‘Dubai’s vertical city’: UAE residents and tourists reflect on Burj Khalifa at 15

As thousands of residents and tourists flock to Burj Khalifa to take selfies with the iconic tower in the background, many wonder what it’s like to live inside the world’s tallest building.

“You feel like you’re living in the future, but experiencing it in the present,” said Maria Luiza Knoblauch, an entrepreneur who moved into the iconic tower a year ago. With its luxurious apartments and world-class amenities, she refers to Burj Khalifa as a “vertical city.”

“You have everything available vertically. It’s amazing. All the surrounding areas are connected to the building. It’s like a magnet with a powerful pull,” said Knoblauch, originally from Brazil and living in the UAE for about 10 years.

“I don’t need to take my car out for anything, as everything is within walking distance.”

Reflecting on her first day living in Burj Khalifa, Knoblauch recalled being amazed by both the architectural marvel and the stunning views.

“The bedroom has a huge window, offering views of the lights, the beauty, and an amazing view of Downtown. It’s a wonderful feeling to be in an iconic building. Everyone comes to see the Burj, but you’re inside it, a part of the view,” said Knoblauch, also a philanthropist and vision coach.

Looking ahead to Burj Khalifa turning 15 on January 4, she called it one of the “biggest success stories” beyond being just a shining star in Dubai’s skyline.

“You must check out the queue at Dubai Mall to see the top of Burj Khalifa — it’s insane. It’s something special for everyone. So many beautiful stories have happened here. I’m happy and proud to be here,” Knoblauch said.

Unforgettable Experience

The 828-meter-tall tower has had a monumental impact not just on those living there but also on those working nearby.

Hermendra Vishwakarma, who works at Jovee restaurant, pointed out that guests enjoy a memorable experience as they take in panoramic views of the fountains and the iconic skyscraper.

“I’ve been working at this restaurant for the past two years. It’s an amazing place to work because you greet people right in front of Burj Khalifa. People from all over the world come here to have an unforgettable experience. They enjoy great food and beverages with an amazing view,” Vishwakarma said.

‘We Love This Place’

The tower has been a must-visit destination for tourists since its opening on January 4, 2010. For tourists like Minna Reijonen, who flew in from Finland this week, Burj Khalifa symbolizes how Dubai is shaping the future.

“We love this place. We were here a year ago, and we really enjoy being here. It’s a beautiful place, and the view is amazing. We hope to come back again,” Reijonen said.

‘Prettiest Part of Dubai’

Burj Khalifa has become an emotional landmark for those living nearby.

Navdeep Arneja, a freelancer in sports management, is happy he moved to Old Town, near Burj Khalifa.

“One of the main reasons I moved to Old Town, near the Burj, is the convenience. Everything around Downtown is within walking distance. The Burj view is a big motivation. We get a scenic view during the light show and fireworks,” said Arneja, who lives with his family.

“Also, all my friends are around this area. The Burj is hands down the prettiest part of Dubai, and it’s one of the reasons why I stay here.”