With its reputation for avant-garde engineering and out-of-the-box vision, , Dubai is home to many of the world’s tallest buildings and record-breaking skyscrapers. The soaring structures offer spectacular views and have become iconic attractions representing the city’s futuristic vision. Here are the 7 tallest buildings in Dubai that should top any visitor’s sightseeing list:
1. Burj Khalifa
Soaring 2,717 feet over the Dubai skyline, the Burj Khalifa is undoubtedly the emirate’s most famous structure and centerpiece of Downtown Dubai. Completed in 2010, it holds the crown of the world’s tallest building.
The building’s design incorporates patterns inspired by traditional Islamic architecture blended with cutting-edge modern engineering. Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, the Burj Khalifa’s reinforced concrete and steel structure resembles a stalagmite shape, tapering up to a slender spire from the broader base.
Visitors can zip up to the observation deck on level 148 at the Sky lobby for unparalleled panoramic views at 1,821 feet or visit the slightly lower deck on level 125. If brave enough, opt for the open-air terrace experience outside for those vertigo-inducing views. For total bragging rights, buy a ticket up to the very top habitable floor at level 163.
At night, Dubai’s tallest building becomes ablaze in a spectacular performance of ever-changing colored lights and imagery, best viewed from the Dubai Fountain. This light show is the highlight of New Year’s Eve when fireworks erupt in sync.
2. Marina 101
Currently ranked as the second tallest building in Dubai, Marina 101 was completed in 2017, soaring 1,399 feet over Dubai Marina. This 101-story residential skyscraper features a distinct sculptural design that twists a full 90 degrees up to the roof.
The curved shape was inspired by the form of a dancing flame, with the glass and steel facade intricately designed to reflect sunlight, wind, and water patterns. Marina 101 houses a luxury hotel, 711 residential apartments, an observatory deck, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and retail outlets within its sleek futuristic structure.
It dominates the Dubai Marina skyline and can be seen from Palm Jumeirah and JBR. Marina 101 competes with the nearby Princess Tower for tallest residential building status.
3. Princess Tower
At 1,356 feet tall, spanning 93 stories, the Princess Tower held the title of the world’s tallest residential building for six years before being surpassed by 432 Park Avenue in NYC. This skyscraper is located in the popular Dubai Marina district and contains 763 upscale apartments.
Designed by Atkins Architects in a curved elongated shape, Princess Tower has an unusual dynamic design with the core shifted to one side, allowing maximum views out of the balcony windows. The height references classic Dubai tales of genies and magic lamps.
Residents have access to a range of amenities like indoor pools, Jacuzzis, gym, recreation facilities and retail units at the base. Light shows illuminate the tower at night. Princess Tower remains an icon of innovation in Dubai’s continually evolving skyline.
4. 23 Marina
This 79-story residential supertall skyscraper located in Dubai Marina stands 1,289 feet tall offering fabulous waterfront views. Completed in 2012 by architects Khatib & Alami, 23 Marina dazzles with its distinctive convex curved glass facade that fractures incoming light into colorful prisms.
The rippled dance-like shape represents Dubai’s fluid, forward-moving energy. Inside are 598 luxury apartments of various configurations, plus amenities like swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, recreation zones, and parking levels for residents.
23 Marina looks sensational when lit up at night. The curving form has become a recognizable part of the Marina district’s modern architectural profile.
5. Mercury Tower
As part of the acclaimed Dubai Marina skyline, the Mercury Tower rises 1,271 feet over 70 floors plus a mezzanine level. Completed in 2014, Mercury Tower is another supertall residential building containing 654 1 to 4-bedroom apartment units.
Designed by renowned architect Frank Williams, Mercury Tower draws inspiration from liquid mercury swirling upward. The rippling glass facade reflects light orchestrated by the 35,500 exterior LED lights that illuminate the tower spectacularly after dark.
Residents enjoy services and facilities that include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, state-of-the-art fitness center, recreation lounge, retail shops, business center, restaurant, and café.
6. The Address Downtown Dubai
This 63-story hotel located across Burj Khalifa stands 1,263 feet tall, overlooking the vibrant Downtown Dubai area. Opened in 2008, The Address Downtown Dubai offers premium accommodations and stellar views from its 196 hotel rooms and 626 fully-furnished apartments.
Designed by prominent architecture firm SOM, The Address Downtown evokes the symmetrical facets of a diamond-cut crystal. The LED screen running vertically down the sleek glass facade displays vibrant light and video shows, especially spectacular on holidays like New Year’s Eve.
In addition to its central location and luxurious rooms, the hotel houses several restaurants, lounges, spa, fitness facilities, swimming pools, meeting rooms and a private cinema.
7. Pentominium
Last on the list is the Pentominium, which tops out at 1,234 feet and spans 108 stories as one of Dubai Marina’s supertall elite. Designed by architects TAJ International, construction of this ultra-luxury residential skyscraper was finished in 2018..
The name Pentominium combines the words penthouse and condominium. Located next to Marina 101 and designed by architects TAJ International, the tower’s architecture focuses on burj-shaped mega columns, setback terraces, and just 5 residential units per floor. In total there are only 120 lavish apartments ranging from 2 to 4 bedrooms.
Signature amenities at the Pentominium include a private cinema, recreational floor with gyms and pools, business center, banquet hall, and high-end spa facilities. The lucky resident owners enjoy unmatched views and exclusivity in Dubai’s premier residential skyscraper address.
Final words
Dubai’s cloud-piercing towers represent incredible feats of modern engineering and design. Visiting the emirate’s tallest seven provides a captivating view into both the past and future of a city
