Burj al-Arab, Luxury hotel on an artificial island in Umm Suqeim, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Burj al-Arab is a tower hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, rising 321 meters on an artificial island off the Jumeirah coast. The sail-shaped construction stands on a platform connected to the mainland by a curved private bridge.
British architect Tom Wright designed the building, which opened on December 1, 1999 under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Planning began in the mid-1990s as part of a broader initiative to establish Dubai as an international tourism destination.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum told designer Khuan Chew to shock and innovate; she used marble, velvet and gold leaf. Six months before opening he rejected her white minimalist atrium, so she added bright ceiling colours, dancing fountains, light shows and giant aquariums. The name means "Tower of the Arabs".
Visitors who are not staying as guests can access the lobby and public areas by advance reservation, typically through an afternoon tea booking or restaurant visit. Entry is via the private bridge, and most interior spaces are on upper floors with elevators leading to various dining areas and viewing points.
The artificial island sits roughly 280 meters from Jumeirah Beach and was positioned so the shadow of the building does not fall on neighboring coastal areas. A helipad on the roof at around 210 meters height occasionally serves as a tennis court or venue for special events.
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