Behind Jumeirah Beach is the pinnacle of luxury hotels which has become a symbol of the city, the Burj
Al Arab. The hotel opened in 1999 and is an architectural masterpiece. It is only the second highest
after the Twin Towers of the Emirate but with its form imitating a sail swelling in the wind, it is entirely
unique. It was built on an artificial island to which snow white Bentleys transfer guests. For those
desiring an even speedier transfer, a helicopter is available, landing on top of the buildings.
All of the more than 200 luxury suites overlook the sea. Some of the eight different restaurants offer a
view of the sea from an astounding height while sea aquariums form the side walls of others. Currently,
eight skyscrapers of more than 200 meters can be found here. But the highest building of the world will
be two and a half times higher, the Burj Dubai. The buildings of 7000 square meters ground space to be
completed within a few years will provide space for the world’s largest shopping center with hotels,
entertainment centers and offices surrounding it. The building will form a six petal desert rose when
seen from the air.
Also from above, palm trees are shaped by the artificial islands. Palm Jumeirah and Palm Jebel Ali on
which luxury apartments are being built. The first Palm is almost complete. The flats free from property
taxes were sold in record time. Shops, offices and ports will be placed on the trunk of the Palm with
luxury properties on its leaves, including not only a garden and pool but a section of the coast and a
yacht port. The defense of the small islands is ensured by an external arch shaped island bordered by
sandy beach. Another establishment in the form of the world map, also comprise of artificial islands is
also planned. The first underwater hotel will be realized in the near future where guests can enjoy the
colorful living world of the sea through the windows of their rooms. Hotels in the form of a space
station and an ice berg are also among the more futuristic plans.