By Aari Nagraj www.kippreport.com
The observation deck on the 124th floor of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, has now become another must-do on the itineraries of most tourists visiting Dubai, and its residents. According to our poll, 31 percent of the respondents say that they are thrilled about visiting the tower’s observation deck. Another 42 percent claim that they would not attempt the experience anytime soon because of the massive crowds.
Although the Burj Khalifa opened on January 4 amidst a bright and colorful ceremony, At The Top, the observation deck, is the only part of the tower which has opened. Emaar Properties, the building’s developer, announced the initial prices as AED100 for adults and AED75 for children if booking for a later date, and AED210 for an immediate visit. However, just four days later, Emaar said that it was increasing the cost for an immediate visit to AED400, reportedly in order to reduce queues and convince visitors to pre-book.
While it is a unique experience to see Dubai from the world’s tallest tower, 22 percent of our respondents felt that the trip was not worth it, as the tickets prices were too expensive.
Another 3 percent were also dissuaded by the height of the building; the Burj Khalifa is 828 meters tall, and the observatory on the 124th floor stands 495 meters above solid ground. And while an elevator takes just 60 seconds to reach the deck, things can go wrong, once in a while.
Last week, 14 people were stuck in the Burj Khalifa elevator for an hour, while on their 60 second journey to the observation deck. The elevator reportedly stalled at a height of 430 meters, said Gulf News.
“The elevator of At the Top was briefly stalled and operations were resumed soon after. Visitors were safely transported to level 124. The safety of our guests is of paramount importance and all elevators in Burj Khalifa are tested and function to the highest safety standards,” Emaar said in a statement.
Emaar is yet to send us the actual number of visitors who have set foot on the 124th floor of the world’s tallest building, although it claims to have had an “overwhelming public response.” However, only 2 percent of our respondents said that they have already enjoyed the experience.
