When people think about visiting Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is usually one of the first places that comes to mind. Standing 828 meters high, it’s the tallest building in the world and one of the most popular attractions in the UAE. Whether you want to catch the golden sunset from the 124th floor or enjoy a luxurious view from the SKY Lounge at the 148th, one question always pops up:
“How much time should I set aside for my Burj Khalifa visit?”
If you’re planning your itinerary and wondering how long it takes to reach and explore this architectural marvel, this blog is your one-stop guide.
Dubai is a well-planned city, but travel time can vary depending on where you’re staying and what mode of transport you use. Here’s a breakdown of how long it usually takes to reach Burj Khalifa from some of the most common starting points:
From Dubai International Airport (DXB)
From Deira
From Dubai Marina
From Al Barsha or Mall of the Emirates
From Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
Travel Tip: Dubai Metro’s Red Line is a budget-friendly and reliable way to get to Burj Khalifa. From the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, there’s a covered walkway that takes you straight to the tower, which may add another 10–15 minutes of walking time.
Also, if you are driving your own vehicle, keep in mind that finding a parking spot can be time-consuming. The area around Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall is always crowded, so factor in extra time for parking. If you’re unsure where to park, you can read our detailed blog on the best parking options near Burj Khalifa.
Note: The locations listed above are some of the standard places tourists stay. If you’re coming from a different area, we recommend you to use Google Maps to check your travel time based on real-time traffic.
The total duration of your visit depends on the ticket type and your preferences. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
If You’re Visiting Burj Khalifa 124th & 125th floor (At The Top)
Average time spent: 1 to 1.5 hours
What to do: Enjoy the views, take photos, use the telescopes, and walk around the observation deck.
If You’re Visiting Burj Khalifa 148th floor (At The Top SKY, includes 124 & 125)
Average time spent at Level 148: Up to 30 minutes
Average time at Levels 124 & 125 (after Level 148): Around 1 to 1.5 hours, or as long as you’d like
What to do: Start at Level 148 with a guided experience and refreshments in a premium lounge. After that, you can continue your visit on Levels 124 and 125 to enjoy the views and take photos at your own pace.
Note: During peak hours or busy seasons, your total visit time may take longer than expected.
So, to enjoy the complete experience, plan to spend 2 to 3 hours for your Burj Khalifa visit, and even more if you are also exploring the surrounding area.
Planning your trip to Burj Khalifa doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few handy tips you should consider before visiting:
Book Tickets in Advance: Burj Khalifa is one of the busiest spots in Dubai, especially during sunset hours. Booking online can help you avoid long queues and ensure your preferred time slot.
Best Time to Visit:
Combine It with Other Attractions
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes as you may end up walking a lot. Also, dress modestly if you’re visiting other parts of Dubai before or after.
Don’t Rush: Give yourself buffer time, especially if you have other bookings or activities on the same day.
A visit to the Burj Khalifa is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Knowing how much time to dedicate, from your travel to the observation decks, can help you enjoy the day without stress. Whether you’re coming from the airport, Dubai Marina, or anywhere else in the city, plan your visit carefully. The travel times we shared are from well-known tourist areas. If you’re traveling from a different place, it’s best to check your route on Google Maps or Apple map (as per your convenience) before you leave.
Ready to explore the world’s tallest building?
Let Betterview Tourism make your Burj Khalifa experience easy and memorable. We provide custom Dubai packages, help with ticket bookings, and offer local tips so you can enjoy every moment. Contact us today at +971585725692 or email us at contact@betterviewtourism.com. You can also visit www.betterviewtourism.com.
Betterview Tourism – Every view is better with us.