The tallest man-made structure on earth is a city in the sky that houses luxury apartments, offices and a hotel.

Burj Khalifa rises up from the sands of the desert to a total height of 2,723 feet (829.8 meters). The world’s tallest building is an incredible feat of engineering that took six years and 22 million man-hours to build.

Travel up to the observation deck on the 124th floor by purchasing a ticket for the At the Top Experience. The journey starts in the reception area where you are transported on a moving walkway to the base of the tower. During the ride, projections onto the walls depict the history of Dubai.

A high-speed elevator that travels at 30 feet (10 meters) per second takes you to the deck in less than 60 seconds. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer unobstructed views of the city, desert and the Persian Gulf. You can also step onto the outdoor terrace. Although you aren’t at the very top of the Burj Khalifa, you can still claim to have been on one of the highest outdoor observation decks in the world at 1,483 feet (452 meters).

Two floors below the observation deck is the upmarket At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant and lounge. Visit for lunch, dinner or afternoon tea. For details and to make a reservation, check the restaurant’s website.

Once you leave the Burj Khalifa, spend some time in its surrounding park. Within the 27-acre (11-hectare) landscape are a lake-edge promenade, forest grove, children’s play area and water features.

Situated in the downtown Burj area of Dubai, Burj Khalifa is easily accessible by metro and bus. There is also parking for more than 14,000 vehicles at Dubai Mall, which is adjacent to the Burj Khalifa.

At the Top Experience is open every day. The observation deck is wheelchair accessible.

Purchase tickets at the office, which is accessed via the Lower Ground Level of the Dubai Mall. To beat the crowds waiting to ascend the skyscraper, book tickets in advance or pay extra for Immediate Entry Admission.