If we’re planning a trip to Dubai, a visit to Burj Al Arab should definitely be on our list — not just to admire it from outside, but to step inside and feel its legendary luxury.
It may seem expensive, but with smart planning, we can experience the hotel without staying the night. In this guide, we’ll break down all the practical details: how much things really cost, how to get there, where to eat, where to stay, and the best tips for making the most of our visit.
Ticket Prices & Guided Tours
- The standard guided tour of Burj Al Arab lasts 60–90 minutes.
- For tours, the cost is roughly US$68 for adults and US$27 for children (4–12 years).
- If we want a more premium experience, the “Gold” tour (with access to a lounge and a special drink) costs about US$109.
- There’s also a “Tour + Dining” package (for example, including a light meal) that runs around US$163 per person.
These options let us pick whether we want to purely explore or combine it with a dining experience.
Opening Hours & Tour Schedule
- Tours generally run daily from around 9:00 or 10:00 AM until about 7:00 PM.
- Tours are available frequently, often every 30 minutes, so we can choose a time that suits our trip.
- For comfort and better lighting (especially for photos), early morning or late afternoon is ideal.
Getting There & Transportation Costs
- Our meeting point for the tour is at the Ticket Lounge in the nearby Jumeirah Beach Hotel, followed by a buggy ride to the Burj Al Arab island.
- Taxi from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Jumeirah area typically costs US$19–US$32, depending on time and type of taxi.
- If we take metro + taxi: we can ride the Dubai Metro to a nearby station and then taxi to Jumeirah for lower cost.
- For convenience, using a private transfer or a ride-hailing app is also very common and reliable in Dubai.
Accommodation Options & Price Range
If we actually decide to stay at the Burj Al Arab, here’s a breakdown:
- The Deluxe One‑Bedroom Suite (the “entry” suite) costs around US$1,800–US$2,500 per night in low season, and US$2,800–US$4,000 in high season.
- During very busy times (such as holidays), the price can go up to US$5,000+.
- More luxurious options like Panoramic Suites are in the range of US$1,800–US$2,700, and the Royal Suite easily exceeds US$9,000+ per night.
Because it's so expensive, many of us choose to do just a tour or a dining experience instead of spending a night.
Dining & Food Costs at Burj Al Arab
When we eat at Burj Al Arab, we are spoiled for choice — but it comes with a luxury price tag:
- Al Iwan (Arabic buffet): Lunch or dinner around US$95–US$104 per person.
- Al Muntaha (French/Italian cuisine): Dinner often ranges from US$163–US$327+ per person for a high-end meal.
- Al Mahara (Seafood): Dinner can reach US$327+, depending on the menu.
- UMA Lounge (all-day dining): Dishes like pasta, salad, or club sandwich range from US$22–US$86.
We should make reservations in advance, because restaurant spots are limited and popular.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April is the sweet spot for weather: not too hot, very comfortable.
- For photography, early morning or late afternoon gives us the softest light and best shadows.
- Booking tours or dining in off-peak hours helps avoid crowds, especially in summer or at sunset.
What We’ll See During the Tour
On the guided tour, we get to experience:
- The grand atrium, which is breathtaking in scale.
- A lounge area serving traditional Arabic refreshments like coffee and dates.
- The Experience Suite, which shows the architectural story and design process.
- A peek into the Royal Suite, showcasing luxury craftsmanship.
- An observation lounge on a high level (if we pick a premium tour).
- A gift shop with elegant souvenirs unique to the hotel.
Dress code for the tour is smart casual — no beachwear or overly casual clothes. Photography is allowed in many areas but only in designated spots.
Tips for Visiting Smoothly
Here are the practical tips we recommend for our trip:
1. Book the tour weeks in advance, especially if traveling in peak season or weekends.
2. Arrive at least 15 minutes early for the ticket lounge and buggy pickup.
3. Bring valid ID for check-in — they may ask.
4. Dress appropriately (smart casual) to meet the dress code.
5. Choose our transport method wisely — taxi is easy, metro + taxi is cheaper.
6. If dining, reserve tables early — popular restaurants fill up quickly.
7. Bring a camera or good phone, but be mindful of where photos are allowed.
8. Budget: Even for just a tour + light meal, we should prepare to spend US$100–200+, depending on package and food.
Final Thoughts
Lykkers, visiting the Burj Al Arab is more achievable than many people think — with a guided tour and some planning, we can experience its luxury firsthand. Even if we don’t stay overnight, we can admire its stunning design, explore its grand spaces, and get a taste of the high-end lifestyle it offers. Knowing the real costs for transport, tickets, dining, and optional accommodations helps us avoid surprises and enjoy the visit fully.
Let’s choose the right time, make our reservations, and step inside one of the world’s most iconic hotels — creating memories we’ll cherish forever.