Burj Dubai opened January 4, 2010 as the world's tallest
building. Photo Credit: AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili
January 4, 2010 marked the opening of Burj Dubai, officially taking the title of the world's tallest building away from Taipei 101. The ceremony was marked with spectacular fireworks and even parachutists descending from the tower, but included yet another surprise - the Burj Dubai has already undergone a name change on its first day.
The Burj Dubai will now be called the Burj Khalifa, or Khalifa Tower, in honor of the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheik Khalifa has ruled Abu Dhabi since 2004, and is also president of the United Arab Emirates.
Burj Dubai's name change comes in less than a month after receipt of a $10 billion lifeline from the neighboring emirate that defused the Dubai financial crisis.
The Burj Khalifa is 828 meters high (2,716 feet) and is 160 stories tall. The tower boasts some amazing statistics, along with a few other world records besides tallest building. The elevators will travel the world's longest distance, the tower will have the world's highest nightclub (143rd floor) and the highest mosque (158th floor). The tower is so tall that it's visible from 60 miles away and the highest floors offer views to Iran. There will be an observatory deck with 360 degree views of the city on the 124th floor. Burj Khalifa will also feature the first Armani hotel - said to be a seven star property.
Comments
Thanks for clearing up the mystery of the name change. I wonder if they will be like the USSR and change the names as they change presidents and sheikhs?
Thanks Paula - you almost have to wonder! I read an interesting blog about the name change - as the blogger pointed out, all the uniforms, merchandise for the opening ceremony, street signs, tourist materials, etc., all had the Burj Dubai name on it and now how much more is Dubai going to spend to have all those redone (it is estimated in the millions). They are already in a financial mess and now to undergo that expense too! Just seems irresponsible to me.
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