The Top Most Famous Buildings Of Dubai (2025)

Looking at Dubai, it`s hard to believe that this city was once a small fishing village. Over the years, it has transformed no other, with towering skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and extravagant shopping malls now dotting its skyline. And at the heart of this city of superlatives are its famous buildings. From the world`s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, to the iconic Burj Al Arab, you will find in this guide some of the most impressive Dubai architecture and luxury properties.

We`ll take a look at 14 of the most famous structures in Dubai, both old and new. So whether you`re planning a visit to this fascinating city or just want to marvel at its architecture from afar, read on for our guide to the top 14 famous buildings in Dubai.

List of Top Famous Buildings in Dubai

• Burj Khalifa 
• Burj Al Arab 
• Museum of the Future 
• Jumeirah Beach Hotel 
• Dubai World Trade Centre 
• Cayan Tower 
• Jumeirah Emirates Towers 
• JW Marriott Marquis Dubai 
• Atlantis The Palm 
• The Dubai Mall 
• Atlantis, the Royal Dubai 
• Prince Tower 
• Dubai Frame 
• Dubai Opera 

1. Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, with a height of 829.8 meters (2,722 feet). The building has 163 floors and was completed in 2010 after five years of construction. It costs an estimated 1.5 billion dollars to build it. So what can you do at the top of the Burj Khalifa? There`s a lot to do! There`s an observation deck that gives you 360-degree views of Dubai, a restaurant, and even a hotel. You can also rent one of the many apartments or condos in the building.

2. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is the second tallest hotel in the world, with a height of 321 meters (1,053 feet). It is located at Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 3, Dubai. The building has 60 floors and was completed in 1999, and today it is known as `the Only 7-star Hotel on Earth`.

3. Museum of the Future

Dubai is known for its ultramodern architecture, and the Museum of the Future is no exception, it is one of the landmark buildings in Dubai. This cutting-edge museum was designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. The museum is located in the heart of Dubai`s Business Bay district and showcases the latest innovations in science and technology.

The Museum of the Future is a unique experience, with interactive exhibits that allow visitors to interact with the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and other cutting-edge technologies. In addition, there is a library and research center on-site, making it the perfect place to learn about the latest breakthroughs in science and technology.

With its innovative design and cutting-edge exhibits, the Museum of the Future is one of Dubai`s most popular tourist attractions. Tourists flock to Dubai to marvel at its notable constructions and experience the city`s luxurious lifestyle. So if you`re planning a trip to Dubai, add this incredible museum to your itinerary.

4. Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of the most famous buildings in Dubai. It is located on Jumeirah Beach Road and is one of the tallest hotels in the world, standing at 1,053 feet (321 meters). The hotel was opened in 1999 and was designed by Australian architect Aedas. It has 56 floors and contains 658 rooms and suites. The hotel is known for its unique wave-shaped design and its spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf.

One of the most interesting facts about Jumeirah Beach Hotel is its commitment to sustainability. The hotel has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, such as water conservation programs, energy-efficient lighting systems, and waste reduction measures. In recognition of its efforts, the hotel was the first in the world to be awarded the prestigious Green Globe certification.

Beyond its sustainability initiatives, Jumeirah Beach Hotel is also known for its exceptional service. The hotel`s staff is renowned for their hospitality and attention to detail, ensuring guests have a memorable experience. From the moment they arrive, guests are treated like royalty, with personalized service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

5. Dubai World Trade Centre

The Dubai World Trade Centre is the tallest in the world, with a height of 354 meters (1,165 feet). The building has 76 floors and was completed in 1979. Situated parallel to the city`s main artery – Sheikh Zayed Road – the community lies in the heart of the central business and financial district where similar developments such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and Business Bay exist.

6. Cayan Tower

The Cayan Tower is the tallest residential building in the world, with a height of 306 meters (1,004 feet). The building has 73 floors and was completed in 2013. The tower is located in Dubai Marina.

7. Jumeirah Emirates Towers

The Jumeirah Emirates Towers is the tallest office building in the world, with a height of 309 meters (1,014 feet). The building has 56 floors and was completed in 2000. The building is located along Sheikh Zayed Road in the city of Dubai.

8. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

Standing 1,164 feet tall, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is the world`s tallest hotel. The hotel has 77 floors and 1,608 guest rooms, making it one of the largest hotels in the world. The JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is located in the Business Bay district of Dubai. It is part of a complex that includes two other Dubai skyscrapers, the Office Tower and the Retail Boulevard.

The JW Marriott Marquis Dubai was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP and opened in 2012. The hotel includes 15 restaurants and bars, a spa, and a fitness center.

9. Atlantis The Palm

Located on Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis The Palm is one of the most iconic buildings in Dubai. The hotel has 1,537 rooms, suites, and 18 restaurants and bars. In addition, Atlantis The Palm is home to Aquaventure Waterpark, which features over 20 rides and attractions. Other facilities at Atlantis The Palm include a luxury spa, dolphin encounters, and a marine habitat with over 65,000 marine animals.

The resort was developed by Kerzner International Holdings Limited and opened in 2008. Atlantis The Palm was designed by Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo (now WATG) and Moorish architecture. In 2010, Atlantis The Palm was named "Best Hotel Architecture" at the World Architecture Festival.

10. The Dubai Mall

The world`s largest shopping mall is located in Downtown Dubai. The mall has over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, a cinema complex, and a Souk (traditional market). The Dubai Mall also houses the world`s largest gold refinery, which can be found on the mall`s lower level near the Gold Souk.

The mall was developed by Emaar Properties and opened in 2008. Designed by CallisonRTKL (now Callison), The Dubai Mall has a gross leasable area of 5 million square feet (464 thousand square meters). In 2012, The Dubai Mall was named "World`s Leading Shopping Destination" at the World Travel Awards.

11. Atlantis, the Royal 

A modern-day “Royal” Atlantis, inspired by the mythical lost city. Its unique design features an aquarium and waterpark, making it a must-visit destination for families and luxury seekers. The Aquaventure Waterpark, one of the largest in the world, offers thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and a wave pool. The Lost Chambers Aquarium houses over 65,000 marine animals, providing an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the hotel offers royal suites with private pools and views of the Arabian Gulf.

Beyond its entertainment offerings, Atlantis, the Royal, is also a culinary haven. The resort offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants. Guests can savor fresh seafood, international cuisine, and gourmet delicacies, all set against the backdrop of stunning ocean views.

One lesser-known fact about Atlantis, the Royal is its commitment to sustainability. The hotel has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, such as water conservation programs and energy-efficient lighting systems. 

12. Princess Tower

Once the tallest residential building in the world, stands as a testament to Dubai`s ambition. Its sleek and modern design, combined with its impressive height, makes it a prominent feature of the Dubai skyline buildings. The tower offers residents a luxurious lifestyle with amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and a spa. The apartments in Princess Tower provide views of the city, the Arabian Gulf, and the Palm Jumeirah.

Today, the Princess Tower is a symbol of Dubai`s thriving real estate market. Its success has helped to solidify Dubai`s reputation as a global hub for luxury real estate. The tower`s construction was a major feat of engineering, demonstrating the city`s ability to undertake ambitious projects that embody the quote: “The sky is the limit”.

An interesting fact about Princess Tower is that it has set several world records. In addition to being the tallest residential building at its completion, the tower also holds the record for the highest number of residential floors.

13. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is a unique symbol of Dubai`s transformation from a small fishing village to a global metropolis. Shaped like a giant picture frame, the structure offers views of the city`s old and new districts.

Visitors can ascend to the observation deck at a height of 502 feet for a stunning bird`s-eye view of Dubai`s distinguished landmarks. The deck is divided into two sides: one side offers a glimpse into the city`s traditional heritage, while the other showcases Dubai`s modern skyline.

Exploring the Architectural Wonders in Dubai is a must for any visitor seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. For the more adventurous, there`s a glass-bottomed skywalk extending 15 feet from the frame. This thrilling experience allows visitors to feel suspended in mid-air, with a panoramic view of the city below. The Dubai Frame is a tourist attraction and a cultural landmark that provides a unique perspective on Dubai`s evolution.

14. Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera is a multi-purpose theater and performance venue inspired by a traditional dhow boat. Its elegant design and state-of-the-art facilities make it a cultural hub for the city. The opera hosts performances, including ballet, opera, theater, and concerts, attracting local and international audiences.

One of the most interesting facts about Dubai Opera is its unique acoustic design. The theater`s interior is designed to mimic the natural acoustics of a dhow boat, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere for performances. This unique acoustic design has earned Dubai Opera a reputation as one of the world`s finest concert venues.

In addition to its world-class acoustics, Dubai Opera is also known for its versatility. The theater can be transformed to accommodate different types of performances. For example, the seating can be rearranged to create a more intimate setting for smaller-scale shows, or the stage can be expanded to accommodate larger productions.

Beyond its cultural significance, Dubai Opera is also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take guided tours of the theater, learn about its design and history, and enjoy stunning views of the Dubai skyline buildings from the rooftop terrace.

These 14 most beautiful buildings in Dubai are just a tiny sampling of the fantastic architecture that can be found in this vibrant city. Keep an eye on Driven Properties for more similar posts about upcoming significant buildings in Dubai and the rest of the UAE.

FAQs

1. Why is the Burj Khalifa so famous?

The Burj Khalifa is famous for its record-breaking height as the tallest building in the world. It is a symbol of Dubai`s ambition and innovation, offering extreme city views from its observation decks.

2. What is unique about the Burj Al Arab`s architecture?

The Burj Al Arab`s architecture is unique due to its sail-shaped design, resembling a billowing sail. This leading structure has become a symbol of luxury and opulence, often referred to as a "7-star hotel."

3. What can you see from the Dubai Frame?

From the Dubai Frame, you can enjoy panoramic views of both the old and new Dubai. On one side, you`ll see the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood. On the other side, you`ll have a breathtaking view of the modern cityscape, including the Burj Khalifa.

4. Who designed The Opus in Dubai?

The Opus in Dubai was designed by the legend Zaha Hadid, known for her deconstructivist style. Her unique design features two interconnected towers that appear to intersect, creating a striking and futuristic appearance.