In a moment of quiet inspiration, renowned architect Tom Wright sketched the first lines of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on a restaurant napkin. It was October 1993, and the sight of a passing ship’s sails ignited a vision that would forever change the Dubai skyline.

The Arabian Gulf, a shimmering expanse of water painted hues of turquoise, has long been a trove of natural pearls. Shallow oyster beds, warmed by the golden sun, provided the perfect conditions for a centuries-old tradition that laid the foundations of Dubai’s success as a trading hub.

A testament to human courage, the ancient ritual of pearl diving continues to inspire and fascinate. The graceful curve of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, is an ode to our generational affinity with the sea. Over the past 25 years, the building’s iconic sail-like façade has become renowned for its architectural ingenuity the world over. Today, it mirrors the spirit of adventure that we proudly uphold. Just as pearl divers descend into the ocean's depths, seeking hidden treasures, the building reaches for the sky as a symbol of ambition and aspiration.

Translating to ‘The Tower of the Arabs,’ Jumeirah Burj Al Arab's soaring helipad has become a global stage for remarkable feats of bravery and skill, where dreams take flight. In 2013 renowned racing champion, David Coulthard, performed daring stunts, spinning a high-powered car in a thrilling display that the Infiniti Red Bull Racing team celebrated as the “Red Bull Seven Star Pin.” That same year, His Excellency Nasser Al Neyadi from Skydive Dubai became the first skydiver to land on the helipad.

More recently in 2021, during a period of global pause and reflection, DJ David Guetta inspired hope and vitality through a live-streamed performance from our helipad, as part of his United at Home international tour.

A celebration of our maritime heritage, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab embodies the daring legacy of pearl divers—fearless individuals who plunged into the ocean depths armed only with their breath and a handful of simple yet cleverly designed tools. Their fettam nose clips, weighted zubail ropes, and woven dean bags cradling the day’s harvest of pearls, stand as symbols of the resilience and ingenuity that defined Dubai’s traditions.

These same qualities are intricately woven into every aspect of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. This year, we honoured ancient rituals and ushered in Chinese New Year with an inaugural drone display to illuminate our iconic silhouette, and in turn, set a new world record with the first 360-degree show around a single building.

This sense of innovation continues to inspire creative talent, including at Al Muntaha, which earned its first Michelin Star in 2022 and launched an innovative programme to support aspiring young chefs in making a positive impact on the environment through their cooking.

Our deep connection with skill and artistry ensures the hotel remains more than just an iconic building; it stands as a cherished landmark that has captivated the hearts of both locals and visitors alike, embodying a deep sense of community. An Arabic proverb wisely says, “If the wind blows, ride it”, encapsulating the insatiable appetite that we have for exploring new opportunities. It serves as a reminder that, like the wind, life is ever-shifting, and ever-changing. Those before us, wise as they were, understood this truth. They taught us to embrace these winds of fortune, to harness their power, and to be carried to new horizons.

Join us in this milestone celebration of visionary architecture, reflecting on Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, an ode to pearl diving and a symbol of bold ambition.