To the top

When I woke up last Thursday morning, I had no idea the day would an unusual one. But mid-morning I got an email from a friend, asking if I'd like to go up the Burj Khalifa that afternoon. It didn't take long for me to say yes! The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Located in Dubai, it's an easy drive from Abu Dhabi. The building is 2,716.5 feet tall, and the tour brings you to the 124th floor-- the tallest observation deck in the world, according to the building's web site.

The Burj from a distance

Looking up to the very top from the viewing deck on the 124th floor

 Long view of Dubai and the Gulf. The visibility was limited but still worthwhile.

Straight down...

Side view

Shadows

Though the view was spectacular, I enjoyed the elevator ride almost more: it ascends 124 floors in just 1 minute. A multi-media presentation distracts you from any real sense that you're moving as quickly as you are. 

I also enjoyed trying out the cell phone service from the top: I called my parents in Boston and had a perfectly clear connection. Amazing!