Day 006: Visiting the Burj Khalifa never gets old. Since 2009, the building has been the tallest structure in the world at just over a half mile high.
Although Jay and I lived here from 1991 to 1996, we didn't get back for a visit until 2015. During our original stay the area was barren desert out on the Abu Dhabi road. Now, however, the area is referred to as 'Downtown Dubai'.
More recently, we've visited the city four times in four years. Of course, we visit the area every time at least once.
It doesn't matter if it is dressed up or not, the building always impresses. Of course it's better because of the Dubai fountain shows and lighting effects. During this evening's visit, there was no laser show though.
There were literally tens of thousands of folks in the vicinity because as well as housing, it is next to Dubai Mall, the second largest in the world by total land area. In 2023, the retail space had 105 million visitors. That is why we always get lost and end up walking so many kilometers. That's increased by the fact Dubai Metro station is a 1.5 km hike by the elevated, airconditioned walkway. Luckily the passage does contain sections with airport-type moving sidewalks.
Many people visit the Dubai Fountain for the choreographed shows. Last night, we saw several Emirati songs and Michael Jackson's Thriller. In the mall there are a number of key highlights too. Even without paying, getting to the Ice Rink, Aquarium, and the Waterfall are musts.
Getting to the mall was easy by Metro as we left about 4:15 pm. Returning at 8:45 was uncomfortable as the cars were completely packed although trains were running the route every three minutes. The system wasn't designed to handle the crowds of this city. That's unusual for a city that promotes BIG!
