Dubai, a city known for its extravagance, is home to several iconic structures, with the Burj Al Arab standing out as one of the most famous.
This luxurious hotel, shaped like a sail, has recently started offering a butler-led Inside Burj Al Arab Tour, giving visitors a chance to explore some of its most opulent areas, such as the Royal Suite and Burj Al Arab Museum.
But is the tour worth it? Let's dive into the pros and cons.
What's Inside the Burj Al Arab Tour
On this guided tour, guests are treated to a close-up view of the hotel's golden staircases, lavish Royal Suite, and priceless artifacts in the Burj Al Arab Museum. The tour also includes fascinating tennis memorabilia, including the rackets used by Andre Agassi and Roger Federer during their famous match on the hotel's helipad. For a sneak peek into Dubai's ultra-luxurious lifestyle, this tour offers an unforgettable experience without the hefty price tag of a full stay.
What Makes Burj Al Arab Special
The Burj Al Arab is synonymous with opulence. From its 24-carat gold interiors to the exclusive eiderdown duvets sourced from Iceland, every detail exudes wealth and extravagance. The hotel is built on a man-made island, and it took 5 years to complete—2 years for the island, and 3 years for the building. Visitors can also enjoy remarkable views of the Arabian Gulf and marvel at the 21,000 crystals that adorn the ceiling of the Japanese restaurant Junsui.
Pros of the Burj Al Arab Tour
There are several compelling reasons to book the Burj Al Arab tour:
Cost-effective compared to booking a stay.
Access to the Royal Suite, where guests can admire the lavish rooms and gold accents.
Photo opportunities at various stunning locations within the hotel.
Unlimited time in the Burj Al Arab Museum to learn about the hotel's history.
Free parking included in the ticket price.
A knowledgeable and informative tour guide to enhance the experience.
Inside The Burj Al Arab (Dubai's 7 Star Hotel!)
Video by Khalid Al Ameri
Cons of the Burj Al Arab Tour
Despite its many attractions, the tour has some drawbacks:
Limited time on the tour (90 minutes) compared to a full stay.
No access to hotel pools or other facilities.
No photos allowed in the lobby, which could disappoint avid photographers (though photos are allowed from the escalator).
The group tour dynamic can vary depending on other participants' attitudes.
Logistics and Tour Details
The tour begins at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel Ticketing Lounge, where guests are taken by buggy to the Burj Al Arab. Parking is free at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. The base level ticket costs AED 249 at the time of writing, with additional packages offering drinks or dining options. The tour lasts 90 minutes, but visitors can spend as much time as they like in the museum or bar afterward.
Is the Burj Al Arab Tour Worth It?
Ultimately, whether the tour is worth it depends on your perspective. If you have the budget and have always dreamed of staying at the Burj Al Arab, you may opt for a full stay. However, if you're curious about the hotel's interior design but don't want to spend a fortune, booking the guided tour is a great alternative. The Royal Suite and its Arabesque decor are stunning, but for those who prefer minimalist designs, you may want to explore other hotels in Dubai. Personally, We found the tour fascinating without the hefty price tag, making it a fantastic option for travelers looking for luxury on a budget.
