Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is a sail-shaped luxury hotel on its own island off Dubai’s Jumeirah coast. Its distinctive outline is one of the city’s best-known sights, while the interior draws attention with gold details, a vast atrium, fountains and aquariums. Guests stay in two-level suites with Arabian Gulf views, but you can also visit for dining or afternoon tea. Skyview Bar pairs tea, sandwiches, pastries and scones with views towards Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. Reserve ahead for a sunset visit.
The sail-shaped hotel on its own island
The Burj Al Arab stands on an artificial island off Dubai’s Jumeirah coast, connected to the mainland by a causeway. Its sail-like outline draws on the shape of a dhow, a traditional wooden vessel used along this coast. The hotel opened in 1999 and became one of Dubai’s most recognisable buildings.
The hotel is a working luxury property, not simply a landmark to view from outside. Its accommodation consists of two-level suites, and the property has private beach access, pools, a spa and several dining venues. The setting and scale are part of the visit, but access to hotel spaces and experiences depends on what you book.
Inside the atrium
The interior centres on a vast atrium that rises through 18 storeys. Gold-toned columns, fountains and aquariums draw the eye from the lobby, while the height becomes especially apparent when looking up through the space. The bold interior continues the building’s emphasis on scale and ornament.
The suites have two floors linked by a staircase and face the Arabian Gulf. Their bathrooms include Jacuzzis, and personal butler service is part of the hotel experience. If you are considering a stay, the suites are a major part of what sets the property apart from a visit for tea or dining; the material supplied gives no current room prices, so check the hotel’s booking information for dates and rates.
Afternoon tea and dining
Skyview Bar sits high in the hotel and is known for afternoon tea with views towards Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. The spread includes finger sandwiches, pastries and scones with homemade jam and clotted cream, alongside tea or other drinks. Children aged eight and above are allowed to join the afternoon tea experience. Reserve ahead, particularly for a sunset table.
Sahn Eddar, in the atrium, is another setting for afternoon tea, with sandwiches, pastries, scones, cream and jams. For a meal, Al Iwan serves Arabic dishes including grilled food, mezze and lamb ouzi. Al Muntaha is on the 27th floor and serves French cuisine with views over Dubai. The hotel has several restaurants and bars, but the available details do not establish a complete, current dining list.
Tours and getting around the property
A guided butler tour is one way to learn about the hotel’s history and see its interiors without booking an overnight stay. Some tours are paired with afternoon tea. The property also has abra rides and buggy services around Jumeirah properties; ask when booking which services are available to you and whether they need arranging in advance.
The hotel is in Umm Suqeim Third, on Dubai’s Jumeirah coast. Its position on a separate island means the visit is centred on the hotel rather than a walk-through attraction. Choose a tour, tea booking or restaurant reservation before setting out, and confirm access arrangements directly with the hotel.
FAQ
Can you visit Burj Al Arab without staying overnight?
A guided butler tour is available, and tours can be paired with afternoon tea. Confirm current access and booking arrangements with the hotel.
What can you have for afternoon tea at Skyview Bar?
The tea includes finger sandwiches, pastries and scones served with homemade jam and clotted cream, alongside drinks.
How old do children need to be for afternoon tea at Skyview Bar?
Children aged eight and above are allowed to join the afternoon tea experience.
What can you eat at Al Iwan?
Al Iwan serves Arabic dishes including mezze, grilled food and lamb ouzi.
