Burj Al Arab's incredible history, from ambitious Dubai project to international icon

Construction began in 1994, and after five years of meticulous engineering and design, the hotel was officially inaugurated on December 1, 1999.

1996: Burj Al Arab Hotel under construction in Dubai. Since its inception, the Burj Al Arab has evolved significantly—both in design and in its world-class experiences.

1997: The construction of the base island took almost three years to complete, as it was specially designed to reduce the impact of waves and solidify the foundation.

1998: Construction of the Burj Al Arab was in full swing, with its sail-like form beginning to rise dramatically above the coastline. Nearby, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel—already an architectural landmark in its own right—stood in sharp contrast to the emerging icon.

On December 1, 1999, the Burj Al Arab was officially inaugurated.

Residents enjoy the sun and sea on Jumeirah Public Beach, with the towering silhouette of the Burj Al Arab rising in the background. The beach, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offers a unique contrast between everyday coastal life and one of Dubai’s most iconic symbols of luxury and ambition.

The interior of the Burj Al Arab is a masterpiece of opulence and imagination, designed to astonish and indulge. From the moment guests step inside, they are immersed in a world of vibrant colour palettes, rich textures, and grand architectural gestures that echo the cultural heritage of the Middle East while embracing modern luxury.

In 2005, the helipad captured global attention when tennis icons Roger Federer and Andre Agassi played an exhibition match atop the hotel—creating one of the most iconic sports visuals of the 21st century—just ahead of the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships.

The iconic Burj Al Arab stands proudly along Dubai’s coastline, with the majestic Palm Jumeirah visible in the distance. This striking composition captures the city’s bold architectural vision and luxury-driven skyline.

Architect Tom Wright had the 321-metre structure rise into the sky on an island, creating the illusion of a yacht at sea.

2016: The Burj Al Arab stands proudly against the backdrop of the dynamic Dubai skyline, with the iconic Burj Khalifa towering in the distance, symbolizing the city’s remarkable journey from traditional roots to modern marvels.

2019: The Burj Al Arab becomes even more spectacular when illuminated by dazzling fireworks displays, particularly during special events like New Year’s Eve.

2024: During a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab ushered in 2024 by setting a new world record for the first 360-degree drone show around a single building. The show featured 1,500 drones that created a 300-metre-long Chinese dragon circling the iconic hotel.

The Burj Al Arab stands proudly against the backdrop of the Dubai skyline.

In 2025, the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Resort officially opened to international travellers and UAE residents, completing Jumeirah Group’s iconic beachfront trilogy. Located near the Burj Al Arab, the new resort blends contemporary elegance with coastal charm, offering a fresh take on luxury living along Dubai’s celebrated shoreline. With the Burj Al Arab as its stunning neighbour, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab adds a bold new chapter to the city’s world-class hospitality landscape.