As a new mom and a proud resident of Dubai, I’ve found that exploring this vibrant city with my little one is both an adventure and a learning experience. One of our most memorable outings was our visit to the Burj Khalifa. The sheer height of this architectural marvel, standing tall at 2,717 feet, is enough to take anyone’s breath away, and it offers a unique blend of modern engineering and cultural charm that’s quintessentially Dubai. Here are some insights and tips from our visit that I believe every mom—whether a resident or a visitor—should know before planning a trip to the Burj Khalifa.
Plan Ahead for a Seamless Experience
The Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most-visited attractions, which means it’s bustling with tourists year-round. To ensure you and your little one have a smooth and enjoyable visit, a bit of planning goes a long way. From selecting the best time to visit to booking the right tickets, these tips will help you make the most of your trip.
Best Times to Visit
When you’re balancing nap schedules and feeding times, finding the right time to visit is crucial. The Burj Khalifa opens early in the morning and closes late at night, with varying hours on weekdays and weekends. For a less crowded experience, I recommend visiting early in the morning right when it opens or an hour before closing. We visited on a weekday morning and found it much easier to navigate with our kids. Please note that strollers are not permitted during the tour. You can store your stroller in the luggage room located at the entrance before you begin.
Insider Tip: If you’re aiming to catch the sunset, book your timed entry approximately 90 minutes before. This will give you enough time to settle in and enjoy the breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
Best Time of Year
Dubai’s climate can be quite extreme, especially during the summer months. The winter season, from November to March, offers clearer skies and moderate temperatures, making it the perfect time to visit. The cooler weather not only makes the outdoor observation decks more pleasant but also means fewer dust storms that could obscure the stunning views.
Getting There
Getting to the Burj Khalifa is quite straightforward, with the entrance conveniently located at the Dubai Mall. If you’re using public transport, the Dubai Metro’s Red Line will take you to Burj Khalifa Station, followed by a 15-minute walk through an air-conditioned tunnel to the mall. Taxis and cars can drop you off directly at the mall’s entrance.
Insider Tip: Arrive at least 15-30 minutes before your ticket time to account for any delays and to get through security smoothly, especially during peak seasons.
Ticket Options
The Burj Khalifa offers several ticket options depending on which observation decks you want to visit. For most visitors, the “At the Top” ticket, granting access to the 124th and 125th floors, is sufficient. For an even higher perspective, the “At the Top Sky” ticket includes a guided tour and access to the 148th floor, the world’s highest observation deck.
Booking tickets in advance is essential, especially during the busy winter months. We opted for the “At the Top Sky” experience, and it was worth every dirham for the spectacular views and the less crowded decks.
I recommend purchasing the VIP ticket to the highest observation deck. It’s expensive, but well worth it to avoid the crowds. Plus, the ticket includes access to the aquarium and zoo. Also it’d be great if you went with a companion for conversation or bring a good book. This way, you can spend as much time in the lounge as possible and truly get your money’s worth.
Dining with a View
If you’re planning a longer visit, consider booking a meal at At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant located on the 122nd floor. They offer a delightful menu with stunning views that can be enjoyed while your little one naps in a high chair next to you. Additionally, the lounge on the 152nd-154th floors serves afternoon tea and weekend brunch, which is free for children under six.
Packing Tips
When visiting the Burj Khalifa, dress comfortably and modestly to respect local customs. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking. If you plan on dining, check the specific dress code for restaurants in advance.
Leave large bags and prohibited items like glass bottles and e-cigarettes at home. There’s a luggage room near the entrance where you can store any belongings that aren’t allowed inside.
Accessibility
The Burj Khalifa is designed to be accessible for all visitors. Elevators provide easy access to all observation decks, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available on each floor. If you’re visiting with a stroller, you’ll need to leave it in the luggage room before heading up to the observation decks.
Avoid the Crowds: Burj Khalifa Tips
Option 1: Atmosphere Lounge
Book a table at Atmosphere, a lounge on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. From this height, the view is almost indistinguishable from that of the higher floors. With a minimum spend of 250 AED per person, you can enjoy at least two drinks while taking in the spectacular views. This option allows you to skip the queue, relax with a drink, and stay for about two hours. I tried this a few months ago and it was a pleasant experience with barely any waiting time.
Option 2: Sky VIP Experience
Purchase tickets for the 148th level, which also includes access to the 124th and 125th floors. With a “Sky VIP” sticker, you can enter directly with no queue. However, based on my personal experience, I wouldn’t recommend this option if you’re visiting with young children.
Before learning about the above options, I went there one night with my 1.5-year-old daughter, as I had booked online for a late-night slot at 11:30 PM, which in hindsight was a mistake, especially with a young child. Strollers were not allowed, so I had to carry her the entire time. Despite the late hour, we waited in line for about an hour and twenty minutes. Exiting took another 45 minutes, and it was crowded and hot. Overall, I do not recommend this ( touristic) option.
However, there were moments that stood out. I vividly remember my little one’s eyes widening as we ascended in the high-speed elevator, ears popping as we soared higher and higher. The view from the top was magical; seeing the sprawling city of Dubai laid out beneath us was a moment I will cherish forever.
Conquer Your Fear of Heights and Enjoy the Burj Khalifa
Visiting the Burj Khalifa can be both exhilarating and manageable, even if you’re afraid of heights. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this iconic experience:
- Choose the Right Time: Visit during the day when visibility is clear, or at dusk to enjoy the stunning transition from day to night without the harsh glare of midday sun.
- Trust in the Safety: Remind yourself that the Burj Khalifa is an incredibly safe structure, designed to withstand various conditions and rigorously maintained.
- Take Small Steps: Start by exploring the lower levels or indoor areas. Gradually work your way up to the outdoor observation decks as you feel more comfortable.
- Focus on the Views: The panoramic vistas are breathtaking and can help distract from any discomfort. Many visitors find the experience is more about the awe-inspiring scenery than the height itself.
- Breathe and Move at Your Own Pace: Take deep breaths and proceed slowly. There’s no need to rush; move around at a pace that feels right for you.
Many visitors with a fear of heights have successfully enjoyed their experience at the Burj Khalifa by focusing on the incredible views and taking things slowly. With these tips, you too can conquer your fear and fully appreciate this architectural marvel.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Burj Khalifa is a must for any family exploring Dubai. With a bit of planning, you can make the experience enjoyable and memorable for both you and your little one. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the marvel of the Burj Khalifa is something you and your family will never forget. Enjoy the view, and savor every moment of this remarkable journey!
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