In January 2010, the world watched as a dazzling fireworks and laser display announced the opening of Dubai’s 828-metre high Burj Khalifa. Now the new title-holder of the world’s tallest building is inviting the world in.

The Burj Khalifa’s observation deck is open for business. Located on the 124th floor (rather disappointing not the very top floor, but at 442 metres off the ground, certainly high enough). After purchasing your tickets (currently priced at 400 Dhs, or about €76 at the door, or 100 Dhs with advance purchase) your journey begins on the lower floor of the adjacent Dubai Mall. After this, a ‘travelator’ will transport you (virtually-speaking) from Dubai’s earliest beginnings as trading post to the soaring, hyper-modern city it is today. Then hold onto your hat, as a double-decker, glass enclosed lift travelling at the speed of 10 metres per second will whisk you up, as the skyline of the city falls away beneath your feet. The observation deck has been fitted out with special telescopes that give virtual impressions of the past and future of this constantly changing metropolis, but this pales in comparison to stepping outside the enclosed area for pulse-racing, uninhibited views from the Arabian Dessert to the Persian Gulf.

Photo Credit: Joi | More Infowww.burjkhalifa.ae | Since 2006 Holiday Velvet offers Dubai holiday apartments.