Architectural Storytelling: Burj Al Arab

Rising from the Arabian Gulf, Burj Al Arab is a masterpiece of design engineering and cultural identity. Completed in 1999, this architectural icon soars 321 metres into the Dubai skyline and is the tallest all-suite hotel in the world. Burj Al Arab is a structure that not only punctuates the skyline but captures the spirit of a city built on vision and verve.

Concept and Planning

The story of Burj Al Arab began with a singular goal: to create a building that would not just define the city of Dubai, but an entire era of Middle Eastern innovation. The Crown Prince of Dubai envisioned a structure that would become an international symbol of Dubai and commissioned British architect Tom Wright to bring his vision to life. Its form pays homage to the Dhow, the traditional sailing vessel of the Arabian Gulf, honouring the region’s maritime heritage while embracing futuristic design. The homage is also deeply functional: the building's sail-shaped structure and orientation are designed to disperse heat and keep guests cool during the sweltering summer season.

Step inside and you’ll discover the 180-metre-high atrium, flanked by towering golden columns and bathed in filtered sunlight thanks to its translucent fibreglass façade. The entire hotel operated by Jumeirah is a structural marvel, where exposed trusses and dramatic geometric forms turn engineering into artwork. Adding to its grandeur, the interiors are clad in 30 varieties of statuario marble – the same type of natural stone Michelangelo chose for his Renaissance masterpieces. Each surface tells a story, not just of luxury, but of reverence for material and form.

TRADITIONAL DHOW AND THE BURJ AL ARAB

The Experience

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is not merely something to behold, but a truly unique experience that aims to embody Dubai. Guests are greeted with a signature Marhaba Welcome with rose water, fresh dates and Arabic coffee. Private butlers anticipate your every need while a fleet of Rolls-Royces and BMWs await to chauffeur guests through the city. Prefer a more cinematic entrance? Arrivals by helipad can also be arranged.

The culinary experience spans nine signature venues: from the sun-drenched elegance of Sal on the terrace to the haute French Italian cuisine of Al Muntaha with sweeping views. The Gilt cocktail bar is where to find glittering flair, while Al Iwan and Bab Al Yam serve Arabic and Mediterranean flavours in lavish surroundings. Each restaurant is a story unto itself – of taste, texture and theatrical design.