bus. City tours, hop-on hop-off buses, and guided Burj tours with round-trip transport are convenient alternatives.

Driving

If coming from Downtown Dubai, drive west on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), then take Exit 39 to Umm Suqeim Street/D63. Follow the Burj signposts or the Jumeirah Beach Road (D94) to beaches that offer Burj views.

Public transportation

Ride the Dubai Metro’s Red Line to the Mall of the Emirates station, from where cabs run to the hotel. Alternatively, the RTA 81, 8, or X28 buses stop along the Jumeirah Beach Road near the hotel.

Best times to visit

Burj tours run through the day, with early-morning and late-afternoon slots typically less crowded. For the best exterior views, hit a nearby beach in the morning or at sunset.

Best days to visit

To avoid lots of people at Burj viewing spots—and during busy guided tours—aim for weekday (Sunday–Thursday) mornings. Weekends invariably see Dubai’s top attractions busy.

Best months to visit

Dubai’s peak vacation months of November–April bring cooler weather that’s more comfortable for capturing exterior photos. However, outdoor viewing spots and Burj guided tours will likely be busier.

Special events

The Burj pulls out the stops at Christmas time, with lavish restaurant menus and New Year’s feasts capped by showstopping fireworks displays.