Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is a mixed-use skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and the world’s tallest building and tallest structure.
The Burj Khalifa is a mixed-use skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and the world’s tallest building. It opened in 2010 and was originally called Burj Dubai.
What it is
The Burj Khalifa is a megatall skyscraper located in Downtown Dubai. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, it stands 829.8 metres tall with 163 floors. It holds the record as the tallest building and tallest structure in the world.
Key details
Construction began in 2004 and the tower reached its full height in 2009. It officially opened on 4 January 2010. Originally named Burj Dubai, it was renamed Burj Khalifa at inauguration in honour of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Why it matters
The Burj Khalifa is a mixed-use tower with residential, hotel, office, retail, and observation spaces. It is a major tourist landmark and a symbol of Dubai. For Canadian readers, it is often compared with structures like Toronto’s CN Tower.
In short
- World’s tallest building at 829.8 m
- Opened January 2010 in Dubai
- Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
- Mixed-use with residential, hotel, and retail
The Burj Khalifa is relevant to Canadian readers mainly as a global landmark and tourism destination often compared with Canadian skyscrapers and engineering projects, including Toronto’s CN Tower.
Quick questions
What is the Burj Khalifa?
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Sources
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burj_KhalifaSupports: Basic facts on location, height, former name, and tower records.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Burj-KhalifaSupports: Mixed-use description, location, and naming origin.
- Guinness World Records — https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/hall-of-fame/burj-khalifa-tallest-building-in-the-worldSupports: Official opening date and tallest-building record.
- Institution of Civil Engineers — https://www.ice.org.uk/what-is-civil-engineering/infrastructure-projects/burj-khalifaSupports: Construction period, design firm, height, floors, and mixed-use details.
- The Skyscraper Center — https://skyscraper.org/tallest-towers/burj-dubai/Supports: Former name, height, mixed-use functions, and observation deck details.