Although everything has already been created, Dubai always finds a way to surpass itself. Dubai is the perfect enclave for those who enjoy opulence and for those who love the most eccentric architecture. While new projects continue to develop in this city, some classics remain the center of attention, dazzling with their impressive architecture.
Although it is not easy to choose just one, skyscrapers take center stage in this destination. The most iconic ones, such as Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, the Emirates Towers, The Opus, and Dubai Frame, remain in the top five most emblematic landmarks of the city, making it essential to explore their history.
Burj Khalifa, the king of Dubai
Anyone visiting Dubai will never forget the breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa. The city’s emblematic design was inspired by the Hymenocallis desert flower, which combines traditional Islamic architecture with the most modern elements. Currently one of the tallest buildings in the world, it stands at 828 meters. Its façade is also an icon in the city, made up of glass and metal panels that reflect sunlight, creating a unique visual effect throughout the day.
Its construction began in 2005 and was inaugurated in 2009 in Downtown Dubai, a strategic location where this magnificent structure was built, making it a symbol of the United Arab Emirates. It houses corporate offices of some of the world’s largest companies, offering state-of-the-art workspaces. It also features a luxury hotel that attracts tourists and business travelers from around the globe. Additionally, it is home to high-end shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues, creating a vibrant and multifunctional destination.
The Opus and Dubai Frame, other Dubai emblems
The Opus has a unique design that resembles a “worn-out” cube in constant motion. This space is a true spectacle in itself and has a special feature: during the day, its structure appears opaque and reflects its surroundings. However, at night, the windows put on a spectacular light show. This site is home to the ME Dubai hotel, part of the international Meliá chain. The structure consists of two interconnected towers, with an atrium starting at the ground floor and a bridge spanning five stories at the top. The hollow section was created using 4,300 glass units modeled in 3D.
Dubai Frame is also a jewel of the city and another of its most iconic landmarks. This building offers an impressive view as it is essentially a massive picture frame designed to showcase the two sides of Dubai. On one side, visitors can see the remnants of the modern city, with the Burj Khalifa as the backdrop, while on the other, they can observe historic areas such as Deira. The frame consists of two 150-meter towers connected by a bridge that spans 93 meters in width.
Two must-sees in Dubai
When thinking about Dubai, one cannot overlook the classic Burj Al Arab. This landmark is also one of the city’s most iconic postcards, thanks to its impressive sail-shaped design. The structure stands at 321 meters tall and is home to one of the most luxurious hotels on the planet. This 7-star hotel boasts extravagant suites, world-class restaurants, and a helipad on the terrace that doubles as a tennis court.
The Emirates Towers also deserve special attention. These two buildings stand at 355 and 309 meters, respectively, and house offices, hotels, and shopping centers. This is one of Dubai’s classic landmarks, where tourists capture some of their best photos. It is designed with straight lines and geometric shapes that seamlessly integrate into the city’s skyline, making it one of the favorite spots for visitors.
