Burj Al Arab Dubai – Inside Tour, Restaurants, Prices & Luxury Guide 2026

The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is not just a building; it is a global luxury symbol, a defining architectural landmark, and one of Dubai’s top tourist icons. Rising 321 meters above the Arabian Gulf on its own island, it is known worldwide as the world’s only “7-star hotel”—a title unofficially given by impressed travel journalists.

For many visitors, the Burj Al Arab represents the essence of Dubai: innovation, ultra-luxury, engineering ambition, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a stay, a dining experience, or simply want to admire it from the outside, this guide will help you understand everything that makes the Burj Al Arab extraordinary.

Table of Contents

1. Burj Al Arab Overview

A Symbol of Dubai’s Architectural Ambition

Completed in 1999, the Burj Al Arab was designed by architect Tom Wright, who envisioned a structure symbolic enough to become Dubai’s Eiffel Tower or Sydney Opera House. The result is the hotel’s iconic sail-shaped silhouette, meant to evoke the UAE’s maritime heritage.

A Hotel Built on Its Own Island

The hotel stands on an artificial island, connected to the mainland by a private bridge. Surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, it offers 360-degree sea views and complete privacy for guests — one of the many reasons it became a magnet for celebrities and dignitaries.

Quick Facts

Opening Year: 1999
Operator: Jumeirah Group
Architectural Style: Structural Expressionism
Height: 321 meters (1,053 ft)
Location: Jumeirah Beach, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai
Rooms: 202 duplex suites only (no standard rooms)

Recommended: Burj Khalifa

2. Burj Al Arab Architecture & Engineering

The Sail-Shaped Design

The distinctive sail shape pays homage to the UAE’s traditional dhow boats, blending cultural symbolism with modern aesthetic. The exterior façade gleams in the sunlight and becomes a canvas for night-time lighting shows.

The Iconic Helipad & Skyview Features

The circular helipad on the 28th floor has hosted:

Roger Federer vs. Andre Agassi rooftop tennis
Red Bull Formula 1 pit stop
Tiger Woods teeing off into the sea

Its Skyview Bar and panoramic views add to the hotel’s legendary status.

Interior Design: A Palace of Gold

22-karat gold leaf (over 1,800 sqm)
Rare marble from Italy and Brazil
Multicolored atrium (one of the tallest in the world)
Elaborate water features & aquariums

The design reflects the hotel’s aim: opulence without compromise.

3. Suites & Accommodation

The Burj Al Arab offers only duplex suites, each engineered as a private residence. There are no standard rooms.

3.1 Suite Types

Royal Suite

One of the world’s most luxurious suites:

Private cinema
Majlis-style lounge
Gold-framed rotating bed
24-hour butler service

Panoramic Suite

Wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of the Gulf.

Diplomatic Suite

Ideal for families or dignitaries needing multi-room layouts.

Deluxe & Club Suites

Spacious, lavishly furnished with Hermes amenities and high-end finishes.

4. Dining at Burj Al Arab

The hotel features some of Dubai’s most elite restaurants.

Al Mahara – The Underwater Restaurant

Accessible through a virtual submarine entrance, the restaurant centers around a giant aquarium. Specialty: seafood crafted by world-class chefs.

Skyview Restaurant

Located high above the sea, offering panoramic views and European cuisine.

Junsui

A Far-East Asian experience with live cooking stations.

Al Muntaha

Meaning “The Highest,” this restaurant provides fine dining with skyline views.

Bab Al Yam

A Mediterranean buffet & à la carte restaurant with a relaxed poolside setting.

5. Experiences at the Burj Al Arab

Talise Spa

Situated 150 meters above sea level, offering:

Panoramic treatment rooms
Infinity pools
Exclusive male/female thermal facilities

Infinity Pools & Private Beach

Two large pools overlooking the Arabian Gulf & a private beach reserved for guests.

Iconic Photo Spots

The bridge entrance
The beachside walkway
Sunset shots from Jumeirah Beach

6. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Hotel Facilities

The property includes:

Rolls Royce fleet for airport pickups
Private check-in on each floor
Helipad transfers
World-class concierge
Conference rooms and event spaces

7. The Burj Al Arab Tour

If you’re not staying at the hotel, you can still explore it.

Inside Burj Al Arab Tour

A guided immersive experience including:

Access to the Royal Suite
Heritage exhibits
Architectural insights
Afternoon tea add-on
Interactive storytelling installations

Perfect for tourists who want to see the interior without booking a stay.

8. Burj Al Arab Afternoon Tea

This experience has become iconic:

Served at Skyview Bar or Sahn Eddar
Multiple courses of gourmet dishes
Stunning skyline & sea views

Perfect for special occasions and romantic outings.

9. Where Is the Burj Al Arab Located?

Umm Suqeim 3 – Jumeirah Area

The hotel sits off Jumeirah Beach Road, one of Dubai’s most prestigious coastal districts.

Nearby attractions:

Wild Wadi Waterpark
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Umm Suqeim Public Beach
Madinat Jumeirah Souk

10. Parking & Transportation

How to Reach the Burj Al Arab

Taxi/Uber: Most popular and direct
Public Bus: Routes on Jumeirah Road
Metro + Taxi: Stop at Mall of the Emirates, then a short ride
Car: Private parking available, but entry requires a reservation or tour booking
Helicopter: VIP arrivals on request

11. What to Expect at the Burj Al Arab

Guests typically experience:

Personalized butler service
Private reception desks on each floor
Welcoming drinks & Arabic hospitality
High privacy, security & exclusivity

Dress code: smart elegant for dining venues.

12. In the Area Around Burj Al Arab

Things to Do Nearby

Visit Madinat Jumeirah Souk for shopping & dining
Spend the day at Jumeirah Public Beach
Explore Kite Beach
Take photos from Umm Suqeim Park
Visit Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary

13. Ticket & Dining Loyalty Program

Jumeirah Group offers:

Jumeirah One Rewards Program
Earn points on stays, dining & spa services
Redeem for upgrades, dining discounts, and spa treatments

FAQ

Is the Burj Al Arab really a 7-star hotel?

“7-star” is not an official rating — it’s a media description highlighting its exceptional luxury.

Can non-guests visit the hotel?

Yes, but only through registered dining reservations or the Inside Burj Al Arab tour.

How much does a night cost?

Prices vary by season but typically range from AED 4,000 to AED 40,000+ per night.

Can you go to the Burj Al Arab beach?

Only hotel guests have access.

Is there a dress code?

Yes — smart casual/elegant for restaurants and public spaces.

Where can I take the best photos of the Burj Al Arab?

Umm Suqeim Beach, Jumeirah Road viewpoint, and Madinat Jumeirah waterways.