Burj Khalifa facts and comparisons
Burj Khalifa is a vertical city with a height that changes meaning depending on whether you mean its peak, facade, or observation levels.
Burj Khalifa size comparisons
Burj Khalifa rises 828 metres, or 2,717 feet.
That total makes it the world’s tallest building and structure in the official tower’s own description.
Source: Burj Khalifa official fact sheet
It contains 163 floors.
The floor count shows why it is more than a tall observation tower: the building stacks an enormous number of occupiable levels into one form.
Source: Burj Khalifa official fact sheet
The tower uses a Y-shaped plan with setbacks on three wings.
The stepped geometry is an engineering response to height and wind, not just a decorative outline on the Dubai skyline.
Source: Burj Khalifa official site
Its aluminium-and-glass facade reaches 512 metres.
That is a distinct facade-installation record, well below the 828-metre top, and it should be described as such.
Source: Burj Khalifa official site
The public Level 124 and 125 viewing experience is at 456 metres.
Visitors therefore see the city from a height that is itself taller than many famous standalone towers.
Source: Burj Khalifa official site
It was officially inaugurated on 4 January 2010.
The construction story culminated with the structural frame and facade completion before the public inauguration.
Source: Burj Khalifa official site
