Did You Know the Stories Behind Dubai's Famous Landmarks?

Dubai's skyline is home to some of the most stunning architectural feats in the world, each with its own unique history and inspiration. Whether you're visiting as a tourist or are a long-time resident, there is much more to these landmarks than meets the eye. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the breathtaking Museum of the Future, Dubai's iconic buildings have stories that make them worth exploring.

Atlantis, The Palm

Atlantis, The Palm, is a coral-pink resort inspired by Plato's mythical city of Atlantis. Located on the Palm Jumeirah island, the resort showcases classical Arabian design with unique touches like fossilized shells and semi-precious stones. It took two years to build and opened its doors in 2008.

Location: Crescent Road, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Contact: atlantis.com, 04 426 2000

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, but its design is rooted in the regional desert flower, the Spider Lily. Architect Adrian Smith drew inspiration from the flower's long, curved petals to create the skyscraper's iconic structure. Burj Khalifa opened in 2010.

Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

Contact: burjkhalifa.ae, 04 888 8888

Dubai Frame

Dubai Frame offers a unique view of both old and new Dubai. Its rectangular design is based on the golden ratio for perfect structural balance. Standing at 150 meters tall and 95 meters wide, the frame connects Dubai's past with its present and future. It opened in 2018.

Location: Zabeel Park Jogging Track, Za’abeel, Al Kifaf

Contact: dubaiframe.ae, 800 900

Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera is a dhow-shaped building influenced by Dubai's maritime history. Designed by Janus Rostock, this 2,000-seat performing arts center opened in 2016 and hosts a wide variety of performances from ballet to musicals.

Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

Contact: dubaiopera.com, 04 440 8888

Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping center, spans a vast area and was designed with the scale of a city in mind. With over 12 million square feet, the mall opened in 2008 and features countless shops and entertainment options.

Location: Downtown Dubai

Contact: thedubaimall.com, 800 382246255

Etihad Museum

Etihad Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It stands on the site of the Union House, where the UAE constitution was signed in 1971. The museum's design includes a curved white roof and seven columns representing the pens used to sign the agreement.

Location: 1 Jumeirah St, Al Mina

Open daily 10am-8pm

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque, gifted by the late His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, is inspired by Syrian and Egyptian Fatimid architecture. Opening in 1979, the mosque offers interactive experiences and accommodates up to 1,500 guests.

Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1

Contact: jumeirahmosque.ae, 04 353 6666

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Jumeirah Emirates Towers emerged from a design competition launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid in the '90s. Designed by Hazel Wong, the building combines traditional Islamic themes with contemporary designs and opened in 2000.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre 2

Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future stands out with its stunning Arabic calligraphy by Emirati artist Mattar bin Lahej. It features quotes from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reflecting a vision for future generations. Designed by Shaun Killa, the museum opened in 2022.

These landmarks not only represent Dubai's modernity and innovation but also offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage.