Burj Khalifa#Labor Controversy

Construction began on 12 January 2004, with the exterior of the structure completed in 1 October 2009. The building officially opened on 4 January 2010{{cite news|url=http://gulfnews.com/business/property/uae/official-opening-of-iconic-burj-dubai-announced-1.523471 |title=Official Opening of Iconic Burj Dubai Announced |newspaper=Gulfnews |date=4 November 2009 |access-date=4 November 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091106052129/http://gulfnews.com/business/property/uae/official-opening-of-iconic-burj-dubai-announced-1.523471 |archive-date=6 November 2009 }}{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8439618.stm|title=World's tallest building opens in Dubai|date=4 January 2010|work=BBC News|access-date=4 January 2010|archive-date=5 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105054239/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8439618.stm|url-status=live}} and is part of the 2km² (490 acres) Downtown Dubai development at the 'First Interchange' along Sheikh Zayed Road, near Dubai's main business district.

The tower's architecture and engineering were performed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill of Chicago, with Adrian Smith as chief architect, and Bill Baker as a chief structural engineer.{{cite news|url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=361|title=Burj Dubai reaches a record high|publisher=Emaar Properties|date=21 July 2007|access-date=24 November 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710184915/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=361|archive-date=10 July 2011}}{{cite news|url=http://www.architectmagazine.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=1006&articleID=385534|title=Adrian Smith Leaves SOM, Longtime Skidmore partner bucks retirement to start new firm|last=Keegan|first=Edward|publisher=ArchitectOnline|date=15 October 2006|access-date=23 March 2009|archive-date=27 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081227011127/http://www.architectmagazine.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=1006&articleID=385534|url-status=live}} The firm had designed the Sears Tower in Chicago, a previous record holder for the world's tallest building.

Hyder Consulting was supervising engineer and NORR Group Consultants supervised the architecture. The primary contractor was Samsung C&T of South Korea, together with the Belgian group BESIX and the local company Arabtec.{{cite web|url=http://skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=7787|title=Burj Dubai, Dubai – SkyscraperPage.com|publisher=SkyscraperPage|access-date=23 March 2009|archive-date=11 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011071204/http://skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=7787|url-status=live}}

Numerous complaints concerned migrant workers from South Asia, the primary building labour force, who were paid low wages and sometimes had their passports confiscated.{{Cite web |title=Archi-Ninja | Burj Khalifa (Dubai) – The Truth Behind the Bling |url=https://www.archi-ninja.com/burj-khalifa-dubai-the-truth-behind-the-bling/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220628030943/https://www.archi-ninja.com/burj-khalifa-dubai-the-truth-behind-the-bling/ |archive-date=28 June 2022 |access-date=18 August 2023}}

Burj Khalifa was designed to be the centerpiece of a large-scale, mixed-use development to include 30,000 homes,{{Cite web |title=Buildings that elevated cities: Dubai's Burj Khalifa |url=https://ww3.rics.org/uk/en/modus/built-environment/urbanisation/buildings-that-elevated-cities--dubai-s-burj-khalifa.html |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=ww3.rics.org |language=en}} nine hotels (including The Address Downtown Dubai), {{convert|3|ha|acre|1}} of parkland, at least 19 residential skyscrapers, the Dubai Mall, and the {{convert|12|ha|acre|adj=on}} artificial Burj Khalifa Lake. The decision to build Burj Khalifa was reportedly based on the government's decision to diversify from an oil-based economy to one that is service and tourism based. According to officials, projects like Burj Khalifa needed to be built to garner more international recognition and hence investment. "He (Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum) wanted to put Dubai on the map with something really sensational," said Jacqui Josephson, a tourism and VIP delegations executive at Nakheel Properties.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2005-oct-13-fg-dubai13-story.html|title=In Dubai, the Sky's No Limit|last=Stack|first=Megan|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=13 October 2005|access-date=26 March 2006|archive-date=21 October 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081021032112/http://articles.latimes.com/2005/oct/13/world/fg-dubai13|url-status=live}}

The tower was known as Burj Dubai ("Dubai Tower") until its official opening in January 2010. It was renamed in honour of the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Abu Dhabi and the federal government of UAE lent Dubai tens of billions of US dollars so that Dubai could pay its debts – Dubai borrowed at least $80 billion for construction projects.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jan2010/gb2010015_736675.htm |title=Dubai Tower's Name Reflects U.A.E. Shift |work=Businessweek.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530182733/http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jan2010/gb2010015_736675.htm |archive-date=30 May 2015}} In the 2000s, Dubai started diversifying its economy but it suffered from the 2008 financial crisis and the Great Recession, leaving large-scale projects already in construction abandoned.{{Cite news |title=Dubai's six-year building boom grinds to a halt as financial crisis takes hold | url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/feb/13/dubai-boom-halt |last=Lewis |first=Paul |date=13 February 2009 |work=The Guardian |issn=0261-3077|archive-date=23 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123121036/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/feb/13/dubai-boom-halt |url-status=live}}

The Burj Khalifa set several world records, including:

• Tallest existing structure: {{convert|829.8|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} (previously KVLY-TV mast – {{convert|628.8|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=or}})
• Tallest structure ever built: {{convert|829.8|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} (previously Warsaw radio mast – {{convert|646.38|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=or}})
• Tallest freestanding structure: {{convert|829.8|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} (previously CN Tower – {{convert|553.3|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=or}})
• Tallest skyscraper (to top of spire): {{convert|828|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} (previously Taipei 101 – {{convert|509.2|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=or}}){{cite book|author-link=Judith Dupré|last=Dupré|first=Judith|date=2013|title=Skyscrapers: A History of the World's Most Extraordinary Buildings-Revised and Updated|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8-bXwAEACAAJ|location=New York|publisher=Hachette/Black Dog & Leventhal|pages=140–141|isbn=978-1-57912-942-2|access-date=20 March 2023|archive-date=26 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326164801/https://books.google.com/books?id=8-bXwAEACAAJ|url-status=live}}
• Tallest skyscraper to top of antenna: {{convert|829.8|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} (previously the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower – {{convert|527|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=or}})
• Building with most floors: 163 (previously World Trade Center – 110){{cite web|url=http://www.wtc.com/about/wtchistory-wtc-timeline|title=WTC Timeline|publisher=Silverstein Properties|access-date=28 March 2013|archive-date=28 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130528154654/http://www.wtc.com/about/wtchistory-wtc-timeline|url-status=live}}
• World's highest elevator installation (situated inside a rod at the very top of the building){{cite news |url=http://gulfnews.com/business/property/burj-khalifa-towering-challenge-for-builders-1.561802 |title=Burj Khalifa: Towering challenge for builders |date=4 January 2010 |publisher=GulfNews.com |access-date=10 February 2010 |archive-date=25 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110125112740/http://gulfnews.com/business/property/burj-khalifa-towering-challenge-for-builders-1.561802 |url-status=live }}
• World's longest travel distance elevators: {{convert|504|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}{{cite web|url=http://www.otisworldwide.com/b4-newsarchdet.html?item=20100106|title=Burj Khalifa|publisher=Otis Elevator|access-date=15 April 2013|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006111348/http://www.otisworldwide.com/b4-newsarchdet.html?item=20100106|url-status=live}}
• Highest vertical concrete pumping (for a building): {{convert|606|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}{{cite web|url=http://www.forconstructionpros.com/article/10293208/burj-khalifa-conquering-the-worlds-tallest-building|title=Burj Khalifa – Conquering the World's Tallest Building|work=ForConstructionPros.com|date=12 May 2010 |access-date=2 November 2012|archive-date=28 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128224811/http://www.forconstructionpros.com/article/10293208/burj-khalifa-conquering-the-worlds-tallest-building|url-status=live}}
• World's tallest structure that includes residential space{{cite web|url=http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=burjdubai-dubai-unitedarabemirates|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070120063252/http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=burjdubai-dubai-unitedarabemirates|url-status=usurped|archive-date=20 January 2007|title=Burj Dubai, Dubai, at Emporis.com|publisher=Emporis|access-date=1 March 2007}}
• World's highest installation of an aluminium and glass façade: {{convert|512|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}
• World's highest restaurant (At.mosphere): 122nd floor at {{convert|442|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} (previously 360, at a height of {{convert|350|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} in CN Tower){{cite web |url=http://www.emirates247.com/lifestyle/dubai-opens-world-s-highest-restaurant-2011-01-20-1.343732 |title=And the world's highest restaurant is ready to serve |publisher=Emirates 24/7 |date=20 January 2011 |access-date=21 January 2011 |archive-date=22 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722124738/http://www.emirates247.com/lifestyle/and-the-world-s-highest-restaurant-is-ready-to-serve-2011-01-20-1.343732 |url-status=live }}
• World's highest New Year display of fireworks.{{cite web |url=http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/jaw-dropping-fireworks-at-burj-khalifa-enthrall-thousands-1.739088 |title=Jaw-Dropping Fireworks at Burj Khalifa Enthrall Thousands |publisher=Gulfnews.com |date=31 December 2010 |access-date=29 May 2011 |archive-date=20 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110120013501/http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/jaw-dropping-fireworks-at-burj-khalifa-enthrall-thousands-1.739088 |url-status=live }}
• World's largest light and sound show staged on a single building.{{Cite news|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/dubai/new-year-fireworks-at-burj-khalifa-to-return-this-year-|title=New Year fireworks at Burj Khalifa to return this year|author=|work=Khaleej Times|access-date=28 November 2018|archive-date=27 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727061617/https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/dubai/new-year-fireworks-at-burj-khalifa-to-return-this-year-|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/dubai//burj-khalifa-to-have-special-light-show-this-new-years-eve-but-what-about-the-fireworks|title=Burj Khalifa to have special light show this New Year's Eve, but what about the fireworks?|last=Report|first=Web|work=Khaleej Times|access-date=28 November 2018|archive-date=28 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181128075524/https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/dubai//burj-khalifa-to-have-special-light-show-this-new-years-eve-but-what-about-the-fireworks|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=http://saudigazette.com.sa/article/525571/BUSINESS/Emaar-bags-Guinness-World-Record-title-for-largest-light-and-sound-show-on-a-single-building|title=Emaar bags Guinness World Record title for largest light and sound show on a single building|date=6 January 2018|work=Saudigazette|access-date=28 November 2018|language=en-GB|archive-date=28 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181128075642/http://saudigazette.com.sa/article/525571/BUSINESS/Emaar-bags-Guinness-World-Record-title-for-largest-light-and-sound-show-on-a-single-building|url-status=live}}

File:Comparisonfinal001fx7.png, Willis Tower, and the original World Trade Center]]

The tower was designed by Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM), which also designed the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) in Chicago and the One World Trade Center in New York City. Burj Khalifa uses the bundled tube design of the Willis Tower, invented by Fazlur Rahman Khan.{{cite web |url=http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-9180-top-10-worlds-tallest-steel-buildings/1/ |title=Top 10 world's tallest steel buildings |publisher=Constructionweekonline.com |access-date=14 June 2013 |archive-date=3 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203033624/http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-9180-top-10-worlds-tallest-steel-buildings/1/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.allaboutskyscrapers.com/property/burj-khalifa-2 |title=Burj Khalifa |publisher=AllAboutSkyscrapers.com |date=19 November 2012 |access-date=14 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120712011132/http://www.allaboutskyscrapers.com/property/burj-khalifa-2 |archive-date=12 July 2012 }} Due to its tubular system, proportionally only half the amount of steel was used in the construction, compared to the Empire State Building.{{cite news|last=Bayley|first=Stephen|title=Burj Dubai: The new pinnacle of vanity|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/dubai/6934603/Burj-Dubai-The-new-pinnacle-of-vanity.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/dubai/6934603/Burj-Dubai-The-new-pinnacle-of-vanity.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|newspaper=Telegraph|date=5 January 2010|location=London}}{{cbignore}} Khan's contributions to the design of tall buildings have had a profound impact on architecture and engineering. It would be difficult to find any worldwide practices in the design of tall buildings that have not been directly or indirectly influenced by his work.{{cite web|url=https://ialcce2012.boku.ac.at/keynote_details.php?profile=5|title=IALCCE 2012: Keynote Speakers Details|website=ialcce2012.boku.ac.at|access-date=5 June 2017|archive-date=26 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130426000301/https://ialcce2012.boku.ac.at/keynote_details.php?profile=5|url-status=dead}} The design is reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright's vision for The Illinois, a mile-high skyscraper designed for Chicago, as well as Chicago's Lake Point Tower. When Adrian Smith was conceiving the project at SOM, he looked out his office window toward Lake Point Tower's curved three-wing layout and thought, "There's the prototype".{{Cite news |url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/kamin/ct-ae-lake-point-tower-anniversary-0923-story.html |title=50 years later, Lake Point Tower is a singular achievement — and let's hope it stays that way |last=Kamin |first=Blair |work=Chicago Tribune |access-date=23 September 2018 |language=en-US |archive-date=11 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190211122235/https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/kamin/ct-ae-lake-point-tower-anniversary-0923-story.html |url-status=live }} According to Strabala, Burj Khalifa was designed based on the 73rd floor Tower Palace Three, an all-residential building in Seoul. In its early planning, Burj Khalifa was intended to be entirely residential.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/540205-secret-of-burj-dubai-height-revealed|title=Architect reveals Burj Dubai height|magazine=Arabian Business|date=3 December 2008|access-date=3 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204001714/http://www.arabianbusiness.com/540205-secret-of-burj-dubai-height-revealed|archive-date=4 December 2008|url-status=dead}}

After the original design by Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill, Emaar Properties chose Hyder Consulting to be the supervising engineer and NORR Group Consultants International Ltd to supervise the architecture of the project.{{cite web|url=http://www.hyderconsulting.com/EN/AboutUs/News/Pages/content.aspx?pageID=83 |title=Burj Dubai becomes tallest manmade structure |publisher=Hyder Consulting |access-date=10 January 2010}}{{dead link|date=May 2011}} Hyder was selected for their expertise in structural and MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) engineering.{{cite web|url=http://www.hyderconsulting.com/EN/AboutUs/News/Pages/content.aspx?pageID=190 |title=Hyder reinforces its reputation for unrivaled engineering ability with the opening of the Burj Khalifa – the world's tallest building |publisher=Hyder Consulting |access-date=10 January 2010}}{{dead link|date=May 2011}} Hyder Consulting's role was to supervise construction, certify the architect's design, and be the engineer and architect of record to the UAE authorities. NORR's role was the supervision of all architectural components including on-site supervision during the construction and design of a 6-storey addition to the office annex building for architectural documentation. NORR was also responsible for the architectural integration drawings for the Armani Hotel included in the Tower. Emaar Properties also engaged GHD,{{cite web |url=http://www.ghd.com.au/aptrixpublishing.nsf/Content/BurjDubaiTower_prj |title=GHD is playing a vital role in managing the long term structural integrity of the world's tallest building, the Burj Dubai Tower |publisher=GHD |access-date=11 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202052648/http://www.ghd.com.au/aptrixpublishing.nsf/Content/BurjDubaiTower_prj |archive-date=2 December 2008 }} an international multidisciplinary consulting firm, to act as an independent verification and testing authority for concrete and steelwork.

The design is derived from Islamic architecture. As the tower rises from the flat desert base, there are 27 setbacks in a spiral pattern, decreasing the cross-section of the tower as it rises and creating convenient outdoor terraces. These setbacks are arranged and aligned in a way that minimizes vibration wind loading from eddy currents and vortices. At the top, the central core emerges and is sculpted to form a finishing spire. At its tallest point, the tower sways a total of {{convert|1.5|m|ft|1|abbr=on}}.{{cite news|url=http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/housing-property/burj-dubai-is-the-height-of-success-1.55605|title=Burj Dubai is the height of success|last=Saberi|first=Mahmood|date=19 April 2008|newspaper=Gulf News|access-date=31 December 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100107060153/http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/housing-property/burj-dubai-is-the-height-of-success-1.55605|archive-date=7 January 2010|url-status=dead}}

File:Samara spiralovity minaret rijen1973.jpg]]

The spire of Burj Khalifa is composed of more than {{convert|4000|t|ST LT}} of structural steel. The central pinnacle pipe weighs {{convert|350|t|ST LT}} and has a height of {{convert|200|m|ft|abbr=on}}. The spire also houses communications equipment. This {{convert|244|m|adj=on}} spire is widely considered vanity height, since very little of its space is usable. Without the spire, Burj Khalifa would be {{convert|585|m}} tall. This was reported in a Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat study, which notes that the empty spire "could be a skyscraper on its own".{{cite news|url=http://www.ctbuh.org/Publications/Journal/InNumbers/TBINVanityHeight/tabid/5837/language/en-US/Default.aspx|title=the world's vainest skyscrapers|access-date=23 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117120309/http://www.ctbuh.org/Publications/Journal/InNumbers/TBINVanityHeight/tabid/5837/language/en-US/Default.aspx|archive-date=17 November 2013|url-status=dead}} Such a skyscraper, if located in Europe, would be the 11th tallest building on that continent.{{cite web|title=Vanity height: how much space in skyscrapers is unoccupiable?|url=https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/feb/03/skyscrapers-vanity-height-graphics-numbers|website=The Guardian|date=3 February 2017|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=20 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220141458/https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/feb/03/skyscrapers-vanity-height-graphics-numbers|url-status=live}}

In 2009 architects announced that more than 1,000 pieces of art would adorn the interiors of Burj Khalifa, while the residential lobby of Burj Khalifa would display the work of Jaume Plensa.{{cite web |url=http://www.som.com/content.cfm/burj_dubai_pr_20090528 |title=Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Leads Process for Art Program at Burj Dubai |date=28 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100424082811/http://www.som.com/content.cfm/burj_dubai_pr_20090528 |archive-date=24 April 2010 }}

The cladding system consists of {{convert|142000|m2|sqft|-3|abbr=on}} of more than 26,000 reflective glass panels and aluminium and textured stainless steel spandrel panels with vertical tubular fins. The architectural glass provides solar and thermal performance as well as an anti-glare shield for the intense desert sun, extreme desert temperatures and strong winds. The glass covers more than {{convert|174000|m2|sqft|abbr=on}} in area.{{Citation needed|date=October 2014}} The Burj's typical curtain wall panels measure {{convert|4|ft|6|in|abbr=on|1}} wide by {{convert|10|ft|8|in|abbr=on|1}} high and weigh about {{convert|800|lb}} each, with wider panels near the building's edges and taller ones near the top.{{Cite web|url=http://www.architectmagazine.com/technology/detail/detail-burj-khalifa-curtain-wall_o|title=Detail: Burj Khalifa Curtain Wall (Architect Magazine)|last=Shapiro|first=Gideon Fink|date=11 March 2010|website=www.architectmagazine.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150809014429/http://www.architectmagazine.com/technology/detail/detail-burj-khalifa-curtain-wall_o|archive-date=9 August 2015|url-status=dead|access-date=21 March 2018}}

The exterior temperature at the top of the building is thought to be 6°C (11°F) cooler than at its base.{{cite web |url=http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/wea00/wea00131.htm |title=Temperature and Elevation |publisher=United States Department of Energy |date=21 May 2002 |access-date=11 April 2009 |archive-date=15 April 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090415003502/http://newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/wea00/wea00131.htm |url-status=live }}{{update inline|date=September 2018}}

A 304-room Armani Hotel, the first of 4 by Armani, occupies 15 of the lower 39 floors.{{cite web |url=http://www.hotelmanagement-network.com/projects/Armani/ |title=Armani Hotel Burj Dubai, United Arab Emirates |publisher=hotelmanagement-network.com |access-date=11 April 2009 |archive-date=29 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090129225558/http://www.hotelmanagement-network.com/projects/Armani/ |url-status=live }} The hotel was supposed to open on 18 March 2010,{{cite news|url=http://www.eyeofdubai.com/v1/news/newsdetail-37992.htm |title=Worlds first Armani Hotel to open on 18 March 2010 in Dubai |date=4 January 2010 |publisher=EyeOfDubai.com |access-date=8 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004212629/http://www.eyeofdubai.com/v1/news/newsdetail-37992.htm |archive-date=4 October 2011 }}{{cite magazine |url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/577810-burj-dubais-armani-hotel-to-open-on-mar-18 |title=Burj Dubai's Armani hotel to open on Mar 18 |last=Sambidge |first=Andy |date=4 January 2010 |magazine=Arabian Business |access-date=8 January 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100108033444/http://www.arabianbusiness.com/577810-burj-dubais-armani-hotel-to-open-on-mar-18 |archive-date=8 January 2010 |url-status=dead }} but after several delays, it finally opened to the public on 27 April 2010.{{cite news |url=http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=174074 |title=Armani hotel opens in Dubai's Khalifa tower |date=27 April 2010 |newspaper=The Jerusalem Post |access-date=27 April 2010 |archive-date=1 May 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100501135938/http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=174074 |url-status=live }} The corporate suites and offices were also supposed to open from March onwards,{{cite web |url=http://www.eyeofdubai.com/v1/news/newsdetail-37982.htm |title=Burj Dubai: Fact Sheet |publisher=Eyeofdubai.com |access-date=11 May 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100106172642/http://www.eyeofdubai.com/v1/news/newsdetail-37982.htm |archive-date=6 January 2010 }} yet the hotel and observation deck remained the only parts of the building which were open in April 2010.

The sky lobbies on the 43rd and 76th floors house swimming pools.{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/burj-dubai-to-welcome-residents-in-feb-2010/82037/on|title=Burj Dubai to welcome residents in Feb 2010|date=1 January 2010|newspaper=Business Standard|access-date=9 January 2010|archive-date=8 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100108011920/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/burj-dubai-to-welcome-residents-in-feb-2010/82037/on|url-status=live}} Floors 20 through 108 have 900 private residential apartments (which, according to the developer, sold out within eight hours of being on the market). An outdoor zero-entry swimming pool is located on the 76th floor of the tower. Corporate offices and suites fill most of the remaining floors, except for the 122nd, 123rd, and 124th, where the At.mosphere restaurant, sky lobby, and an indoor and outdoor observation deck are located respectively. In January 2010, it was planned that Burj Khalifa would receive its first residents in February 2010.{{cite news|url=http://www.dubaicityguide.com/site/news/news-details.asp?newsid=27511 |title=Burj Dubai To Welcome First Residents From February 2010 Onwards |date=31 December 2009 |publisher=DubaiCityGuide |access-date=9 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722021833/http://www.dubaicityguide.com/site/news/news-details.asp?newsid=27511 |archive-date=22 July 2011 }}

The building has 57 elevators and 8 escalators. The elevators have a capacity of 12 to 14 people per cabin, and include the world's fastest double-deck elevators, rising and descending at up to {{convert|10|m/s|abbr=on}}. Engineers initially considered installing the world's first triple-deck elevators. The double-deckers are equipped with LCD displays to amuse visitors during their travel to the observation deck.{{cite web |author=CW Staff |url=http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-7400-how-the-burj-was-built/5/ |title=How the Burj was built |date=16 January 2010 |publisher=ConstructionWeekOnline.com |access-date=11 May 2010 |archive-date=24 March 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100324120102/http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-7400-how-the-burj-was-built/5/ |url-status=live }} The building has 2,909 stairs from the ground floor to the 160th floor.{{cite web|url=http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-7343-top-10-burj-khalifa-facts-part-3/2/|title=Top 10 Burj Khalifa facts: Part 3|publisher=ConstructionWeekOnline.com|access-date=8 January 2010|archive-date=6 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006073906/http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-7343-top-10-burj-khalifa-facts-part-3/2/|url-status=live}}

The Burj Khalifa's water system supplies an average of {{convert|946000|liters|usgal|abbr=on}} of water per day through {{convert|100|km|mi|abbr=on}} of pipes.{{cite web |url=http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/arabic/article.cfm?articleid=2437 |title=Escaping the Dubai Downturn: Voltas's Latest Engineering Feat |date=20 April 2010 |publisher=Wharton, University of Pennsylvania |access-date=21 May 2011 |archive-date=18 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118001946/http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/arabic/article.cfm?articleid=2437 |url-status=live }} An additional {{convert|213|km|mi|abbr=on}} of piping serves the fire emergency system, and {{convert|34|km|mi|abbr=on}} supplies chilled water for the air conditioning system.

The air conditioning system draws air from the upper floors where the air is cooler and cleaner than on the ground.{{cite web |url=http://www.timeoutdubai.com/knowledge/features/12706-khalifa-creators |title=Air Conditioning in Burj Khalifa |date=11 January 2010 |publisher=Timeoutdubai.com |access-date=17 April 2011 |archive-date=5 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605105340/http://www.timeoutdubai.com/knowledge/features/12706-khalifa-creators |url-status=live }} At peak cooling times, the tower's cooling is {{cvt|46|MW}}, equivalent to that provided by {{convert|13000|ST|lb kg|abbr=out}} of melting ice in one day. Water is collected via a condensate collection system and is used to irrigate the nearby park.

To wash the 24,348 windows, totaling {{convert|120000|m2|ft2|-4|abbr=on}} of glass, the building has three horizontal tracks, each holding a {{convert|1500|kg|lb|abbr=on}} bucket machine. Above level 109, and up to tier 27, traditional cradles from davits are used. The top of the building is cleaned by a crew that uses ropes to descend from the top to gain access.{{cite news|url=http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/a-tall-order-burj-dubai-all-set-to-come-clean-1.546504|title=A tall order: Burj Dubai all set to come clean|date=25 August 2009|newspaper=Gulf News|access-date=7 December 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811080544/http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/a-tall-order-burj-dubai-all-set-to-come-clean-1.546504|archive-date=11 August 2011|url-status=dead}}{{YouTube | wcRuXrduj6Q | Window cleaning the world's tallest building }} from [http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0115wg9 Supersized Earth – Episode 1 – BBC One] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404042215/http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0115wg9 |date=4 April 2015 }} Under normal conditions, when all building maintenance units are operational, it takes 36 workers three to four months to clean the entire exterior.{{cite web|url=http://www.burjdubai.com/the-tower/structure.aspx |title=Structural Elements – Elevator, Spire, and More |publisher=BurjDubai.com |access-date=31 December 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091215060449/http://www.burjdubai.com/the-tower/structure.aspx |archive-date=15 December 2009 }}{{cite news|url=http://www.theage.com.au/travel/so-you-think-your-windows-are-hard-to-keep-clean-20100104-lq5x.html|title=So you think your windows are hard to keep clean?|last=Dobbin|first=Marika|date=5 January 2010|newspaper=The Age|access-date=6 January 2010|location=Melbourne, Australia|archive-date=7 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100107045236/http://www.theage.com.au/travel/so-you-think-your-windows-are-hard-to-keep-clean-20100104-lq5x.html|url-status=live}}

Unmanned machines clean the top 27 additional tiers and the glass spire. The cleaning system was developed in Melbourne, Australia, by CoxGomyl, a manufacturer of building maintenance units,{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/dubai/6936250/Burj-Khalifa-window-cleaners-to-spend-months-on-worlds-tallest-building.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/dubai/6936250/Burj-Khalifa-window-cleaners-to-spend-months-on-worlds-tallest-building.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Burj Khalifa: window cleaners to spend months on world's tallest building|author=Malkin, Bonnie|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=15 August 2011|location=London|date=5 January 2010}}{{cbignore}}, at a cost of A$8 million.

File:Dubai Fountain 7.JPG]]

{{Main|The Dubai Fountain}}

Outside the Burj Khalifa, WET Enterprises designed a fountain system at a cost of Dh 800 million (US$217 million). Illuminated by 6,600 lights and 50 coloured projectors, it is {{convert|900|ft|m|abbr=on|order=flip}} long and shoots water {{convert|500|ft|m|abbr=on|order=flip}} into the air while accompanied by a range of classical to contemporary Arabic and other music. It is the world's largest choreographed fountain.{{Cite web|last=Tolbert|first=Jason|date=6 February 2015|title=The Dubai Fountain|url=https://www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/the-dubai-fountain-6510|url-status=live|access-date=13 July 2021|website=Architect Magazine|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908000452/http://www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/the-dubai-fountain-6510 |archive-date=8 September 2015 }} On 26 October 2008, Emaar announced that based on results of a naming contest the fountain would be called the Dubai Fountain.{{cite news|url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=725|title='Dubai Fountain' is winning name of Emaar's water spectacle in Downtown Burj Dubai|publisher=Emaar Properties|date=26 October 2008|access-date=26 October 2008|archive-date=10 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140110085409/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=725|url-status=live}}

{{Main|At the Top (Burj Khalifa)}}

File:Dubai Fountain from At The Top of Burj Khalifa.JPG from the observation deck]]

File:View from burj khalifa6934713247 db12c311cb o.jpg

An outdoor observation deck, named At the Top, opened on 5 January 2010 on the 124th floor, at {{convert|452|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite news|url=http://www.bayut.com/Property_News/uae_property_news/burj_dubai_observation_deck_opens_t-650.html |title=Burj Dubai Observation Deck Opens to The Public On Jan 5 |date=4 January 2010 |publisher=Bayut.com |access-date=6 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105155448/http://www.bayut.com/Property_News/uae_property_news/burj_dubai_observation_deck_opens_t-650.html |archive-date=5 January 2010 }} It opened the 148th floor SKY level at {{convert|555|m|ft|abbr=on}}, giving it the highest observation deck in the world on 15 October 2014.{{cite web |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/dubais-burj-khalifa-observation-deck-2014-10 |title=Dubai's Burj Khalifa Now Has The Highest Observation Deck In The World At 1,821 Feet, And It Looks Incredible |first=Megan |last=Willett |publisher=Business Insider |date=17 October 2014 |access-date=6 December 2014 |archive-date=5 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105003042/http://www.businessinsider.com/dubais-burj-khalifa-observation-deck-2014-10 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/the-tower/ObservationDecks.aspx |title=At the Top, Burj Khalifa Experience |work=burjkhalifa.ae |publisher=Burj Khalifa |access-date=6 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150829045341/http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/the-tower/ObservationDecks.aspx |archive-date=29 August 2015 |url-status=dead }} However, in June 2016 the Shanghai Tower opened with an observation deck at a height of 561 metres, thus taking the title of the world's highest observation deck. Subsequently the Burj Khalifa reclaimed the record on February 18, 2019 when it opened The Lounge observatory at {{convert|585|m|ft|abbr=on}}, which is also the highest lounge in the world.{{cite web|url=https://www.burjkhalifadubaitickets.com/observation-deck.html|title=Burj Khalifa Observation Deck|access-date=4 May 2025}}

The Burj Khalifa's 124th floor observation deck also features a so-called electronic telescope, an augmented reality device developed by Gsmprjct° of Montréal, which allows visitors to view the surrounding landscape in real-time, and to view previously saved images such as those taken at different times of day or under different weather conditions.{{cite web |url=http://www.gsmprjct.com/en/expertise |title=Augmented Reality – gsmprjct° |publisher=gsmprjct° |access-date=6 December 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202011739/http://www.gsmprjct.com/en/expertise |archive-date=2 December 2014 }}{{cite web |url=http://burjkhalifa.ae/en/index.aspx |title=At the Top, Burj Khalifa |publisher=gsmprjct° |access-date=6 December 2014 |archive-date=17 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230117203029/https://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/index.aspx |url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=http://lejournaldemontreal.canoe.ca/actualites/national/archives/2010/01/20100104-163209.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723101823/http://lejournaldemontreal.canoe.ca/actualites/national/archives/2010/01/20100104-163209.html |url-status=usurped |archive-date=23 July 2012 |title=Une firme québécoise dans la plus haute tour du monde |date=4 January 2010 |language=fr |newspaper=Journal de Montréal |access-date=19 August 2010 }} To reduce the daily rush of sightseers, management allows visitors to purchase tickets in advance for a specific date and time, at a 75% discount on tickets purchased on the spot.{{cite web |url=http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/observation-deck/ticket-information.aspx |title='At The Top' Observation Deck Ticket Information |publisher=Emaar Properties |access-date=9 February 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100207191329/http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/observation-deck/ticket-information.aspx |archive-date=7 February 2010 |url-status=dead }}

On 8 February 2010, the observation deck was closed to the public for two months after power-supply problems caused an elevator to become stuck between floors, trapping a group of tourists for 45 minutes.{{cite news|url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-02-08/emaar-says-burj-khalifa-observation-deck-closed-for-maintenance.html |title=Emaar Says Burj Khalifa Observation Deck Closed for Maintenance |date=8 February 2010 |publisher=Bloomberg |access-date=9 February 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100211152456/http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-02-08/emaar-says-burj-khalifa-observation-deck-closed-for-maintenance.html |archive-date=11 February 2010 }}{{cite news |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/middle_east/article7021145.ece |title=Terrifying lift ordeal at Burj Khalifa tower, the world's tallest building |date=10 February 2010 |newspaper=The Times |location=UK |access-date=10 February 2010 |first=Hugh |last=Tomlinson |url-access=subscription |archive-date=5 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105003039/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/middle_east/article7021145.ece |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/apr/05/burj-khalifa-reopens-observation |title=World's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, reopens observation deck |date=5 April 2010 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=UK |access-date=6 April 2010 |archive-date=15 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230215153546/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/apr/05/burj-khalifa-reopens-observation |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/burj-khalifa-observation-deck-reopens-1.607748 |title=Burj Khalifa observation deck reopens |date=5 April 2010 |publisher=GulfNews.com |access-date=6 April 2010 |archive-date=5 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105003041/https://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/burj-khalifa-observation-deck-reopens-1.607748 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://blogs.suntimes.com/travel/2010/04/machu_picchu_and_burj_khalifa.html |title=Machu Picchu and Burj Khalifa back in biz |date=5 April 2010 |newspaper=Chicago Sun-Times |access-date=5 April 2010 |first=Lori |last=Rackl |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100408041449/http://blogs.suntimes.com/travel/2010/04/machu_picchu_and_burj_khalifa.html |archive-date=8 April 2010 }}

When the tide is low and visibility is high, people can see the shores of Iran (which is around {{Convert|153|km|mi|disp=or|abbr=on}} away) from the top of the skyscraper.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/06/opinion/sunday/the-view-from-dubai.html|title=The View From Dubai|date=6 October 2013|work=The New York Times|access-date=26 February 2017|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112020508/http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/06/opinion/sunday/the-view-from-dubai.html|url-status=live}}

{{Main|Burj Park}}

Burj Khalifa is surrounded by an {{convert|11|ha|acre|spell=in|adj=on}} park designed by landscape architects SWA Group.{{cite web |url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=994 |title=An 11-hectare green oasis envelops the foot of Burj Dubai |date=20 December 2009 |publisher=Emaar Properties |access-date=20 March 2010 |archive-date=10 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710185138/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=994 |url-status=live }} Like the tower, the park's design was based on the flower of the Hymenocallis, a desert plant.{{cite news|url=http://www.burjdubai.com/news-media/11-hectare_green_oasis.aspx |title=An 11-hectare green oasis envelops the foot of Burj Dubai |date=20 December 2009 |publisher=BurjDubai.com |access-date=10 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110195256/http://www.burjdubai.com/news-media/11-hectare_green_oasis.aspx |archive-date=10 January 2010 }} At the centre of the park is the water room, which is a series of pools and water jet fountains. Benches and signs incorporate images of Burj Khalifa and the Hymenocallis flower.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/576615-11-hectare-park-unveiled-at-burj-dubai-site|title=11-hectare park unveiled at Burj Dubai site|last=Baxter|first=Elsa|date=20 December 2009|magazine=Arabian Business|access-date=10 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091223033705/http://www.arabianbusiness.com/576615-11-hectare-park-unveiled-at-burj-dubai-site|archive-date=23 December 2009|url-status=dead}}

The plants are watered by water collected from the building's cooling system. The system provides {{convert|68000000|L|USgal|abbr=on}} annually. WET Enterprises, who also developed the Dubai Fountain, developed the park's six water features.{{cite news|url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=970|title=An 11-hectare green oasis envelops the foot of Burj Dubai|date=20 December 2009|publisher=Emaar Properties|access-date=10 January 2010|archive-date=10 July 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710185149/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=970|url-status=live}}

On the higher floors, the sun is seen for several minutes after it has set at ground level. Those living above the 80th floor should wait two extra minutes to break their Ramadan fast, and those living above the 150th floor should wait three minutes.{{cite news |author= BBC Staff |url= https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-14437334 |title= Dubai Burj Khalifa: Ramadan fast 'lasts longer high up' |work= BBC News |date= 7 August 2011 |access-date= 20 February 2017 |archive-date= 3 February 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210203185911/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-14437334 |url-status= live }}

File:Burj Dubai Evolution.ogv

File:Burj dubai aerial closeup.jpg

The tower was constructed by Samsung C&T from South Korea, which also did work on the Petronas Twin Towers and Taipei 101.{{cite web|url=http://www.secc.co.kr/e_secc/introduction/history.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304000754/http://www.secc.co.kr/e_secc/introduction/history.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=4 March 2016|title=Samsung E&C Projects|publisher=Samsung Engineering & Construction|access-date=23 March 2009}} Samsung C&T built the tower in a joint venture with BESIX from Belgium and Arabtec from the UAE.{{cite news|url=https://www.thenational.ae/business/markets/profits-on-the-descent-at-burj-khalifa-builder-arabtec-1.410042|title=Profits on the descent at Burj Khalifa builder Arabtec|quote=Arabtec Holding, the UAE's biggest construction company, posted a 15 per cent decline in full-year profit.|newspaper=The National|date=8 March 2012|access-date=6 September 2018|archive-date=7 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180907071136/https://www.thenational.ae/business/markets/profits-on-the-descent-at-burj-khalifa-builder-arabtec-1.410042|url-status=live}}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.arabianbusiness.com/besix-wins-2-7bn-abu-dhabi-building-orders-271154.html|title=Besix wins $2.7bn Abu Dhabi building orders|quote=Besix, the Belgian contractor that helped build the Burj Khalifa, said that it had won $2.7bn worth of orders in Abu Dhabi.|magazine=Arabian Business|date=24 May 2010|access-date=6 September 2018}} Turner was the project manager on the main construction contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.turnerconstruction.com/international/content.asp?d=3457&p=2372|title=Turner International Projects – Burj Dubai|publisher=Turner Construction|access-date=23 March 2009|archive-date=20 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220231744/http://www.turnerconstruction.com/international/content.asp?d=3457&p=2372|url-status=live}} Hong Kong-based Far East Aluminium combined to provide the exterior cladding for Burj Khalifa.{{cite news|url=http://www.fareastglobal.com/en/products/curtainwall/design/548/|title=Technical Case Studies – Burj Khalifa|publisher=Far East Global Group|access-date=7 July 2019|archive-date=22 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722155610/http://www.fareastglobal.com/en/products/curtainwall/design/548/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2007-02-05-0702050042-story.html|title=Dubai skyscraper missing its 'curtain wall' exterior|publisher=Far East Global Group|access-date=7 July 2019|archive-date=8 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190708121159/https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2007-02-05-0702050042-story.html|url-status=live}}

The contractor and the engineer of record was Hyder Consulting.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.arabianbusiness.com/hyder-consulting-presenting-burj-dubai-the-world-57565.html|title=Hyder consulting presenting Burj Dubai to the world|magazine=Arabian Business|date=16 August 2007|access-date=6 September 2018}} Under UAE law, the contractor and the engineer of record is jointly and severally liable for the performance of Burj Khalifa.

The primary structure is reinforced concrete. Putzmeister created a new, super high-pressure trailer concrete pump, the BSA 14000 SHP-D, for this project. Burj Khalifa's construction used {{convert|330000|m3|cuyd|-2|abbr=on}} of concrete and {{convert|55000|t|ST LT}} of steel rebar, and construction took 22 million man-hours. In May 2008 Putzmeister pumped concrete with more than 21 MPA ultimate compressive strength of gravel to surpass the 600 metres weight of the effective area of each column from the foundation to the next 4th level, and the rest was by metal columns jacketed or covered with concrete to a then world record delivery height of {{convert|606|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}, the 156th floor. Three tower cranes were used during the construction of the uppermost levels, each capable of lifting a 25-tonne load.{{cite news |last=Croucher |first=Martin |title=Myth of 'Babu Sassi' Remains After Burj Cranes Come Down |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/displayarticle.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2009/November/theuae_November338.xml§ion=theuae&col= |access-date=3 June 2011 |newspaper=Khaleej Times |date=11 November 2009 |archive-date=1 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121001080528/http://www.khaleejtimes.com/displayarticle.asp?xfile=data%2Ftheuae%2F2009%2FNovember%2Ftheuae_November338.xml§ion=theuae&col= |url-status=dead }} The remaining structure above was constructed of lighter steel.

In 2003, 33 test holes were drilled to study the strength of the bedrock underlying the structure. "Weak to very weak sandstone and siltstone" was found, just metres below the surface.{{Cite web |title=Burj Khalifa {{!}} PDF {{!}} Engineering {{!}} Civil Engineering |url=https://www.scribd.com/presentation/403504617/Burj-Khalifa |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=Scribd |language=en}} Samples were taken from test holes drilled to a depth of 140 metres, finding weak to very weak rock all the way. The study described the site as part of a "seismically active area".{{citation needed|date=March 2020}} Another challenging element was the shamal which often creates sandstorms.

Over {{convert|45000|m3|cuyd|-2|abbr=on}} of concrete, weighing more than {{convert|110000|t|ST LT|lk=on}} were used to construct the concrete and steel foundation, which features 192 piles; each pile is 1.5 metre in diameter by 43 m in length, buried more than {{convert|50|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} deep. The foundation was designed to support the total building weight of approximately {{convert|450000|t|ST LT|lk=on}}. This weight was then divided by the compressive strength of concrete which is 30 MPa which yielded 450 sq. metres of vertical normal effective area, which then yielded 12 metres by 12 metres dimensions.{{cite journal|last=Van Hampton|first=Tudor|date=2 April 2008|title=Clyde N. Baker Jr.|url=http://enr.construction.com/features/buildings/archives/080402-1.asp|url-status=dead|journal=Engineering News-Record|location=New York|publisher=McGraw Hill Construction|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911014131/http://enr.construction.com/features/buildings/archives/080402-1.asp|archive-date=11 September 2015|access-date=11 August 2015}} A cathodic protection system is under the concrete to neutralise the sulphate and chloride-rich groundwater and prevent corrosion.

During the construction of the Burj Khalifa, over 35,000 tonnes of structural steel which held the Palace of the Republic, the former parliament building of the German Democratic Republic, the Volkskammer, in East Berlin together were shipped to Dubai in 2008.

The Burj Khalifa is highly compartmentalised. Pressurised, air-conditioned refuge floors are located every 13 floors (on floors G, 13, 26, 39, 52, etc.) where people can shelter on their long walk down to safety in case of an emergency or fire.{{cite news|url=http://www.building.co.uk/story.asp?storycode=3123781|title=Burj Dubai: Top of the world|last=Puckett|first=Katie|date=3 October 2008|publisher=Building|access-date=31 December 2009}}

Special mixes of concrete were made to withstand the extreme pressures of the massive building weight; as is typical with reinforced concrete construction, each batch of concrete was tested to ensure it could withstand certain pressures. CTLGroup, working for Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, conducted the creep and shrinkage testing critical for the structural analysis of the building.{{cite web |url=http://www.ctlgroup.com/ClientsAndProjects/Project/Detail/220 |title=Clients & Projects – Burj Khalifa, the Tallest Building in the World |publisher=CTLGroup |access-date=29 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708212424/http://www.ctlgroup.com/ClientsAndProjects/Project/Detail/220 |archive-date=8 July 2011 |url-status=dead }}

The consistency of the concrete used in the project was essential. It was difficult to create a concrete that could withstand both the thousands of tonnes bearing down on it and Persian Gulf temperatures that can reach {{convert|50|C|F|0|abbr=on}}. To combat this problem, the concrete was not poured during the day. Instead, during the summer months, ice was added to the mixture and it was poured at night when the air was cooler and the humidity was higher. Cooler concrete cures more evenly and is, therefore, less likely to set too quickly and crack. Any significant cracks could have put the entire project in jeopardy.{{cite journal|last1=Al-Tayyib|first1=A.J.|last2=Baluch|first2=M.H.|last3=Sharif|first3=Al-Farabi M.|last4=Mahamud|first4=M.M.|title=The effect of thermal cycling on the durability of concrete made from local materials in the Arabian Gulf countries|journal=Cement and Concrete Research|volume=19|issue=1|year=1989|pages=131–142|issn=0008-8846|doi=10.1016/0008-8846(89)90073-2}}{{cite journal|last1=Ji|first1=Jun|last2=Elnashai|first2=Amr S.|last3=Kuchma|first3=Daniel A.|title=Seismic fragility relationships of reinforced concrete high-rise buildings|journal=The Structural Design of Tall and Special Buildings|volume=18|issue=3|year=2009|pages=259–277|issn=1541-7794|doi=10.1002/tal.408|s2cid=109960316 }}{{cite journal|last1=Gjørv|first1=Odd E.|title=Durability of concrete structures|journal=Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering|volume=36|issue=2|year=2011|pages=151–172|issn=1319-8025|doi=10.1007/s13369-010-0033-5|s2cid=110936887|doi-access=free}}{{cite web| last1=Friedman| first1=Daniel| year=2018| title=Effects of curing temperature on concrete: shrinkage cracks and spalling concrete| url=https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Effect-of-Temperature-on-Concrete.php| access-date=2020-09-13| archive-date=19 February 2021| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210219005213/https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Effect-of-Temperature-on-Concrete.php| url-status=live}}{{cite journal|last1=Bester| first1=Nicholas| year=2013| title=Concrete for high-rise buildings: Performance requirements, mix design and construction considerations| journal=Structural Concrete Properties and Practice| pages=1–4}}

File:Burj Dubai 001.jpg

• January 2004: Excavation commences.{{cite web|url=http://www.burjdubai.com/the-tower/construction.aspx |title=Burj Dubai Construction Timeline |publisher=BurjDubai.com |access-date=31 December 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091215060325/http://www.burjdubai.com/the-tower/construction.aspx |archive-date=15 December 2009 }}
• February 2004: Piling starts.
• 21 September 2004: Emaar contractors begin construction.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/6910536.stm|title=Dubai skyscraper world's tallest|date=22 July 2007|work=BBC News|access-date=31 December 2009|archive-date=9 February 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090209133713/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/6910536.stm|url-status=live}}
• March 2005: Structure of Burj Khalifa starts rising.
• June 2006: Level 50 is reached.
• February 2007: Surpasses the Sears Tower as the building with the most floors.
• 13 May 2007: Sets record for vertical concrete pumping on any building at {{convert|452|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}, surpassing the {{convert|449.2|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} to which concrete was pumped during the construction of Taipei 101, while Burj Khalifa reached the 130th floor.{{cite news|url=http://dubaionline.mconet.biz/index.php?action=fullnews&id=319778&category=990&category_name=dubai_property_news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071123091251/http://dubaionline.mconet.biz/index.php?action=fullnews&id=319778&category=990&category_name=dubai_property_news|url-status=dead|archive-date=23 November 2007|title=Burj Dubai: Unimix sets record for concrete pumping|publisher=Dubai News Online|date=25 May 2007|access-date=11 April 2009}}
• 21 July 2007: Surpasses Taipei 101, whose height of {{convert|509.2|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} made it the world's tallest building, and level 141 reached.{{cite web|title=Burj Dubai Official Website|url=http://www.burjdubai.com|publisher=Emaar Properties|access-date=8 March 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110203024106/http://www.burjdubai.com/|archive-date=3 February 2011|url-status=dead}}
• 12 August 2007: Surpasses the Sears Tower antenna, which stands {{convert|527|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}.
• 12 September 2007: At {{convert|555.3|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}, becomes the world's tallest freestanding structure, surpassing the CN Tower in Toronto, and level 150 reached.{{cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/cn-tower-dethroned-by-dubai-building-1.639333|title=CN Tower dethroned by Dubai building|publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation|date=12 September 2007|access-date=13 September 2007|archive-date=3 July 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703045949/http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2007/09/12/cntower-surpassed.html|url-status=live}}
• 7 April 2008: At {{convert|629|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}, surpasses the KVLY-TV Mast to become the tallest human-made structure, level 160 reached.{{cite news|url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=213|title=Burj Dubai surpasses KVLY-TV mast to become the world's tallest man-made structure|publisher=Emaar Properties|date=7 April 2008|access-date=7 April 2008|archive-date=10 July 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710185205/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=213|url-status=live}}
• 17 June 2008: Emaar announces that Burj Khalifa's height is over {{convert|636|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} and that its final height will not be given until it is completed in September 2009.{{cite news|url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=137|title=Emaar increases height of Burj Dubai; completion in September 2009|publisher=Emaar Properties|date=17 June 2008|access-date=17 October 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710184935/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=137|archive-date=10 July 2011}}
• 1 September 2008: Height tops {{convert|688|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}, making it the tallest human-made structure ever built, surpassing the previous record-holder, the Warsaw Radio Mast in Konstantynów, Poland.{{cite news|url=http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=83|title=Burj Dubai now a record 688 m tall and continues to rise|publisher=Emaar Properties|date=1 September 2008|access-date=1 September 2008|archive-date=10 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140110092245/http://www.emaar.com/index.aspx?page=press-release-details&id=83|url-status=live}}
• 17 January 2009: Topped out at {{convert|829.8|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite news|url=http://www.business24-7.ae/articles/2009/1/pages/01182009_63dc3a90c9a848219058be301f3f7ded.aspx|title=Burj Dubai all set for 09/09/09 soft opening|publisher=Emirates Business 24-7|access-date=17 January 2009|archive-date=19 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090119161147/http://business24-7.ae/Articles/2009/1/Pages/01182009_63dc3a90c9a848219058be301f3f7ded.aspx|url-status=live}}
• 1 October 2009: Emaar announces that the exterior of the building is completed.{{cite news |url=http://business.maktoob.com/20090000378742/Burj_Dubai_exterior_done_to_open_this_year/Article.htm |title=Burj Dubai exterior done, to open this year |publisher=Maktoob News |date=1 October 2009 |access-date=1 October 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091002153848/http://business.maktoob.com/20090000378742/Burj_Dubai_exterior_done_to_open_this_year/Article.htm |archive-date=2 October 2009 }}
• 4 January 2010: Burj Khalifa's official launch ceremony is held and Burj Khalifa is opened. Burj Dubai was renamed Burj Khalifa in honour of the President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan.
• 10 March 2010: Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat certifies Burj Khalifa as world's tallest building.{{cite web |url=http://www.ctbuh.org/News/PressReleases/PR_100308_TallestTrends/tabid/1468/language/en-US/Default.aspx |title=Tallest Trends and the Burj Khalifa |date=10 March 2010 |work=Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat |access-date=27 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914160330/http://www.ctbuh.org/News/PressReleases/PR_100308_TallestTrends/tabid/1468/language/en-US/Default.aspx |archive-date=14 September 2016 |url-status=dead }}

In March 2009, Mohamed Ali Alabbar, chairman of the project's developer, Emaar Properties, said office space pricing at Burj Khalifa reached US$4,000 per sq ft (over US$43,000 per m²) and the Armani Residences, also in Burj Khalifa, sold for US$3,500 per sq ft (over US$37,500 per m²).{{cite news|url=http://zawya.com/story.cfm/sidZAWYA20080305042540 |title=Burj Dubai offices to top US$4,000 per sq ft |publisher=Zawya |date=5 March 2008 |access-date=23 March 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810010114/http://www.zawya.com/story.cfm/sidZAWYA20080305042540 |archive-date=10 August 2011 }} He estimated the total cost for the project to be about US$1.5 billion.

The project's completion coincided with the Great Recession, and with vast overbuilding in the country, leading to high vacancies and foreclosures.{{cite news|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/culturemonster/2010/01/the-burj-dubai-and-architectures-vacant-stare.html|title=The Burj Dubai and architecture's vacant stare|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|access-date=4 January 2010|date=1 January 2010|author=Christopher Hawthorne|archive-date=4 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100104111807/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/culturemonster/2010/01/the-burj-dubai-and-architectures-vacant-stare.html|url-status=live}} With Dubai mired in debt from its huge ambitions, the government was forced to seek multibillion-dollar bailouts from its oil-rich neighbor Abu Dhabi. Subsequently, in a surprise move at its opening ceremony, the tower was renamed Burj Khalifa, said to honour the UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his crucial support.{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703580904574638111667658806|title=World's Tallest Skyscraper Opens in Dubai|last=Bianchi|first=Stefania|author2=Andrew Critchlow|date=4 January 2010|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=4 January 2010|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228200922/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703580904574638111667658806|url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://business.maktoob.com/20090000414838/Burj_Dubai_renamed_Burj_Khalifa_/Article.htm |title=828-metre Burj Dubai renamed Burj Khalifa |date=4 January 2010 |publisher=Maktoob Group |access-date=10 February 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100224091602/http://business.maktoob.com/20090000414838/Burj_Dubai_renamed_Burj_Khalifa_/Article.htm |archive-date=24 February 2010 }}

Because of the slumping demand in Dubai's property market, the rents in the Burj Khalifa plummeted 40% some ten months after its opening. Out of 900 apartments in the tower, 825 were still empty at that time.{{cite news|url=http://www.thenational.ae/business/property/burj-khalifa-rents-tumble-40|title=Burj Khalifa rents tumble 40%|newspaper=The National|first=Brad|last=Reagan|date=14 October 2010|access-date=6 November 2010|archive-date=18 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101018070305/http://www.thenational.ae/business/property/burj-khalifa-rents-tumble-40|url-status=live}}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/armani-residences-defy-70-burj-khalifa-price-drop-357451.html|title=Armani Residences defy 70% Burj Khalifa price drop|magazine=Arabian Business|first=Shane|last=McGinley|date=21 October 2010|access-date=6 November 2010}} Over the next 30 months, overseas investors steadily bought up available apartments and office space.{{cite web |title=Offices stand empty in tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-18929271 |date=21 July 2012 |publisher=BBC |access-date=28 March 2013 |archive-date=26 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130126212706/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-18929271 |url-status=live }} By October 2012, Emaar reported that around 80% of the apartments were occupied.{{cite web|title=Emaar Reports 80% Occupancy Levels In Burj Khalifa|url=http://www.reidin.com/news/showNews/ae_reidin-reidinmediawatch-20120706-1/emaar-reports-80-occupancy-levels-in-burj-khalifa.html|publisher=REIDIN.com|access-date=1 October 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201103154/http://www.reidin.com/news/showNews/ae_reidin-reidinmediawatch-20120706-1/emaar-reports-80-occupancy-levels-in-burj-khalifa.html|archive-date=1 February 2013}}

The ceremony was broadcast live on a giant screen on Burj Park Island and on smaller screens elsewhere.{{Cite web|url=http://moonshine.ae/best-bars-in-dubai-with-burj-khalifa-views/|title=Best Bars in Dubai with Burj Khalifa Views|last=Moonshiner|date=29 November 2018|website=Moonshine|language=en-US|access-date=9 December 2018|archive-date=6 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206145643/http://moonshine.ae/best-bars-in-dubai-with-burj-khalifa-views/|url-status=dead}} Hundreds of media outlets from around the world reported live from the scene. In addition to the media presence, 6,000 guests were expected.{{cite news |url=http://business.maktoob.com/20090000413858/Two_billion_to_watch_Burj_Dubai_opening/Article.htm |title=Two billion to watch Burj Dubai opening |publisher=Maktoob Business |date=3 January 2010 |access-date=5 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100201060543/http://business.maktoob.com/20090000413858/Two_billion_to_watch_Burj_Dubai_opening/Article.htm |archive-date=1 February 2010 }}

The opening was held on 4 January 2010.{{cite news|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Global-News/2010/0105/World-s-tallest-building-What-s-it-worth-to-have-the-Dubai-tower-and-what-should-people-call-it|title=World's tallest building: What's it worth to have the Dubai tower – and what should people call it?|last=Huang|first=Carol|date=5 January 2010|newspaper=The Christian Science Monitor|access-date=6 January 2010|archive-date=5 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105174823/http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Global-News/2010/0105/World-s-tallest-building-What-s-it-worth-to-have-the-Dubai-tower-and-what-should-people-call-it|url-status=live}} The ceremony featured a display of 10,000 fireworks, light beams projected on and around the tower, and further sound, light and water effects.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/577720-burj-dubai-ceremony-details-revealed|title=Burj Dubai ceremony details revealed|first=Andy|last=Sambidge|magazine=Arabian Business|date=3 January 2010|access-date=5 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100106030514/http://www.arabianbusiness.com/577720-burj-dubai-ceremony-details-revealed|archive-date=6 January 2010|url-status=dead}} The celebratory lighting was designed by UK lighting designers Speirs and Major Associates.{{cite news|url=http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/visual_arts/architecture_and_design/article7034748.ece|title=Designer's light touches far and wide|last=Devine|first=Rachel|date=21 February 2010|newspaper=The Times|location=UK|access-date=29 November 2010|archive-date=15 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615193116/http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/visual_arts/architecture_and_design/article7034748.ece|url-status=dead}} Using the 868 powerful stroboscope lights that are integrated into the façade and spire of the tower, different lighting sequences were choreographed, together with more than 50 different combinations of other effects.{{citation needed|date=September 2020}}

On 10 May 2011, an Asian migrant worker in his mid-30s jumped to his death from the 147th floor onto the 108th floor's deck. Dubai police said he killed himself because his company refused to let him leave the country.{{cite news|url=http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/05/10/man-dies-in-jump-from-worlds-tallest-building/?iref=obnetwork|title=Man dies in jump from world's tallest building|publisher=CNN|date=12 May 2011|access-date=29 May 2011|archive-date=29 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110529013123/http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/05/10/man-dies-in-jump-from-worlds-tallest-building/?iref=obnetwork|url-status=dead}}

On 18 May 2015, Dubai police disputed a report that a Portuguese tourist named Laura Vanessa Nunes fell to her death from the Burj Khalifa the prior 16 November, claiming that she fell from the Jumeirah Lake Towers.{{cite news|title=No suicide at Burj Khalifa say Dubai Police|url=http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/crime/no-suicide-at-burj-khalifa-say-dubai-police-1.1513260|newspaper=Gulf News|date=18 May 2015|access-date=28 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724151922/http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/crime/no-suicide-at-burj-khalifa-say-dubai-police-1.1513260|archive-date=24 July 2015|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.express.co.uk/news/world/578320/Woman-suicide-Burj-Khalifa-Dubai-mother-cover-up|title=Is Dubai trying to cover-up woman's death from the top of world's tallest building?|first=Rebecca|last=Perring|date=19 May 2015|access-date=5 October 2017|archive-date=5 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171005202449/http://www.express.co.uk/news/world/578320/Woman-suicide-Burj-Khalifa-Dubai-mother-cover-up|url-status=live}} Nine News obtained emails from Portugal's embassy in the UAE under freedom of information laws, which indicated that the female tourist jumped from the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa.{{cite web|url=https://www.9news.com.au/world/2017/11/15/14/07/laura-nunes-dubai-covered-up-womans-suicide-from-top-of-burj-khalifa|title=How rich Gulf emirate Dubai covered up woman's suicide from top of Burj Khalifa|first=Mark|last=Saunokonoko|date=16 November 2017|publisher=Nine News Australia|access-date=22 November 2017|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116134207/https://www.9news.com.au/world/2017/11/15/14/07/laura-nunes-dubai-covered-up-womans-suicide-from-top-of-burj-khalifa|url-status=live}}

{{Further|Human rights in the United Arab Emirates}}

The Burj Khalifa was built primarily by workers from South Asia and East Asia.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2006/mar/23/brianwhitaker.mainsection|title=Riot by migrant workers halts construction of Dubai skyscraper|last=Whitaker|first=Brian|newspaper=The Guardian|location=UK|date=23 March 2006|access-date=25 March 2006|archive-date=21 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221054045/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2006/mar/23/brianwhitaker.mainsection|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article74907.ece|title=Burj Dubai opens tomorrow, final height still a secret!|date=3 January 2010|newspaper=The Hindu|location=India|access-date=6 January 2010|archive-date=5 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110805023853/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article74907.ece|url-status=live}} This is generally because the current generation of UAE locals prefer governmental jobs and do not have an attitude favouring private sector employment.{{cite web|url=http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/emiratisation-wont-work-if-people-dont-want-to-learn|title=Emiratisation won't work if people don't want to learn|author=Ayesha Almazroui|work=thenational.ae|access-date=11 June 2014|archive-date=26 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160426083228/http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/emiratisation-wont-work-if-people-dont-want-to-learn|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/education/blacklist-seeks-to-deter-emirati-job-aspirants-from-being-fussy-1.978402|title=Blacklist seeks to deter Emirati job aspirants from being fussy|author=Rania Moussly, Staff Reporter|work=gulfnews.com|date=10 February 2012 |access-date=21 August 2015|archive-date=7 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180907110204/https://gulfnews.com/news/uae/education/blacklist-seeks-to-deter-emirati-job-aspirants-from-being-fussy-1.978402|url-status=live}} On 17 June 2008, there were about 7,500 skilled workers employed at the construction site. Press reports indicated in 2006 that skilled carpenters at the site earned £4.34 a day, and labourers earned £2.84. According to a BBC investigation and a Human Rights Watch report, the workers were housed in abysmal conditions, and worked long hours for low pay.{{cite web |publisher= Human Rights Watch |url= https://www.hrw.org/en/node/11123/section/6 |title= Building Towers, Cheating Workers Section V. |date= 11 November 2006 |access-date= 26 July 2010 |archive-date= 11 May 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120511025951/http://www.hrw.org/en/node/11123/section/6 |url-status= live }}{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/7985361.stm |title=Dark side of the Dubai dream |date=6 April 2009 |publisher=BBC |access-date=15 July 2013 |archive-date=2 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802085650/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/7985361.stm |url-status=live }}{{cite web |publisher= Migrant-Rights.org |url= http://www.migrant-rights.org/2010/01/04/behind-the-glamorous-facade-of-the-burj-khalifa/ |title= Behind the Glamorous Facade of the Burj Khalifa |date= 4 January 2010 |access-date= 6 January 2010 |archive-date= 9 May 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120509001254/http://www.migrant-rights.org/2010/01/04/behind-the-glamorous-facade-of-the-burj-khalifa/ |url-status= live }} During construction, one construction-related death was reported.{{cite web |url=http://gulfnews.com/business/property/keeping-the-burj-dubai-site-safe-for-workers-1.561805 |title=Keeping the Burj Dubai site safe for workers |publisher=gulfnews |date=4 January 2010 |access-date=29 May 2011 |archive-date=8 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508154500/http://gulfnews.com/business/property/keeping-the-burj-dubai-site-safe-for-workers-1.561805 |url-status=live }} Workplace injuries and deaths in the UAE are poorly documented, according to Human Rights Watch.

In March 2006 about 2,500 workers, upset over buses that were delayed for the end of their shifts, protested and triggered a riot, damaging cars, offices, computers, and construction equipment. A Dubai Interior Ministry official said the rioters caused almost £500,000 in damage. Most of the workers involved in the riot returned the following day but refused to work.

Emaar New Year's Eve is an annual event held every 31 December at Burj Khalifa, organised by Emaar Properties.{{cite web | url=https://www.forbes.com/companies/emaar-properties/ | title=Emaar Properties | website=www.forbes.com | accessdate=24 October 2021 | archive-date=21 November 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211121153539/https://www.forbes.com/companies/emaar-properties/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/news/nye-fireworks-at-dubais-burj-khalifa-how-you-can-get-access-to-downtown | title=NYE fireworks at Dubai's Burj Khalifa: How you can get access to Downtown | publisher=khaleejtimes.com | accessdate=26 September 2021 | archive-date=28 October 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028190157/https://www.khaleejtimes.com/news/nye-fireworks-at-dubais-burj-khalifa-how-you-can-get-access-to-downtown | url-status=live }} The event consists of fireworks launched from Burj Khalifa, a light and laser show on the facade of Burj Khalifa, and an accompanying soundtrack and a special fountain show on The Dubai Fountain choreographed to the soundtrack.{{cite web |date=28 December 2011 |title=Live broadcast of Burj Khalifa New Year's Eve |url=https://gulfnews.com/uae/jaw-dropping-fireworks-at-burj-khalifa-enthrall-thousands-1.739088 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028190158/https://gulfnews.com/uae/jaw-dropping-fireworks-at-burj-khalifa-enthrall-thousands-1.739088 |archive-date=28 October 2021 |accessdate=20 September 2021 |website=gulfnews.com |language=en}}{{cite web |date=6 January 2018 |title=Emaar bags Guinness World Record title for largest light and sound show on a single building |url=https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/525571/BUSINESS/Emaar-bags-Guinness-World-Record-title-for-largest-light-and-sound-show-on-a-single-building |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028190208/https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/525571/BUSINESS/Emaar-bags-Guinness-World-Record-title-for-largest-light-and-sound-show-on-a-single-building |archive-date=28 October 2021 |access-date=29 December 2021}} The Emaar New Year's Eve fireworks celebration originated in 2010 with the inauguration of the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa. The celebration was broadcast live to more than 2 million people and lasted for 3 minutes.{{cite web |date=28 December 2011 |title=Live broadcast of Burj Khalifa New Year's Eve |url=https://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/live-broadcast-of-burj-khalifa-new-year-s-eve-2011-12-28-1.434906 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026061407/https://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/live-broadcast-of-burj-khalifa-new-year-s-eve-2011-12-28-1.434906 |archive-date=26 October 2021 |accessdate=24 October 2021 |website=www.emirates247.com |language=en}}

Since 2011, national live broadcasting rights have been held by Dubai Media Incorporated and Dubai TV.

Emaar New Year's Eve has won two Guinness World Records, including 'Largest LED-Illuminated Facade' in 2015 and 2019.{{cite web | url=https://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-31997-emaars-nye-spectacular-was-worlds-most-watched/ | title=Emaar's NYE spectacular was world's most-watched | date=4 January 2015 | accessdate=24 October 2021 | archive-date=20 September 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180920234525/http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-31997-emaars-nye-spectacular-was-worlds-most-watched/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.news.com.au/world/fireworks-around-the-world-light-the-night-for-new-years-eve/news-story/e2b3b1738ea29f3eb82bae6733ed1eec | title=Fireworks around the world light the night for New Year's Eve | website=www.news.com.au | date=1 January 2015 | accessdate=26 September 2021 | archive-date=15 September 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150915153124/http://www.news.com.au/world/fireworks-around-the-world-light-the-night-for-new-years-eve/story-fndir2ev-1227171544300 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/dubai-s-new-year-s-eve-burj-khalifa-light-show-to-run-for-months-1.808278 | title=Dubai's New Year's Eve Burj Khalifa light show to run for months | date=1 January 2019 | accessdate=22 October 2021 | archive-date=28 October 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028190158/https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/dubai-s-new-year-s-eve-burj-khalifa-light-show-to-run-for-months-1.808278 | url-status=live }}

In 2017 and 2018, Emaar New Year's Eve was broadcast live on Twitter,{{cite web |date=January 2019 |title=Largest LED-illuminated façade – Guinness World Records |url=https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/102979-largest-led-illuminated-facade |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028192015/https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/102979-largest-led-illuminated-facade |archive-date=28 October 2021 |accessdate=24 October 2021 |publisher=guinnessworldrecords.com}}{{cite web |date=January 2019 |title=Tallest LED-illuminated façade – Guinness World Records |url=https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/534039-tallest-led-illuminated-facade |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028195020/https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/534039-tallest-led-illuminated-facade |archive-date=28 October 2021 |accessdate=26 October 2021 |publisher=guinnessworldrecords.com}} and YouTube. In 2020, it was broadcast live for the first time on Zoom.{{cite press release |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/burj-khalifa-and-downtown-dubai-bring-in-2021-with-a-spectacular-new-years-eve-celebration-301199812.html |title=Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai bring in 2021 with a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration |accessdate=24 October 2021 |archive-date=18 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230818164200/https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/burj-khalifa-and-downtown-dubai-bring-in-2021-with-a-spectacular-new-years-eve-celebration-301199812.html |url-status=live}}

In 2021, Emaar celebrated solidarity in honour of frontline workers of the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite web | url=https://www.theindiansun.com.au/2021/01/04/burj-khalifa-and-downtown-dubai-bring-in-2021-with-a-spectacular-new-years-eve-celebration/ | title=Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai bring in 2021 with a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration | date=3 January 2021 | accessdate=26 September 2021 | archive-date=22 September 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210922023738/https://www.theindiansun.com.au/2021/01/04/burj-khalifa-and-downtown-dubai-bring-in-2021-with-a-spectacular-new-years-eve-celebration/ | url-status=live }}

For the 2022 event, a laser feature was installed on The Dubai Fountain in sync with the Burj Khalifa's laser and fireworks show.{{Cite web |last=Reporter |first=A. Staff |title=New Year 2022 in Dubai: Catch spectacular fireworks, laser show at Burj Khalifa |url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae-attractions/new-year-2022-in-dubai-catch-spectacular-fireworks-laser-show-at-burj-khalifa |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=Khaleej Times |language=en}}

The building has been used by several experienced BASE jumpers for authorised and unauthorised BASE jumping:

In May 2008, Hervé Le Gallou and David McDonnell, dressed as engineers, entered Burj Khalifa (around {{convert|650|m}} at the time), and jumped off a balcony situated several floors below the 160th floor.{{cite web |url=http://current.com/items/89546563_world-record-base-jump.htm |title=World record BASE jump |first1=Jan |last1=Bednarz |first2=Robin |last2=Schmidt |first3=Andy |last3=Harvey |first4=Hervé |last4=Le Gallou |year=2008 |work=Current Edge |publisher=Current TV |access-date=4 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100114022033/http://current.com/items/89546563_world-record-base-jump.htm |archive-date=14 January 2010 }}Video documentary about the BASE jump from the Burj Dubai tower.{{cite news |title=Daredevils jumped off Burj Dubai undetected |first=Tom |last=Spender |newspaper=The National |date=24 November 2008 |url=http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/daredevils-jumped-off-burj-dubai-undetected |access-date=4 January 2010 |archive-date=10 January 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110215852/http://www.thenational.ae/article/20081124/NATIONAL/625952895/-1/NEWS |url-status=live }}

On 8 January 2010, with permission of the authorities, Nasr Al Niyadi and Omar Al Hegelan, from the Emirates Aviation Society, broke the world record for the highest BASE jump from a building after they leapt from a crane-suspended platform attached to the 160th floor at {{convert|672|m|ft|abbr=on}}. The two men descended the vertical drop at a speed of up to {{convert|220|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, with enough time to open their parachutes 10 seconds into the 90-second jump.[http://www.worldrecordsacademy.org/sports/highest_base_jump_Nasr_Al_Niyadi_and_Omar_Al_Hegelan_sets_world_record_101495.htm Highest base jump-Nasr Al Niyadi and Omar Al Hegelan sets world record] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100613031026/http://worldrecordsacademy.org/sports/highest_base_jump_Nasr_Al_Niyadi_and_Omar_Al_Hegelan_sets_world_record_101495.htm |date=13 June 2010}}. Retrieved 9 January 2010.{{cite news |url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Base-Jumpers-From-The-Burj-Khalifa-Dubai-Omar-Al-Hegelan-And-Nasser-Al-Neyadi-Set-New-Record/Article/201001115516376?lpos=World_News_Second_Home_Page_Article_Teaser_Region_3&lid=ARTICLE_15516376_Base_Jumpers_From_The_Burj_Khalifa_Dubai%3A_Omar_Al_Hegelan_And_Nasser_Al_Neyadi_Set_New_Record |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130104163610/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Base-Jumpers-From-The-Burj-Khalifa-Dubai-Omar-Al-Hegelan-And-Nasser-Al-Neyadi-Set-New-Record/Article/201001115516376?lpos=World_News_Second_Home_Page_Article_Teaser_Region_3&lid=ARTICLE_15516376_Base_Jumpers_From_The_Burj_Khalifa_Dubai:_Omar_Al_Hegelan_And_Nasser_Al_Neyadi_Set_New_Record |url-status=dead |archive-date=4 January 2013 |title=Daredevils Jump Off World's Tallest Building |publisher=Sky News |first=Roddy |last=Mansfield |date=8 January 2010 |access-date=8 January 2010}}

On 21 April 2014, with permission of the authorities and support from several sponsors, highly experienced French BASE jumpers Vince Reffet and Fred Fugen broke the Guinness world record for the highest BASE jump from a building after they leapt from a specially designed platform, built at the very top of the pinnacle, at {{convert|828|m|ft|abbr=off}}.{{cite web |title=Highest BASE jump from a building |date=21 April 2014 |url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records-9000/highest-base-jump-from-a-building/ |publisher=Guinness World Records Limited |access-date=19 November 2020 |archive-date=30 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140530081953/http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records-9000/highest-base-jump-from-a-building |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Fred Fugen and Vincent Reffet took BASE jumping higher than ever before in Dubai. |url=http://www.redbull.com/en/adventure/stories/1331647102489/base-jump-record-off-the-world-s-tallest-building |last=Sampiero |first=Josh |date=23 April 2014 |publisher=Red Bull |access-date=19 November 2020 |archive-date=28 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160528201113/http://www.redbull.com/en/adventure/stories/1331647102489/base-jump-record-off-the-world-s-tallest-building |url-status=live }}{{cite video |title=Burj Khalifa Pinnacle BASE Jump – 4K |website=YouTube |date= 24 April 2014 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iD4qsWnjsNU | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211027/iD4qsWnjsNU| archive-date=2021-10-27|access-date=22 August 2014}}{{cbignore}}

On 28 March 2011, Alain "Spiderman" Robert scaled the outside of Burj Khalifa. The climb to the top of the spire took 6 hours. To comply with UAE safety laws, Robert, who usually climbs in free solo style, used a rope and harness.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12888817 |title='Spiderman' Alain Robert scales Burj Khalifa in Dubai |date=28 March 2011 |publisher=BBC |access-date=29 March 2011 |archive-date=1 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110401031717/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12888817 |url-status=live }}

In June 2010, Burj Khalifa was the recipient of the 2010 "Best Tall Building Middle East & Africa" award by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.{{cite web |title=CTBUH 9th Annual Awards, 2010 |publisher=Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat |url=http://www.ctbuh.org/Events/Awards/2010Awards/tabid/1571/language/en-GB/Default.aspx |access-date=5 June 2007 |archive-date=19 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100619090405/http://www.ctbuh.org/Events/Awards/2010Awards/tabid/1571/language/en-GB/Default.aspx |url-status=live }} On 28 September 2010 Burj Khalifa won the award for the best project of the year at the Middle East Architect Awards 2010.{{cite web | title = Burj Khalifa won Best Project of Year at Middle East Architect Awards 2010 | date = 29 September 2010 | publisher = Constructionweekonline.com | url = http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-9617-burj-khalifa-wins-best-project/ | access-date = 30 September 2010 | archive-date = 2 October 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101002121553/http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-9617-burj-khalifa-wins-best-project/ | url-status = live }} Awards Chair Gordon Gill, of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, said:

{{Blockquote|text=We are talking about a building here that has changed the landscape of what is possible in architecture – a building that became internationally recognized as an icon long before it was even completed. 'Building of the Century' was thought a more apt title for it.{{cite web|title=Burj Khalifa Becomes First Recipient of New Tall Building Global Icon Award|url=https://csengineermag.com/burj-khalifa-becomes-first-recipient-of-new-tall-building-global-icon-award/|website=Civil + Structural Engineer|date=26 October 2010|access-date=8 February 2017|archive-date=11 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211082423/https://csengineermag.com/burj-khalifa-becomes-first-recipient-of-new-tall-building-global-icon-award/|url-status=live}}|sign=|source=}}

Burj Khalifa was also the recipient of the following awards.{{cite web |title=Burj Khalifa Project Awards |publisher=Skidmore, Owings & Merril LLP |url=https://www.som.com/project/burj-khalifa-formerly-burj-dubai |access-date=24 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127093624/http://www.som.com/project/burj-khalifa-formerly-burj-dubai |archive-date=27 January 2013 }}{{cite web | title = Jmhdezhdez.com | publisher = Burj Khalifa Project Awards | url = http://www.jmhdezhdez.com/2011/04/burj-khalifa-dubai-supertall-som.html | access-date = 24 February 2013 | archive-date = 15 January 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130115172448/http://www.jmhdezhdez.com/2011/04/burj-khalifa-dubai-supertall-som.html | url-status = live }}

{{Portal|United Arab Emirates|Architecture}}

{{div col|colwidth=25em}}

• List of buildings in Dubai
• List of buildings with 100 floors or more
• List of development projects in Dubai
• List of tallest buildings and structures
• List of tallest freestanding structures
• List of tallest buildings in Dubai
• List of tallest buildings in the United Arab Emirates
• List of tallest buildings
• List of tallest structures
• Jeddah Tower

{{div col end}}

{{Notelist}}

{{Reflist|30em|refs=

{{cite news

| url = http://www.geomarc.it/Poulos_&_Bunce_2008.pdf

| title = Foundation Design for the Burj Dubai – The World's Tallest Building

| publisher = 6th International Conference on Case Histories in Geotechnical Engineering

| author = Harry G. Poulos, Grahame Bunce

| date = 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110409115002/http://www.geomarc.it/Poulos_%26_Bunce_2008.pdf

| archive-date = 9 April 2011

| access-date = 24 September 2016

| url-status=dead

| quote = Medium dense to very loose granular silty sands (Marine Deposits) are underlain by successions of very weak to weak sandstone interbedded with very weakly cemented sand, gypsiferous fine-grained sandstone/siltstone, and weak to moderately weak conglomerate/calcisiltite.

| df = dmy-all

}}

{{cite news

|url = http://www.geoprac.net/geonews-mainmenu-63/64-project-related/634-foundations-for-the-burj-dubai-worlds-tallest-building

|title = Foundations and Geotechnical Engineering for the Burj Dubai – World's Tallest Building

|publisher = GeoPrac

|author = Randy Post

|date = 4 January 2010

|access-date = 24 September 2016

|quote = The soil/rock conditions were generally loose to medium dense sands overlying weak to very weak sandstone and siltstone with interbeds of gypsiferous and carbonate cemented layers (still relatively weak).

|archive-date = 23 September 2016

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160923032346/http://www.geoprac.net/geonews-mainmenu-63/64-project-related/634-foundations-for-the-burj-dubai-worlds-tallest-building

|url-status = live

}}

}}

{{Commons and category|Burj Khalifa|Burj Khalifa}}

• {{Official website|https://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/}}
• {{cite web|url= http://www.structuremag.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/SF-Wind-Engineering-Burj-Dubai-Tower-June-061.pdf |title=The Burj Dubai Tower Wind Engineering }} (597 KB) (Structure magazine, June 2006)
• {{cite web |url= http://ikb.edu.pl/jacek.wdowicki/Pliki/materialy/dydaktyka/budynki_wysokie/dyplom/budynki/burj%20dubai%20tower/Irw05.pdf |title= The Wind Engineering of the Burj Dubai Tower |url-status= bot: unknown |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170914220438/http://ikb.edu.pl/jacek.wdowicki/Pliki/materialy/dydaktyka/budynki_wysokie/dyplom/budynki/burj%20dubai%20tower/Irw05.pdf |archive-date= 14 September 2017 |df= dmy-all }} (620 KB) (Irwin et al., November 2006)
• BBC reports: [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/8438857.stm Burj Khalifa opening], with video and links; [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-20526216 Maintaining the world's tallest building]
• {{Osmway|137153127}}

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{{S-bef|before=Warsaw Radio Mast
646.38 m (2,120.67 ft)}}

{{S-ttl|title=World's tallest structure ever built on dry land|years=2008 – present}}

{{S-inc|rows=6}}

{{S-bef|before=KVLY-TV mast
628.8 m (2,063 ft)}}

{{S-ttl|title=World's tallest structure on dry land|years=2008 – present}}

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{{S-bef|before=CN Tower
553.33 m (1,815.39 ft)}}

{{S-ttl|title=World's tallest free-standing structure|years=2007 – present}}

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{{S-bef|before=Taipei 101
509.2 m (1,670.6 ft)}}

{{S-ttl|title=World's tallest building|years=2009 – present}}

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{{S-bef|before=Willis Tower
108 floors}}

{{S-ttl|title=Building with the most floors|years=2007 – present}}

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{{S-bef|before=Almas Tower
360 m (1,180 ft)}}

{{S-ttl|title=Tallest building in Dubai|years=2009 – present}}

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{{Dubai skyscrapers}}

{{Supertall skyscrapers | current}}

{{Dubai landmarks}}

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{{WikidataCoord}}

Category:Articles containing video clips

Category:High-tech architecture

Category:Hotel buildings completed in 2009

Category:Islamic architecture in Asia

Category:Neo-futurist architecture

Category:Office buildings completed in 2009

Category:Postmodern architecture in Dubai

Category:Residential buildings completed in 2009

Category:Residential skyscrapers in Dubai

Category:Skidmore, Owings & Merrill buildings

Category:Skyscraper hotels in Dubai

Category:Skyscraper office buildings in Dubai

Category:2009 establishments in the United Arab Emirates