Burj Khalifa ‘At the Top’ Ticket in 2025: Is It Really Still Worth It?

Planning a trip to Dubai sometime soon? Well, it’s almost a given that the Burj Khalifa, with its impressive height and presence, is on your must-see list, like your the millions before. Of course, the big question is this: with so much competition for your attention in Dubai, and plenty of new attractions popping up all the time, is paying for a ticket to the “At the Top” observation deck still a worthwhile investment in 2025?

This review, actually, is gonna give you, like your best mate would, the lowdown on just what you can expect, what it’ll probably cost you, plus a few sneaky tips to actually help you make the very most of it. We’ll have a quick look at whether those spectacular views are still worth the cash and, arguably, if the whole experience is a bit more than, say, just standing in a long line for that one photo.

What Exactly is “At the Top” All About, Anyway?

“At the Top” is, essentially, like your VIP pass to levels 124 and 125 of the Burj Khalifa; at least, that’s what some folks call it. They’re not just any floors; they’re where you find those well-known observation decks offering you views across Dubai. Of course, you can see miles and miles away, even to the desert on a particularly clear day. Another option too, is to grab a fancy “At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY” ticket that whisks you even further upwards, right up to level 148. That’s a very bold, almost, 555 meters high. Getting up there in the lift alone feels more like an experience!

The draw is the breathtaking view. And just what a way to get a sense of Dubai’s scale. You kind of gain, almost, an insight of the sprawling city below with its fancy skyscrapers and desert landscape. It really is quite special, I suppose.

So, What Can You Actually Expect From This Experience?

Okay, so let’s cut to the chase. Expect some crowds, right? Especially if you are thinking of going during peak season (basically any time that’s not deathly hot, I’m talking October to April), or maybe even around sunset (as most people do), which makes a place that is fairly popular absolutely jam-packed! Just so you know, things start, almost, with a short presentation on the history of the Burj Khalifa. This is actually interesting. After that it’s through security, and then the lift.

The elevator ride is genuinely quick – like, super fast. Then you arrive “At the Top”. Obviously, there are glass panels all around, but often there are also small sections that open, so you can actually take a photo without that strange reflection. The view is mega-impressive, yet very difficult to describe. It’s like your looking at this model city from high up. It’s quite cool.

You are often able to hang out at the top for as long as you would, usually, like, which is neat. People actually end up taking tons of photos, point out landmarks to one another and, also, just absorb those views. Downstairs – back on earth – you find the classic gift shop with every kind of Burj Khalifa souvenir that you could, like your nan, possibly imagine.

Tickets in 2025: How Much Will It Cost You?

Right, let’s talk price. Ticket costs, usually, change, so you have to do your research. As a baseline though, tickets to the ‘At the Top’ standard levels 124 and 125 will cost you somewhere in the region of AED 179 – AED 244 (that’s, like, roughly $50 – $70 USD). Sunset slots are usually the ones that cost a little more because, let’s face it, sunsets though, are rather great.

For those of you wanting to head up to the Burj Khalifa SKY on level 148, you are gonna be paying more, quite a bit more. Expect prices around the AED 399 – AED 553 mark (or $110 – $150 USD). Now, is it worth paying extra? A bit like caviar or first-class flights, that kind of depends. You should, at least, get shorter lines and the bragging rights for reaching a super high altitude!

Beat the Crowds: Timing Is Important

Want a top tip for the Burj Khalifa? Okay, then. So, go early. If you are wanting those amazing views and also not loads of elbows in your ribs, heading up as soon as it opens is a pretty smart move. Honestly, that’s what makes this place great.

That way, arguably, you get to experience those stunning views with less of a crowd. Later in the day, things often get manic. Mid-morning (say around 10:30 AM) might also be less busy than the afternoon slots, basically. Think about going mid-week too because weekends in Dubai are understandably busy.

“At the Top” Versus “At the Top SKY”: Which is Best?

The big question, possibly, is this one. Do you just go for the normal “At the Top” experience on levels 124 and 125? Maybe, or is stumping up a fair bit more cash for “At the Top SKY” on level 148 really the way to go? Actually, if you hate queues, like pretty much everyone, it could really be worth it. It is, more or less, like buying yourself queue-jumping privileges.

Those SKY tickets typically mean quicker access, a welcome drink, also more comfortable lounges to chill in while you are at the top. Arguably, level 148 does boast genuinely impressive views. But, you need to wonder if you can actually tell the difference from only 24 floors lower. If budget isn’t really an issue, though, go for the SKY option. It feels even more, kind of, exclusive, in that place.

Don’t Forget to Book Your Tickets in Advance

This is key: book your tickets ahead of time! Do not think you can roll up and get tickets there and then, or expect very high prices! Booking online really will save you some money, not to mention the risk of it selling out – especially if you are visiting during peak times. Look at comparison websites, too, or websites that, for example, bundle tickets. Sometimes these, unusually, offer discounts or deals you just don’t find anywhere else.

Is “At the Top” Still a Winner in 2025?

Alright, so let’s answer the big question we touched on near the beginning of the review. Yeah, that’s right. Even with loads of attractions popping up around Dubai, visiting “At the Top” at the Burj Khalifa is, really, still impressive.

If it is your first time in Dubai, those panoramic views, in reality, give you an unrivaled insight into just how Dubai has grown and developed. It provides an astonishing view of that unique landscape. Getting there takes some planning and potentially some patience, though! Actually, it’s really worth thinking about those factors – plus the cost – before you go.

• Book tickets beforehand: So you avoid longer queues and maybe higher prices.
• Time it Right: Go really early or perhaps later during the day, so there will be fewer people.
• SKY or not SKY: Are those additional privileges really worth the cost, do you feel?
• Be patient: Especially during the busy times. Crowds come with, like your the view.
• Soak It Up: Actually, enjoy those impressive views, take loads of photographs and have fun.

Read our full review: Burj Khalifa Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Now)