Joanna James
A city known for superlatives – Dubai boasts a myriad of eye-popping architecture in every nook and cranny. From space-age structures, and the most luxurious hotels to the world’s tallest tower, discover the top works of architecture in Dubai during your stay.
Feast your eyes as you see the Cayan Tower in Dubai Marina appear soaring high like a giant futuristic beanstalk. Its majestic design could be easily viewed when each floor is rotated 1.2 degrees clockwise. It is when the 75-story tower twists a full 90 degrees. The tower was opened to the public in 2013 and since then it remains the tallest residential tower in the world. Today, the Cayan Tower is famous among tourists as one of the most eye-catching structures in Dubai Marina boasting views over Jumeirah Beach and docked super yachts. If you are staying at a resort or a 5 star hotel in Dubai the likes of Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai, it’s a 13-minute drive to this tower.
When talking about Dubai’s grandeur and growth, Burj Khalifa stands first. This tall building is 2722 feet in height. Since it opened to the public in 2010, this majestic structure became the centerpiece of Dubai housing restaurants and bars, residential units, and the ultra-luxe Armani Hotel. Apart from these, you can indulge in a memorable Burj Khalifa SKY experience at the top of this building. Once you reach the 148th floor, you can enjoy jaw-dropping views of Dubai. The design of this building shows a triple-lobed footprint inspired by the spider lily flower.
Known as one of the most iconic sights in Dubai, the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is located in a manmade island close to Jumeirah Beach. This is popular as the ‘third-tallest hotel on Earth’ and more importantly as the most luxurious. Al Arab features 202 lavish suites along with the two-story Royal Suite (costs $24,000 a night). The helipad on the 28th floor holds memorable signposts by star artists. For instance, Roger Federer and Andre Agassi played a game of tennis here (2005) and Tiger Woods famously teed off from the pad in 2004. This building also starred in Hollywood blockbusters like "Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol".
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions in Abu Dhabi. Packed with many superlatives, this mosque clearly portrays aspects of Islamic culture. When talking about the architectural elements of the mosque, it is made of more than 15 sorts of white marble and expensive materials such as gold. Covering a diameter of 100 feet, the main dome in this mosque is known as the world’s largest dome. In addition, you’ll be able to witness more than 40 domes atop the mosque. An impressive element that certainly catches the attention of visitors is the German-made chandeliers inside the mosque.
Covering a vast area in a district, the Dubai Marina is the true definition of uniqueness and sophistication. This man-made marina is constructed along the shoreline of the Persian Gulf. Take a leisurely stroll with your friends along the palm-lined Dubai Marina walkway surrounded by landscaped greenery. Dine at an exquisite café while enjoying views of luxury yachts passing by and an emerald-hued waterway. You will be amazed to see the modern architectural styles of numerous skyscrapers.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
