360The Burj Khalifa opens as the world's tallest building
On 4 January 2010, the Burj Khalifa opened in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. At 828 m, it became the world's tallest building by a wide margin, more than 300 m taller than the previous record holder. Designed by the architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, it has more than 160 floors and became a symbol of the city.
Construction of the tower began in 2004, as Dubai grew rapidly into a centre for business and tourism.
The design, by the American firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill with the architect Adrian Smith, uses a Y-shaped plan inspired partly by a desert flower. Its setbacks reduce the force of the wind as the tower rises.
It was opened on 4 January 2010, and named in honour of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. Its viewing decks, apartments, offices and hotel attract millions of visitors.
It has held the title of world's tallest building ever since. In Saudi Arabia, the Jeddah Tower, designed to be taller still, is under construction.
- 2004
- Construction begins
- 2009
- The spire reaches full height
- 4 January 2010
- The Burj Khalifa opens
Sources: Burj Khalifa · Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat · Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.