Popular attractions near Burj Khalifa

Dubai is known for its impressive skyline and incredible attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. 

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. 

Surrounding this iconic landmark are numerous attractions that make for a perfect day out. 

Whether you’re a fan of shopping, dining, or unique experiences, there are plenty of amazing places to explore near the Burj Khalifa. 

In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most popular attractions you shouldn’t miss during your visit.

Dubai Fountain

One of the most popular attractions near the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain. 

This spectacular choreographed show features water jets shooting up to 500 feet in the air, illuminated by over 6,600 lights and 25 projectors. 

The fountain dances to various music, from classical and Arabic tunes to contemporary world music, creating over 1,000 different water effects. 

For the best experience, consider purchasing a ticket for the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, which brings you within nine meters of the stunning performance. Alternatively, you can opt for the Lake Ride ticket, offering an even better chance to enjoy the show.

Alternatively, you can enjoy the show as a stunning backdrop to dinner by requesting a terrace seat at one of the waterfront restaurants in the Dubai Mall. 

Location: At the base of Burj Khalifa, just outside Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, UAE. Get Directions

Timings: 5.45 pm to 10.45 pm

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 500 meters

Dubai Aquarium and Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo rank among the largest indoor aquariums globally, making it a must-see attraction near Burj Khalifa. 

This aquarium houses over 33,000 marine animals from more than 140 species and is divided into several zones, each highlighting diverse aspects of aquatic life. 

The main ocean tunnel offers a breathtaking 270-degree view of sharks and rays, while other sections feature penguins, piranhas, and crocodiles. 

You can interact with the Shark Touch Pool marine life and explore the Croc Encounters zone. 

The aquarium also provides thrilling activities such as shark feeding encounters, cage snorkeling, shark dives, scuba diving, and the VRZOO experience. 

Drawing nearly 1.5 million people annually, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo delivers an immersive and unforgettable adventure for marine enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Location: The ground floor of the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall, is in downtown Dubai, UAE. Get Directions

Timings: 10 am to 11 pm on weekdays, 10 am to 12 am on weekends. 

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 600 meters

Sky Views Observatory

Situated 720 feet (219 meters) above the ground, the Sky Views Observatory offers incredible 360-degree views of Dubai, including stunning Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, and Dubai Mall sights. 

Beyond the observation deck, Sky Views features two thrilling experiences: the Dubai Glass Slide, where you can slide from one floor to another inside a transparent tube, and the Edge Walk, an adrenaline-pumping activity that lets you walk along the edge of the building. 

After taking in the sights, you can enjoy a meal at the Sky 52 restaurant, which boasts fantastic views of Downtown Dubai. 

Location: Address Sky View Hotel, 52nd and 53rd floors, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashed Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, UAE. Get Directions

Timings: Glass Slide – 10 am to 9 pm; Edge Walk – Starts at 2 pm; Skywalk – 10.30 am to 8.30 pm

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 800 meters

Here are some important ticket options for your visit to Burj Khalifa:

# General Admission Ticket
# VIP Ticket
# Dine at Burj Club
# Burj Khalifa’s Lounge Access
# Restaurants at Burj Khalifa
# At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa

Dubai Mall

Shopping near the Burj Khalifa is a must-do, and the Dubai Mall is the ultimate destination for retail enthusiasts. 

Located adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, it boasts over 1,200 stores, offering a mix of designer boutiques, high-street brands, and department stores selling everything from luxury watches to novelty keychains. 

Highlights include Level Shoes, a space dedicated to footwear, Bloomingdale’s with its luxurious collections, and Fashion Avenue, home to the world’s top fashion labels. 

Beyond shopping, the mall features numerous attractions such as VR Park, an expansive virtual reality experience, KidZania, SEGA Republic, a 22-screen cinema, and the world’s largest Gold Souk, with over 220 retailers. 

Over 120 restaurants and cafes offer a range of dining options, making the Dubai Mall a shopping paradise and a comprehensive entertainment hub. 

The Dubai Calendar helps you track sale seasons and festivals, ensuring a budget-friendly shopping spree.

Location: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates. Get Directions

Timings: 10 am to 12 am

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 450 meters

Here are a few things that would help you plan your trip to Burj Khalifa:

# Floor map of Burj Khalifa
# Views from the world’s tallest tower
# Tips for visiting the Khalifa Tower
# Exhibits to see
# Ways to reach
# Things to see inside Burj Khalifa

Dubai Opera

The Dubai Opera is the cultural heart of Downtown Dubai and one of the city’s most majestic venues. 

This stunningly designed theater hosts an array of productions, from renowned operas and ballets to dramas and stand-up comedies, on its acoustically flawless stage. 

You can look forward to a variety of events, including world-class performances and interactive exhibitions, and can check the schedule in advance to secure tickets for a fun-filled evening. 

The on-site team offers guided tours of the facility, showcasing its dhow-inspired architecture and backstage areas. 

For a complete experience, guests can also enjoy a quick meal at the opera house’s rooftop restaurant before or after their event. 

Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates. Get Directions

Timings: 10 am to 9 pm

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 400 meters

Recommended Reading:

# Observation Decks at Burj Khalifa
# Opening Hours
# Burj Khalifa at Night
# Interesting facts about the world’s tallest building
# Fireworks at Burj Khalifa

Green Planet Dubai

One of the most beautiful places to visit near Burj Khalifa is Green Planet Dubai, an indoor rainforest in the City Walk area. 

This bio-dome is home to over 3,000 plants and animals, including sloths, toucans, tree porcupines, and many more. 

Designed to feel like a real rainforest, it has temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels of 70 to 80 percent. 

You can walk through and experience the rainforest up close, seeing plants and animals in their natural habitat. 

Green Planet also features the world’s largest indoor man-made tree and promotes the importance of nature. 

This unique spot combines modern design with green spaces and shows how cities can coexist with nature. 

It offers a peaceful escape from city life, allowing you to reconnect with nature and learn about all the amazing plants and animals that live there.

Location: City Walk Area, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, UAE. Get Directions

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 3.3 km

Souk Al Bahar

One of the best things to do near Burj Khalifa is to explore the excellent restaurants nearby. 

Souk Al Bahar, a modern take on a traditional Middle Eastern bazaar, is a famous dining destination in Downtown Dubai. 

Some must-try restaurants include Shakespeare & Co., Patiala, Karma Kafe, and Claw BBQ Crabshack & Grill, offering a variety of cuisines. 

Since 2021, the popular Time Out Market has been a highlight in the souk. It features 17 of the city’s top culinary concepts, such as Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Scoopi Café, and Pitfire. 

The market’s dimly-lit interiors and wrap-around outdoor terrace provide a fantastic dining experience.

Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates. Get Directions

Timings: 10 am to 12 am

Distance from Burj Khalifa: 2.3 km